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Jimmy Buffett performs at Margaritaville ship christening

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Jimmy Buffett thrilled fans with a surprise concert, left, after godfather Shaquem Griffin, right, officially named Margaritaville at Sea Paradise
Guests at the Margaritaville at Sea Paradise christening were treated to a surprise, hour-long performance by Jimmy Buffett with hits including — naturally — 'Margaritaville.'

Several hundred VIPs, partners, community members and travel advisors attending Friday's ceremony cheered NFL Game Changer Award winner Shaquem Griffin, the ship's godfather, who snipped a red ribbon to break the traditional bottle. Streamers and beach balls then rained down on the crowd.

John Cohlan, Oneil Khosa, Kevin Sheehan Jr.

On hand were John Cohlan, CEO of Margaritaville; Oneil Khosa, CEO of Margaritaville at Sea; and Kevin Sheehan Jr., president of Margaritaville at Sea.

'This journey has not been an easy one, and we’ve battled many challenges, but the best part about Margaritaville at Sea is that this product is so truly innovative,' Khosa said. 'We only have ourselves to compete with as we push to deliver an unprecedented experience to travelers that gets better and better.'

Ukrainian captain and staff captain

In an emotional moment, Sheehan acknowledged his parents and spoke about the journey of their family cruise business before sharing a list of nationalities represented by the crew and specially honoring members from the Ukraine, including the captain and staff captain.

'Tales from Margaritaville' show

Later, guests attended a preview of ‘Tales from Margaritaville: Jimmy’s Ship Show,’ written and produced by Buffett and producer Frank Marshall. Dining options included JWB Prime Steakhouse, Margaritaville’s signature laid-back luxe dining experience. The night ended with games, salsa dancing lessons, a tropical glow party and a Caribbean-themed pool deck soirée under the stars.

Margaritaville at Sea Paradise offers two-night round-trips between Florida's Port of Palm Beach and Grand Bahama Island. Travelers looking to extend their vacation can book a 'Cruise & Stay' package that bundles the sailing with up to four nights at a premium beachfront resort on Grand Bahama.