The Best Music Cruises for 2024, 2025 and Beyond

Cruising and music have long gone hand-in-hand. Even back in the days of formal cruising, an orchestra would often play to entertain guests during dinner and for the evening.

Now, there are some amazing musicians playing on regular cruises, but also a number of incredible themed cruises where music plays an even bigger part. Sounds fun, right?

Here’s a look at the best music cruises you can book a place on…

Flower Power Cruise

Sail away to the swinging sounds of the 60s, with a cruise headling by The Rascals, Tommy James & The Shondells, and John Kay of Steppenwolf. 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 22-29, 2025
• Destination: Fort Lauderdale – Labadee – Montego Bay
• Cruise Line: Celebrity Cruises
• Ship: Celebrity Summit

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 a number of famous acts performing including The Hits at Sea, Randy Bachman, Don McLean, Melissa Manchester 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 15-22, 2025
• Destination: Fort Lauderdale – Cozumel – Costa Maya
• Cruise Line: Celebrity Cruises
• Ship: Celebrity Summit

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 Old Crow Medicine Show, John Hiatt, Steve Earle, Lucinda Williams and 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: February 22-28, 2025
• Destination: Miami – Nassau – St. Thomas
• Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Ship: Norwegian Gem

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 Boys Like Girls, Chiodos and more.

• Genre: Emo
• Date: February 4-8, 2025
• Destination: Bahamas
• Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Ship: Norwegian Gem

Learn more about Emo’s Not Dead Cruise

Groove Cruise Miami

The Groove Cruise 2025 is the 21st anniversary of the Groove Cruise and takes place on the biggest ship for the cruise yet, the Allure of the Seas. Eric Prydz (Call on Me) headlines!

• Genre: Electronic music
• Date: January 23-27, 2025
• Destination: Miami – Falmouth, Jamaica
• Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean
• Ship: Allure of the Seas

Learn more about the Groove Cruise Miami

The Rock Boat XXIV

You know a themed music cruise is successful when it makes it to its 24th birthday. The Rock Cruise returns again with five days and nights of epic music including unique collaborations, all with a friendly and party-themed atmosphere. Soak up the relaxing beach sun during the day, and rock out all night long.

• Genre: Rock
• Date: January 26-31, 2025
• Destination: Miami – Harvest Caye – Roatan
• Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Ship: Norwegian Gem

Learn more about the Rock Boat XXIV

On the Blue

If you love classic rock then you’ll have an amazing time on this cruise. Details are TBC but the last cruise was hosted by Justin Hayward, the voice of the Moody Blues. A number of renowned acts performed including The Zombies, Alan Parsons and Starship, so expect similar.

• Genre: Classic Rock
• Date: August 22-29, 2025
• Destination: Boston – Halifax – Sydney – Saint John – Portland
• Cruise Line: TBC
• Ship: TBC

Learn more about On the Blue

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. Jeff Tweedy, Emmylou Harris and more will play immersive sets, take part in unique collaborations and more.

• Genre: Soul music
• Date: February 28 to March 7, 2025
• Destination: Miami – St Croix, US Virgin Islands – St. John’s, Antigua
• Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Ship: Norwegian Gem

Learn more about Cayamo’s 17th Journey Through Song

Train’s Sail Across the Sun (8th Edition)

Train fans will love this eclectic cruise headlined by the band, but featuring a host of other artists too. There’s a great mix of music, but you’ll also be able to take part in various activities alongside the band, including karaoke with Train, a Kids’ cooking class with the band, and wine tastings with James and Pat.

• Genre: Pop rock
• Date: February 13-17, 2025
• Destination: Miami
• Cruise Line: TBA
• Ship: TBA

Learn more about Train’s Sail Across the Sun (8th Edition)

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 21-26, 2025
• Destination: Miami – Harvest Caye – Costa Maya
• Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Ship: Norwegian Gem

Learn more about Keeping the Blues Alive at Sea X

The Broadway Cruise

The sights and sounds of Broadway make their way to the seas on this vibrant, thrilling cruise featuring Laura Benanti, Wayne Brady and Solea Pfeiffer among others. Activities and panels take you behind the scenes of the magic of some of the biggest musicals in the world.

• Genre: Broadway
• Date: March 31 to April 4, 2025
• Destination: Miami – Cozumel
• Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Ship: Norwegian Gem

Learn more about The Broadway Cruise

Days of Summer Cruise Fest

Experience an epic summer party cruise with this fantastic Caribbean getaway featuring top DJs and hip-hop acts, all hosted by DJ Khaled. There are special themed nights including a PJ/lingerie party and an all-white night, so bring your best white outfits on-board and dance the night away.

• Genre: Hip-hop & Dance
• Date: TBC 2025
• Destination: Miami – Great Stirrup Cay – Nassau in the Bahamas
• Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Ship: Norwegian Sky

Learn more about Days of Summer Cruise Fest

Soulshine at Sea

The Soulshine at Sea cruises are about more than just good music – it’s about living your best healthy life with good vibes. Expect some great live performances, but also group wellness sessions and a host of other activities designed to get you into a happy mindset as part of one of the most welcoming themed cruises at sea.

• Genre: Soul Rock
• Date: November 4-8, 2025
• Destination: Miami – Costa Maya, Mexico
• Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Ship: Norwegian Pearl

Learn more about Soulshine at Sea

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: January 19-26, 2024
• Destination: Ft. Lauderdale – Key West – Cozumel – Costa Maya
• Cruise Line: Holland America Line
• Ship: Nieuw Amsterdam

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 had to offer. With over 50 live performances to attend from the likes of Squeeze, Adam Ant, Men at Work 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: March 2-9, 2025
• Destination: Miami – Nassau – San Juan – Labadee
• Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean
• Ship: Explorer of the Seas

Learn more about The 80s Cruise

The Beach Boys Good Vibrations Cruise

Who better for a stunning cruise to Belize and Mexico than the Beach Boys? Their own cruise will feature a number of acts performing live, while every single cabin on-board will have the chance to get their photo taken with the original Beach Boys – the perfect memento for any fan.

The last cruise took place in 2023 and a future cruise is still being worked on.

• Genre: 60s music
• Date: TBC
• Destination: Miami – Harvest Caye, Belize – Costa Maya, Mexico
• Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Ship: Norwegian Pearl

Learn more about The Beach Boys’ Good Vibrations 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: March 10-15, 2025
• Destination: Miami – Great Stirrup Cay – Nassau
• 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 STS9, Snarky Puppy, Thievery Corporation 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 14-19, 2025
• Destination: Miami – Cozumel – Belize City
• Cruise Line: MSC Cruises
• Ship: MSC Divina

Learn more about Jam Cruise 21

Welcome to Jamrock Reggae Cruise

While the star of the show on this cruise is the excellent reggae artists performing various shows across the ship’s venues, it’s also one of the best themed cruises for extra activities. From special football tournaments to door decorating contests, this cruise is non-stop fun – with a free pre-cruise and post-cruise party to attend too.

• Genre: Reggae
• Date: December 9-14, 2024
• Destination: Miami – Montego Bay – Ocho Rios, Jamaica
• Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean
• Ship: Independence of the Seas

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, 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 9-16, 2025
• Destination: Ft. Lauderdale – San Juan – St. Thomas – Half Moon Cay
• 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 the Bahamas while you enjoy live performances day and (all) night, along with special themed nights.

• Genre: Rock and Metal
• Date: January 19-25, 2025
• Destination: Miami – Saint Thomas – Half Moon Cay
• Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line
• Ship: Carnival Magic

Learn more about ShipRocked

Legendary Rhythm And Blues Cruise (#43 Sea of Cortez)

Another Legendary R&B cruise, this time sailing to the Sea of Cortez. Details of the featured bands will be announced soon.

• Genre: Rhythm & Blues
• Date: October 25 to November 1, 2025
• Destination: TBC
• Cruise Line: Holland America
• Ship: TBC

Learn more about #43 Sea of Cortez

The In My Cruise Era (Taylor Swift) Cruise

If you love Taylor Swift, and you want to spend four days partying with other Swifties, then this is the cruise for you. Departing from Miami, it’ll sail to Perfect Day at CocoCay and then onto Nassau, with events including karaoke and dance parties.

• Genre: Pop (Taylor Swift)
• Date: 21 October 2024
• Destination: CocoCay, Nassau (from Miami)
• Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean
• Ship: Allure of the Seas

Learn more about the In My Cruise Era cruise

The Jazz Cruise

Advertising itself as the only “straight-jazz” cruise, enthusiasts will meet thousands of other passionate jazz fans and cruise along with over 100 musicians performing around 225 hours of sensational jazz. This is definitely one for the discerning fan – after all, the cruise states that its standards are extraordinary.

• Genre: Jazz
• Date: January 28 to February 2, 2025
• Destination: Fort Lauderdale – Cozumel – Grand Cayman
• 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 lay back on your lounger and let the soulful music wash over you as you enjoy total cruising bliss. Two itineraries are available!

• Genre: Jazz
• Date: Two cruises in Jan/Feb 2025
• Destination: Bahamas
• 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. Dion, Frankie Avalon, The Righteous Brothers and Chubby Checker are just some of the acts performing live on this rock and roll party at sea.

• Genre: 50s and 60s music
• Date: October 27 to November 3, 2024
• Destination: Ft. Lauderdale – St Maarten – Tortola
• Cruise Line: Holland America Line
• Ship: Nieuw Amsterdam

Learn more about Malt Shop Memories Cruise

Rock Legends Cruise XII

Enjoy your own classic rock festival at sea with this Bahamas voyage headlined by top acts such as Alice Cooper and Styx. 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 13-17, 2025
• Destination: Miami – CocoCay
• Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean
• Ship: Independence 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 9-16, 2025
• Destination: Ft. Lauderdale – Western Caribbean
• Cruise Line: Princess Cruises
• Ship: Sky Princess

Learn more about The Cruise of Irish Stars

Sandy Beaches Cruise

With 7 nights of great music and 4 ports of call, it’s a non-stop blues rock adventure with the Sandy Beaches cruise. Top acts include The Mavericks, Los Lobos, Jimmie Vaughan, and The Band of Heathens, with various Q&As, jam sessions and autograph signings that guests can attend.

• Genre: Blues Rock
• Date: January 12-19, 2024
• Destination: Ft. Lauderdale – San Juan – Grand Turk
• Cruise Line: Holland America Line
• Ship: Nieuw Amsterdam

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 is yet to be confirmed but past lineups have featured some top punk bands from both sides of the Atlantic.

• Genre: Punk Rock
• Date: February 17-22, 2025
• Destination: from Miami
• Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Ship: Norwegian Gem

Learn more about Salty Dog Cruise

Polka Magic Cruise

Few genres of music are as fun as polka, while cruise holidays are inherently fun, making this a match made in heaven. Dance along to some award-winning polka acts including the Jimmy Sturr Orchestra, and get your steps in line with polka dancing instructors on hand to teach you.

• Genre: Polka
• Date: January 12-19, 2025
• Destination: Ft. Lauderdale – Princess Cays – Ocho Rios – Grand Cayman – Cozumel
• Cruise Line: Princess Cruises
• Ship: Sky 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 Josh Ward & Jon Wolfe. A mix of pool deck parties and acoustic sing-a-longs will keep your toes tapping all week long.

• Genre: Country music
• Date: October 20-27, 2024
• Destination: Galveston – Roatan, Honduras – Costa Maya, Mexico – Cozumel
• Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean
• Ship: Harmony of the Seas

Learn more about Texas Country Music Cruise

Chicago Music Cruise

Enjoy a themed voyage on one of the largest ships at sea with the Chicago Music Cruise. There are even three different cruises to choose from, all featuring 7th Heaven and other names! Cruise with fans of the Chicago and Midwest music scenes, and in your downtime take advantage of the wealth of features that these amazing ships have to offer.

• Genre: Mix
• Date: November 2024, January 2025, March 2025
• Destination: Bahamas
• Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean
• Ship: Utopia/Icon/Wonder of the Seas

Learn more about Chicago Music Cruise

311 Caribbean Cruise

Cruise with 311 and a number of other top alternative and rock bands including Souls of Mischief and The Movement on this fun-packed voyage. Join other brodels and slinkies as you set sail for Belize and Honduras, enjoying live music and a number of themed activities on-board with the 311 members.

• Genre: Alternative rock
• Date: March 26-31, 2025
• Destination: Miami – Great Stirrup Cay – Nassau
• Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Ship: Norwegian Gem

Learn more about 311 Caribbean Cruise

Love and Harmony Cruise

Where better to dance along to some of the world’s top reggae musicians than a cruise to the Caribbean? With live performances by Beres Hammond, Sanchez and more, this is a welcoming themed cruise that’s aimed at guests of all ages who just want to enjoy quality, harmonious music.

• Genre: Reggae
• Date: March 3-8, 2025
• Destination: Miami – Grand Cayman – Ocho Rios
• Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Ship: Norwegian Joy

Learn more about Love and Harmony Cruise

The Kiss Kruise

KISS have long held incredible rock cruises at sea and these voyages are packed with exciting talent offering music shows, headlined of course by the band themselves. See KISS both masked and unmasked, and enjoy the tropical escapes of your itinerary.

• Genre: Rock
• Date: 2025 (Exact dates TBC)
• Destination: Los Angeles to Cabo San Lucas & Ensenada, Mexico
• Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Ship: Norwegian Jewel

Learn more about The Kiss Kruise

To conclude

There really is a themed music cruise for every taste and genre, so no matter what you’re into, you’ll find one that fits you. Why not book a place on one of these music cruises and sail with fans of your favourite bands, enjoying not just great live music but all the benefits of a regular cruise as well.

If you know of any other music cruises then leave a comment below, or let me know by email at [email protected] and I’ll add them to the list.

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

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