The Best Music Cruises for 2026, 2027 and Beyond

Music has always been part of cruising, but some sailings take it to a whole different level.

Instead of background bands and piano bars, these cruises bring headline artists, live gigs and themed nights that feel more like a floating music festival.

They sell out fast, and many cruisers don’t even realise they exist.

Here’s a look at the best music cruises you can actually book, and the one thing you need to know before choosing the right one.

Flower Power Cruise

Sail away to the swinging sounds of the 60s, with a cruise headlined by The Beach Boys, The Rascals, Tommy James & The Shondells, and Micky Dolenz of the Monkees. There are artist Q&A sessions, panel discussions, game shows and even wine tasting events you can take part in around the various live performances.

• Genre: 60s music
• Date: March 28th – April 4th, 2026
• Destination: Fort Lauderdale – St. Thomas – St. Kitts & Nevis
• Cruise Line: Celebrity Cruises
• Ship: Celebrity Silhouette

Learn more about Flower Power Cruise

‘70s Rock & Romance Cruise

For a cruise with a little bit of boogie thrown in, this themed voyage has several famous acts performing, including America, Kansas, Don Felder, formerly of The Eagles, Lou Gramm, The Original Voice of Foreigner and loads more. And if you think you can do better (or at least an OK job), then there’s special themed karaoke, alongside trivia contests and panel discussions.

• Genre: Rock
• Date: March 21-28, 2026
• Destination: Fort Lauderdale – St. Maarten – St. John’s
• Cruise Line: Celebrity Cruises
• Ship: Celebrity Silhouette

Learn more about the ‘70s Rock & Romance Cruise

Outlaw Country Cruise

Celebrate everything that’s great about country rock, with a cruise featuring multiple performances by Margo Price, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Lucina Williams, Steve Earle, and many more – ideal if you want to enjoy the acts around your own schedule, or even see them more than once. And budding songwriters have a special event to get up and perform themselves, too.

• Genre: Country Rock
• Date: March 20-25, 2026
• Destination: Miami – Harvest Caye – Belize & Roatan – Hondura
• Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Ship: Norwegian Pearl

Learn more about Outlaw Country West

Emo’s Not Dead Cruise

Prove that emo music wasn’t just a phase with this rocking cruise that is headlined by The Used, as well as featuring Story of the Year, Underoath and more.

• Genre: Emo
• Date: January 22-26, 2026
• Destination: Miami – Costa Maya, Mexico
• Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Ship: Norwegian Joy

Learn more about Emo’s Not Dead Cruise

Groove Cruise Miami

The world’s biggest floating dance party returns for 2026, bringing another huge line-up of electronic music to the high seas, headlined by John Summit and Cloonee alongside dozens of top DJs. As well as the big-name acts, Groove Cruise also ran a global DJ competition, inviting new and undiscovered talent to enter, with 660 DJs taking part and one winner earning a coveted spot on the ship. Expect pool deck raves, late-night sets and a non-stop festival atmosphere.

• Genre: Electronic music
• Date: January 22-26, 2026
• Destination: Miami – Nassau, Bahamas
• Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean
• Ship: Wonder of the Seas

Learn more about the Groove Cruise Miami

Although the 2026 Groove Cruise has already sold out, the 2027 sailing has now been released for January 22–26, 2027, so it’s worth signing up early if you don’t want to miss out.

The Rock Boat XXIV

You know a themed music cruise is successful when it makes it to its 25th birthday. The Rock Cruise returns again with five days and nights of epic music, including Needtobreathe, Judah & the Lion, The Struts, Matt Nathanson, Bowling for Soup and many more. Soak up the relaxing beach sun during the day, and rock out all night long.

• Genre: Rock
• Date: January 29 – February 5, 2026
• Destination: Miami – St. Martaan – San Juan, Porto Rico
• Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Ship: Norwegian Pearl

Learn more about the Rock Boat XXIV

Cayamo’s 17th Journey Through Song

With a blend of soul acts you know and love, and those you haven’t yet heard but will soon adore, this relaxing cruise will be a truly amazing experience for fans of the genre. Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, Dawes, Watchouse and more will play immersive sets, take part in unique collaborations and more.

• Genre: Soul music
• Date: March 13-20, 2026
• Destination: Miami – St Juan, Puerto Rico – Cayo Levantado, Dominican Republic
• Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Ship: Norwegian Pearl

Learn more about Cayamo’s 17th Journey Through Song

Keeping the Blues Alive at Sea X

Enjoy the best of modern blues music on this smooth cruise to the Dominican Republic, headlined by Joe Bonamassa. He’ll be playing multiple performances as well as taking part in other activities too, while on stage, you’ll enjoy rare collaborations and unusual sets that will leave you with unique memories to take home.

• Genre: Blues
• Date: March 25-29, 2026
• Destination: Miami – Key West – Nassau, Bahamas
• Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Ship: Norwegian Pearl

Learn more about Keeping the Blues Alive at Sea X

The Broadway Cruise

The sights and sounds of Broadway will return to the seas soon, with this much-loved cruise taking a break in 2026 before coming back in April 2027. When it does, you can expect the same star-studded mix of performers, behind-the-scenes panels and magical moments that make this one of the most exciting themed cruises for musical theatre fans. If you don’t want to miss booking when it goes on sale, it’s well worth joining the cruise’s mailing list for early access and updates.

• Genre: Broadway
• Date: April 15-20, 2027
• Destination: Miami – TBC
• Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Ship: TBC

Learn more about The Broadway Cruise

Days of Summer Cruise Fest

Experience an epic summer party cruise with this Caribbean getaway featuring top DJs and hip-hop acts, all hosted by DJ Khaled, along with themed nights like the PJ and all-white parties that keep the ship buzzing from day to night. The cruise is taking a break in 2026 but will return in summer 2027, with early-bird bookings opening on Monday, 2 February 2026, so it’s worth getting in early if you want to secure a spot.

• Genre: Hip-hop & Dance
• Date: June 30 – July 3, 2027
• Destination: TBC
• Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Ship: TBC

Learn more about Days of Summer Cruise Fest

The Country Music Cruise

Don’t forget your cowboy boots for this exciting country cruise that features a host of top acts performing live daily, and taking part in panels and other special hosted events. There are also professional dance teachers on hand if you need a little help with your line dancing, Texas Swing or 2-stepping.

• Genre: Country music
• Date: February 7-14, 2027
• Destination: Ft. Lauderdale – San Juan – St Maarten
• Cruise Line: Celebrity Cruises
• Ship: Celebrity Silhouette

Learn more about The Country Music Cruise

The 80s Cruise

Let your hair down and spend a week partying with some of the top acts the ’80s’80s had to offer. With over 50 live performances to attend from the likes of Bret Michaels, Nile Rodgers & Chic, OMD, Billy Ocean and more, you’ll love this epic throwback voyage. All guests get Royal Caribbean’s Deluxe Beverage Package included in their fare, too.

• Genre: 80s music
• Date: Feb 27 – March 6, 2026
• Destination: Port Canaveral – Nassau – Falmouth – Grand Bahama Island
• Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean
• Ship: Adventure of the Seas

Learn more about The 80s Cruise

The Monsters of Rock Cruise

Mosh out to some rock and metal classics on this cruise, which includes a day spent at NCL’s private destination, Great Stirrup Cay. During your cruise, you can experience some true rock heavyweights as they play thrilling sets that will have you headbanging long into the night.

• Genre: Hard rock and heavy metal
• Date: April 12-17, 2026
• Destination: Miami – Puerto Plata – Great Stirrup Cay
• Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Ship: Norwegian Joy

Learn more about The Monsters of Rock Cruise

Jam Cruise 21

If you enjoy a mix of music styles, then the Jam Cruise may be right up your street. Acts such as The Disco Biscuits, Medeski Martin & Wood, The Wood Brothers Galactic ft. Jelly Joseph plus many more, will perform across five nights, with several acts playing twice to give you the best chance of seeing everyone you want to without burning out.

• Genre: Mix of rock, funk, blues, bluegrass, and electronic
• Date: February 7-12, 2026
• Destination: Miami – Grand Turk – Ocean Cay
• Cruise Line: MSC Cruises
• Ship: MSC Divina

Learn more about Jam Cruise 21

Welcome to Jamrock Reggae Cruise

This reggae-filled cruise is all about soaking up Jamaican culture as well as great live music, with performances happening across the ship day and night. It’s also one of the most activity-packed themed cruises at sea, with everything from themed nights and sunrise drumming sessions to yoga, dancehall lessons, fitness classes and even dominoes, go-karting and door-decorating competitions, plus free pre- and post-cruise parties to kick things off in style.

• Genre: Reggae
• Date: November 11-16, 2026
• Destination: Miami – Falmouth – Ocho Rios
• Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Ship: Norwegian Joy

Learn more about Welcome To Jamrock Reggae Cruise

Soul Train Cruise

Branded as the ‘hippest trip at sea’, the Soul Train cruise features a stacked lineup of top-tier soul musicians such as Johnny Gill, En Vogue and The Temptations, as well as dozens of celebrity-attended events. Learn to dance with the original Soul Train dancers, enjoy special tribute events and even renew your wedding vows in a unique soul experience.

• Genre: Soul music
• Date: November 7-14, 2026
• Destination: Ft. Lauderdale – Half Moon Cay – Montego Bay – Amber Cove
• Cruise Line: Holland America Line
• Ship: Eurodam

Learn more about Soul Train Cruise

ShipRocked

‘Rock Hard and Vacation Harder’ as you enjoy some rocking tunes on the ocean waves with this entertainment-packed cruise. You’re invited to rise up as an army of rockers and conquer Carnival’s private island while you enjoy live performances day and night, along with special themed nights.

• Genre: Rock and Metal
• Date: January 25-31, 2026
• Destination: Miami – Half Moon Cay – Celebration Cay – Nassau
• Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line
• Ship: Carnival Horizon

Learn more about ShipRocked

Legendary Rhythm And Blues Cruise (#46 Eastern Caribbean)

This Legendary R&B cruise is so popular that both the January and October 2026 sailings have already sold out. If it’s on your wish list, your best bet is to pre-book the 2027 cruise now so you don’t miss out when it opens.

• Genre: Rhythm & Blues
• Date: January 31 – February 7, 2027
• Destination: Fort Lauderdale – Grand Turk – San Juan – Santa Domingo
• Cruise Line: Holland America
• Ship: Nieuw Statendam

Learn more about Legendary Rhythm And Blues Cruise (#46 Eastern Caribbean)

The Jazz Cruise

The Jazz Cruise is a full-ship celebration of straight-ahead jazz, bringing together more than 100 world-class musicians for over 200 hours of live performances across seven unforgettable nights at sea. After more than 25 years of perfecting this floating jazz festival, it’s earned a reputation as a true “Jazz Heaven” for fans who love nothing more than incredible music, day and night.

• Genre: Jazz
• Date: January 17-24, 2027
• Destination: Fort Lauderdale – Cozumel – Belize – Costa Maya
• Cruise Line: Celebrity Cruises
• Ship: Celebrity Summit

Learn more about The Jazz Cruise

The Smooth Jazz Cruise

If you love your cruise holidays to be laid back and relaxed, then the Smooth Jazz cruise could be ideal. Yes, you’ll have the chance to dance along with hundreds of other jazz fans, but you can also lie back on your lounger and let the soulful music wash over you as you enjoy total cruising bliss. Six itineraries are available!

• Genre: Jazz
• Date: Six Cruises from February 2026 – October 2027
• Destination: Multiple, but mostly Florida – Mexico
• Cruise Line: Celebrity Cruises
• Ship: Celebrity Summit

Learn more about The Smooth Jazz Cruise

Malt Shop Memories Cruise

Dedicated to some of the best music of the 50s and 60s, the Malt Shop Memories cruise is all about rekindling your love for the artists you grew up listening to. Wayne Newton, The Temptations and Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone are just some of the acts performing live on this rock and roll party at sea.

• Genre: 50s and 60s music
• Date: October 31 – November 7, 2026
• Destination: Ft. Lauderdale – San Juan – Tortola
• Cruise Line: Holland America Line
• Ship: Eurodam

Learn more about Malt Shop Memories Cruise

Rock Legends Cruise XIII

Enjoy your own classic rock festival at sea with this Bahamas voyage headlined by top acts such as The Guess Who and Gene Simmons Band. As well as live performances, enjoy photo opportunities with the bands, as well as memorabilia auctions, giving you a once-in-a-lifetime chance to own something special from your favourite musicians.

• Genre: Rock
• Date: February 23-27, 2026
• Destination: Fort Lauderdale – Grand Turk
• Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean
• Ship: Liberty of the Seas

Learn more about Rock Legends Cruise XII

The Cruise of Irish Stars

Rather than being themed to one type of music, this cruise instead brings together the best Irish and Irish-American musicians for an eclectic voyage which features ballads, country, pop-rock and more, as well as stand-up comedy. No matter your music tastes, if you love Irish music, then this voyage is perfect.

• Genre: Irish music
• Date: February 14-22, 2026
• Destination: Ft. Lauderdale – Eastern Caribbean
• Cruise Line: Princess Cruises
• Ship: Majestic Princess

Learn more about The Cruise of Irish Stars

Sandy Beaches Cruise

With 7 nights of great music and 3 ports of call, it’s a non-stop blues rock adventure with the Sandy Beaches cruise. Top acts include Keb’ Mo’, JJ Grey & Mofro and St. Paul & The Broken Bones, with various Q&As, jam sessions and autograph signings that guests can attend.

• Genre: Blues Rock
• Date: January 9-16, 2027
• Destination: Ft. Lauderdale – Cozumel – Costa Maya
• Cruise Line: Holland America Line
• Ship: Eurodam

Learn more about Sandy Beaches Cruise

Salty Dog Cruise

Embrace that rebellious party streak with a voyage on this punk rock-themed cruise, where you’ll enjoy a wide range of live performances as well as interactive experiences. The lineup includes Flogging Molly, Bad Religion, Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls, plus many more.

• Genre: Punk Rock
• Date: October 25-30, 2026
• Destination: Miami – Cozumel – Great Stirrup Cay
• Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Ship: Norwegian Jewel

Learn more about Salty Dog Cruise

Polka Magic Cruise

Few genres of music are as spirited and joy-filled as polka, and this cruise pairs that upbeat energy perfectly with a fun-filled holiday at sea. Join Grammy-winning Jimmy Sturr & His Orchestra alongside Mollie B and other top polka bands for hours of live music, plus dance lessons, lively stage shows and plenty of chances to get on your feet. Between the sea, sun and friendly polka community, it’s a week where classic music and cruising fun really come together.

• Genre: Polka
• Date: January 17-25, 2026
• Destination: Ft. Lauderdale – Bonaire – Curacao – Aruba
• Cruise Line: Princess Cruises
• Ship: Majestic Princess

Learn more about Polka Magic Cruise

Texas Country Music Cruise

Texas is a state that’s synonymous with some of America’s best country music, so why not sail on this 7-night voyage (out of Galveston, Texas, of course) and enjoy live music from top names such as Jon Wolfe, Bart Crow, and Bri Bagwell. A mix of pool deck parties and acoustic sing-a-longs will keep your toes tapping all week long.

• Genre: Country music
• Date: October 25 – November 1, 2026
• Destination: Galveston – Roatan, Honduras – Costa Maya, Mexico – Cozumel
• Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean
• Ship: Symphony of the Seas

Learn more about Texas Country Music Cruise

Chicago Music Cruise

Enjoy a themed voyage on one of the newest ships at sea with the Chicago Music Cruise. Cruise with fans of the Chicago and Midwest music scenes, enjoy acts like 7th Heaven and Tony Ocean, then, in your downtime, take advantage of the wealth of features that this amazing ship has to offer.

• Genre: Mix
• Date: January 17-25, 2026, with the 2027 details cruise coming soon
• Destination: Miami – Ocean Cay – Cozumel – Costa Maya – Roatan
• Cruise Line: MSC
• Ship: MSC World America

Learn more about Chicago Music Cruise

311 Caribbean Cruise

Cruise with 311 and a number of other top alternative and rock bands on this fun-packed voyage. Join other brodels and slinkies as you set sail, enjoying live music and a number of themed activities on board with the 311 members. The cruise isn’t sailing in 2026 but is set to return in 2027, so it’s worth joining the mailing list to get the details as soon as they’re released.

• Genre: Alternative rock
• Date: TBC 2027
• Destination: TBC
• Cruise Line: TBC
• Ship: TBC

Learn more about 311 Caribbean Cruise

Love and Harmony Cruise

This isn’t just a reggae cruise, it’s a full-on Caribbean party at sea, with live music, themed nights and a seriously good vibe from sail-away to the final day. Alongside the performances, you’ll also get a taste of the islands with Caribbean-inspired food on board, adding to the laid-back, feel-good atmosphere. If you love reggae, good company and a holiday that feels more like a celebration than a cruise, this one is hard to beat.

• Genre: Reggae
• Date: April 1-6, 2026
• Destination: Miami – Free Port – Ocho Rios
• Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Ship: Norwegian Joy

Learn more about Love and Harmony Cruise

Cruise to the Edge 2026

Cruise to the Edge is a dream come true for progressive rock fans, bringing legendary prog bands and modern favourites together for a week of non-stop live music at sea. Expect intimate shows, full-scale concerts and the chance to see the same artists more than once, all in a friendly, festival-style atmosphere that feels more like a floating music convention than a normal cruise. If you love clever, complex music and discovering new bands alongside the classics, this is one of the most unique music cruises you can book.

• Genre: Progressive Rock
• Date: April 4-9, 2026
• Destination: Miami – Key West – Nassau
• Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Ship: Norwegian Pearl

Learn more about Cruise to the Edge 2026 here

To Conclude

From rock and reggae to jazz, country and dance music, there really is a music cruise out there for every kind of fan. Whether you want all-night parties, intimate live shows or a relaxed vibe with great tunes in the background, these sailings let you enjoy your favourite music while still getting all the perks of a cruise holiday.

If you know of any other music cruises that should be on this list, feel free to leave a comment below and I’ll take a look.

Like the idea of a specialist cruise? Check out these other Themed Cruises that you could book.

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