Music Cruises

There is a new trend in the cruising industry that I think is SUPER cool and I wanted to share some information about it with you all! In the past several years the trend of music cruises has been on the rise.

What is a music cruise?

They are cruises put together around a common music group, type of music or a particular big name artist. They are often chartered ships, often have music filled itineraries, talent competitions, Q&A’s with the artists, artist meet and greets, etc.

Why are they popular?

They are a really neat way for you to get up close and personal with your favorite musicians and enjoy their talent. You will get to see your favorite artist perform at least once during the cruise and will most likely get the performers’ autographs and maybe even a photo with them!

Are they expensive?

The prices are actually not that much more expensive than your average cruise. It’s a minimal price difference considering all of the added activities shows, and opportunities.

Here are some sample music cruises:

Carnival Live Concert Series

Carnival Cruise Lines put their own spin on the music cruises with the Carnival LIVE concert series. Carnival LIVE features live performances by big name artists on eight different ships. Among those scheduled to perform in 2014 are Chicago, Daughtry, Foreigner, Gavin DeGraw, Jennifer Hudson, Jewel, Kansas, Lady Antebelum, LeAnn Rimes, Martina McBride, Olivia Newton-John, REO Speedwagon, STYX and Trace Adkins.

The performances take place on the main show lounge on the ships when they are docked in one of the ports of call. The artists come on board to perform, but will not be sailing with the ship. You do get the small intimate concert venue experience though.

Ticket costs are $20-$40 each and a limited number of VIP tickets are sold for $100-$150 each. The VIP experience includes an artist meet and greet, a photo op, seating in the first three rows, and a laminated concert pass.

The Country Music Cruise

The 2015 country music cruise will be January 18-25, 2015 and will feature artists such as Martina McBride, Charley Pride, Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers, Lorrie Morgan, John Anderson and more. The cruise will include nightly performances, panel discussions, autograph sessions and more!

Grammy Festival at Sea: WOMEN WHO ROCK

As a friend recently described this cruise- it’s like Lilith Fair at Sea! Sailing November 4-8, 2014-This cruise is a compilation of female artists who have all either won or been nominated for a Grammy! The line up includes Heart, Indigo Girls, Shawn Colbin, Estelle & Skyler Grey, and Emmylou Harris. This voyage includes performances, Q&A sessions, panels and other activities hosted by the artists. Fares start at $550!

Florida Georgia Line This is How we Cruise

As soon as the Women who Rock get off the ship, Florida Georgia Line will get on board and November 8-12, 2014 they will cruise with fans to the Bahamas. In addition to Florida Georgia Line the lineup includes Nelly, Thomas Rhett, Colt Ford the Cadillac Three and more.  This voyage offers TWO outdoor shows by Florida Georgia Line, a Q&A on deck, and other activities hosted by the bands. Fares start at $700 for double occupancy, $500 for Quads. (Anyone want to go with me?)

Malt Shop Memories

The Malt Shop Memories cruise is scheduled to feature Dion, The Temptations, Brenda Lee, Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone, HJan & Dean’s Beach Party, Martha Reeves & The Vandelllas and more! This cruise takes place November 2-9, 2015. Activities include artist-led events, a sock hop, dance classes, contests, prom night extravaganza and more!

For more information on any of these cruises or themed cruises in general contact me at dana@danasglobaltravel.com

Bon Voyage!