Margaritaville at Sea surprised a Blue Star Family with a complimentary cruise during the 2026 Veterans Day tribute race in Daytona Beach on Nov. 11.
As previously announced, the cruise line joined Ford’s inaugural “Proud to Honor Veterans Day Classic” at Daytona International Speedway as an event partner.
The Javier/Velez family will enjoy a cruise aboard the all-new Beachcomber, which is currently undergoing refurbishment before it sets sail from PortMiami in Jan 2027.
Angel Velez served in the U.S. Navy for 23 years, from November 2002 until his retirement in November 2025.
His career included seven deployments aboard USS Ponce, USS Essex, USS Denver and USS Bonhomme Richard, including three Persian Gulf deployments during Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.
The cruise line’s Hero appreciation efforts also include a special Veterans Day offer, which launched on Nov. 9, enabling eligible Heroes to double their standard discount to 40 percent off cruises, plus receive up to $1,000 in onboard credit.
Furthermore, Heroes Hall, a dedicated tribute space celebrating military members and everyday Heroes will debut onboard the Beachcomber.
Beyond the ships, the cruise line said it has helped raise more than $20,000 for Hire Heroes USA through GOVX Gives Back, while its Heroes at Sea campaign has shined a spotlight on hometown Heroes and their stories from across the country.
The spirit of appreciation also carries into Margaritaville at Sea’s partnership with three-time Grammy Award winner Zac Brown, who will serve as the Beachcomber’s godfather.
