Harland & Wolff to refit Costa Fortuna for Margaritaville at Sea

The cruise ship Costa Fortuna is scheduled for a major 12-week transformation at the Harland & Wolff shipyard in Belfast. Following its final cruise with Costa Crociere in September, the vessel will undergo a massive refit to become the Margaritaville at Sea Beachcomber.

The project, managed by Navantia UK, aims to convert the ship's Italian-inspired design into a tropical-themed experience featuring redesigned pools, bars, and entertainment spaces. The 102,587-ton vessel will serve as the flagship for Margaritaville at Sea, with plans for it to begin Caribbean cruises departing from Miami in early 2027.

The refit is expected to provide a significant economic boost to the Belfast region, with an estimated impact of £40 million. The dry dock period is slated to begin in late September and conclude by the end of December.