music themed cruises 2023

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• Themed Cruises

Music Cruises

At CruiseMapper's Music Cruise survey you will find departure dates, itineraries, and various "music and dance" theme cruise information and tips. We offer you a list of Classical music concerts and dance cruise specials on deals to visit the Caribbean, Europe, and Australia on a big cruise ship vacation. Caution - music cruises are super fun, generally promoting a lot of drinking and dancing activities. Cruise drinking and dancing fun generally involve big money spending. Very special are also all the music concert voyages on big riverboats in Europe.

For your convenience, the following link jumps down directly to CruiseMapper's music-cruises schedule , listing lines, ships, departure dates, and homeports. Follow Mardi Gras Carnival cruises visiting the US port cities New Orleans Louisiana, Galveston Texas, Tampa Florida, Long Beach (Los Angeles) California, NYC New York, Mobile Alabama, and of course - Rio De Janeiro (Brazil). This survey is integrated with our Themed Cruises .

"Dance and Music" themed cruises

Themed as "Music Cruises" deals are from the list of the industry's newest inventions. They are very similar to all the music concerts arranged at land-based facilities (music halls, theaters, stadiums, etc. And since modern cruise ships can accommodate from 2500 (on average) to more than 5000 people, these so special marine vessels become the perfect place for the mixed "music concert and party" cruise vacation the world has never seen before.

From what Wikipedia has said about music - it's the art form "whose medium is sound and silence". However, on cruise ships there's no such thing as silence - it's party time all the time! The word "music" derives from Greek "mousike" meaning the "art of the Muses". And what is better than a Muses-inspired vacation of several days at sea, right?

Dance-themed cruises

The dance cruise experience is a major part of the "Music Cruise" specials - especially when famous bands and singers are involved in these actions. And these "musical" deals suggest a hell of a lot dancing on the ship. Imagine you can enjoy (if fortunate enough) your super cool band's performance at sea. There are some truly unique sailings, which include huge crowd dancing parties featuring NKOTB (with the "New Kids On The Block" celebrities).

Christian-themed music cruises are another unique offer in this category. On those, you'll enjoy the company of hundreds and even thousands of like-minded folks sharing your ideas of God, right and wrong. And quite often, preachers there dance and enjoy the music more than the audience itself.

Popular musical genders on the specially themed music and dance cruises are Rock, Country, and Folk bands. And Classical music and Jazz themed cruises offer one truly sophisticated experience at sea. Often music-themed sailings are combined with specials from the category of Food and Wine cruises . These are usually Jazz- or Classic music-themed (often river cruise) deals, offering a gourmet voyage on some of Europe's biggest rivers, such as the Danube, or Rhone and Seine in France.

P&O Cruises UK ships offer each year several Music Cruises leaving from Southampton, and their Australia brand may offer such themed deals from Sydney, Australia. Most of them are Mediterranean cruises from Southampton, and  Cruises To Nowhere from Sydney - i.e. without additional ports of call (which significantly lowers their cost by not including port charges).

How much do "Music Cruises" cost,  what is included in prices?

Your dance/music cruise infrastructure is pretty much like a normal sailing - but it's not, ok? The cruise part as always, includes tanning, swimming, drinking, dining, sleeping (with the "repeat until" command) summarized as "easy big-time fun". Your "music cruise tickets" prices are inclusive of all meals on the boat and add to that the 24-hr room service onboard. This means all main dining rooms and the buffet dining, specialty restaurants charge extra (from ~$20 to $50 per meal). Alcohol, soda and soft drinks are not in the list of inclusions.

Beware - enjoying the music cruise fun in a not healthy and not cheap combination with lots of beverages could cost you way more than the ticket itself. Virtually all music and dance cruise deals are on round-trip departures from some of the world's biggest cruise ports - like Miami and Fort Lauderdale in Florida, NYC New York, Boston MA, Los Angeles, Southampton UK, Sydney AU.

Music Cruises 2023-2024 schedule

Most of the following voyages are themed on Classic, Folk, Country, Rock, or Jazz music.

Note: In the following table, all links are internal (CruiseMapper) redirecting to the ship’s itinerary schedule where you can compare dates and prices per person (double occupancy rates).

Mardi Gras carnival cruises

Mardi Gras cruises are music and dance-themed voyages with itineraries that visit the US port cities  New Orleans Louisiana ,  Galveston Texas ,  Tampa Florida ,  Long Beach (Los Angeles) California ,  NYC New York ,  Mobile Alabama , and of course,  Rio De Janeiro Brazil .

Mardi Gras Carnival

The Mardi Gras carnival aka "Carnival season" (the name literally means "Fat Tuesday" in French) is a Catholic festival celebrated in the countries of Anglican nations. The celebrations start on Epiphany (or "the feast day" on January 6th) and culminate on the day before Ash Wednesday (called "Fat Tuesday" and "Mardi Gras Day" - positioned exactly 46 days before Easter).

When is the Mardi Gras carnival day?

Because day's timing is set according to Easter, it varies by year - between February 3 and March 9. Follows a list with the Mardi Gras dates in the next couple of years (all dates will be on Tuesdays, though  - no matter the year).

The Mardi Gras dates are:

• in 2020 on February 25
• in 2021 on February 16
• in 2022 on March 1
• in 2023 on February 21
• in 2024 on February 13
• in 2025 on March 4
• in 2026 on February 17
• in 2027 on February 9

To find your "Mardi Gras cruise ship", just pick departure port ( New Orleans ,  Galveston ,  Tampa ,  Los Angeles ,  New York ,  Mobile , Rio De Janeiro ). In the port's schedule, you'll find listed ships leaving from or going to that seaport. Then choose itineraries that include the year's carnival day.

Mardi Gras New Orleans is second only to the "Rio Carnival" in Brazil. According to Wikipedia, the Rio Carnival draws record numbers of day tourists to Brazil - 2,2 million for the Carnival Day in 2012. Add to this more than 5 million people for the whole week (around 70% of all annual guests to Rio De Janeiro), with over 400,000 foreigners participating in the week-long day and night music and dancing, and boozing.

"Mardi Gras booze cruise" inclusions

Most Mardi Gras themed cruise deals are offered by independent resellers and for larger groups with discounted cabin rates. Group booking ("Hosted Group Cruise"), besides great pricing, is also among travel agencies' special deals.

• Included by the agency are at least one Private Group cocktail party, all gratuities (depending on ship/itinerary these can be up to $100 PP), group departure, daily and nightly group gatherings, group dining (reserved tables), and, of course, your "Mask Party".
• Included by the ship (for the duration of the trip) are all meals (excepting alternative restaurants), accommodations and entertainment, 24-hour room service.
• Not-included (optional) are group shore excursions (again at discount prices), alcoholic beverages (optional all-inclusive drink packages are offered), gift shop purchases, spa services, gambling (casino / bingo), airfare (optional fly-cruise packages are offered from USA and UK), port charges, Government taxes, local transfers to the departure port. Remember that for US citizens a passport or certified birth certificate is always required.
• All Mardi Gras themed cruises offer special dining menu and carnival-themed shipboard activities - good music, exotic masquerade, booze packages, and promos.

Mardi Gras cruising experiences

In 2017, the UK-based  Fred Olsen Cruise Line offered the company's first-ever Mardi Gras cruise as part of an epic travel adventure to ports in the Caribbean, North and Central America leaving roundtrip from the UK.

• From Southampton England, Fred Olsen’s ship  MS Balmoral  offered in February 2017 a 46-night itinerary as an adults-only cruise visiting 18 ports of call and featuring 3 full days and 2 overnights in NOLA ( New Orleans ) allowing plenty of time to enjoy the carnival atmosphere.
• This unique  themed cruise (46-night itinerary, code L1703, the theme "Central America and the Mardi Gras" left Southampton on February 4, 2017. Prices started from GBP 3450 pp (based on double-occupancy twin-bed Superior Interior cabin). Pricing included accommodation, all onboard meals, and entertainment, plus port taxes.
• The list of cruise ports of call included: Southampton – Funchal Madeira – Bridgetown Barbados – Castries St. Lucia – St John’s Antigua – Road Town Tortola BVI – Falmouth Jamaica – Trujillo Honduras – Belize City – Cozumel Mexico – New Orleans LA (2-nights) – Tampa FL – Key West FL – Miami FL – Port Canaveral FL – Jacksonville FL – Charleston SC – Hamilton Bermuda – Ponta Delgada Azores – Southampton.
• The 2-night stay in NOLA allowed cruise tourists to enjoy the festivities at this fabulously extravagant festival. Passengers were also provided with the opportunity to attend the "Orpheuscapade Black Tie Ball" in New Orleans – something rarely experienced by tourists. This formal event was held in the city's Convention Centre, featuring live music, dancing, and the chance to get up close to the gigantic carnival floats, as a local celebrity leads the parade directly through the Centre.

15 Music Cruises To Book For 2024 & Beyond

If music is your jam, it's time to think about booking a themed cruise . A funky way to spend a few days or more, music cruises allow guests to bee-bop, jive, groove, and get down to tunes from a variety of genres. Whether you're a fan of jazz, country, emo, Hip Hop, or the '80s, you're bound to find a cruise devoted to your favorite songs. And with so many fun music cruises available, it's easy to become a dancing queen on the high seas.

Celebrity artists mix with up-and-comers to entertain ship guests with live concerts and meet-and-greets. Plus, there's a chance you'll run into your favorite band at breakfast or on the pool deck in the afternoon. When you aren't rocking out to funky beats, you'll still have all the perks of cruising, like playing pickleball or volleyball, swimming, dining, taking a fitness class, checking out the casino, or disembarking to explore a new town or island.

Not sure where to start your search? We've sifted through online reviews and researched each cruise's amenities, artists, and concert venues to find the best music cruises to book for 2024 and beyond. All you have to do is choose the one that sings to you, pack your dancing shoes (and maybe a sparkly outfit or two), and book soon — they fill up quickly.

Cayamo: A Journey Through Song Cruise

The 16th  Cayamo cruise takes place in early March, with headliners like Lyle Lovett and Lake Street Drive. Music-loving guests set sail from Miami to Aruba on a seven-day adventure filled with concerts, activities, and a variety of artists to appeal to everyone's taste. This annual cruise is dubbed "a journey through song," and you can expect just that — an exciting and mesmerizing voyage through roots music. Think of this like a floating music festival without the mud and insane crowds. 

This cruise is super popular, with alums who sailed on the previous year's boat being granted first dibs at booking via pre-sale . Next up to reserve their stateroom are alums who missed out on last year's trip. Finally, newcomers are invited to join the pre-sale or the waitlist, depending on how quickly the rooms are booked. Sign up as early as possible to ensure your spot.

Dates: March 1 to 8, 2024

Ship: Norwegian Pearl

Port of departure: Miami, Florida

Itinerary: Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; Oranjestad, Aruba

Artists: Lyle Lovett, Lake Street Drive, The Mavericks, Billy Bragg, Shawn Colvin, Lucius, Gabe Lee, Kyshona, Buffalo Rose, The Kentucky Gentlemen, Sistastrings, and others.

Monsters of Rock Cruise

If you like to party hard, rock out, and scream until you're hoarse, the Monsters of Rock Cruise is a perfect place for you! Hard rock bands like The Dirty Dozen, Ace Frehley, and The Darkness will shred onstage while guests dance and play air guitar during the multiple concerts on tap for this five-night cruise. Beginning in Miami, Florida, the ports of call include Ocho Rios, Jamaica, and Nassau, Bahamas. The 2024 cruise sold out early, but die-hard rockers can join the waiting list or, better yet, plan ahead for next year's headbanging cruise -– it should take place around the same time, so check the website. As with many of the music cruises on this list, tickets go on sale to Monster of Rock Cruise alums first, beginning in early May. 

Dates: March 2 – 7, 2024

Ship: Royal Caribbean's Independence of the Seas

Itinerary: Ocho Rios, Jamaica; Nassau, Bahamas

Artists: The Dirty Dozen, Ace Frehley, Joe Satriani, The Darkness, Extreme, KK's Priest, Accept, Winger, and others.

The Broadway Cruise

Love all things musical theater? Book a trip on Sixthman's  The Broadway Cruise . A five-day adventure, this fun journey will have you singing and dancing along with some of Broadway's most talented stars. From Tony Award recipients to Golden Globe winners, there's no lack of talent on this incredible trip. To ensure a spot for every show held in the 850-seat Stardust Theater, buy The Broadway Cruise Standard Package. That way, you can see all four ticketed shows in person. Those on the Basic Package can only see the performances virtually in the Atrium. In your downtime, check out the pool, enjoy the attractions in the two ports of call, attend the Q&A with Bernadette Peters, and maybe even take part in an acting lesson or two. There's also a Live Band Karaoke, so you'll want to warm up your voice. While you may have missed this year's cruise, fret not; there's another planned for around the same time in 2025.

Dates: March 13 – 18, 2024

Itinerary: Key West, Florida; Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Artists: Bernadette Peters, Christian Borle, Kerry Buttler, Reeve Carney, Norm Lewis, Ali Stroker, Matt Doyle, Santino Fontana, Cheyenne Jackson, Daphne Rubin-Vega, and others.

Flower Power Cruise

Book a Flower Power Cruise for some psychedelic fun. With award-winning artists, costume parties, karaoke, theme nights, and a Bell Bottom Ball, this seven-day journey is sure to unleash your inner flower child. Wondering what to pack for a cruise ? Don't forget tie dye! Guests can even renew their vows onboard this StarVista LIVE cruise in a celebrity-led service. Speaking of celebs, there are plenty of chances to rub elbows with the stars, with guests loving how easy it is to see artists at meals, in the elevators, and as audience members at other concerts. Other fun activities include trivia contests, pool parties, Q&As with the performers, game shows, wine tastings, and karaoke. While sold out for 2024, wannabe hippies can join the waitlist or get ready to prebook for 2025.

Dates: March 21 – 28, 2024

Ship: Celebrity Summit

Itinerary: San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

Artists: The Rascals, John Kay of Steppenwolf, Tommy James & The Shondells, The Moody Blues' John Lodge, The Four Tops, Randy Bachman, Gary Puckett & The Union Gap, Danny Seraphine, co-founder of Chicago (featuring Jeff Coffey), and others.

The Country Music Cruise

Yee haw! Grab yer partner and get ready for some good ol' fun aboard StarVista LIVE's  Country Music Cruise . With over 50 performances spread over seven days, there will surely be some boot-stomping fun and lots of line dancing on this rowdy cruise. Get to know the country celebrities at cooking demos, meet and greets, jam sessions, and panel discussions. The Grand Ole Opry is a big hit, with some of the biggest stars on the ship joining forces to perform. And then there are the games — Texas Hold'em, trivia, and cornhole, are just a few of the fun things to do onboard. Step off for an adventure in Key West, Cozumel, and Costa Maya for a vacation you won't forget.

Dates: January 19 – 26, 2025

Ship: Holland America's Nieuw Amsterdam

Port of departure: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Itinerary: Key West, Florida; Cozumel, Mexico; Costa Maya, Mexico

Artists: John Michael Montgomery, Deana Carter, The Bellamy Brothers, Diamond Rio, Neal McCoy, Home Free, Moe Bandy, T.G. Sheppard, John Berry, Jimmy Fortune, Mo Pitney, The Isaacs, and others.

Keeping the Blues Alive at Sea

There's a lot to love about the Keeping the Blues Alive at Sea  cruise. From top-notch talent to melancholic tunes to meet-and-greets with celebrity performers, this is a haven for soulful blues lovers in search of a festival-like experience. Don't worry if the waiting list didn't pan out for you on 2024's four-night Keeping the Blues Alive at Sea IX Cruise. There'll be another one in 2025, and it's going to be just as fabulous. Joe Bonamassa is 2024's headliner once again, and he's set to play two sets — one with Black Country Communion and another with his solo band. You'll also be able to sit in on a recording of his podcast. Take a break from the tunes and hit the spa, get sweaty in the fitness center, run on the track, play a game on the sports court, or spend a day sightseeing in Cozumel. 

Dates: March 18 – 22, 2024

Itinerary: Cozumel, Mexico

Artists: Joe Bonamassa, Fortune Child, Dwayne, Haggins, Memphissippi Sounds, Black Country Communion, Grace Potter, The Marshall Tucker Band, John Oates, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Nikki Hill, and others.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise

Put your feet up, sway your head to the beat, and let the salty air caress your cheeks as you enjoy a week-long vacation on  The Smooth Jazz Cruise . A more laid-back voyage than some of the others on this list, the Smooth Jazz Cruise has been sailing the open seas since 2004 and hosted over 60,000 guests. Over 17,000 of them have boarded this toe-tapping cruise four times or more! Top-rate entertainment, exceptional shows, and fun activities (theme parties, culinary events, artist excursions, talent shows, and music seminars) make this a must-board cruise for jazz lovers. Plus, the musicians participate with guests in everything from hosting wine tastings to game shows to ping pong tournaments. 

Dates: February 11 – 18, 2025 and February 18 – 25, 2025

Itinerary: Labadee, Haiti; Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos; Nassau, Bahamas

Artists: Hosts Marcus Miller and Boney James and musicians Brian Culbertson, Jonathan Butler, Candy Dulfer, Bob James, Dave Weckl, Lee Ritenour, Mindi Abair, David Sanborn, Patches Stewart, and others.

The 80s Cruise

What do jelly bracelets, crimped hair, and neon leotards have in common? You'll find them all, and many classic tunes, on The '80s Cruise . Whether you lived through this epic era or not, there's no denying the allure of '80s songs. From pop to Hip Hop to new wave to hair metal, you'll hear it all, and plenty of synthesizers, on this funky journey. Not surprisingly, The '80s Cruise tends to attract guests of a certain age (generally between 40 and 60), which means you step back in time and trade stories about mastering the leg warmer trend and popping wheelies on your bike, all while sipping a cocktail and screaming out lyrics you didn't know you remembered. With over 50 live performances and concerts, you're guaranteed to dance "All Night Long." This year's cruise is full, but you can join the waitlist or try your luck in 2025.

Dates: February 29 – March 7, 2024

Ship: Royal Caribbean's Mariner of the Seas

Port of departure: Port Canaveral, Florida

Itinerary: Oranjestad, Aruba; Willemstad, Curaçao

Artists: Soft Cell, 38 Special, Air Supply, Debbie Gibson, Sebastian Bach, and The English Beat, among others.

Emo's Not Dead Cruise

Break out your black eyeliner, skinny jeans, and dark clothes –- it's time to board the Emo's Not Dead Cruise . When you aren't losing yourself in the music, you'll find plenty of interesting things to do, like participating in a belly flop competition, drinking triathlon, or dodgeball tournament. The fact that each guest has a shared love for all things emo makes the experience even more exciting. Held over four days in late February through early March of 2024, the second Emo's Not Dead Cruise was popular enough to be sold out. 2025's cruise will likely be just as in demand, with similar dates. Be sure to check their site for an update, and book early to save your spot.

Dates: February 26 – March 1, 2024 

Itinerary: Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas

Artists: Yellowcard, Sleeping with Sirens, Mayday Parade, Story of the Year, August Burns Red, Charlotte Sands, Madina Lake, Reclaim the Fallen, The Devil Wears Prada, and others.

Rock the Bells Cruise

Hip Hop Hooray! The Rock the Bells Cruise: A Hip-Hop Experience is back, and it sounds like a ton of fun! This four-day jam session is bursting with enough music to keep you dancing from morning to night. This inaugural cruise set sail in 2023, marking the 50th anniversary of Hip Hop, and was such a success that it's back for more! Founded by LL Cool J, you can rest assured that the iconic performers will have you bustin' a move on every deck of the ship. MCs, DJs, and producers are on tap to get you vibing on this awesome music cruise. Don your fave kicks and get ready for a voyage packed with non-stop entertainment and two exciting Bahamian places to visit during your trip — Great Stirrup Cay and Nassau.

Dates: November 13 – 17, 2024

Ship: Norwegian Gem

Itinerary: Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas; Nassau, Bahamas

Artists: Past artists have included DJ Nina 9, Bun B, Lil Jon, DJ Critical Hype, Just Blaze, Pete Rock, DJ Scratch, The Finisher Mister Cee, and others.

Headbangers Boat Cruise

Hoping to rock out with the best of them but also looking for a little R & R? Book a Headbangers Boat Cruise . When you aren't moshing with your fellow cruisers, take a load off at the onboard spa, lounge by the pool, or dig your feet in the sand when you disembark in the Dominican Republic's beautiful Puerto Plata. Then, get ready to jam to a concert on the pool deck or at one of the ship's other performance venues. Other activities include a Q&A with metal titans Lamb of God, a poker tournament, a drum-off, and a DJ set by Lamb of God drummer Art Cruz. A popular voyage for metalheads, the second annual cruise is already sold out for 2024, but you can join the waiting list if you're itching to go. Or, hold out for 2025 and keep checking their site to see when booking begins. 

Dates: October 28 – November 1, 2024

Itinerary: Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

Artists: Lamb of God, Poison the Well, Exodus, Soulfly, Chimaira, At the Gates, Dethklok, Napalm Death, Corrosion of Conformity, and others.

Soul Train Cruise

You'll want to pack your most colorful outfits and comfortable dancing shoes when preparing for your Soul Train Cruise . Actually, you should probably include a few costumes for theme nights (such as funk night and white night) to make sure you're as jazzed up as you can be for these exciting events. A fabulous mix of R&B, funk, and soul musicians will grace multiple stages throughout the day and night on this happening cruise. Created in homage to the classic television show of the same name, guests have the chance to learn dance moves from some of the OG Soul Train Dancers (you might want to stretch first). Take a break from getting down and make the most of this themed cruise with karaoke, trivia contests, comedy shows, pool parties, wine tastings, and panel discussions with celebrity artists. Make sure to disembark for sightseeing adventures in Costa Maya, Belize City, and Cozumel.

Dates: January 26 – February 2, 2025

Itinerary: Costa Maya, Mexico; Belize City, Belize; Cozumel, Mexico

Artists: Charlie Wilson, Jeffrey Osborne, Dru Hill, After 7, The Brothers Johnson, Zapp Band, and others.

Ultimate Disco Cruise and Beyond

Suffering from disco fever? A trip on StarVista LIVE's Ultimate Disco Cruise and Beyond is just what the doctor ordered. Celebrating its 5th anniversary in 2025, this groovy voyage is primed for those who love to boogie down to classic disco tunes with stars like Kool & The Gang. What do you wear on a disco cruise? Anything you'd like, but extra points if you've packed a wig, bell bottoms, mini-dresses, tie-dyed shirts, and platform shoes — there are plenty of theme nights. Over 40 live performances take place during this five-day cruise, and we suggest you rest up before you board, as there will be non-stop partying and dancing once you set sail. This cruise offers the typical artist Q&A and panel discussions found on other music cruises, as well as dance competitions and game shows. Cruise from Miami to Mexico and back with an excellent mix of dance music guaranteed to make you boogie.

Dates: February 19 – 24, 2025

Itinerary: Cozumel, Mexico; Costa Maya, Mexico

Artists: Kool & The Gang, The Spinners, Shalamar (featuring Howard Hewett, Carolyn Griffey, and Jeffrey Daniel), Tavares, Rose Royce, and others.

The Outlaw Country Cruise

Whether you're a fan of honky tonk, country rock, country pop, or bluegrass, you're in for a treat on the  Outlaw Country Cruise . This six-day adventure is jammed with entertainment that is sure to please every cowboy and girl. As described on the website, this cruise is a "week of sun up to sun down fun." Expect theme nights, including costume parties, comedy shows, autograph sessions, martini tastings, wine and chocolate pairing tastings, casino games on board, and so many concerts you'll never get bored. The 2025 cruise should sail around the same time, so be sure to check their site for the dates and book early to ensure your spot.

Dates: February 4 – 10, 2024

Port of departure: Miami, Fort Lauderdale

Itinerary: Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; San Juan, Puerto Rico

Artists: Blackberry Smoke, Lucinda Williams, Steve Earle, Nikki Lake, Ray Wylie Hubbard, 49 Winchester, Kaitlin Butts, Elizabeth Cook, Los Straitjackets, Vandoliers, and others.

Summer of '99 Cruise

Remember the more laid-back days of the late '90s and early 2000s, when movies were still on VHS tapes, Tamagotchis were all the rage, and your favorite songs were contained on CDs? Well, you can relive them and those fabulous dance mixes on the Summer of '99 Cruise from Miami to Nassau, Bahamas. Also organized by Sixthman, this inaugural cruise marks headlining band Creed's first concerts in 12 years. Theme nights include Y2K 90s's Sitcom Night and Vintage Rock T-Shirt Night, so come prepared with costumes. This fun-filled four-night cruise is so epic that they created a second voyage: The Summer of '99 and Beyond Cruise, which runs from April 27 to May 1. Both are sold out. If you don't get lucky on the waiting list, try for a spot on next year's voyage. Download the cruise's Spotify playlist to get in the mood.

Dates: April 18 – 22, 2024

Itinerary: Nassau, Bahamas

Artists: Creed, 3 Doors Down, Buckcherry, Tonic, Vertical Horizon, Fuel, The Verve Pipe, Nine Days, Tantric, Dishwalla, Louise Post (of Veruca Salt), and others.

Our methodology

To be included on this list, each cruise must be centered around music, obviously. And when we say "music," we're not talking about a small acapella group singing in the atrium or a pianist accompanying the dinner rush. We're looking at big-scale, well-organized, fabulous shows featuring acts so good you may get goosebumps. Whether they sing like angels or play a mean guitar, the musicians on these cruises will make your journey one you'll likely wish to repeat.

We consulted a ton of online reviews to ensure the cruises we mention on this list will live up to the hype. In addition to boasting talented performers, we searched for ships that were loaded with fun amenities, good concert venues, great food, and interesting ports of call. There's little worse than being stuck on a boat with nowhere to go, nothing to do, and nothing decent to munch on. That's why we made sure to do a deep dive, researching each cruise company to ensure they would fit the proverbial bill.

We also contacted music cruise organizers like Sixthman and StarVista LIVE to enquire about future dates. They told us that next year's cruise dates are announced during the current cruise, so there are no definitive dates until that time. They did, however, mention that the following year's cruises should take place around the same time. Be sure to check each cruise's website and book early — they fill up super quickly.

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The Jazz Cruise

For over 20 years,  The Jazz Cruise  has presented the very best in “straight-ahead” jazz, with a full ship of the world’s most passionate jazz fans sailing with the world’s best jazz musicians. Programming the cruise starts with over 100 world-class musicians, scheduled in many exciting configurations for around 225 hours of music, presented festival-style over 7 jam-packed days. Sailing with Paquito D’Rivera, Chucho Valdes,  Christian McBride, Artemis and many more stars from  January 18 – 25, 2024 . More info at  TheJazzCruise.com

The Smooth Jazz Cruise

The Greatest Party at Sea returns for 2 sailings in 2024 featuring more of the top stars in the genre on the ship than can be found on any cruise or at any festival including, Marcus Miller, Boney James, Jeffrey Osborne, Brian Culbertson, Jonathan Butler and more. You’ll enjoy wall-to-wall music for 7 days and nights as you get up close and personal with stars of the smooth jazz world. Sailing January 25-February 1, 2024 and February 1-February 8, 2024 . More info at https://thesmoothjazzcruise.com .

Botti at Sea

This new cruise program features a broad range of top drawer and exciting entertainment, all in the spirit and under the direction of Jazz Trumpeter Chris Botti.  While musical experience forms, the core of the program, Botti has infused exciting performers and events from other entertainment genres.  When viewed together, the cruise reflects the style, stature, and stardom of the amazing host. Sailing February 8-15, 2024 . More info at BottiaatSea.com  

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Music Themed Cruises

Comedy themed cruises, sports themed cruises, other themed cruises, themed cruises.

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Experience themed cruises and cruise music festivals at sea designed to set the stage for moments that make life rock!

There's nothing out there that can beat the adventure, excitement and allure of a cruise holiday - except a themed cruise!

Enjoy the best in live entertainment whilst cruising on some of the most innovative ships at sea by booking one of these sailings. It'll prove to be the ultimate holiday experience. View the list of current offerings below for more information on how to book these cruises.

Utopia Carnival Cruise & Festival | April 28 – May 8, 2024

MIAMI TO ST THOMAS Norwegian Breakaway

Experience an unforgettable ten-day party spree with Utopia Carnival Cruise & Festival, as we set sail from Miami to the heart of St. Thomas' carnival season on April 28th, 2024! Dive into electrifying land festivals, climaxing with our "Unity Festival" at Crown Bay on May 5th. Witness global sensation Burna Boy, Morgan Heritage, DJ Puffy, and more!

The Utopia Carnival Cruise & Festival ushers a new era of entertainment tourism, serving up a broad and eclectic array of engaging events. As a nexus of multicultural festivities, Utopia Carnival affords guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in an unparalleled selection of music and entertainment choices. Experience the 2024 carnival thrill!

Sail Across the Sun | February 13-17, 2025

MIAMI TO COZUMEL, MEXICO Norwegian Gem

Break out the bubbles and vino - and raise a full glass as we toast to a music-filled celebration at sea for Train's 8th Edition of Sail Across the Sun! Sailing February 13-17, 2025, from Miami to adventure-filled Cozumel, Mexico, aboard Norwegian Gem, this 4-day floating festival at sea brings together an incredible lineup of artists including Matt Nathanson, Yacht Rock Revue, Jon Foreman of Switchfoot, The Dan Band, and more!

Ultimate Disco Cruise and Beyond | February 19-24, 2025

MIAMI – COZUMEL – COSTA MAYA Norwegian Pearl

The Ultimate Disco Cruise and Beyond is BACK for its 5th Anniversary sailing! Celebrate the Greatest Dance, Soul, Funk & Party Music Ever for five nights with over 40 live performances including Kool & the Gang, The Spinners, Shalamar, Tavares, Rose Royce, the Brothers Johnson, Lisa Lisa, The Legendary Blue Notes, and many more.

Join us as you dance back to everyone's favourite era of music where Norwegian Pearl will be transformed into a floating dance club!

Keeping The Blues Alive At Sea X | March 21-26, 2025

MIAMI TO HARVEST CAYE, BELIZE AND COSTA MAYA, MEXICO Norwegian Gem

The BIGGEST BLUES ROCK PARTY AT SEA just got even BIGGER! To celebrate 10 incredible years, Keeping The Blues Alive at Sea will be sailing for FIVE FULL DAYS in 2025 with some of the best live music in the world. Join your fellow blues community and our host, Joe Bonamassa, with an ALL-STAR LINEUP for our 10th-anniversary extravaganza. Sailing March 21-26, 2025, Norwegian Gem will carry us from Miami, Florida, to TWO tropical destinations: Harvest Caye, Belize & Costa Maya, Mexico. Get ready for an adventure of five days & nights packed to the brim with live shows, rare collaborations, and unique activities that can only be experienced on board. With the backdrop of amazing Norwegian amenities like serene spa services, loads of dining options, shopping, and refreshing cocktails, you'll feel like a legend yourself.

Bananaland At Sea | October 14-18, 2024

MIAMI TO GREAT STIRRUP CAY & NASSAU Norwegian Jade

The greatest show in sports is hitting the high seas! Join us for Bananaland at Sea, sailing October 14-18, 2024 from Miami to Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas! Get ready to Go Bananas on this 4-day, fully immersive experience where the Savannah Bananas, the Party Animals, and the entire cast will be up to their usual antics- singing, dancing, banana tossing, and so much more. Score countless opportunities to strike up conversations with your favourite players and crew, participate in epic activities and games, and catch daily performances that'll leave you awestruck aboard this unforgettable trip.

Chris Jericho’s Rock ‘N’ Wrestling Rager at Sea: Six On The Beach | January 31 – February 4, 2025

MIAMI TO COSTA MAYA Norwegian Gem

Sixth time's a charm, Ragers! That's right, we're coming back for the 6th voyage of Chris Jericho's Rock 'N' Wrestling Rager at Sea: Six on the Beach! We'll commandeer the Norwegian Gem January 31 - February 4, 2025. Starting in Miami and making our way down to Costa Maya, Mexico, get your sandy cheeks ready for table-slamming fan-favourites: an onboard wrestling ring, vibrant performances from musicians and comedians we love, and exclusive access to talent-hosted escapades. Even Poseidon gets down & dirty, so you should, too!

NurseCon | April 9-14, 2024

Norwegian Breakaway

Miami to Cozumel, Mexico and Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas

NurseCon at Sea is The Ultimate Nursing Conference! Join us as we sail to Cozumel, Mexico, and Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas from April 9 - 14, 2024. All whilst getting your CNEs and participating in exciting activities, such as Nurses Got Talent, Nurse Feud, and more!

Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise | November 5-9, 2024

Norwegian Gem

Miami to Nassau

Pack your bags for the holiday of a lifetime as you experience the magic of a Hallmark Channel Christmas with your favourite Hallmark stars! On board, immerse yourself in Christmas crafts, participate in interactive talent panels, and enjoy an exclusive premiere of a new Hallmark Channel holiday movie from the comfort of our world-class theatre at sea. Create everlasting memories with your family, friends, and fellow Hallmark Channel fans with a festival of fun!

StarVista Live

StarVista Live cruises provide unique experiences and unparalleled access to the superstars you love.

What to expect

Malt Shop Memories Cruise OCT 27-NOV 3, 2024

What to Expect

The Big Easy Cruise January 5-12, 2025

Ultimate Disco Cruise FEBRUARY 19-24, 2025

Sandy Beaches Cruise JANUARY 12-19, 2025

The Country Music Cruise JANUARY 19-26, 2025

Soul Train Cruise JAN 26-FEB 2, 2025

'70s Rock & Romance Cruise  MARCH 15-22, 2025

Flower Power Cruise MARCH 22 - 29, 2025

Southern Rock Cruise Not Scheduled

Abbey Road on The River MAY 23-27, 2024  

About StarVista Live

StarVista LIVE brings together some of the greatest artists and musicians in each genre with true music fans in a luxurious, full ship cruise environment, including:

• Luxurious full ship charter cruise on a top rated line
• Beautiful Caribbean ports of call
• 24 x 7 excitement and activities
• Direct interaction with your favorite superstars
• Unforgettable LIVE nightly performances
• Beautiful accommodations and amenities
• Celebrate with fans just like you

A Few of the Many Superstars Who Have Sailed...

• Malt Shop Memories Cruise — Frankie Valli, Beach Boys, Dion, Neil Sedaka, Paul Anka 
• Country Music Cruise  — Kenny Rogers, Vince Gill, Alabama  
• Soul Train Cruise  — Smokey Robinson, Earth Wind & Fire, Gladys Knight, The O'Jays
• Flower Power Cruise  — Eric Burdon and The Animals, The Hollies, Mickey Dolenz Lead Singer of The Monkees, Herman's Hermits starring Peter Noone, The Zombies
• ‘70s Rock and Romance Cruise — Peter Frampton, Styx, America, Air Supply, Foreigner
• Ultimate Disco Cruise – KC and The Sunshine Band, Gloria Gaynor, The Jacksons, Kool & The Gang
• Sandy Beaches Cruise – Delbert McClinton, The Mavericks, Marcia Ball, Marc Broussard
• Southern Rock Cruise - Lynyrd Skynyrd, 38 Special, The Marshall Tucker Band, The Outlaws

Enjoy Celebrity-Hosted Activities!

• Artist Q&A Sessions
• Cooking Demonstrations
• Cocktail Receptions
• Dance Lessons
• Wine Tastings
• Tribute Events
• Vow Renewal Ceremony
• Late Night Dancing
• Poolside Jam Sessions
• Theme Nights and Costume Parties

Our Promise

StarVista LIVE promises to provide you with a unique entertainment experience, bringing you together with a community of like-minded enthusiasts to relive favorite moments, create new memories, and enjoy unparalleled access to the superstars you love. 

Join Our Community of Partners

StarVista Live offers an effective opportunity to reach our community of more than 1.1 million StarVista LIVE consumers.  

Travel Agents

StarVista LIVE knows that travel agents are an integral part of our sales team. We compensate agents who actively promote and sell our cruises and through the tiered commission structure agents are rewarded for their hard work. And the best part, your clients will enjoy an unforgettable experience that they will want to relive for years to come.

10 Music and Dance-Themed Cruises for 2023

• October 26, 2022
• Themed Cruises

What could be better than enjoying a cocktail on the ship’s deck while dancing to your favorite band in person? Music and dance-themed cruises are a boatload of fun and there has long been a connection between cruising and music. Even in the early days of formal sailing, an orchestra frequently performed to keep the guests entertained over dinner and into the evening.

Currently, there are some wonderful musicians performing on cruises that are simply sailing. But there are also a handful of amazing-themed cruises where music plays an even larger role. Here are some of the top music and dance-themed cruises that you cannot miss in 2023.

The Broadway Cruise

Enjoy alongside your favorite Broadway artists when on this music and dance-themed cruise. Heading from New York to Bermuda, be a part of a magical week here. Your days will be eventful with the swimming pools & hot tubs, spa, fitness center, and casino on board.

Bring your Broadway craze to the theme nights offered on board. Dress up in your favorite fit and flair at these themed nights. Witness top-tier talent perform and gain tips from them as well during the panel discussions. Cruisers can have a unique backstage insight into theater life with exclusive interviews organized with the best in the business. Ask no more and book your cruise to witness this incredible experience like no other.

‘70s Rock & Romance Cruise

Your, much anticipated time to pull on your bell bottoms and sail back in time to the 1970s has finally arrived! Rub elbows with the stars and bands that rocked your heart and world. And relive the era that made you feel so good on the ‘70s Rock & Romance Cruise. Grab your very best friends or that special someone. And get ready to immerse yourselves in the feel-good music that made your childhood so special. 

On your way from Miami to Puerto Plata, San Juan, Puerto Rico, St. Croix, and USVI, the cruise features performances by Don Felder, The Hollies, Jefferson Starship, Rag Dolls, Bee Gees Gold, The Family Stone, Orleans, and at least a dozen more. Share memories onboard with bands while engaging in the various activities hosted by the cruise. Several Grammy-award-winning artists will perform, live nightly performances throughout the 7 days, to which you can rekindle your old soul to tap your toes and dance.

The 80’s Cruise

The 80’s Cruise returns for its seventh annual sailing in 2023. The Cruise leaves Los Angeles, on March 3, 2023, for a glorious 7 days tour. The bands include Devo, Bret Michaels, The Church, and more. The uniqueness of this Cruise is that it has a place only for those aged 40 to 65.

This is the perfect opportunity to relive your youth with the music of the 80s that still lingers in your heart. On the cruise, you are back in party mode, where alcohol is flying and strangers are more likely to high-five than stare into smartphones. Each night on the ship features amazing theme parties and drinks. And if you want a break from music, the cruise offers arcade games from the 80s too! Hurry and reserve to relive the greatest decade onboard a cruise.

Aventura Dance Cruise

This is the world’s best and most prominent Latin Dance Cruise. It is a well-run dance cruise owned by an experienced organizer, Moshe Rasier. This music and dance-themed cruise will feature many different varieties of dances including Bachata Dancing, Salsa dancing, Kizomba dancing Reggaeton, and other Latin dance styles.

The Aventura Dance Cruise is scheduled to start on the 3 rd of February 2023 from Port Canaveral. It consists of four long nights of parties and many staged shows. Do not miss out on this marvelous opportunity of dance experience and vacation, both rolled into one. The Cruise will have around 4,000 dancers from around the world. The Cruise also offers dance classes and fantastic workshops with many world-class instructors and DJs. Just go ahead with your bookings for this 4-day Dance Cruise.

Monsters of Rock Cruise

There is nothing better than sailing during the tropical weather in April- May. Join the Monsters of Rock Cruise ready to set sail on the 29 th day of April of the coming year. This will be the 11 th year of sailing aboard the Royal Caribbean’s Mariners of the Seas. Departing from Port Canaveral, Florida returning on May 4 th . 

The voyage will include 2 days of musical performances and two stops at Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic and the Monsters of Rocks Cruises’ all-time favorite, the Private Isle of Labadee. Along with the music events the guests on board can also take part in the Q&A session, cook and paint with the rock stars, go shopping, visit the spa, and have more different experiences. Place your bookings without further delay.

Ultimate Disco Cruise

Enjoy once-in-lifetime music and dance-themed cruise on the Ultimate Disco Cruise. Your package will include access to all musical performances, themed events, and of course dining. There will also be an art gallery, a library, Fortunes Casino, and a range of shops to purchase anything you might want.

Step back into the disco era on the Ultimate Disco Cruise with over 40 live performances happening throughout the cruise. Enjoy the interactive gameshows and dance parties. Cruisers can also bring costumes for the theme nights and costume parties happening on board. Spend your day at the pool parties and bust your moves at the dance competitions. Enjoy the diverse range of music and dance from sun up to sundown on board the Ultimate Disco Cruise.

Soul Train Cruise

Hop on board the Soul Train Cruise to enjoy more than 50 live performances for 7 wonderful days. Performances by George Benson, Deniece Williams, and other renowned artists will get you swaying and grooving to the beat. With a plethora of activities on board, you will never be out of things to do.

Enjoy dancing lessons from the original Soul Train Dancers on this music and dance-themed cruise. Grab your dancing shoes and head to the deck to dance to the classic Soul Train line. Groove to your favorite disco numbers at the Soul Train Club all night long. Music enthusiasts can enjoy the karaoke sessions available. Similarly, cruisers can enjoy the comedy shows, pool parties, and trivia contests that will be happening across the cruise ship. However, it is important to note that cruisers are guaranteed admission to only one nightly show. Book in advance and arrive early to enjoy your favorite shows and events.

Flower Power Cruise

How does a relaxing vacation in luxury, music and dance-themed cruise, a top-rated celebrity summit, sound? The Grooviest Trip at Sea is back! Celebrate the ‘60s with the Flower Power Cruise and travel back in time to the days of tie-dyes, bell bottoms, and peace signs. The Yardbirds, The Buckinghams, The Cowsills, Hal Bruce, Billy J Kramer, The Newbees, and many more artists of the love generation. Let them dig out the treasures of your memories through their nightly live performances and parties. 

Heading out from Miami through Belize City, Cozumel, and Costa Maya, the 7 days of peace and love will make room for you to mingle with the amazing performers through celebrity-hosted activities such as artist Q&A sessions, panel discussions, and wine tasting. Feel groovy aboard the trip of a lifetime as you plunge deep into the music of the love generation. And create precious memories once again.

The Beach Boys: Good Vibrations Cruise

Even though the paradise Kokomo mentioned in The Beach Boys’ chart-topping 1988 hit does not exist, the music and dance-themed cruise, Good Vibrations, catch equally awesome and tropical utopias – Harvest Caye, Belize, Costa Maya, and Mexico. Pick up good vibes at the concerts and other music-centered activities hosted by “The Beach Boys,” a band that forever changed the musical landscape and profoundly influenced numerous artists. 

Throughout the 5-days round trip, along with days and nights filled with musical performances, fun, enjoyable and engaging activities too, will be a part of your experience. Do not miss out on the rare opportunity to use these days of surf rock and sunshine to refresh individually and become friends with the amazing musicians. And a fun fact, every cabin on board gets to take a photo with The Beach Boys.

Keeping the Blues Alive at Sea Cruise

Keeping the Blues Alive at the Sea is back and has set the stage for all the Blues to gather in one place. And it is sure to become the best experience you ever had. Little Feat, Dion, Bobby Rush, Mike Zitto, and more of your favorite Blues will form melodies in jazz, rock and roll, country, jug band, and bluegrass. Joe Bonamassa will deliver multiple performances and many other unique collaborations will take place. 

You can also enjoy some great music along with a cocktail while relaxing in the pool, the hot tubs, or on the deck. This music and dance-themed cruise of 4 nights to Puerto Plata and the Dominican Republic is a great way to create, world-musical memories with your family and loved ones.

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• 7 Holiday-Themed Cruises to Enliven Your Vacation Spirit 

Table of Contents

The best cruise lines for music lovers in 2023: concerts and festivals at sea .

  Onique Campbell

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The Best Cruise Lines for Music Lovers in 2023: Concerts and Festivals at Sea

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For music lovers, a cruise can be the ultimate experience - combining travel, entertainment, and unforgettable memories. In 2023, several cruise lines will be offering concerts and festivals at sea, making it the perfect time to plan your dream musical getaway.

But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right cruise line. That's why we've compiled a list of the best cruise lines for music lovers in 2023, to help you find the perfect match for your musical tastes and preferences.

Choose Your Topic:

Onpage links ↓.

• Video - The Best Cruise Lines for Music Lovers in 2023: Concerts and Festivals at Sea

What are the top music-themed cruises to look out for in 2023?

How do the onboard music experiences differ between various cruise lines, what are some tips for making the most out of a music-themed cruise experience, other related pages links ↓.

• Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian has some of the best live music entertainment of any cruise line, with something for everyone no matter what your tastes are.
• Disney Cruise Line: Enjoy an exciting lineup of current and classic music at a variety of bars and lounges on board Disney’s Cruise Ships.
• Royal Caribbean International: Royal Caribbean has an amazing concert lineup that features some of your favorite artists as part of their onboard entertainment.
• Carnival Cruise Line: Enjoy hits from the 60s or classic rock from the 80s at the different lounges and pubs on a Carnival Cruise.
• Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity offers the perfect setting for a three course dinner accompanied by live music from the best of crossover jazz, classic rock, pop and latin.
• Princess Cruises: Princess Cruise Lines offers a wide variety of musical entertainment including classical music, jazz, pop and even karaoke!
• MSC Cruises: MSC offers a unique blend of music from almost every genre, as well as performances from some of the biggest names in the music industry.
• Seabourn Cruise Line: Seabourn serves up a mix of expertly crafted cocktails and live music, which adds a special touch to your night out.
• Viking Cruises: Viking Cruises provides a magical evening featuring music from classical composers, modern chart-toppers and traditional folk tunes.
• Cunard Line: Cunard's ships feature a variety of live music performances ranging from classical to modern pop and everything in between.
• Holland America Line: Enjoy thrilling entertainment from all genres at the magnificent Music Walk entertainment venues on board most Holland America ships.
• Oceania Cruises: On Oceania you can enjoy a variety of musical acts, perfect for getting your groove on.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Regent Seven Seas Cruises offer premier entertainment with talented musicians and tantalizing musical performances.

• Rock the Boat: Sail to the Rhythms of Your Favorite Music with DJs, dancefloors, and exquisite meals.
• Eastern Seaboard Swing: Get on the dancefloor and groove to the greatest swing beats of the 20th century.
• Let the Good Times Roll: A Southern Blues and Jazz cruise departing from New Orleans and exploring the best historic ports.
• Classical Cruise: Enjoy romantic arias and thrilling musical theatre performances on the Mediterranean Sea.
• Take a Jazz Journey: A Caribbean cruise with jam sessions, concerts, and an open bar never looked so good.
• Party Like a Pirate: Throw on your eye patch, grab your swashbuckling sword, and set sail for a Caribbean Pirate Music Cruise.
• Harmony in the Caribbean: A once-in-a-lifetime chance to hear some of the greatest harmonizing music around.
• Groove in the Gulf: Explore the Gulf Coast music scene with some of the hottest emerging acts around.
• Reggae Cruise: Cruise the Caribbean to the sounds of Reggae, Rocksteady and Dancehall music.
• Country Music Cruise: Experience the best of country music in the Caribbean while indulging in all its 7 sea pleasures.
• Music Size and Genre: Depending on the cruise line, the available music selection can vary greatly. Some cruise lines offer a limited selection of music genres, while others offer a wide variety of sizes and genres.
• Volume and Atmosphere: The type of onboard music experiences can also depend on the amount of volume and atmosphere that the cruise line offers. Some cruise lines offer louder and more upbeat music, while others offer a more relaxed and low-key vibe.
• Type of Activities: Different cruise lines offer different types of activities for their guests to enjoy. Some cruise lines offer live music performances, game shows, and themed parties, while others might have larger concerts and shows.
• Location and Ambience: The location and ambience of the onboard music experiences can also vary from cruise line to cruise line. Some cruise lines have music located in a traditional theater, while others have music that is located in a more open area.
• Instruments: The type of instruments used for onboard music experiences also vary from cruise line to cruise line. Some lines offer large orchestras with a wide selection of instruments, while others offer a more limited selection of instruments.
• Bring along: some music-related reading materials, like articles about your favorite musicians and books about the history of music you love.
• Sign up for: as many onboard activities and classes as possible that relate to music, such as dance classes, jam sessions, and trivia nights.
• Look for opportunities to: meet and interact with musicians who are performing onboard.
• Make sure to: take in all the live performances onboard, or join in on the impromptu jam session on the top deck.
• Don’t forget to bring: your own pass-time instruments with you, like a harmonica, flute etc, so you can join in or even make your own music.
• Have fun the whole time: Go out and explore different ports, learn about local culture, and try different types of music.
• Don’t be afraid to try: new things — be adventurous and make the most out of your cruise by getting off the beaten path.
• Most importantly: take lots of pictures and make plenty of memories so you can look back and enjoy the experience forever!

Disclosure: This article was extensively researched and arranged to provide benefit to the intended viewer. The contents of this page may or may not contain affiliate links, in which I may receive a small commission at no absolute cost to you. These are products I fully recommend as the best options as of current, clicking a product and saving item to cart will allow you to lock in the best deal for that item. You can read more about my full disclosure here in my Privacy Policy

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Disco, 'Star Trek,' and More Themed Cruises You Won’t Believe

Lacey Muszynski is a staff writer at Cheapism covering food, travel, and more. She has over 15 years of writing and editing experience, and her restaurant reviews and recipes have previously appeared in Serious Eats, Thrillist, and countless publications in her home state of Wisconsin.

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High Seas Adventure

Ever consider trying out a themed cruise, which have been gaining steadily in popularity over the last 20 years? If you're an active military member or veteran, police officer, firefighter, or a teacher, you may be able to sail on Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville at Sea for free as part of a program to thank frontline workers. Like many other themed cruises, Margaritaville at Sea used to be seen as niche and even weird, but they've since transformed into full-fledged floating music festivals, meetups of like-minded wrestling fans, and even a safe space for nudists. Whether you're looking to party all night on an adult cruise or just relax on a Caribbean vacation while you meet some new friends who share the same fashion sense, there's probably a theme cruise in 2022 or 2023 coming up for you.

Related:  The Craziest Cruise Ship Amenities

Margaritaville at Sea

Margaritaville at Sea Paradise

Dates ongoing

Parrot heads unite on this Jimmy Buffett-run party cruise  on its own "it's always 5 o'clock"-festooned cruise ship. Every sailing is for three days and two nights, so bookings are available every other day from the Port of Palm Beach to Grand Bahama Island. Since they're basically tropical weekend getaways, prices only start at $99 per person, but you may be eligible for a free stateroom through 2023 if you qualify for the Heroes Sail Free  program in a partnership with GovX.com. It applies to U.S. military members and veterans, government employees, first responders, and educators. 

For more great travel guides and vacation tips, please sign up for our free newsletters .

Flower Power Cruise

Celebrity Summit

March 23-30, 2023

The "grooviest trip at sea" may be the Flower Power Cruise , a celebration of the ‘60s and ‘70s hippie generation . The main draw is music, of course, and the lineup includes Herman's Hermits, Micky Dolenz of the Monkees, The Yardbirds, and The Buckinghams. In between the ports of Belize City, Cozumel, and Costa Maya, you can expect to see plenty of bell bottoms and tie dye shirts, attend themed parties and artist Q+A sessions, or renew your vows at sea.

Related: 14 Types of People Who Shouldn't Take a Cruise

High Seas Rally

Royal Caribbean Mariner of the Seas

October 29-November 5, 2022

It may seem a bit weird to hold a motorcycle rally where you can't bring your motorcycle, but bikers love the Caribbean sun, too. This is the 21st year of the High Seas Rally , which bills itself as the only motorcycle rally on a cruise ship. Cruisers can attend concerts from bands like Foghat and Colt Ford, dress up for Halloween and pirate theme nights, shop off their chopper in the virtual bike show, and attend garage tutorials with customization experts.

Related: The Worst Cruise Ship Horror Stories

KISS Kruise

Norwegian Jewel

October 29-November 3, 2022

Rock and roll all night (and party everyday) on the 11th KISS Kruise . This is the first year the ship is leaving from Los Angeles and visiting two ports in sunny Mexico. You'll see KISS performances masked and unmasked, participate in activities with the band members, check out rare memorabilia, and get autographs from supporting bands like Buckcherry and Stryper. Bring your black-and-white stage makeup for the ultimate costume party night on this epic music cruise.

Related: Farewell Concert Tours — That Weren't Actually the End of the Road

Rock N Wrestling Rager at Sea

Norwegian Pearl

February 2-6, 2023

This is the fourth cruise  that professional wrestler Chris Jericho has arranged and these trips are always an outrageous time. Watch as wrestlers try to navigate the boat sway during performances each day, grab photos with your favorite performers, rock out to live shows from Fozzy and Quiet Riot, and maybe even participate in the infamous drunken spelling bee. You'll need to lounge around on the private island beach in port just to recharge from all the mayhem onboard.

Star Trek: The Cruise

Royal Caribbean Navigator of the Seas

February 24-March 3, 2023

Of course there's a cruise for Trekkies. The sixth annual cruise  is boldly going where it hasn't gone before by departing from Los Angeles to three ports in Mexico, but it's the convention-like atmosphere onboard that superfans love. There will be plenty of Trek actors, including Kate Mulgrew, Jonathan Frakes, and Marina Sirtis, plus performances, comedy shows, concerts, themed parties, screenings, and games.

Outlaw Country West Cruise

November 3-8, 2022

The Outlaw Country West  themed cruise is a music festival that celebrates California country rock and cow punk. It sails from Los Angeles to Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada with over two dozen bands including Social Distortion, Lucinda Williams, Steve Earle, and Los Lobos. Each artist plays at least two shows, and artists popping in on other sets is not uncommon, especially on the open-air pool deck stage where artists are having just as much fun as the guests.

Ultimate Disco Cruise

February 25-March 2, 2023

Disco's not dead if you sail on the Ultimate Disco Cruise  from Miami to Cozumel and Key West. Everything on this cruise revolves around the music, of course, which is practically nonstop. Kool & The Gang, Billy Ocean, Sister Sledge, and Taylor Dayne will all help you dance the night away. Game shows, trivia contests, theme nights, and dance contests complete with disco balls will keep everyone busy on this music cruise.

Golden Fans at Sea

April 8-13, 2023

If you threw a party and invited everyone you knew, you might end up filling an entire cruise ship like this "Golden Girls”-themed cruise  does. Naturally, it leaves from the port of Miami, then heads to Key West and Cozumel. Entertainment includes a caftan welcome dance party, character costume party, trivia, and celebrity panels. Besides writers and producers who worked on the show, the Golden Gays NYC, a Golden Girls drag show, is also in attendance.

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Antarctica Knitting Cruise

Holland America ms Oosterdam

February 2-24, 2023

If you've ever wanted to see penguins in Antarctica and really, really love knitting, there's a cruise for you . Life on board this cold weather knitting adventure is bound to be relaxing as you take classes with knitting expert Lily Chin, visit a penguin rookery, browse the colorful Buenos Aires yarn district, and get the most out of the 20 hours of daylight you'll get. This is not an inexpensive cruise, but it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The Rock Boat

January 23-28, 2023

If you're looking for the ultimate floating music festival, The Rock Boat  is the cruise you should book — if you can, since it always sells out quickly. This is the boat's 22nd year sailing, and some cruisers have been on every single one. Besides tons of partying, expect concerts from Needtobreathe, Neon Trees, Lit, and Welshly Arms pretty much constantly in between ports in the Dominican Republic and Bahamas.

Big Nude Boat

Carnival Pride

February 12-26, 2023

You can pack light for the Big Nude Boat  since clothing is optional while the ship is at sea and even during some port excursions while docked at private islands. Besides skinny dipping in the hot tubs and sunbathing without tan lines, you can also participate in a Mardi Gras costume party or snorkel in one of the seven ports. Just be considerate and follow the strict guidelines for a stress-free clothes-free experience on this adult-themed cruise, like sitting on a towel in shared deck chairs.

JoCo Cruise

Holland America ms Nieuw Amsterdam

March 5-12, 2023

JoCo  is a cruise for nerds and anyone that loves nerd culture. It's hosted by Jonathan Coulton, a comedic singer who writes songs about geek culture, and it's been going on for over a decade. On any given day on ship in the Caribbean, you'll find cosplaying, concerts, comedy sets, crafting workshops, author readings, a ton of tabletop games — literally, they weighed them — and even a mustache, fez, and tierra social party.

Gothic Cruise

September 18-26, 2022

What the Gothic Cruise  lacks in size — it doesn't charter a whole cruise ship — it makes up for in longevity. It's been happening since 1989 thanks to a dedicated fanbase of people who share the same interests in goth music, culture, and fashion. There are private performances by bands like Ego Likeness and The Gothsicles, private late night parties, games, costumes, and even wedding and vow renewal ceremonies complete with gothic music. 

Emo's Not Dead Cruise

November 8-12, 2022

"Sailed on a sea of tears" is the cheeky tagline to the Emo's Not Dead cruise , a trip centered around emotional rock bands and their black eyeliner- and skinny jeans-wearing fans. Sob and mosh to music from Dashboard Confessional, Underoath, Newfound Glory, and Plain White T's. There will be theme nights, games, and activities with the bands as well as you sail from Los Angeles to Ensenada.