The Weekender Archives - Signature Cruise Experiences

Our Take: She Knew How to Pick ‘Em!

Kim Kelley — Sat, 22 Aug 2026 04:45:00 +0000

Perhaps as long as 20 years ago, my mother called me in a frantic tone telling me that I needed to fly to New York to see the most amazing singer she had seen since Joe Williams. She had seen him perform in a small venue in Harlem and said he was unique and powerful. I asked her what his name was and she couldn’t remember, but she was certain that the venue was St. Nick’s Pub. My mother, Anita Berry, would never forget any reference to Christmas, so I believed her.

After a bit of digging, I realized that Mom had “found” Gregory Porter. Though she was prone to hyperbole, she was on the money when it came to Gregory. Five minutes into his first song, I knew that I was hearing a voice that was unique, but, more importantly, it was compelling and soothing at the same time. I could not take my eyes off his performance and I could not think of anything else when he was singing. To this day, I feel the same way.

Most of his show at that time was a presentation of his own music. Each song from the heart with a message that mattered. No frills. No gimmicks. Just beautiful music and meaningful lyrics. Given his size and the seriousness of his topics, he could have come across as imposing and distant, but his beautiful soul was always on display and his engaging smile made you feel comfortable and at peace.

There is a show biz adage that even a “B” singer can sound great with an “A” song. Recently, Gregory has added tunes from the Great American Songbook to his shows and his recordings. Doing so allows us to compare his voice to others. I knew I loved when he sang, but was I falling for the tune or the singer? Of course the answer is both, but, if he never wrote a song and his shows were replete with tunes we know, he would be just as wonderful and exciting as he is when singing his songs.

I have heard giants in the business say that Gregory Porter is their favorite male vocalist, regardless of genre. Not sure how many folks are on that team, but count me in.

Gregory is co-hosting our Journey of Jazz ’27 cruise in late January. That journey will take us to New Orleans. The thought of him singing on the way to and from New Orleans excites me. Though he is from Bakersfield, CA, he could easily persuade folks that The Big Easy was somewhere in his background. The richness of his voice. The effortlessness of his singing. But, mostly the spirit he presents has a mystical, supernatural feel that is so obvious in New Orleans. Gregory seems to be a person who has lived for decades and will continue to live forever. Spiritually present at all times.

I am sure that I would have located Gregory without the assistance of my mother, but her involvement makes for a better story. Honoring her today is also apt. Today would have been her 97th birthday. Never one for shunning the spotlight or missing a party, I bought her a cake….just in case.

By Michael Lazaroff, Executive Director of The Jazz Cruise, The Smooth Jazz Cruise, Chris Botti at Sea, Journey of Jazz, David Foster: The Hitman Cruise, Top Shelf Country Cruise and The Yacht Rock Cruise. Feel free to express your views or pose questions to him at michael@scecruises.com.

SFJAZZ Concerts

This fall, several of our artists are appearing at SFJAZZ as part of that organization’s 2026-2027 concert season.

Christian McBride will perform with both his Ray Brown Centennial Celebration project (September 10-11) and Ursa Major (September 12-13). Branford Marsalis & Dianne Reeves will celebrate John Coltrane with music from the seminal 1963 album John Coltrane & Johnny Hartman on September 17-19. The Ravi Coltrane Quartet will also celebrate Ravi’s late father with a concert on September 19 at UC-Berkeley. Finally, on September 24-26, Marcus Miller will perform music from the We Want Miles album, alongside classic Davis repertoire, joined by fellow Miles alumni Mike Stern, Bill Evans and Mino Cinelu.

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SFJAZZ Concerts

Across the country in NYC, Jazz at Lincoln Center will be featuring numerous SCE artists, as it kicks off its concert season on September 17-19 with Marsalis & the Masters, featuring Wynton Marsalis, performing with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, who interprets the music of jazz masters Thelonious Monk, Louis Armstrong, John Coltrane, Chick Corea and other giants.

On October 2-3, Catherine Russell & Friends (including guest Cyndi Lauper) will celebrate her 70th Birthday.

In the Appel Room on October 9-10, Wycliffe Gordon, an original member of the Wynton Marsalis Septet and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, will present his musical autobiography, Welcome to Georgia Town, a journey through his life experiences and upbringing in Georgia, with an assist from the five-person chorus Damien Sneed and Friends.

Finally, another longtime SCE favorite, Chucho Valdés will be joined on October 16-17 by an all-star quintet featuring saxophonist Joe Lovano, bassist John Patitucci, trumpeter Terence Blanchard and drummer Marcus Gilmore, in a musical celebration of the Cuban pianist’s 85th birthday.

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SCE Sailings in ’26

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.3

9.11.26 – 9.18.26
Vancouver – Victoria – San Francisco – Los Angeles

34th Sailing of the Greatest Party at Sea

From 9.11.26 – 9.18.26, The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’26.3 will sail from Vancouver to Los Angeles. The cruise features the very best “smooth jazz” musicians and bands in the world.

This sailing has been Fully Reserved for months, but last-minute cancellations have freed up a few staterooms. If you are interested, click the button below or visit www.thesmoothjazzcruise.com for more information.

Botti at Sea ’26

9.18.26 – 9.25.26
Los Angeles – San Francisco – Victoria – Vancouver

Josh Groban Performing on Botti at Sea ’26!

In addition to the recently announced Josh Groban, joining Chris on the cruise are several music icons: Elvis Costello, Boz Scaggs and Melody Gardot and many others. When in San Francisco, guests may take winery tours in Napa and Sonoma, spend the day on the Napa Valley Wine Train, sample the finest cuisine in San Francisco and much more. Another menu of excursions awaits guests when the cruise docks in Victoria, BC. Trust us, this is the perfect music experience!

David Foster at Sea

1.12.27 – 1.17.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Costa Maya – Tampa

It’s Your Music!

The ’26 David Foster cruise was a runaway hit. From the first note to the last song, the brilliance of David Foster was evident in every show and event.

The star-studded lineup for David Foster at Sea 27 includes Michael McDonald, Dianne Reeves, Leslie Odom Jr., Katharine McPhee, Erich Bergen and more.

The Jazz Cruise ’27

1.17.27 – 1.24.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Belize – Costa Maya – Tampa

The Greatest Jazz Festival at Sea

The Jazz Cruise is the first program that Signature Cruise Experiences ever produced. Since its first sailing in 2001, The Jazz Cruise has been the world leader in presenting “straight ahead” jazz at sea.

The Jazz Cruise has reached Fully Reserved every year it has sailed and The Jazz Cruise ’27 is near that goal again (over 88% Reserved).

Journey of Jazz ’27

1.24.27 – 1.31.27
Tampa – New Orleans – Progreso – Tampa

Cruising to the Birthplace of Jazz

Journey of Jazz ’27 will be an amazing cruise program featuring hosts Marcus Miller and Gregory Porter, a full lineup of great musicians and vocalists, a special two days in New Orleans which features Wynton Marsalis and a group of his hand-picked musicians.

In its second season, Journey of Jazz proudly combines the very best music with opportunities to live The Jazz Life.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise

’27.1 (1.31.27 – 2.7.27)
Tampa – Ocho Rios – Grand Cayman – Tampa
’27.2 (2.7.27 – 2.14.27)
Tampa – Grand Cayman – Ocho Rios – Tampa

The Greatest Party at Sea presents its customary back-to-back weeklong programs in the Caribbean. Tampa is the port of embarkation and disembarkation for the first time and both sailings will call on Ocho Rios, Jamaica and Grand Cayman.

The star studded lineup is led by hosts Marcus Miller and Boney James and features Brian Culbertson, Jonathan Butler, Candy Dulfer, Kirk Whalum, Peter White and more.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘27.1 is in Open Booking and more than 98% reserved at this time.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’27.2 is Fully Reserved, but, for those who have been pining for the Penthouse Suite on this sailing, one became available last week. To paraphrase a Seals & Crofts tune, “(This) May Never Pass This Way Again”! Go to the website to claim the Penthouse Suite or click JOIN WAITLIST for any other stateroom category you wish.

The Yacht Rock Cruise

9.12.27 – 9.18.27
Vancouver – Victoria – San Francisco – Los Angeles

In Open Booking! Reservations Going Fast!

The music. The lifestyle. The soundtrack to good times. The Yacht Rock Cruise is bringing it all to sea for the very first time, with an extraordinary lineup, immersive experiences and world-class production.

Our inaugural voyage features Kenny Loggins, Boz Scaggs, Little River Band, Yacht Rock Revue, Ray Parker, Jr. and Captain Adam, the voice of Yacht Rock Radio.

The Yacht Rock Cruise is in now in Open Booking, meaning anyone may reserve any available stateroom. As the headline suggests, reservations are going fast

Botti at Sea ’27

10.6.27 – 10.13.27
Boston – Portland – Saint John – Sydney – Charlottetown – Quebec City

Chris Botti Takes His Cruise from Boston to Canada

A Canadian itinerary in the Fall is one of the most popular cruise itineraries in the industry. Fall colors, beautiful scenery, hands on adventures in famous ports-of-call. If nothing else was taking place on the ship, a cruise with these features would be in high demand. So, when Chris Botti decided to take his amazing cruise program from Boston to Quebec City, with a full complement of the entertainers and performers that you have grown to love and expect, not only was he gilding the lily, but he was creating one of the top music cruise experiences ever offered.

Stay tuned around Labor Day for more programming and reservation procedure details. As is always the case on a Signature Cruise Experiences program, guests on Botti at Sea III (’26) (’26 Guests) will be able to rebook their current staterooms and those who are not ’26 Guests will be eligible to submit a Pre-Sail Reservation which will establish their stateroom selection priority after the ’26 Guests complete their rebooking procedure.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘27.3

10.13.27 – 10.20.27
Quebec City – Charlottetown – Sydney – Saint John – Portland – Boston

The Smooth Jazz Cruise Heads to Canada in the Fall

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘27.3 program will be an exciting combination of our customary great music, Fall colors and other special events. Marcus Miller, Boney James, Brian Culbertson, Jonathan Butler, Candy Dulfer and others will lead the team for another edition of this iconic program.

This cruise is currently in Open Booking, where anyone may reserve any available stateroom.

The post Our Take: She Knew How to Pick ‘Em! appeared first on Signature Cruise Experiences.

Our Take: It’s All About the Bass

Kim Kelley — Sat, 15 Aug 2026 05:18:00 +0000

Marcus Miller famously claims that “every great song begins with a great bass line.” True or not, certainly every song Marcus has written can make that claim. The bass has many different roles and purposes. The bass can lay back in the rhythm section, provide the connection between the rhythm and harmony or it can be out front leading the tune.

The significance of the bass is solidified in my mind by the types of individuals who play the instrument. Besides Marcus, there are John Clayton, Christian McBride, Ray Brown, Ron Carter, Paul Chambers, Jaco Pastorius, Stanley Clarke and so many more. They say catchers make the best managers because they have spent their careers seeing the whole field. Perhaps that is true for bassists. For the most part, they are in the back or hovering on the side controlling the flow of the music.

Certainly, on our cruise programs, Marcus, Christian and John have assumed significant leadership roles year after year. No one has hosted more cruises for Signature Cruise Experiences than Marcus. His amazing combination of expertise and versatility makes him the “perfect” host for almost any program. Christian leads a robust number of first-class bands, each with a different style and emphasis, but all sharing excellence in musicianship and appeal to our guests. Watching John conduct the Big Band on The Jazz Cruise may be my favorite experience on the cruises year after year. His energy, authenticity and commitment to the music is fabulous.

Having praised and recognized these men, did you know that if they had the same role in the band a century ago, they would not be plucking the strings of a stand-up bass? Instead, they would be blowing hard into the mouthpiece of a tuba.

In the early 1900s jazz and ragtime (in New Orleans), the tuba naturally served as the primary bass instrument, primarily because early bands played outdoors and marched. Portable brass instruments as opposed to a stationary bass were essential. Though not directly on point, we can view Marcus’ interest in playing the bass clarinet in a different light.

The tuba survived through the 1920s when jazz moved into indoor recording studios. Its loud, punchy projection made it ideal for early, low-fidelity microphones. As the music became more sophisticated, the tuba gave way to the upright bass we see on bandstands today, particularly in the jazz clubs of the big cities.

The tuba continues to be the source of the sound of the strong beat in New Orleans when a band hits the streets. Other than in a full orchestra or midfield of a college football halftime show, New Orleans may be the only place where tubas live these days.

We will be presenting several opportunities to enjoy that music when Journey of Jazz ’27 has its overnight in New Orleans in a few months. Besides the Rebirth Brass Band, we have engaged smaller groups of New Orleans musicians to take us back to the era when the tuba was the thumper of the group. Cannot wait to spend time in the Big Easy.

My admiration for bassists has many facets. I believe that playing it well requires great skill and years of practice. When it is time to solo, an average drummer can construct a solo that includes flamboyant elements that will excite an audience. As a former drummer, I have long fought the notion that you judge a drummer by his solo performances. To me, that is like judging a basketball player by his free throws. The quality of a drummer can only be discerned when you hear them play with others. That is the test.

Back to bassists, creating a “wow” bass solo seems to be difficult. The number of acrobatic elements that can be present with a bass in both your hands is very limited. Having said that, when a bassist pulls out a bow and begins to produce those amazing tones and sounds, I melt. Digressing a bit, the bow on the strings is particularly appealing to me when a cello is involved, too. I spend a lot of time streaming “cello music.”

When asked recently how I fit my love of cello music into my schedule and other music interests, I declare, as everyone knows, “there is always room for cello!” And to think how cerebral most of this note has been. Therein lies the problem. The ability to stay focused and on point for more than 630 words has always been a challenge.

One final thought about the bass. Hauling that instrument from gig to gig must be very difficult. Some airlines now will not let you check them on the plane. The charge for checking the bass, when allowed, is one of the great crapshoots. Our musicians turn in their receipts for reimbursement and, seldom, if ever, are there two charges for the same amount of money. It is likely that in the back of the luggage room, there is a wheel that is spun for each bass checked. Whatever amount shows up is the amount charged.

Storing them on the ship is also difficult. They take up a lot of space, but our musicians need access to their cases. Working that out is fun to watch. Yes, basses on the ship are a challenge, but it could be worse…they could be tubas!

Celebration of Sonny Rollins

On Saturday, September 19, the Jazz Foundation of America is presenting, in partnership with the Rollins family, “Saxophone Colossus: A Celebration of the Life and Music of Sonny Rollins” at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City. Rollins, who died on May 25 at the age of 95, was generally considered our greatest living jazz musician and he left an indelible mark on the sound and shape of the music. Performers and speakers for the event have not been announced yet.

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SCE Sailings in ’26

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.3

9.11.26 – 9.18.26
Vancouver – Victoria – San Francisco – Los Angeles

34th Sailing of the Greatest Party at Sea

Botti at Sea ’26

9.18.26 – 9.25.26
Los Angeles – San Francisco – Victoria – Vancouver

Josh Groban Performing on Botti at Sea ’26!

David Foster at Sea

1.12.27 – 1.17.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Costa Maya – Tampa

It’s Your Music!

The Jazz Cruise ’27

1.17.27 – 1.24.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Belize – Costa Maya – Tampa

The Greatest Jazz Festival at Sea

Journey of Jazz ’27

1.24.27 – 1.31.27
Tampa – New Orleans – Progreso – Tampa

Cruising to the Birthplace of Jazz

In its second season, Journey of Jazz proudly combines the very best music with opportunities to live The Jazz Life.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise

’27.1 (1.31.27 – 2.7.27)
Tampa – Ocho Rios – Grand Cayman – Tampa
’27.2 (2.7.27 – 2.14.27)
Tampa – Grand Cayman – Ocho Rios – Tampa

The star studded lineup is led by hosts Marcus Miller and Boney James and features Brian Culbertson, Jonathan Butler, Candy Dulfer, Kirk Whalum, Peter White and more.

The Yacht Rock Cruise

9.12.27 – 9.18.27
Vancouver – Victoria – San Francisco – Los Angeles

In Open Booking! Reservations Going Fast!

Botti at Sea ’27

10.6.27 – 10.13.27
Boston – Portland – Saint John – Sydney – Charlottetown – Quebec City

Chris Botti Takes His Cruise from Boston to Canada

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘27.3

10.13.27 – 10.20.27
Quebec City – Charlottetown – Sydney – Saint John – Portland – Boston

The Smooth Jazz Cruise Heads to Canada in the Fall

This cruise is currently in Open Booking, where anyone may reserve any available stateroom.

The post Our Take: It’s All About the Bass appeared first on Signature Cruise Experiences.

Our Take: 8.8.26

Kim Kelley — Sat, 08 Aug 2026 04:33:00 +0000

The Influence of Jazz

Yesterday, we announced the inaugural sailing of The Yacht Rock Cruise. For those unfamiliar with that genre, over the last few years, fans of soft rock tunes from the 70s and 80s have formalized certain aspects of that music, named it Yacht Rock and created an alternative world that features yachts, cruising and the celebration of the “smooth” life. Both SXM and iHeart Radio have dedicated channels to present this music and stars like Keith Urban and Charlie Puth are crossing over to present new twists on these songs.

The Yacht Rock Cruise joins Top Shelf Country Cruise, David Foster: The Hitman Cruise and Chris Botti at Sea as the non-jazz programs produced by Signature Cruise Productions. But are they really “non-jazz”? Let’s talk.

When it comes to identifying and securing talent for our jazz programs, we have 26+ years of experience with and involvement in the jazz world. Many, if not most, of the stars of jazz know us and we know them. Offers are sent out by us routinely and without a great deal of formality. If someone says “no,” it is more likely due to a scheduling issue than not wanting to join us. The community is wonderful to work with and the process goes quickly and smoothly.

Once we cross the line from jazz and enter the world of country music and Adult Contemporary, life changes. I joke that Signature Cruise Experiences goes from being the Superman of the jazz genre to being Clark Kent (and often just Jimmy Olsen) of the music world. But, when the agents and managers learn more about our history, a significant degree of respect begins to emerge. Why? It’s all about the jazz!

Most musicians would like to be recognized as being able to play jazz. That is the pinnacle of the profession as musicians recognize that the greatest musicians in the world play jazz. Jazz musicians formed the greatest bands in R & B and their influence on most Adult Contemporary music is undeniable. I could recite story after story about top pop music groups who claim to have been influenced and directed by jazz.

I used to do a lot of cooking, even took classes at the Culinary Institute of America, the only “CIA” that does not frighten me. There you learn that every sauce is a derivative of one of the five mother sauces (bechamel, velouté, espagnole, tomato, hollandaise). Once you learn how to make them, the world of sauces is available to you. You can almost add anything to one of the five and be okay. Remember, I said “almost.”

In music, all flows from classical and jazz. When someone shows us how to put an entire orchestra on a ship, we will present classical music, but, for now, we will follow the path of jazz to wherever it takes us in terms of music genres. That is our “calling card” and, as one manger recently said to us, “if you can produce top notch jazz music and make those cats happy with your sound and production, you can do anything.”

“Anything” is likely hyperbole but throw an “almost” in front of it, and you are on target. We love our programs, our guests, and our music. Individually, they are wonderful. Together, they are sublime.

No matter what we do, we are just a few steps away from our mother sauce, Jazz.

John Pizzarelli’s P.S. Mr. Bennett

Released this week on the occasion of Tony Bennett’s 100th birthday, John Pizzarelli has released P.S. Mr. Bennett, a five-song EP and followup to his Dear Mr. Bennett recording released earlier this year.

Joined once again by pianist Isaiah J. Thompson and bassist Mike Karn, the EP draws five additional songs from those same recording sessions, continuing Piz’s celebration of Bennett’s seven-decade long career. John will be performing the music from both recordings in shows at Jazz Alley in Seattle (August 13-16) and Catalina’s in Hollywood (August 20-22).

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Cécile McLorin Salvant’s With Every Breath I Take

Cécile McLorin Salvant, who has performed on several of our jazz cruise programs over the years, recently released her first orchestral album, With Every Breath I Take, recorded with the Netherlands Metropole Orkest, conducted by Jules Buckley.

The album features 10 songs by noted composers Cy Coleman, Noël Coward, Duke Ellington, Stephen Sondheim and Billy Strayhorn, as well as by Cécile herself, with new arrangements by Darcy James Argue.

“I’ve always wanted to do an album that was all ballads,” Cécile explains. “And there are specific reasons why I love each of these songs. But behind the decision, I was actually not thinking. It was just about feeling.”

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SCE Sailings in ’26

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.3

9.11.26 – 9.18.26
Vancouver – Victoria – San Francisco – Los Angeles

Known as “The Greatest Party at Sea,” The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’26.3 is Fully Reserved.

If you wish to join the cruise, go to the website and JOIN WAITLIST for any stateroom category you wish. All cancellations for this cruise will be filled from the waitlist.

Botti at Sea ’26

9.18.26 – 9.25.26
Los Angeles – San Francisco – Victoria – Vancouver

David Foster: The Hitman Cruise Encore

1.12.27 – 1.17.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Costa Maya – Tampa

David Foster: The Hitman Cruise ’26 was a runaway hit program. From the first note to the last song, the brilliance of David Foster was evident in every show and event.

The star-studded lineup for David Foster: The Hitman Cruise Encore includes Michael McDonald, Dianne Reeves, Leslie Odom Jr., Katharine McPhee, Erich Bergen and more.

The Jazz Cruise ’27

1.17.27 – 1.24.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Belize – Costa Maya – Tampa

Journey of Jazz ’27

1.24.27 – 1.31.27
Tampa – New Orleans – Progreso – Tampa

In its second season, Journey of Jazz proudly combines the very best music with opportunities to live The Jazz Life.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise

’27.1 (1.31.27 – 2.7.27)
Tampa – Ocho Rios – Grand Cayman – Tampa
’27.2 (2.7.27 – 2.14.27)
Tampa – Grand Cayman – Ocho Rios – Tampa

The star studded lineup is led by hosts Marcus Miller and Boney James and features Brian Culbertson, Jonathan Butler, Candy Dulfer, Kirk Whalum, Peter White and more.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘27.1 is in Open Booking and more than 97% reserved at this time. For those who have been pining for the Penthouse Suite on this cruise, one of them became available last week. To paraphrase a Seals & Crofts tune, “(This) May Never Pass This Way Again”!

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’27.2 is Fully Reserved. If you wish to join the cruise, go to the website and JOIN WAITLIST for any stateroom category you wish.

Botti at Sea ’27

10.6.27 – 10.13.27
Boston – Portland – Saint John – Sydney –
Charlottetown – Quebec City

Stay tuned after Labor Day for more programming and reservation procedure details. As is always the case on a Signature Cruise Experiences program, guests on Botti at Sea III (’26) (’26 Guests) will be able to rebook their current staterooms and those who are not ’26 Guests will be eligible to submit a Pre-Sail Reservation which will establish their stateroom selection priority after the ’26 Guests complete their rebooking procedure.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘27.3

10.13.27 – 10.20.27
Quebec City – Charlottetown – Sydney –
Saint John – Portland – Boston

This cruise is currently in Open Booking, where anyone may reserve any available stateroom.

The post Our Take: 8.8.26 appeared first on Signature Cruise Experiences.

Our Take: 8.1.26

Kim Kelley — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 05:44:00 +0000

August Hits Different

Today is August 1, the first day of the last month of what most of us consider to be Summer. The Fall Solstice, the official end of Summer and start of Fall is September 22, but once August is over and Labor Day has passed, the weather may be summerlike, but the activities and the mindset is Fall. This phenomenon is now fully engrained in our school calendar. Mid to late August has replaced the day after Labor Day as the start of the school year in most areas.

For Jazz fans, both August and September are rich with festivals and events. Here is a sample of the festivals available:

August ’26 Jazz Festivals

NoMad Jazz Festival (New York, NY):
August 2–8, 2026. Pop-up events kick off the week, followed by mainstage performances at Madison Square Park on August 7–8.
Telluride Jazz Festival (Telluride, CO):
August 7–8, 2026. A scenic mountain-town tradition bringing eclectic jazz lineups.
San Jose Jazz Summer Fest (San Jose, CA):
August 7–9, 2026. A massive multi-day urban festival in the heart of downtown San Jose.
Long Beach Jazz Festival (Long Beach, CA):
August 8–9, 2026. Smooth and contemporary jazz performances by the waterfront.
Los Angeles Jazz Festival (Los Angeles, CA):
August 7–23, 2026. Spanning multiple locations across the city with wide community programming and outdoor stages.
Charlie Parker Jazz Festival (New York, NY):
August 28–30, 2026. Free neighborhood-centric outdoor concerts celebrating the legendary saxophonist.
Boston Jazz Fest (Boston, MA):
August 28–29, 2026. Held at the Seaport District’s Maritime Park.
John Coltrane International Jazz & Blues Festival
(High Point, NC): August 29–30, 2026. An annual celebration honoring Coltrane’s powerful musical legacy.

September ’26 Jazz Festivals

Vail Jazz Party (Vail, CO):
September 4 – 6, 2026. Annual gathering of straight-ahead jazz fans for over 30 years. Beautiful setting and presentation.
Chicago Jazz Festival (Chicago, IL):
September 3–6, 2026. A premier free admission festival drawing huge crowds to Millennium Park over Labor Day weekend.
Detroit Jazz Festival (Detroit, MI):
September 4–7, 2026. The world’s largest free jazz festival taking over Hart Plaza and Cadillac Square.
Lowcountry Jazz Festival (Charleston, SC):
September 4–6, 2026. A popular Labor Day weekend gathering of contemporary jazz artists.
Old Webster Jazz & Blues Festival (Webster Groves, MO):
September 19, 2026. A local favorite family-friendly outdoor street festival right in the St. Louis area.
Monterey Jazz Festival (Monterey, CA):
September 25–27, 2026. One of the longest-running continuous jazz festivals globally, held at the Monterey County Fairgrounds.

For us at Signature Cruise Experiences, August can be confusing, not because of any particular problem or concern, but it is difficult to target an identity upon which to focus. Immediately, we are in the final stages of planning for The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’26.3 and Chris Botti at Sea III, two west coast sailings the first of which sails from Vancouver to Los Angeles September 11–18 and the second reverses the itinerary and is sailing from September 18–25.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’26.3 has been fully reserved for months, but a few staterooms do remain available for Chris Botti at Sea III. There is still time to take advantage of lower Cruise Prices and something new, our Sail Now, Pay Later payment plan. Los Angeles to San Francisco to Victoria to Vancouver. Josh Groban, Melody Gardot, Boz Scaggs, Elvis Costello and, of course, our host Chris Botti. Not a bad way to start your Fall.

While we concentrate on those sailings, it will not be too much longer before we start one of the most ambitious lineups of sailings in our 26+ year history.

SCE’s ’27 Programs

David Foster ’27 (1.12.27 – 1.17.27)
Journey of Jazz ’27 (1.24.27 – 1.31.27)
The Jazz Cruise ’27 (1.17.27 – 1.24.27)
The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’27.1 (1.31.27 – 2.7.27)
The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’27.2 (2.7.27 – 2.14.27)
Top Shelf Country Cruise ’27 (3.7.27 – 3.14.27)
The Yacht Rock Cruise (9.12.27 – 9.18.27)
Botti at Sea ’27 (10.6.27 – 10.13.27)
The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’27.3 (10.13.27 – 10.20.27)

For those unfamiliar with The Yacht Rock Cruise, stay tuned for the announcement of the lineup and other details.“Yacht Rock” music is largely soft rock vocals from the ‘70s and ‘80s and has become the chosen music of those seeking a lifestyle that is consistent with yachting. Though the theme is certainly campy and kitsche, the music is first rate and this cruise will bring together many of the top performers who have been adopted by those following the Yacht Rock genre.

None of Yacht Rock is jazz or even close. Obviously, neither is Top Shelf Country Cruise. Both the David Foster and Chris Botti cruises have a jazzy element to them, but if only one category could be assigned to the cruises, it would be Adult Contemporary.

Is Signature Cruise Experiences changing its focus? Now that is a question worth discussing. I guess the answer depends upon how you define our “focus.” With three sailings of The Smooth Jazz Cruise and our sailings of The Jazz Cruise and Journey of Jazz, more than half our programs fall squarely in the world of jazz. While the other programs veer from that core, the Adult Contemporary cruises continue to provide the music that appeals to a certain generation and demographic.

In all of our jazz programs, there has always been a touch of Adult Contemporary music, particularly with respect to vocals. Perhaps that is the best way to look at the divergence of programs. As for Top Shelf Country Cruise and The Yacht Rock Cruise, the dots become more difficult to connect to our roots. However, though the music may be different, our intent and approach remains the same.

We will produce the most authentic and top notch cruise programs in the world. We will pay attention to details and to serving our guests. That is our mission and nothing short of making everyone happy is acceptable. Thanks for listening.

Most of the time, I write this note solely for you. Today’s note helped me out as well. Sometimes you need to take a step back and see what is going on around you to make sure that you are on the right track and doing the right thing. Hopefully, you feel that we are doing just that.

Partner Events

Two of our partners have events coming up this month.

Milestones: A Miles Davis Centennial Celebration

On August 21-23, our friends at KSDS FM 88.3 are presenting a massive celebration of the life and music of Miles Davis in this, the centennial year of his birth.

Held at the Wyndham Bayside Hotel in San Diego, “Milestones” features a robust schedule of concerts, rare film screenings, panel discussions and special presentations. Performers and speakers include Charles McPherson, Jon Faddis, Nicholas Payton, Jeremy Pelt, Terrell Stafford, Gilbert Castellanos, Bobby Watson, Ernie Watts and many others.

“Over three days and 16 concerts, audiences will experience the complete arc of Miles Davis’s musical journey, performed by musicians with deep personal and artistic connections to that history,” said Ken Poston, KSDS Station Manager. “It is an experience that cannot be duplicated anywhere else.”

LEARN MORE

Markham Jazz Festival

On that same weekend (Aug. 21-23), clear across the continent, the Markham Jazz Festival will be held on Main Street Unionville in Markham, Ontario, Canada. This free festival features noted Canadian-based jazz artists, including Ranee Lee, Jean-Michael Pilc, Nancy Walker and many others, performing on three stages up and down the Main Street of that charming heritage village.

LEARN MORE

Signature Cruise Experiences Upcoming Programs

VIEW ALL UPCOMING SCE SAILINGS

SCE Sailings in ’26

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.3

9.11.26 – 9.18.26
Vancouver – Victoria – San Francisco – Los Angeles

Known as “The Greatest Party at Sea,” The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’26.3 is Fully Reserved.

If you wish to join the cruise, go to the website and JOIN WAITLIST for any stateroom category you wish. All cancellations for this cruise will be filled from the waitlist.

Botti at Sea ’26

9.18.26 – 9.25.26
Los Angeles – San Francisco – Victoria – Vancouver

David Foster: The Hitman Cruise Encore

1.12.27 – 1.17.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Costa Maya – Tampa

David Foster: The Hitman Cruise ’26 was a runaway hit program. From the first note to the last song, the brilliance of David Foster was evident in every show and event.

The star-studded lineup for David Foster: The Hitman Cruise Encore includes Michael McDonald, Dianne Reeves, Leslie Odom Jr., Katharine McPhee, Erich Bergen and more.

The Jazz Cruise ’27

1.17.27 – 1.24.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Belize – Costa Maya – Tampa

Journey of Jazz ’27

1.24.27 – 1.31.27
Tampa – New Orleans – Progreso – Tampa

In its second season, Journey of Jazz proudly combines the very best music with opportunities to live The Jazz Life.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise

’27.1 (1.31.27 – 2.7.27)
Tampa – Ocho Rios – Grand Cayman – Tampa
’27.2 (2.7.27 – 2.14.27)
Tampa – Grand Cayman – Ocho Rios – Tampa

The star studded lineup is led by hosts Marcus Miller and Boney James and features Brian Culbertson, Jonathan Butler, Candy Dulfer, Kirk Whalum, Peter White and more.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘27.1 is in Open Booking and more than 96% reserved at this time. The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’27.2 is Fully Reserved. If you wish to join the cruise, go to the website and JOIN WAITLIST for any stateroom category you wish.

Botti at Sea ’27

10.6.27 – 10.13.27
Boston – Portland – Saint John – Sydney –
Charlottetown – Quebec City

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘27.3

10.13.27 – 10.20.27
Quebec City – Charlottetown – Sydney –
Saint John – Portland – Boston

This cruise is currently in Open Booking, where anyone may reserve any available stateroom.

The post Our Take: 8.1.26 appeared first on Signature Cruise Experiences.

Our Take: NEA Jazz Masters at Sea?

Kim Kelley — Sat, 25 Jul 2026 06:28:00 +0000

Months ago, the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) announced its Jazz Masters for 2026. The list included vocalist / composer Carmen Lundy, percussionist / composer Airto Moreira, keyboardist / producer Patrice Rushen and broadcaster Rhonda Hamilton. As has been the custom for years, the recipients are to be honored at a tribute concert. The event was slated for April ’26 at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

Political issues have caused that event to be postponed as the NEA searches for an appropriate location and time. Several ideas have been suggested, but I would like to throw our hat in the ring for consideration. Why not have the tribute take place on one of our cruises? We could easily accommodate the customary size of attendees and our technical crew could provide the ability for streaming the festivities around the world.

After all, the ceremony consists of a few people talking on stage and some live performances by great jazz musicians. I am pretty sure that our 26 years of cruises has taught us how to do that kind of show. We would do if for free, so there would be no cost to the NEA and we would pitch in on the production effort.

We pitched this idea to our own Lee Mergner who has the inside track on all jazz events and programs. He is running it up the flagpole, seeing if someone will salute, taking the pulse of the people in charge, and whatever other bromide you wish to use to describe “finding out if this works.” In the meantime, we are spitballing ways to entice the NEA to give us a shot at producing this event. On a personal note, I see this as the closest I will ever be to being an NEA Jazz Master. That is for sure.

All joking aside, honoring folks who are more than just a part of the jazz infrastructure would be a privilege. When you have a moment, look at the names of the folks who have been selected as a “Jazz Master.” With few exceptions, when you hear their names, your first thought is “jazz.” If there are holes in the honor roll, please know that the honor is not awarded posthumously. David Sanborn, Ken Peplowski and others will never be eligible.

Without naming them specifically, there are several of our favorite performers whose “eligibility” may be very limited. Again, on a no-name basis, several of us are working to push through two of those musicians right now. I hope we can “beat the clock” and get the job done.

I have heard several explanations as to why the honor of being a Jazz Master is only bestowed upon the living. As is the case with most heritage procedures, if the idea ever made sense, it most certainly does not do so now. Granted, as Mark Twain said, or at least he has been credited with saying, “no award is worth winning posthumously.” He is undoubtedly correct, but no one should be penalized for dying if he or she would otherwise qualify for the recognition.

If anyone reading this note (and that is customarily over 40,000 people) knows anyone at the NEA, please let them know how much you would like to see the NEA Jazz Master Tribute become a permanent event on The Jazz Cruise, our first sailing and a beacon of jazz life since 2001. One thing for sure, nearly all the 2,000 guests on that cruise each year are true Jazz Masters!

So, if the NEA looks the other way and chooses another site for the event, we will have our own ceremony and induct all our guests. The only problem is that an NEA Jazz Master is awarded a $25,000 stipend upon receiving the honor. That would be $50,000,000 in prize money. We might need some help with that.

NOMINATE AN NEA JAZZ MASTER HERE

Mathis Picard’s Preludes & Fugues Book 1

Pianist Mathis Picard, who has sailed on several of our jazz programs with Cyrille Aimee, Dee Dee Bridgewater and others, has released Preludes & Fugues Book 1, an original collection of twelve solo piano compositions.

Rooted in a compositional tradition stretching back to Bach and shaped by his roots in France, Madagascar, Manchester, and New York City, the tracks span all twelve keys with six preludes and six fugues, and one piece per key.

“Solo piano represents the roots of where I’m coming from,” Mathis says. “It’s always been with me, from boarding school, from the pieces I was learning, from my personal relationship with music. The preludes and fugues format is a way to keep honoring that love.”

LEARN MORE

Jon Hamar’s Musica Callada

Bassist Jon Hamar, who has sailed on The Jazz Cruise many times over the years as both an All-Star and as a member of Jeff Hamilton’s trios, has released Musica Callada, a duo recording with pianist Adrienne Fontenot.

The album features Jon’s arrangement of the title suite by Catalan composer Frederic Mompou, as well as compositions by David P. Jones, New Rorem and his friend and mentor John Clayton.

“Creating a more classically focused album has long been a dream of mine,” Jon explained. “Rather than drawing from the traditional double bass repertoire – music I grew up playing and still deeply love – I wanted to curate something different: a collection built around new works, or pieces simply new to the double bass. The result is, in my view, a deeply meditative and profoundly personal exploration of the solo instrument. Some selections lean classical, others drift toward jazz with moments of improvisation, and some resist easy categorization altogether.”

LEARN MORE

Vote For Your Favorites in the SCE Reader’s Poll

In honor of Downbeat‘s 74th Annual Critics Poll, we decided to create our own jazz poll and have our guests vote for their favorite artists under the same ballot system. One catch. The artists on the ballot have all performed on our programs. This is not as limiting as it might first seem, because the roster of SCE artists is just plain remarkable and that’s not including the legendary artists who have passed, like Al Jarreau, Joe Sample, Benny Golson, Jimmy Heath, Shirley Horn, David Sanborn, George Duke and so many more.

Click below to view the ballot. Please vote and let us know who you think deserves acclaim or even “wider recognition,” to use DownBeat’s term for emerging artists. To sweeten the pot, we’ll be giving a $200 onboard credit to one lucky entrant chosen at random.

CLICK HERE TO TAKE THE SCE JAZZ POLL

Signature Cruise Experiences Upcoming Programs

VIEW ALL UPCOMING SCE SAILINGS

SCE Sailings in ’26

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.3

9.11.26 – 9.18.26
Vancouver – Victoria – San Francisco – Los Angeles
34th Sailing of The Greatest Party at Sea

Known as “The Greatest Party at Sea,” The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’26.3 is Fully Reserved.

If you wish to join the cruise, go to the website and JOIN WAITLIST for any stateroom category you wish. All cancellations for this cruise will be filled from the waitlist.

Botti at Sea ’26

9.18.26 – 9.25.26
Los Angeles – San Francisco – Victoria – Vancouver
Just Announced: Josh Groban Performing on Botti at Sea!

In addition to the recently announced Josh Groban, joining Chris on the cruise are several music icons: Elvis Costello, Boz Scaggs and Melody Gardot and many others. When in San Francisco, guests may take winery tours in Napa and Sonoma, spend the day on the Napa Valley Wine Train, sample the finest cuisine in San Francisco and much more. Another menu of excursions awaits guests when the cruise docks in Victoria, BC. Trust us, this is the perfect music experience!

SCE Sailings in ’27

David Foster: The Hitman Cruise Encore

1.12.27 – 1.17.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Costa Maya – Tampa
One Sailing is Not Enough!

David Foster: The Hitman Cruise ’26 was a runaway hit program. From the first note to the last song, the brilliance of David Foster was evident in every show and event.

The star-studded lineup for David Foster: The Hitman Cruise Encore includes Michael McDonald, Dianne Reeves, Leslie Odom Jr., Katharine McPhee, Erich Bergen and more.

The Jazz Cruise ’27

1.17.27 – 1.24.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Belize – Costa Maya – Tampa
The Greatest Jazz Festival at Sea

Journey of Jazz ’27

1.24.27 – 1.31.27
Tampa – New Orleans – Progreso – Tampa
Time to Take the Journey

In its second season, Journey of Jazz proudly combines the very best music with opportunities to live The Jazz Life.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise

’27.1 (1.31.27 – 2.7.27) – Tampa – Ocho Rios – Grand Cayman – Tampa
’27.2 (2.7.27 – 2.14.27) – Tampa – Grand Cayman – Ocho Rios – Tampa

The star studded lineup is led by hosts Marcus Miller and Boney James and features Brian Culbertson, Jonathan Butler, Candy Dulfer, Kirk Whalum, Peter White and more.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘27.1 is in Open Booking and more than 95% reserved at this time. The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’27.2 is Fully Reserved. If you wish to join the cruise, go to the website and JOIN WAITLIST for any stateroom category you wish.

Botti at Sea ’27

10.6.27 – 10.13.27
Boston – Portland – Saint John – Sydney –
Charlottetown – Quebec City
Chris Botti Takes His Cruise from Boston to Canada

Stay tuned (around 8.15.26) for more programming and reservation procedure details.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘27.3

10.13.27 – 10.20.27
Quebec City – Charlottetown – Sydney –
Saint John – Portland – Boston

This cruise is currently in Open Booking, where anyone may reserve any available stateroom.

The post Our Take: NEA Jazz Masters at Sea? appeared first on Signature Cruise Experiences.

Our Take: The Eyes Have It!

Kim Kelley — Sat, 18 Jul 2026 06:55:00 +0000

In the last few days, I have had cataract surgery and light-adjustable lenses inserted. What sounded like a major hassle has been, thus far, pretty easy. My exercise and time outside have been severely limited and will continue to be for a bit, but there is no pain and I have been able to work.

Perhaps the most obvious annoyance has been the need to wear a series of totally ridiculous looking glasses. My wife says I look like one of the Minions. Not only was the comment funny, but it was spot on.

I consider the ability to see things clearly, both physically and metaphorically, to be of the utmost importance. Mistaking items or events due to poor vision is unfortunate and dangerous. To view the world as a blur would be difficult to embrace, particularly when knowing how you once were able to see.

The ability to see things clearly beyond one’s vision is a gift. Though there is an eyesight element involved, the real work is done in the mind. Long ago, a professor of mine said “get on top of the world, ignore flyspecks and try to see what is really going on.” The advice was in the context of tax law, but its application has a wide reach.

Let’s apply this approach to our favorite music genre. From a bird’s eye view, ignoring minor stuff, what is happening in the world of jazz?

This will not be one of those “Is Jazz Dying?” articles. Largely, because jazz continues to be a very healthy genre. The number of new, young jazz musicians continues to grow. As we scout for talent, we are constantly presented with young lions and lionesses. Many are tutored by the stars of today. Jazz is a shining example of “pay it forward.” Veteran performers seem to be dedicated to the preservation of the music through the music and performances of young musicians.

If there is a concern lurking, it would be the financial underpinnings of jazz. For all genres, earnings from recordings have been dramatically impacted by new technology. Though some of the advances have made creating the recordings easier and more cost effective, listeners have more low-cost access to the music than ever before.

To make a living as a jazz musician, you must go “on the road,” a task that has its upsides for sure, but it is also tedious, tough and often troublesome. It impacts marriages, parenting and your health. Ever see the food in a Green Room before a gig? I have and I know why our musicians love being on the ship.

Most jazz clubs are small. To make the show work for the owner and for the musician, two shows (or more) in an evening are required to be cobbled together to produce a meaningful financial reward. To be able to hire top talent, clubs rely heavily on sponsors and benefactors who subsidize various shows.

Why am I taking you through this course of Jazz Finance 101? Because I want you to “see clearly” the commitment of the men and women who play jazz for a living. Many have teaching jobs that provide a base of operations and benefits, but reducing the funding for music education can be one of the first ways schools, colleges and universities make their budgets work.

I am not sure how we let this happen, but college football and basketball players are being paid millions of dollars under the NIL program and none of that money goes to the arts. Once they turn pro, the disparity worsens. Was Michael Jordan a bigger deal than Miles Davis? Probably, but when a great basketball player receives millions and a great musician receives significantly less, then the system is out of whack.

Signature Cruise Experiences is researching ways for us and those entities like us to even the scales a bit. One way to fight entities that do not provide proper payment to musicians is to not be one of them. We have been successfully doing that for 26 years.

But we want to do more. We have some ideas now, but we will get back to you when we can clearly see the path we need to take.

By Michael Lazaroff, Executive Director of The Jazz Cruise, The Smooth Jazz Cruise, Chris Botti at Sea, Journey of Jazz, David Foster: The Hitman Cruise and Top Shelf Country Cruise. Feel free to express your views or pose questions to him at michael@scecruises.com.

Special Offer! Act Now!

Botti at Sea III is Your Last Chance to Sail in ’26!

9.18.26 – 9.25.26
Josh Groban – Elvis Costello – Boz Scaggs – Melody Gardot & more
Los Angeles – San Francisco – Victoria – Vancouver

Six of the eight programs Signature Cruise Experiences is producing in ’26 have been completed. Of the two remaining sailings, one, The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’26.3, is fully reserved. The other, Chris Botti at Sea III, is our last sailing in ’26 and has a few remaining staterooms.

Final CloseOut Prices & Sail Now, Pay Later

On a first come, first served basis, you may select one of the remaining Veranda, Ocean View and Inside Staterooms, reserve the stateroom at Final Closeout Cruise Prices, pay a portion of the Cruise now and the rest AFTER the cruise.

Sail Now/Pay Later Program

Deposit Upon Reservation
25% of Balance Prior to Sailing
Remaining 75% Paid in 3 Equal Installments
(October 28, December 10, January 10 ’27)

With the addition of recently announced Josh Groban, the lineup joining Chris on the cruise is a list of music icons: Elvis Costello, Boz Scaggs, Melody Gardot and many others.

The Chris Botti at Sea cruise has been dubbed the “Perfect Cruise On Sea and On Land” as it not only provides the finest at sea experience, but it offers a variety of amazing excursions created by us just for you.

When in San Francisco, guests may take winery tours in Napa and Sonoma, spend the day on the Napa Valley Wine Train, sample the finest cuisine in San Francisco and much more. Another menu of excursions awaits guests when the cruise docks in Victoria, BC. Trust us, this is the perfect cruise experience!

SPECIAL NOTE: A limited number of Veranda Plus Staterooms, which include a Reserved Seat for the Nightly Main Shows, are still available. The Sail Now/Pay Later option is not available for Veranda Plus Staterooms.

SAIL NOW

Helen Sung Big Band’s Oracles

Helen Sung, who performed on The Jazz Cruise earlier this year with Dee Dee and as an All-Star, has just released Oracles, her tenth album as a leader. A regular member of the acclaimed Mingus Big Band for several years, the pianist leads her own big band in a celebration of jazz legends (and mentors) Clark Terry, Ron Carter, Jimmy Heath, Wayne Shorter, Barry Harris, Kenny Barron, Herbie Hancock and Sir Roland Hanna.

“Jazz is the most generous of art forms, able to integrate other musical traditions, while still retaining its core identity and values,” Helen explains. “This album expresses my deep gratitude and is a tribute to the masters who made room for me and entrusted me with a tradition they helped build.”

LEARN MORE

Hannah Marks’ Feed the Fire

Bassist Hannah Marks also appeared on The Jazz Cruise with Dee Dee and she too has released a new album, her second as a leader. Produced by one of her influential mentors, Jason Moran, Feed the Fire features the bassist with her quartet of Nathan Reising (alto saxophone), Lex Korten (piano) and Steven Crammer (drums). All of the compositions, written by Hannah since she moved to NYC in 2019 (at Moran’s urging), are informed and defined by the energy of the city.

Grooving, odd meters and raucous swing conjure up the hustle, bustle and energy of the streets, while free and ethereal songs reflect the few quiet moments stolen in city parks.

Hannah says that “Feed the Fire is a culmination of many meaningful musical experiences I’ve had over the past decade, and a representation of pushing and dedicating myself as an artist to find new musical colors, shades and directions within this music that I love and revere.”

LEARN MORE

Signature Cruise Experiences Upcoming Programs

VIEW ALL UPCOMING SCE SAILINGS

SCE Sailings in ’26

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.3

9.11.26 – 9.18.26
Vancouver – Victoria – San Francisco – Los Angeles

Known as “The Greatest Party at Sea,” The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’26.3 is Fully Reserved.

If you wish to join the cruise, go to the website and JOIN WAITLIST for any stateroom category you wish. All cancellations for this cruise will be filled from the waitlist.

Botti at Sea ’26

9.18.26 – 9.25.26
Los Angeles – San Francisco – Victoria – Vancouver

David Foster: The Hitman Cruise Encore

1.12.27 – 1.17.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Costa Maya – Tampa

David Foster: The Hitman Cruise ’26 was a runaway hit program. From the first note to the last song, the brilliance of David Foster was evident in every show and event.

The star-studded lineup for David Foster: The Hitman Cruise Encore includes Michael McDonald, Dianne Reeves, Leslie Odom Jr., Katharine McPhee, Erich Bergen and more.

The Jazz Cruise ’27

1.17.27 – 1.24.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Belize – Costa Maya – Tampa

The Jazz Cruise is the first program that Signature Cruise Experiences ever produced. Since its first sailing in 2001, The Jazz Cruise has been the world leader in presenting “straight ahead” jazz at sea. The Jazz Cruise has reached Fully Reserved every year it has sailed and The Jazz Cruise ’27 is on its way to reaching that goal again.

Journey of Jazz ’27

1.24.27 – 1.31.27
Tampa – New Orleans – Progreso – Tampa

In its second season, Journey of Jazz proudly combines the very best music with opportunities to live The Jazz Life.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise

’27.1 (1.31.27 – 2.7.27)
Tampa – Ocho Rios – Grand Cayman – Tampa
’27.2 (2.7.27 – 2.14.27)
Tampa – Grand Cayman – Ocho Rios – Tampa

The star studded lineup is led by hosts Marcus Miller and Boney James and features Brian Culbertson, Jonathan Butler, Candy Dulfer, Kirk Whalum, Peter White and more.

Both sailings are in Open Booking and both are nearly 95% reserved at this time.

Botti at Sea ’27

10.6.27 – 10.13.27
Boston – Portland – Saint John – Sydney –
Charlottetown – Quebec City

Stay tuned (8.15.26) for more programming and reservation procedure details.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘27.3

10.13.27 – 10.20.27
Quebec City – Charlottetown – Sydney –
Saint John – Portland – Boston

This cruise is currently in Open Booking, where anyone may reserve any available stateroom.

The post Our Take: The Eyes Have It! appeared first on Signature Cruise Experiences.

Our Take: 7.11.26

Kim Kelley — Sat, 11 Jul 2026 04:22:00 +0000

The 18+ Edition

A recent article in USA TODAY shared the announcement by United Kingdom cruise line, Marella Cruises, that it was “earmarking one of its ships, Marella Discovery 2, for adults only cruises.” The article outlined Marella’s plans to replace the kid’s spaces with an arts and crafts area, karaoke, meeting rooms and a speakeasy.

“The cruise line (Marella) joins a small number of cruise lines that cater just to adults – such as Virgin Voyages – or have designated adults-only ships.”

I smiled when I read this article. The writer was presenting, as news, the idea that someone would take a cruise ship and create a program just for adults, while altering the kid’s rooms for adult activities.

This “new” idea has been around at least as long ago as 2001 when The Jazz Cruise first sailed as a full ship charter. With more than 105 subsequent sailings of all adult full ship charters now completed, Signature Cruise Experiences understands fully the idea that some folks want to be on a ship where all the activities are geared to their interests and that they can be on an elevator where all the buttons have not been pushed and in a restaurant where, for the most part, people are quietly enjoying their meal.

From the very start of our operations, we adhered strictly to the “no kids” policy. Once in a while a performer would need to bring a child, but that exception usually carried with it the requirement of a babysitter or nanny. Children have never been permitted to roam the ship after dinner and were precluded from attending the shows.

This was not done to promote risqué behavior, but was imposed to maintain the proper atmosphere for enjoying music, dancing, adult conversation and sharing a drink. Nothing untoward on our programs has ever been promoted or tolerated, but neither has the inclusion of toddlers as part of the manifest of guests.

As for altering the children’s sections of the ship, we take all the Kids Club areas and convert them into rehearsal rooms for the performers. We also use those rooms for storage of instrument cases and other equipment. Looking over the paraphernalia we scatter in that space, I cannot help but believe that the kids would prefer playing with our stuff to whatever toys and games are made available for them on regular cruises.

There are the Disney cruises and there are the Signature Cruise Experiences cruises. Both have their proper place and following. Seldom is there an overlap of guests.

For those of you preparing to pounce on me for our apparent hypocritical actions in allowing “underage” performers to sail on the ship, we call that gambit our “Piano and Mom” exception. Yes, Taylor Eigsti, Emmet Cohen, Brandon Goldberg and Joey Alexander all performed on our cruise programs, though they were too young to be cruise guests otherwise.

Long live the exceptions that prove the rule.

Where’s Alonzo?

Alonzo Bodden, our comedian-in-residence, will be appearing at the Grand Comedy Club in Escondido, CA on July 24-25, and the Punchline in Irving, TX on July 30-August 1. He looks forward to seeing folks from our cruises at his shows.

“Temperatures are up, prices are up, so it’s time for some cool laughs and I work cheap,” Alonzo says. “Let’s reflect on the Reflecting Pool. I’ve got lots of new material and we’ll have a great time.” You can also catch Alonzo in his recurring role as a panelist on NPR’s popular show Wait Wait, Don’t Tell Me.

GRAND COMEDY CLUB INFORMATION

PUNCHLINE INFORMATION

Bria Skonberg’s Indigo

On her latest album, Indigo, trumpeter Bria Skonberg showcases her gifts as a vocalist, backed by a chamber-like ensemble of strings, alto flute and bass clarinet, anchored by a rhythm section featuring Eric Wheeler on bass and Darrian Douglas on drums, and of course Bria on trumpet. A companion to Brass, her trumpet-focused album released earlier this year, Indigo was produced by her longtime collaborator Matt Pierson and features arrangements by Gil Goldstein, who has worked with a veritable who’s who in modern jazz.

“Approaching my voice as a standalone instrument opened up possibilities I hadn’t made space for before, such as developing timbres, exploring my full range, and writing more intricate soli lines,” Bria says. “I loved hearing and navigating Gil’s arrangements, which feels like finding a pathway through a mystical forest. One of the greatest gifts was working on lyrics with Ann Hampton Callaway whom I first heard live on The Jazz Cruise. I knew in that moment she was a genius and it’s been a dream ever since to collaborate with her. She added the verse to ‘So It Goes’ which adds another layer of meaning and elegance.”

LEARN MORE

Signature Cruise Experiences Upcoming Programs

VIEW ALL UPCOMING SCE SAILINGS

SCE Sailings in ’26

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.3

9.11.26 – 9.18.26
Vancouver – Victoria – San Francisco – Los Angeles

Known as “The Greatest Party at Sea,” The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’26.3 is Fully Reserved.

If you wish to join the cruise, go to the website and JOIN WAITLIST for any stateroom category you wish. All cancellations for this cruise will be filled from the waitlist.

Botti at Sea ’26

9.18.26 – 9.25.26
Los Angeles – San Francisco – Victoria – Vancouver

STATEROOM CLOSEOUT SALE IN EFFECT
For more information, see above.

In addition to the recently announced Josh Groban, joining Chris on the cruise are several music icons: Elvis Costello, Boz Scaggs and Melody Gardot, and many others. When in San Francisco, guests may take winery tours in Napa and Sonoma, spend the day on the Napa Valley Wine Train, sample the finest cuisine in San Francisco and much more. Another menu of excursions awaits guests when the cruise docks in Victoria, BC. Trust us, this is the perfect music experience!

SPECIAL NOTE: Chris Botti at Sea III is the only Signature Cruise Experiences’ program that has staterooms available in ’26. A limited number of Veranda Plus, Veranda, Ocean View and Inside Staterooms may be reserved at CloseOut Cruise Prices for both Past Guests and New Guests. A payment plan that allows for the final payment to be made after the cruise is also available. Act now!

David Foster: The Hitman Cruise Encore

1.12.27 – 1.17.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Costa Maya – Tampa

David Foster: The Hitman Cruise ’26 was a runaway hit program. From the first note to the last song, the brilliance of David Foster was evident in every show and event.

The star-studded lineup for David Foster: The Hitman Cruise Encore includes Michael McDonald, Dianne Reeves, Leslie Odom Jr., Katharine McPhee, Erich Bergen and more.

The Jazz Cruise ’27

1.17.27 – 1.24.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Belize – Costa Maya – Tampa

The Jazz Cruise is the first program that Signature Cruise Experiences ever produced. Since its first sailing in 2001, The Jazz Cruise has been the world leader in presenting “straight ahead” jazz at sea. The Jazz Cruise has reached Fully Reserved every year it has sailed and The Jazz Cruise ’27 is on its way to reaching that goal again.

Journey of Jazz ’27

1.24.27 – 1.31.27
Tampa – New Orleans – Progreso – Tampa

In its second season, Journey of Jazz proudly combines the very best music with opportunities to live The Jazz Life.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise

’27.1 (1.31.27 – 2.7.27)
Tampa – Ocho Rios – Grand Cayman – Tampa
’27.2 (2.7.27 – 2.14.27)
Tampa – Grand Cayman – Ocho Rios – Tampa

The star studded lineup is led by hosts Marcus Miller and Boney James and features Brian Culbertson, Jonathan Butler, Candy Dulfer, Kirk Whalum, Peter White and more.

Both sailings are in Open Booking and both are nearly 95% reserved at this time.

Botti at Sea ’27

10.6.27 – 10.13.27
Boston – Portland – Saint John – Sydney –
Charlottetown – Quebec City

Stay tuned (8.15.26) for more programming and reservation procedure details.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘27.3

10.13.27 – 10.20.27
Quebec City – Charlottetown – Sydney –
Saint John – Portland – Boston

This cruise is currently in Open Booking, where anyone may reserve any available stateroom.

The post Our Take: 7.11.26 appeared first on Signature Cruise Experiences.

Our Take: July 4th Edition

Kim Kelley — Sat, 04 Jul 2026 03:33:00 +0000

Happy 250th Birthday America! I doubt that there is a standard gift for someone’s 250th birthday. I know a couple of trees that old, but when I asked them what kind of gift they would want, all they did was bark!

I would understand fully if you stopped reading now. You may recall that Signature Cruise Experiences is still on vacation until Monday. It did not take long for my brain to turn to mush which accounts, in large measure, for the horrific joke in the opening paragraph. No more tree jokes. Turning over a new leaf, getting to the root of the problem and eliminating shady references.

I imagine that each of you have a July 4th celebration planned. For those with astonishing memories and little else to do, you may recall that July 4th is my second favorite holiday. Thanksgiving beats it may a slim margin.

Their attributes are largely the same. One day holidays. No “eves” to navigate. No question what foods are served and how they are served. Norman Rockwell has forever “carved” in our minds what a Thanksgiving dinner should look like. There does not seem to be a seminal depiction of a July 4th meal, but some assortment of hamburgers, hot dogs, potato salad, slaw, watermelon and ice cream will do fine.

Thanksgiving libations are usually centered around wines, where July 4th calls for a huge tub of ice filled with beer and soda (that would be “pop” for New Englanders and denizens of Chicago). Lemonade and iced tea are also acceptable.

By now, you may be saying “I thought this was a jazz blog and that Our Take was a forum for expressing thoughts about jazz.” Normally, that is correct, but this is July 4th, the 250th Birthday of America. We should focus on that, right?

Now, I did Google “July 4th and Jazz.” There were some celebrations mentioned that featured jazz and there was an article about an injury to New York Yankee infielder Jazz Chisolm. Not a lot of joy there.

But I did locate a fabulous YouTube video, The Hang with Brian Culbertson – July 4th Poolside – July 5, 2024 – YouTube. BC’s 71-minute poolside July 4th hang is fabulous. It is a July 4th/BC Style celebration and songfest. I urge you to take a peek at the video and enjoy.

Part of me wants to comment on the meaning of today and what it means to be an American right now. I am refraining from doing so, not because of the fear of creating controversy or starting a debate, but because I believe that each of us has the right to have our own opinions and sense of the issue. The guardrails are our laws. As long as you are operating within those boundaries, it is up to you what being an American means.

Some believe that there was once a shared vision. Some would point to World War II as the apex. Yet the status of women and minorities at that time belies the notion that we were all on the same page. In the end, we do not have to believe in the same things, but we do have to accept the notion that others are entitled to their own beliefs.

These words of former Senator Patrick Moynihan are important to me:

“You are entitled to your own opinions, but not your own facts.”

There was a time when applying this test was easy. Not so much anymore. Facts seem to be elusive and malleable.

So, on the 250th Birthday of America, perhaps we can agree on a few facts:

Music is critical to the health and wellbeing of society.
Though all music is precious, live music is the best.
We should continue to do whatever it takes to teach music to our children and to the world.

The only other universal facts that I know are that smoking and mayonnaise are bad for you. Can we all agree?

On-Demand Livestream:
All About Signature Cruise Experiences

If you missed this week’s All About Signature Cruise Experiences livestream, or just want to catch all the fun again, this livestream is now available for you to view on-demand!

For more than 25 years, Signature Cruise Experiences has been creating extraordinary journeys that bring together legendary artists, passionate fans and incredible destinations. During this livestream, we show what sets our cruises apart — from world-class performances by industry icons and intimate artist interactions you won’t find anywhere else, to exceptional service, immersive programming and unforgettable ports of call.

Watch our livestream on-demand to get an insider’s look at our collection of themed cruises, hear stories from the Signature community and enjoy a special surprise appearance from one of our talented artists!

LISTEN TO LIVESTREAM ON-DEMAND

Catherine Russell’s Live at Jazz at Lincoln Center

Catherine Russell, one of our hosts of The Jazz Cruise, has released Live at Jazz at Lincoln Center, an album recorded live in 2024 at the Appel Room in NYC.

The concert featured a program Catherine curated in honor of the Hot Club of New York, a community of enthusiasts who gather weekly to listen to vintage jazz and blues 78s. Backed by a septet playing in a more traditional jazz style, Catherine sings some lesser known gems originally recorded by Hot Lips Page, Blanche Callaway, Cab Callaway, Helen Humes, Eddie Barefield, her father Luis Russell and others.

“Every meeting that I go to, I come out with something that either I have never heard the tune or I’ve never heard of the artist,” she explains. “Then I can go and research these artists further and see what else is in their catalog that I might be able to do. Because I figure why not do other things that people have never heard of or they haven’t heard in 100 years or something like that.”

LEARN MORE

Paul Kahn’s Willingness

In turn, Catherine has produced an EP by her husband and manager Paul Kahn, Willingness, featuring songs he’s written over the years.

Paul has a long history as both a roots music performer and booking agent and the material mixes a wide range of styles from that background, including reggae, folk, blues, pop and more.

“Paul had written a whole bunch of songs, during a very fertile period of songwriting,” Catherine says. “And the songs kind of sat there. Recently he found them in a storage unit, and he brought them home and played them. I said, ‘Wait a second, these are good songs.’ And we got the idea to record some of them.”

The two enlisted guitarist Matt Munisteri and bassist Russell Hall from Catherine’s band, as well as four other noted musicians. Catherine herself sang and played mandolin on the recording.

LEARN MORE

Signature Cruise Experiences Upcoming Programs

VIEW ALL UPCOMING SCE SAILINGS

SCE Sailings in ’26

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.3

9.11.26 – 9.18.26
Vancouver – Victoria – San Francisco – Los Angeles
34th Sailing of The Greatest Party at Sea

Known as “The Greatest Party at Sea,” The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’26.3 is Fully Reserved.

If you wish to join the cruise, go to the website and JOIN WAITLIST for any stateroom category you wish. All cancellations for this cruise will be filled from the waitlist.

Botti at Sea ’26

9.18.26 – 9.25.26
Los Angeles – San Francisco – Victoria – Vancouver
Josh Groban Just Announced! Stateroom CloseOut in Effect!

In addition to the recently announced Josh Groban, joining Chris on the cruise are several music icons: Elvis Costello, Boz Scaggs and Melody Gardot, and many others. When in San Francisco, guests may take winery tours in Napa and Sonoma, spend the day on the Napa Valley Wine Train, sample the finest cuisine in San Francisco and much more. Another menu of excursions awaits guests when the cruise docks in Victoria, BC. Trust us, this is the perfect music experience!

David Foster: The Hitman Cruise Encore

1.12.27 – 1.17.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Costa Maya – Tampa
One Sailing is Not Enough

David Foster: The Hitman Cruise ’26 was a runaway hit program. From the first note to the last song, the brilliance of David Foster was evident in every show and event.

The star-studded lineup for David Foster: The Hitman Cruise Encore includes Michael McDonald, Dianne Reeves, Leslie Odom Jr., Katharine McPhee, Erich Bergen and more.

The Jazz Cruise ’27

1.17.27 – 1.24.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Belize – Costa Maya – Tampa
The Greatest Jazz Festival at Sea

The Jazz Cruise is the first program that Signature Cruise Experiences ever produced. Since its first sailing in 2001, The Jazz Cruise has been the world leader in presenting “straight ahead” jazz at sea. The Jazz Cruise has reached Fully Reserved every year it has sailed and The Jazz Cruise ’27 is on its way to reaching that goal again.

Journey of Jazz ’27

1.24.27 – 1.31.27
Tampa – New Orleans – Progreso – Tampa
Time to Take the Journey

In its second season, Journey of Jazz proudly combines the very best music with opportunities to live The Jazz Life.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise

’27.1 (1.31.27 – 2.7.27)
Tampa – Ocho Rios – Grand Cayman – Tampa
’27.2 (2.7.27 – 2.14.27)
Tampa – Grand Cayman – Ocho Rios – Tampa
The Greatest Party at Sea – No Doubt!

The star studded lineup is led by hosts Marcus Miller and Boney James and features Brian Culbertson, Jonathan Butler, Candy Dulfer, Kirk Whalum, Peter White and more.

Both sailings are in Open Booking and both are nearly 95% reserved at this time.

Botti at Sea ’27

10.6.27 – 10.13.27
Boston – Portland – Saint John – Sydney – Charlottetown – Quebec City
Chris Botti Takes His Cruise from Boston to Canada

Stay tuned (8.15.26) for more programming and reservation procedure details.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘27.3

10.13.27 – 10.20.27
Quebec City – Charlottetown – Sydney – Saint John – Portland – Boston
The Smooth Jazz Cruise Heads to Canada in the Fall

This cruise is currently in Open Booking, where anyone may reserve any available stateroom.

The post Our Take: July 4th Edition appeared first on Signature Cruise Experiences.

Our Take: On Holiday

Kim Kelley — Sat, 27 Jun 2026 06:33:00 +0000

Today is Day 1 of Signature Cruise Experiences Summer Holiday. Depending upon the day of the week on which July 4th lands, we take the week before or the week after Independence Day off. This year, we chose the week before, which means we will reopen on Monday, July 6.

Though the office is closed, you may contact us by email (info@scecruises.com) and our online reservation system will be available. We will do our best to respond as soon as possible.

Why do we take a week off in the middle of the summer? The answer is simple, unlike many entertainment and travel companies, we cannot close during the Christmas holiday period. Our first sailing in ’27, David Foster: The Hitman Cruise Encore, departs on January 12, 2027 and we remain at sea through the conclusion of The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’27.2 on February 14, 2027. That is 33 days at sea.

Not everyone at Signature Cruise Experiences is sailing the entire time, but each person is engaged in some aspect of preparing and supporting our cruises. In most cases, full-time commitments begin around October 15, roughly 90 days before the first sailing date. If my math is correct, that is a 120-day commitment, roughly one-third of the year.

The commitment of our team does not end there. Top Shelf Country Cruise sails in early March ’27 and we have three sailings scheduled for the Fall. Those who follow our cruise programs carefully recognize that this schedule adds up to 9 cruises in ’27, one more than currently announced. Yes, we have another cruise to announce for ’27! Stay tuned.

I never realized that guests would be so interested in the inner workings of Signature Cruise Experiences, but many guests want to know how we staff our cruises, particularly since we are at sea in January and February for 33 days. We do hire folks (crew and travel directors) specifically for the cruises, which helps, but most of the work is done by our full-time staff. They work hard and deserve to have this upcoming week off.

Taking time off now works for us since 6 of our 8 scheduled programs in ’26 are completed. What remains are The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’26.3 and Botti at Sea ’26, two exciting programs that feature our customary first class music lineups but also provide land-based excursions that we have created just for our guests when we overnight in San Francisco and spend a full day in Victoria.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’26.3, as always, is hosted by Marcus Miller and Boney James, features Brian Culbertson, Jonathan Butler and Candy Dulfer, along with Mindi Abair, Rick Braun, Richard Elliot, Comic Alonzo Bodden and several featured performers and support bands. Speaking of bands, our Special Guests are WAR and Tower of Power.

Chris Botti at Sea III features an amazing lineup of Adult Contemporary performers, including icons Elvis Costello and Boz Scaggs. International star Melody Gardot will be making her second appearance on Chris’ cruise, as will Emmet Cohen, Veronica Swift, Benny Benack III, Morgan James and Chris’ band members (John Splithoff, Julian Pollack, Daniel Chmielinski, Sy Smith and Caroline Campbell).

Chris and we are proud and excited that Josh Groban has cleared his schedule and will be able to perform on the cruise. This engagement has been a long time in the making and should be one of the highlights of this cruise program.

New this year are Candy Dulfer, Kandace Springs, Harold Lopez-Nussa, Edmar Castaneda and Gregoire Maret. Music Director Eric Marienthal has assembled two great bands for the cruise, SCE All Stars (Wycliffe Gordon, Terell Stafford, Taylor Eigsti, Reuben Rogers and Herlin Riley) and SCE Band (Carnell Harrell, Darnell Taylor, David Dyson and Chris Miskel).

Both The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’26.3 and Chris Botti at Sea III will be amazing cruises this fall. The musical influences will be different, but, as shown above, the star power on both sailings is substantial. There are, however, two significant differences between the programs, one logistical and the other rather practical.

On the logistics front, The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’26.3 starts in Vancouver, then visits Victoria and San Francisco before ending in Los Angeles. Chris Botti at Sea III does the opposite. The cruise starts in Los Angeles and visits San Francisco and Victoria before ending in Vancouver. As you might imagine, many guests are sailing both legs for two magical weeks.

The other difference is practical, very practical. Chris Botti at Sea III has some staterooms available. The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’26.3 has none and has been Fully Reserved for months. That makes Chris Botti at Sea III your last chance in ’27 to sail with us! For more information about CloseOut Cruise Prices, see below.

Did I mention that I am in Park City, Utah right now visiting my daughter? The time off will do me some good as well.

Groban & Elvis & Boz, Oh My!
Chris & Melody & Caroline & Sy!

Okay, the headline is a little corny for sure, but it could have been worse. The first draft had “Elvis is on the ship” and “Wizard of Boz.” We make no excuses for being giddy. Chris Botti at Sea III is Adult Contemporary Music heaven!

A few Veranda Plus, Veranda, Ocean View and Inside Staterooms are available. Reserving a Veranda Plus Stateroom (formerly known as Concierge and AquaClass Staterooms) also includes a Reserved Seat for the Nightly Main Shows.

Be alert to Special Cruise Prices for Veranda, Ocean View and Inside Staterooms. Eligibility varies based upon sailing history, stateroom location and other factors. You should have received an email earlier this week indicating your individual options.

Inventory is limited, so act now. Due to the need to finalize the sign ups for the excursions in San Francisco and Victoria, we may need to close the reservations earlier than customary.

We Aren’t Joshin’!
Become a GroFan!

Within days of the announcement that Josh was performing on the cruise, Josh Groban fans were organizing and asking if there was going to be a connection to his non-profit, the Find Your Light Foundation.

That’s how the GroFan Club was born.

The GroFan mission is simple:
Enjoy Josh’s performance on Botti at Sea III to the fullest, and show your appreciation by supporting the Find Your Light Foundation.

GroFan benefits, including chances to win a Botti at Sea III headliner meet-and-greet, are waiting for you this September. Book your stateroom, make a contribution to Find Your Light and you’ll unlock those benefits as a GroFan.

JOIN THE OFFICIAL GROFANS FACEBOOK GROUP

On-Demand Livestream:
All About Signature Cruise Experiences

WATCH LIVESTREAM ON-DEMAND

July Jazz Festivals in Europe

JAZZ FESTIVAL	DATE	LOCATION	MORE INFO
Istanbul Jazz Festival	June 30-July 13	Istanbul, Turkey	LINK
Kongsberg Jazzfestival	July 1-4	Kongsberg, Norway	LINK
Festival Rīgas Ritmi	July 1-4	Riga, Latvia	LINK
Gent Jazz	July 2-18	Ghent, Belgium	LINK
Umbria Jazz	July 3-12	Arena Santa Giuliana, Perugia, Italy	LINK
Montreux Jazz Festival	July 3-18	Auditorium Stravinski, Montreux, Switzerland	LINK
Canarias Jazz & Más Festival	July 3-25	Canary Islands, Spain	LINK
Jazz à Juan	July 9-19	Pinède Gould, Antibes Juan-les-Pins, Provence-Alpes-Côte-d’Azur, France	LINK
North Sea Jazz Festival	July 10-12	Rotterdam Ahoy, Rotterdam, The Netherlands	LINK
Moldejazz	July 13-18	Molde, Norway	LINK
Bohemia JazzFest	July 14-21	Prague, Plzen, Prachatice, Hluboka and Brno in the Czech Republic	LINK
Langnau Jazz Nights	July 21-25	Langnau, Bern, Switzerland	LINK
Jazzaldia/San Sebastian Jazz Festival	July 22-26	San Sebastian, Basque Country, Spain	LINK

Signature Cruise Experiences Upcoming Programs

VIEW ALL UPCOMING SCE SAILINGS

SCE Sailings in ’26

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.3

9.11.26 – 9.18.26
Vancouver – Victoria – San Francisco – Los Angeles
34th Sailing of The Greatest Party at Sea

Known as “The Greatest Party at Sea,” The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’26.3 is Fully Reserved.

If you wish to join the cruise, go to the website and JOIN WAITLIST for any stateroom category you wish. All cancellations for this cruise will be filled from the waitlist.

Botti at Sea ’26

9.18.26 – 9.25.26
Los Angeles – San Francisco – Victoria – Vancouver
Josh Groban Just Announced! Stateroom CloseOut in Effect!

SPECIAL NOTE: Chris Botti at Sea III is the only Signature Cruise Experiences’ program that has staterooms available in ’26. A limited number of Veranda Plus, Veranda, Ocean View and Inside Staterooms may be reserved at CloseOut Cruise Prices for both Past Guests and New Guests. A payment plan that allows for the final payment to be made after the cruise is also available. Act now!

David Foster: The Hitman Cruise Encore

1.12.27 – 1.17.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Costa Maya – Tampa
One Sailing is Not Enough

David Foster: The Hitman Cruise ’26 was a runaway hit program. From the first note to the last song, the brilliance of David Foster was evident in every show and event.

The star-studded lineup for David Foster: The Hitman Cruise Encore includes Michael McDonald, Dianne Reeves, Leslie Odom Jr., Katharine McPhee, Erich Bergen and more.

The Jazz Cruise ’27

1.17.27 – 1.24.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Belize – Costa Maya – Tampa
The Greatest Jazz Festival at Sea

The Jazz Cruise is the first program that Signature Cruise Experiences ever produced. Since its first sailing in 2001, The Jazz Cruise has been the world leader in presenting “straight ahead” jazz at sea. The Jazz Cruise has reached Fully Reserved every year it has sailed and The Jazz Cruise ’27 is on its way to reaching that goal again.

Journey of Jazz ’27

1.24.27 – 1.31.27
Tampa – New Orleans – Progreso – Tampa
Time to Take the Journey

In its second season, Journey of Jazz proudly combines the very best music with opportunities to live The Jazz Life.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise

’27.1 (1.31.27 – 2.7.27)
Tampa – Ocho Rios – Grand Cayman – Tampa
’27.2 (2.7.27 – 2.14.27)
Tampa – Grand Cayman – Ocho Rios – Tampa
The Greatest Party at Sea – No Doubt!

The star studded lineup is led by hosts Marcus Miller and Boney James and features Brian Culbertson, Jonathan Butler, Candy Dulfer, Kirk Whalum, Peter White and more.

Both sailings are in Open Booking and both are nearly 95% reserved at this time.

Botti at Sea ’27

10.6.27 – 10.13.27
Boston – Portland – Saint John – Sydney –
Charlottetown – Quebec City
Chris Botti Takes His Cruise from Boston to Canada

Stay tuned (8.15.26) for more programming and reservation procedure details.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘27.3

10.13.27 – 10.20.27
Quebec City – Charlottetown – Sydney –
Saint John – Portland – Boston
The Smooth Jazz Cruise Heads to Canada in the Fall

This cruise is currently in Open Booking, where anyone may reserve any available stateroom.

The post Our Take: On Holiday appeared first on Signature Cruise Experiences.

Our Take: Father’s Day

Kim Kelley — Sat, 20 Jun 2026 06:13:00 +0000

Tomorrow is Father’s Day. There is still time to purchase that special gift, cook his favorite meal or, as in my case, take some time to remember life with Dad.

Like many, if not most, of us, my jazz introduction and education was Dad’s work. No formal classes or tests. Most Saturdays, and every Sunday, Dad would put on his music and play his saxophone and clarinet. Our schooling was more “watch me” than “let me tell you.”

I’ve shared this before, but it was those moments when he played his horn that he was his true self. All other iterations of Dad, father, businessman, husband, etc. were genuine and heartfelt, just not performed as naturally as his music performances.

We took a poll a few years ago, probably during the Pandemic when musical topics were hard to find, asking folks how they became jazz fans. The overwhelming response to “origin of interest” was “Dad.” So, it’s not surprising that the jazz world is replete with father/child legacies. Sticking to folks who have been part of our cruise programs, Lee Mergner has prepared a very nice list of famous father/child jazz performers.

John and Bucky Pizzarelli
Gerald and John Clayton
Candy and Hans Dulfer
Christian McBride and Lee Smith
Niki Haris and Gene Harris
Wynton and Ellis Marsalis
Bill and Moose Charlap
Benny III and Benny Jr. Benack
Catherine and Luis Russell
Brian and Jim Culbertson

The Pizzarellis and Claytons are listed first for no reason other than both have not only performed on our cruises and, in each instance, they actually performed together.

If you look up the old saw “the acorn does not fall far from the tree,” you will see a photo of John and Bucky Pizzarelli. Same instrument. Similar favorite tunes. And, of course, the uncanny ability to entertain. I find the term “raconteur” to be not only a compliment, but also an honor.

Being able to hold an audience through the power of your personality and talent is no easy task. That each of them built a career doing so is admirable, but, even more impressive is that their comic talent has never overshadowed their musical talents. Both men are first-class musicians in every way and would be jazz icons under any set of measurements.

Bucky died during the Pandemic. I remember the day it happened. I love how John talks about him. Never maudlin, but always reverent. His eyes sparkle when he tells a “Bucky” story. It was always “Bucky,” never “Dad,” so you would assume that they were more pals and colleagues than father/son. Regardless, the level of respect and sheer admiration is always evident.

The Clayton Brothers Quintet had been a staple of The Jazz Cruise from its inception. John and Jeff Clayton would lead the group year after year along with performing with others as an All Star. It would be much later that John assumed the reins of the Big Band and Jeff would pass. We miss Jeff very much. We have never been able to find a band that had the allure that The Clayton Brothers Quintet possessed.

A very young Gerald Clayton was on the piano with that group. Besides a burgeoning talent, Gerald had his father’s dignified demeanor for sure. On top of that, Gerald was the strong, silent type. Few words seem to be forthcoming, perhaps a sign of acknowledgement of his youth and respect for his elders, or just someone who kept his thoughts to himself.

Even today, though Gerald has reached stardom in his own right, I find him using as few words as possible to express himself. Not surprisingly, the one time when his words were unbridled was when I asked him why pianists flock to see Brad Mehldau perform. The response was a very detailed explanation of the importance of the left hand and why Brad’s southpaw was at the top of the food chain.

Being nothing more than an amateur drummer, the entire discussion was lost on me but seeing his passion and recognizing how significant technique was to him, I could not help but admire him greatly at that moment.

Though I never saw and heard this, I am sure that both Bucky and John were tough judges of their sons’ musical efforts, not because they were being mean, but because each saw a talent that deserved attention. Father/Child pride is typically an earned emotion, whereas Mother/Child pride often requires no more effort than being born.

Case in point, when my father’s music buddies would ask if I were a musician, Dad would immediately say “no…he is a drummer.” My mother would tell me that I played like Little Ricky on I Love Lucy. That was how parenting worked in the early ‘50s.

Participation trophies and other forms of parental support would come along many years later, but by then my path was already set.

Happy Father’s Day.

Juneteenth and Jazz

by Linda S. Lawson

The month of June recognized as Black Music Appreciation Month intersecting with the now federally recognized holiday of Juneteenth is apropos and should come as no surprise.

While formal emancipation occurred in 1863, it would be the nineteenth day of the sixth month in 1865 the last slaves located in Texas received word of their emancipation, sparking celebrations. Hence, the melding of the June and 19th into Juneteenth for its name with its official federal recognition occurring in 2021.

The significance of what that day represents and its continued musical symbolism of freedom’s march stands encompassed and documented in jazz music, serving as a bedrock before there was a recognition and still carrying those dreams and aspirations into present day.

The sentiments, the hopes and the notes of the road to be trod are entrenched in its historical musical tapestry, intricately intertwined with its origins reaching back to the Motherland all the way to the shores of Congo Square.

For a time, Juneteenth lost its early celebration before gaining a resurgence marked by the Civil Rights era. Dr. Martin Luther King recognized the genre’s importance during those times with its message and upliftment.

“Jazz speaks for life. The Blues tell the story of life’s difficulties and, if you think for a moment, you will realize that they take the hardest realities of life and put them into music, only to come out with some new hope or sense of triumph,” he wrote. “It strengthened us with its sweet rhythms when courage began to fail and calmed us with its rich harmonies when spirits were down”.

Let’s take a musical journey for a moment. Jazz and Civil Rights historians have called Billie Holliday’s interpretation of the anti-lynching song, “Strange Fruit,” a catalyst for the civil rights movement twenty years ahead of time. Max Roach’s “Freedom Now Suite,” Charles Mingus’ “Fables of Faubus,” along with John Coltrane’s “Alabama” play critical roles. Then there’s Duke Ellington and Mahalia Jackson’s duo of “Come Sunday,” along with Nina Simone’s cover of “I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel To Be Free.” They all stir in Juneteenth’s pot.

More recently, Virtuoso Wynton Marsalis and civil rights attorney/jazz pianist Bryan Stevenson’s collaboration, “Freedom, Justice and Hope,” honored Juneteenth by paying homage to jazz musicians and vocalists who used their gifts for social justice.

Jazz remains the clarion call and the battle cry, weaving its own translations, both vocally and instrumentally of sanguinity and dreams, wins and losses and an ongoing quest of what freedom looks and feels like.

The last decade has spurred a rising recognition of the holiday with Juneteenth Jazz Festivals being established cross country.

In an NPR interview, Pianist Orrin Evans spoke of finding a haven, even if for only at times, what Simone diligently sought in choosing Gary Bartz’s “Music Is My Sanctuary” as a personal anthem for Juneteenth. There, he enters a space unencumbered and strong, an escape when the weight of the world at times felt inescapable with a continuation to rest in the hope of those physically freed more than 161 years ago.

Here’s his reasoning: “It reminded and empowered black people at the same time. I felt free when I listened. I heard the musicians express freely with their instruments. My mission was to find my freedom in the music, as my ancestors had. Music was our survival and it remains my sanctuary.”

Linda S. Lawson is a freelance writer and the founder of Angel Helper, dedicated to philanthropic journalism.

Livestream:
All About Signature Cruise Experiences
6.25.26 4PM ET

Curious about what makes a Signature Cruise Experiences voyage unlike any other vacation? Join the All About Signature Cruise Experiences livestream on June 25, 2026 at 4PM ET for a special live webinar designed to introduce you to the unforgettable world of music at sea.

For more than 25 years, Signature Cruise Experiences has been creating extraordinary journeys that bring together legendary artists, passionate fans and incredible destinations. During this livestream, you’ll discover what sets our cruises apart — from world-class performances by industry icons and intimate artist interactions you won’t find anywhere else, to exceptional service, immersive programming and unforgettable ports of call.

You’ll also get an insider’s look at our collection of themed cruises, hear stories from the Signature community and enjoy a special surprise appearance from one of our talented artists!

As our thank you for joining us live, one attendee will win a FREE stateroom aboard a future Signature Cruise Experiences sailing.

Whether you’re considering your first voyage or simply want to learn more about the Signature experience, we invite you to come aboard and see why our guests return year after year.

Reserve your spot today — we can’t wait to welcome you!

July Jazz Festivals in the U.S.

Montclair Jazz Festival Soundcheck Series
July 1, 14, 28
Wellmont Plaza, Montclair, NJ
Iowa City Jazz Festival
July 3-5
Downtown
Iowa City, IA
Syracuse Jazz Festival
July 9-12
Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards,
LaFayette, NY
Springfield Jazz and Roots
July 10-11
Court Square
Springfield, MA
Jazz in July
July 14-25
92NY
New York, NY
Litchfield Jazz Festival
July 24-26
Tisch Auditorium
Washington, CT

Signature Cruise Experiences Upcoming Programs

VIEW ALL UPCOMING SCE SAILINGS

SCE Sailings in ’26

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.3

9.11.26 – 9.18.26
Vancouver – Victoria – San Francisco – Los Angeles

34th Sailing of the Greatest Party at Sea

Botti at Sea ’26

9.18.26 – 9.25.26
Los Angeles – San Francisco – Victoria – Vancouver

Josh Groban Performing on Botti at Sea ’26!

David Foster at Sea

1.12.27 – 1.17.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Costa Maya – Tampa

It’s Your Music!

The Jazz Cruise ’27

1.17.27 – 1.24.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Belize – Costa Maya – Tampa

The Greatest Jazz Festival at Sea

Journey of Jazz ’27

1.24.27 – 1.31.27
Tampa – New Orleans – Progreso – Tampa

Cruising to the Birthplace of Jazz

In its second season, Journey of Jazz proudly combines the very best music with opportunities to live The Jazz Life.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise

’27.1 (1.31.27 – 2.7.27)
Tampa – Ocho Rios – Grand Cayman – Tampa
’27.2 (2.7.27 – 2.14.27)
Tampa – Grand Cayman – Ocho Rios – Tampa

The star studded lineup is led by hosts Marcus Miller and Boney James and features Brian Culbertson, Jonathan Butler, Candy Dulfer, Kirk Whalum, Peter White and more.

The Yacht Rock Cruise

9.12.27 – 9.18.27
Vancouver – Victoria – San Francisco – Los Angeles

In Open Booking! Reservations Going Fast!

Botti at Sea ’27

10.6.27 – 10.13.27
Boston – Portland – Saint John – Sydney – Charlottetown – Quebec City

Chris Botti Takes His Cruise from Boston to Canada

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘27.3

10.13.27 – 10.20.27
Quebec City – Charlottetown – Sydney – Saint John – Portland – Boston

The Smooth Jazz Cruise Heads to Canada in the Fall

This cruise is currently in Open Booking, where anyone may reserve any available stateroom.

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The Weekender Archives - Signature Cruise Experiences

Our Take: She Knew How to Pick ‘Em!

SFJAZZ Concerts

SFJAZZ Concerts

Signature Cruise Experiences Upcoming Programs

SCE Sailings in ’26

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.3

9.11.26 – 9.18.26Vancouver – Victoria – San Francisco – Los Angeles34th Sailing of the Greatest Party at Sea

Botti at Sea ’26

9.18.26 – 9.25.26Los Angeles – San Francisco – Victoria – VancouverJosh Groban Performing on Botti at Sea ’26!

David Foster at Sea

1.12.27 – 1.17.27Tampa – Cozumel – Costa Maya – TampaIt’s Your Music!

The Jazz Cruise ’27

1.17.27 – 1.24.27Tampa – Cozumel – Belize – Costa Maya – TampaThe Greatest Jazz Festival at Sea

Journey of Jazz ’27

1.24.27 – 1.31.27Tampa – New Orleans – Progreso – TampaCruising to the Birthplace of Jazz

The Smooth Jazz Cruise

’27.1 (1.31.27 – 2.7.27)Tampa – Ocho Rios – Grand Cayman – Tampa ’27.2 (2.7.27 – 2.14.27)Tampa – Grand Cayman – Ocho Rios – Tampa

The Yacht Rock Cruise

9.12.27 – 9.18.27Vancouver – Victoria – San Francisco – Los AngelesIn Open Booking! Reservations Going Fast!

Botti at Sea ’27

10.6.27 – 10.13.27Boston – Portland – Saint John – Sydney – Charlottetown – Quebec CityChris Botti Takes His Cruise from Boston to Canada

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘27.3

10.13.27 – 10.20.27Quebec City – Charlottetown – Sydney – Saint John – Portland – BostonThe Smooth Jazz Cruise Heads to Canada in the Fall

Our Take: It’s All About the Bass

Celebration of Sonny Rollins

Signature Cruise Experiences Upcoming Programs

SCE Sailings in ’26

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.3

9.11.26 – 9.18.26Vancouver – Victoria – San Francisco – Los Angeles34th Sailing of the Greatest Party at Sea

Botti at Sea ’26

9.18.26 – 9.25.26Los Angeles – San Francisco – Victoria – VancouverJosh Groban Performing on Botti at Sea ’26!

David Foster at Sea

1.12.27 – 1.17.27Tampa – Cozumel – Costa Maya – TampaIt’s Your Music!

The Jazz Cruise ’27

1.17.27 – 1.24.27Tampa – Cozumel – Belize – Costa Maya – TampaThe Greatest Jazz Festival at Sea

Journey of Jazz ’27

1.24.27 – 1.31.27Tampa – New Orleans – Progreso – TampaCruising to the Birthplace of Jazz

The Smooth Jazz Cruise

’27.1 (1.31.27 – 2.7.27)Tampa – Ocho Rios – Grand Cayman – Tampa ’27.2 (2.7.27 – 2.14.27)Tampa – Grand Cayman – Ocho Rios – Tampa

The Yacht Rock Cruise

9.12.27 – 9.18.27Vancouver – Victoria – San Francisco – Los AngelesIn Open Booking! Reservations Going Fast!

Botti at Sea ’27

10.6.27 – 10.13.27Boston – Portland – Saint John – Sydney – Charlottetown – Quebec CityChris Botti Takes His Cruise from Boston to Canada

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘27.3

10.13.27 – 10.20.27Quebec City – Charlottetown – Sydney – Saint John – Portland – BostonThe Smooth Jazz Cruise Heads to Canada in the Fall

Our Take: 8.8.26

The Influence of Jazz

John Pizzarelli’s P.S. Mr. Bennett

Cécile McLorin Salvant’s With Every Breath I Take

Signature Cruise Experiences Upcoming Programs

SCE Sailings in ’26

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.3

9.11.26 – 9.18.26Vancouver – Victoria – San Francisco – Los Angeles

Botti at Sea ’26

9.18.26 – 9.25.26Los Angeles – San Francisco – Victoria – Vancouver

David Foster: The Hitman Cruise Encore

1.12.27 – 1.17.27Tampa – Cozumel – Costa Maya – Tampa

The Jazz Cruise ’27

1.17.27 – 1.24.27Tampa – Cozumel – Belize – Costa Maya – Tampa

Journey of Jazz ’27

1.24.27 – 1.31.27Tampa – New Orleans – Progreso – Tampa

The Smooth Jazz Cruise

’27.1 (1.31.27 – 2.7.27)Tampa – Ocho Rios – Grand Cayman – Tampa ’27.2 (2.7.27 – 2.14.27)Tampa – Grand Cayman – Ocho Rios – Tampa

Botti at Sea ’27

10.6.27 – 10.13.27Boston – Portland – Saint John – Sydney – Charlottetown – Quebec City

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘27.3

10.13.27 – 10.20.27Quebec City – Charlottetown – Sydney – Saint John – Portland – Boston

Our Take: 8.1.26

August Hits Different

August ’26 Jazz Festivals

September ’26 Jazz Festivals

SCE’s ’27 Programs

Partner Events

Milestones: A Miles Davis Centennial Celebration

Markham Jazz Festival

Signature Cruise Experiences Upcoming Programs

SCE Sailings in ’26

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.3

9.11.26 – 9.18.26Vancouver – Victoria – San Francisco – Los Angeles

9.11.26 – 9.18.26
Vancouver – Victoria – San Francisco – Los Angeles

34th Sailing of the Greatest Party at Sea

9.18.26 – 9.25.26
Los Angeles – San Francisco – Victoria – Vancouver

Josh Groban Performing on Botti at Sea ’26!

1.12.27 – 1.17.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Costa Maya – Tampa

It’s Your Music!

1.17.27 – 1.24.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Belize – Costa Maya – Tampa

The Greatest Jazz Festival at Sea

1.24.27 – 1.31.27
Tampa – New Orleans – Progreso – Tampa

Cruising to the Birthplace of Jazz

’27.1 (1.31.27 – 2.7.27)
Tampa – Ocho Rios – Grand Cayman – Tampa
’27.2 (2.7.27 – 2.14.27)
Tampa – Grand Cayman – Ocho Rios – Tampa

9.12.27 – 9.18.27
Vancouver – Victoria – San Francisco – Los Angeles

In Open Booking! Reservations Going Fast!

10.6.27 – 10.13.27
Boston – Portland – Saint John – Sydney – Charlottetown – Quebec City

Chris Botti Takes His Cruise from Boston to Canada

10.13.27 – 10.20.27
Quebec City – Charlottetown – Sydney – Saint John – Portland – Boston

The Smooth Jazz Cruise Heads to Canada in the Fall

9.11.26 – 9.18.26
Vancouver – Victoria – San Francisco – Los Angeles

34th Sailing of the Greatest Party at Sea

9.18.26 – 9.25.26
Los Angeles – San Francisco – Victoria – Vancouver

Josh Groban Performing on Botti at Sea ’26!

1.12.27 – 1.17.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Costa Maya – Tampa

It’s Your Music!

1.17.27 – 1.24.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Belize – Costa Maya – Tampa

The Greatest Jazz Festival at Sea

1.24.27 – 1.31.27
Tampa – New Orleans – Progreso – Tampa

Cruising to the Birthplace of Jazz

’27.1 (1.31.27 – 2.7.27)
Tampa – Ocho Rios – Grand Cayman – Tampa
’27.2 (2.7.27 – 2.14.27)
Tampa – Grand Cayman – Ocho Rios – Tampa

9.12.27 – 9.18.27
Vancouver – Victoria – San Francisco – Los Angeles

In Open Booking! Reservations Going Fast!

10.6.27 – 10.13.27
Boston – Portland – Saint John – Sydney – Charlottetown – Quebec City

Chris Botti Takes His Cruise from Boston to Canada

10.13.27 – 10.20.27
Quebec City – Charlottetown – Sydney – Saint John – Portland – Boston

The Smooth Jazz Cruise Heads to Canada in the Fall

9.11.26 – 9.18.26
Vancouver – Victoria – San Francisco – Los Angeles

9.18.26 – 9.25.26
Los Angeles – San Francisco – Victoria – Vancouver

1.12.27 – 1.17.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Costa Maya – Tampa

1.17.27 – 1.24.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Belize – Costa Maya – Tampa

1.24.27 – 1.31.27
Tampa – New Orleans – Progreso – Tampa

’27.1 (1.31.27 – 2.7.27)
Tampa – Ocho Rios – Grand Cayman – Tampa
’27.2 (2.7.27 – 2.14.27)
Tampa – Grand Cayman – Ocho Rios – Tampa

10.6.27 – 10.13.27
Boston – Portland – Saint John – Sydney –
Charlottetown – Quebec City

10.13.27 – 10.20.27
Quebec City – Charlottetown – Sydney –
Saint John – Portland – Boston

9.11.26 – 9.18.26
Vancouver – Victoria – San Francisco – Los Angeles

9.18.26 – 9.25.26
Los Angeles – San Francisco – Victoria – Vancouver

1.12.27 – 1.17.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Costa Maya – Tampa

1.17.27 – 1.24.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Belize – Costa Maya – Tampa

1.24.27 – 1.31.27
Tampa – New Orleans – Progreso – Tampa

’27.1 (1.31.27 – 2.7.27)
Tampa – Ocho Rios – Grand Cayman – Tampa
’27.2 (2.7.27 – 2.14.27)
Tampa – Grand Cayman – Ocho Rios – Tampa

10.6.27 – 10.13.27
Boston – Portland – Saint John – Sydney –
Charlottetown – Quebec City

10.13.27 – 10.20.27
Quebec City – Charlottetown – Sydney –
Saint John – Portland – Boston

9.11.26 – 9.18.26
Vancouver – Victoria – San Francisco – Los Angeles
34th Sailing of The Greatest Party at Sea

9.18.26 – 9.25.26
Los Angeles – San Francisco – Victoria – Vancouver
Just Announced: Josh Groban Performing on Botti at Sea!

1.12.27 – 1.17.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Costa Maya – Tampa
One Sailing is Not Enough!

1.17.27 – 1.24.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Belize – Costa Maya – Tampa
The Greatest Jazz Festival at Sea

1.24.27 – 1.31.27
Tampa – New Orleans – Progreso – Tampa
Time to Take the Journey

’27.1 (1.31.27 – 2.7.27) – Tampa – Ocho Rios – Grand Cayman – Tampa
’27.2 (2.7.27 – 2.14.27) – Tampa – Grand Cayman – Ocho Rios – Tampa

10.6.27 – 10.13.27
Boston – Portland – Saint John – Sydney –
Charlottetown – Quebec City
Chris Botti Takes His Cruise from Boston to Canada

10.13.27 – 10.20.27
Quebec City – Charlottetown – Sydney –
Saint John – Portland – Boston

9.18.26 – 9.25.26
Josh Groban – Elvis Costello – Boz Scaggs – Melody Gardot & more
Los Angeles – San Francisco – Victoria – Vancouver

9.11.26 – 9.18.26
Vancouver – Victoria – San Francisco – Los Angeles

9.18.26 – 9.25.26
Los Angeles – San Francisco – Victoria – Vancouver

1.12.27 – 1.17.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Costa Maya – Tampa

1.17.27 – 1.24.27
Tampa – Cozumel – Belize – Costa Maya – Tampa

1.24.27 – 1.31.27
Tampa – New Orleans – Progreso – Tampa

’27.1 (1.31.27 – 2.7.27)
Tampa – Ocho Rios – Grand Cayman – Tampa
’27.2 (2.7.27 – 2.14.27)
Tampa – Grand Cayman – Ocho Rios – Tampa

10.6.27 – 10.13.27
Boston – Portland – Saint John – Sydney –
Charlottetown – Quebec City

10.13.27 – 10.20.27
Quebec City – Charlottetown – Sydney –
Saint John – Portland – Boston