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	<item>
		<title>Jazz Notes: 3.25.26</title>
		<link>https://scecruises.com/2026/03/25/jazz-notes-3-25-26/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Kim Kelley]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2026 14:52:48 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Jazz Notes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EXCURSIONS]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[GREGORY PORTER]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[JOURNEY OF JAZZ]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[MARCUS MILLER]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[NEW ORLEANS]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[WYNTON MARSALIS]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://scecruises.com/?p=9996</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Marcus Miller + Gregory Porter + Wynton Marsalis…Special Port-of-Call:  New Orleans  Many believe that last September’s sailing of Journey of Jazz ’25 was one of the very best programs produced by Signature Cruise Experiences (SCE) in its 26 year/100+ cruise history. That program combined SCE’s trademark onboard music programs with an exciting itinerary filled with [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://scecruises.com/2026/03/25/jazz-notes-3-25-26/">Jazz Notes: 3.25.26</a> appeared first on <a href="https://scecruises.com">Signature Cruise Experiences</a>.</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><strong>Marcus Miller + Gregory Porter + Wynton Marsalis<br><strong>…Special Port-of-Call:  New Orleans </strong></strong></h3>



<p>Many believe that last September’s sailing of <em>Journey of Jazz ’25</em> was one of the very best programs produced by Signature Cruise Experiences (SCE) in its 26 year/100+ cruise history. That program combined SCE’s trademark onboard music programs with an exciting itinerary filled with special events and excursions curated by us.<br><br>The ’25 sailing explored the jazz life with stops in San Francisco and tours in Napa and Sonoma. Jazz shows at SFAZZ and a first-class culinary tour of San Francisco were also enjoyed. That was the Special Sauce.<br><br>For <em>Journey of Jazz &#8217;27</em>, we have prepared another heaping portion of Special Sauce. To quote one of New Orleans more famous chefs, <strong>Emeril Lagasse</strong>, we are “taking it up a notch…maybe more than one notch!” <strong>Marcus Miller </strong>and <strong>Gregory Porter</strong> are back as the hosts of <em>Journey of Jazz ’27</em>, with Marcus reprising his famous “History of Jazz” show in which he tells the story of jazz…in music! And Gregory will bring his magical voice and grand presence to every aspect of the cruise!<br><br>Ready to add a notch or two? The ’27 sailing is going to the heart of jazz, its birthplace, New Orleans! Two full days and one exciting night. Did we mention that <strong>Wynton Marsalis</strong> will be our New Orleans host for the cruise!? While in New Orleans, guests will have the choice of fine dining, special jazz shows and excursions, all curated and operated by us.<br><br>Wynton’s shows on the ship will be spaced so that every guest who wishes to dine in New Orleans and enjoy his show will be able to do so. But, I am getting way ahead of myself here. Much of this information is on the website and we highlight some of the key elements in the other parts of this edition of <em>Jazz Notes</em>.<br><br>If I seem very excited about this program, trust me, I am. Marcus and Gregory with Wynton in New Orleans…very cool.<br><br><em>Michael Lazaroff</em><br><em>Executive Director<br>Signature Cruise Experiences</em></p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><em><strong>Journey of Jazz ‘27 </strong></em><strong>is Hosted by <strong>Marcus Miller &amp; Gregory Porter</strong></strong></h3>



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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Gregory-Porter-Jazz-Fest-1024x683.jpg" alt="GREGORY PORTER" class="wp-image-6731" srcset="https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Gregory-Porter-Jazz-Fest-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Gregory-Porter-Jazz-Fest-300x200.jpg 300w, https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Gregory-Porter-Jazz-Fest-768x512.jpg 768w, https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Gregory-Porter-Jazz-Fest-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Gregory-Porter-Jazz-Fest.jpg 1620w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
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<p>An iconic bassist and a generational singing voice. That is what you have when your cruise is hosted by Marcus Miller and Gregory Porter. In music, often you must choose between great musicianship and entertainment value. Both Marcus and Gregory are top musicians who can share their gifts and talents in a way that embraces the audience and creates joy.<br><br>Their secret? Both are comfortable in their own skin, know their talent and refuse to take the shortcuts in performing that “entertainers” often take. I believe the word for both men is “authentic.” Yes, they have won GRAMMY® Awards and countless other awards, but, though all were earned, none were sought.</p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><strong>Wynton Marsalis: <strong>The Return of New Orleans’ Native Son</strong></strong></h3>



<p>Although he’s lived many more years away from New Orleans than he’s lived there, <strong>Wynton Marsalis </strong>will always be associated with that storied and very musical city. Partially because his father, <strong>Ellis Marsalis</strong>, was a lifelong patriarch for jazz in the area, both as a pianist and educator. Partially because he received his first trumpet at the age of four from the local legend Al Hirt. Partially because he was the first of several younger jazz musicians to be signed by Columbia Records in the late ’70s and early ’80s – including his brother <strong>Branford</strong>, <strong>Terence Blanchard</strong>, <strong>Donald Harrison </strong>and <strong>Harry Connick, Jr</strong>. Partially because Wynton would later become a champion of both <strong>Louis Armstrong </strong>and New Orleans jazz. But that came later.<br><br>In fact, despite being raised in a jazz household and surrounded by live jazz in the neighborhoods, Wynton initially resisted the lure of that music. He and Branford preferred playing in a funk band called the <strong>Creators </strong>around town. In an interview Wynton did with <strong>Marcus Miller </strong>on one of our cruises a few years ago, he explained that jazz came later. “My father wanted me to take lessons from a trumpeter named <strong>Teddy Riley </strong>who we called Buck,” Wynton explained. “He played Louis Armstrong’s cornet when Louis Armstrong passed away. But New Orleans music didn’t interest us then. We thought we were the Crusaders. My father said, ‘Have you called Buck yet?’ I said to him, ‘No, I didn’t call Buck.” And later, ‘Did you call Buck?’ Finally, he said, ‘Man, you need to call Buck so you can learn how to play.’ I said, ‘Man, Buck can’t even read.’ My father said, ‘Son, people can either play or they can’t play. Look at you. You can read.’”<br><br>Wynton was soon listening to artists like <strong>Clifford Brown</strong>, <strong>Dizzy Gillespie </strong>and <strong>Miles Davis</strong>. “I started to wonder if I could learn how to play jazz,” he said. “Then I got a gig with some college kids playing at a club. When I was 15, they called the house and one guy, a bass player named <strong>Alvin Young</strong>, called the house and asked me, ‘Are you Ellis’s son?’ I said, “Well, yea, there are five of us.’ He said, ‘No, are you the one who plays trumpet?’ I said, ‘Yes.” He said, ‘Can you play a gig with us at this place called Tyler’s Bear Gardens?” I said, ‘What are y’all playing?’ He said, ‘You know, tunes like <strong>Chick Corea</strong>, <strong>Herbie Hancock</strong>.’ I couldn’t really play on changes at that time and I told him that I’m gonna be real sad. He said, ‘It’s all right. We’re all sad to start. You’ll get better.’” Indeed, Wynton did get better.<br><br>Ironically, it was classical music that brought him to New York City and put him on a path to international acclaim. Wynton was barely a teenager when an older musician introduced him to the virtuoso playing of classical trumpet <strong>Maurice Andre</strong>. “I said to myself, I wonder if I could learn how to play like him,” Wynton explained. “So I start practicing to play classical music off the record.” He was just 14 years old when he won a competition and performed <strong>Haydn</strong>‘s trumpet concerto with the <strong>New Orleans Philharmonic</strong>. Wynton has not forgotten his first rehearsal with that group. “When they played that first chord of the Haydn concerto, and that unbelievable big E flat chord filled the room, I got goosebumps,” he recalled. “The sound of it with 60 or so people playing it was so deep and full. All the times I’ve played concertos and played with orchestras, I always would go back to that first sound I heard.”</p>



<p>For Wynton, classical music offered him the opportunity to leave New Orleans. He had seen his father struggle economically as a local musician and he had also experienced racism in that city. After being admitted to the prestigious summer program at Tanglewood Music Center, Wynton applied and got into the Juilliard School. But like Miles Davis before him and <strong>Christian McBride </strong>after him, he left Juilliard to play jazz with his heroes, in Wynton’s case with <strong>Art Blakey </strong>and the <strong>Jazz Messengers</strong>. <br><br>That apprenticeship would lead to a storied career as a bandleader and composer and eventually the founding of Jazz at Lincoln Center, which has become the premier jazz organization in the world. More on that in a later edition of Jazz Notes. But despite being exposed to the music of Louis Armstrong, Wynton would only come to appreciate his genius later. “I was 17 and had a tape of Armstrong’s music,” Wynton said. “My father said I had to learn (Armstrong’s 1938 classic) ‘Jubilee.’ At the time I was learning solos by <strong>Freddie Hubbard</strong>, complicated things. ‘Jubilee’ was simple — and I couldn’t play it. Learning to play it made me understand I really had to study his songs. So, I started learning Armstrong’s music and his style. Being from New Orleans, I was aware of his style when I was young, from marching band and all the experiences he had, but I certainly didn’t know this was something you needed to study. We didn’t know the history well enough so we felt like Lous Armstrong was old-fashioned. We had a preconceived notion of him that kept us from appreciating how significant he was then and is now.”<br><br>During the last few decades Wynton has become one of the most foremost champions not only of Armstrong but of New Orleans jazz. That’s why it’s exciting for us to present Wynton and his group in performances in his hometown during <em>Journey of Jazz ’27</em>.<br><br><em>Lee Mergner<br>Jazz Consultant</em></p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><em>Journey of Jazz ‘27</em> Presents Superstar Performers</h3>



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<p>When your headliners are Marcus Miller, Gregory Porter and Wynton Marsalis, the rest of the lineup can sometimes be overlooked. Not so on <em>Journey of Jazz ’27</em>.<br><br>GRAMMY® Winner <strong>Ledisi</strong>’s contribution to the <em>Journey of Jazz </em>concept will be her amazing tribute to <strong>Dinah Washington</strong>. She will perform many of the songs from her <em>For Dinah </em>tribute album along with the songs that have made Ledisi one of the top vocalists.<br><br>Winning GRAMMY® Awards has become routine to pianist <strong>Sullivan Fortner</strong>. Whether he is leading his own group or accompanying superstar vocalists, Sullivan has become one of the top names in jazz and a “go to” pianist for many.<br><br><strong>Cyrille Aimee </strong>has been a star on many Signature Cruise Experiences’ programs over the years. Her French background will be the perfect tone and expression for our trip to New Orleans.<br><br>The list of instrumentalists reads like an all-star band: <strong>Sean Jones</strong>, <strong>Wycliffe Gordon</strong>, <strong>Edmar Castaneda</strong>, <strong>Herlin Riley</strong>, <strong>Kurt Rosenwinkel</strong>, <strong>Gregoire Maret</strong>, <strong>Taylor Eigsti</strong>, <strong>Harold Lopez</strong>&#8211;<strong>Nussa</strong>, <strong>Gerald Clayton</strong> and, our Music Director, <strong>Eric Marienthal</strong>. Each one an accomplished leader and band member.</p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><em><strong>Journey of Jazz ‘27</strong></em><strong> Presents <strong>&#8220;Bucket List&#8221; Excursions:</strong><br><strong>The Very Best of New Orleans Will Be Available to YOU!</strong></strong></h3>



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<p><em>Journey of Jazz ‘27 </em>will overnight in New Orleans, providing guests with two full days and one night to enjoy the wonders of the Birthplace of Jazz. We have curated a host of great excursions just for our guests, ranging from brunch at Brennan’s (we have secured the entire restaurant), to boat tours of the city, to fabulous jazz shows at local venues. <br><br>The best way to check out the excursions the website: <a href="https://sail.scecruises.com/c/1yDnv6TxmwIAdGMgBsHr2in0oSqC">https://journeyofjazz.com/sce-excursions/</a>, but here are a few of the highlights:</p>



<p><strong><u>Sightseeing Tours</u></strong></p>



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<li>Discover Magazine Street</li>



<li>Natchez Steamboat Tour</li>



<li>Mardi Gras World Tour</li>



<li>Hidden Gems of New Orleans City Tour</li>
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<p><br><strong><u>Dining</u></strong></p>



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<li>Antoine’s</li>



<li>Arnaud’s</li>



<li>Commander’s Palace</li>



<li>Brennan’s (brunch)</li>
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<p><br><strong><u>Concerts</u></strong></p>



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<li>New Orleans Jazz and Blues Market – <strong>Kermit Ruffins</strong></li>



<li>New Orleans Jazz and Blues Market – <strong>Donald Harrison</strong></li>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><strong>Back-to-Back with </strong><em><strong>The Jazz Cruise ’27 </strong></em><strong>and <em>The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’27.1</em></strong></h3>



<p><em>Journey of Jazz ’27 </em>was intentionally scheduled between <em>The Jazz Cruise ’27 </em>and <em>The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’27.1</em>. Though each of those cruises has its own identity, there are sufficient similarities between <em>Journey of Jazz ’27 </em>in terms of lineup and musical styles with each of the other programs that guests could easily create a two-week special music cruise vacation.<br><br>Benefits and pricing for sailing back-to-back will be dependent upon the Sailing History of the guest. If interested in doing so, please contact us at the office for Cruise Prices and other information.  </p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><strong>Great Time to Reserve a Stateroom</strong></h3>



<p><em>Journey of Jazz ’25 </em>was fully reserved months before sailing, so we advise guests to select a stateroom and complete a reservation now.  <br><br>And, the sooner you finalize your reservation, the sooner you can reserve your spot on one of the amazing excursions in New Orleans. Stateroom selection and reservation may be completed online or by calling the office during regular business hours.</p>



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<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-blue-background-color has-background has-text-align-center wp-element-button btn btn-primary">RESERVE YOUR STATEROOM ON <em>JOURNEY OF JAZZ &#8217;27</em></a></div>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><strong>Signature Cruise Experiences Upcoming Programs</strong><br></h3>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">SCE Sailings in &#8217;26</span></h4>



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<h4 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><em><strong>The Smooth Jazz Cruise</strong></em></h4>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><em> &nbsp; ’26.3 (9.11.26 – 9.18.26)</em></h6>



<p class="has-text-align-center">3<strong><strong>4th Sailing of The Greatest Party at Sea</strong></strong></p>



<p>Known as “The Greatest Party at Sea,” <em>The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’26.3</em>, which departs from Vancouver on 9.11.26 and sails to Victoria, BC and San Francisco, before terminating in Los Angeles on 9.18.26 is fully reserved. If you wish to try to join the cruise, go to the <a href="https://sail.scecruises.com/c/1yDnLhL1F5EXTtVD2yKfzA3OnRp6">website </a>and JOIN WAITLIST for any stateroom category you wish. All cancellations for this cruise will be filled from the waitlist.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="900" height="900" src="https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/BAS-26-III-PORTHOLE-01.png" alt="" class="wp-image-9695" style="width:200px" srcset="https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/BAS-26-III-PORTHOLE-01.png 900w, https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/BAS-26-III-PORTHOLE-01-300x300.png 300w, https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/BAS-26-III-PORTHOLE-01-150x150.png 150w, https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/BAS-26-III-PORTHOLE-01-768x768.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" /></figure>
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<h4 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><em><strong><em><strong>Botti at Sea III (’26)</strong></em></strong></em></h4>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><strong>9.18.26 – 9.25.26<br><strong><strong>The West Coast Edition &#8211; The Perfect Music Experience</strong></strong></strong></h6>



<p>When <em>The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’26.3 </em>docks in Los Angeles, we will turn around and head back to Vancouver (via San Francisco and Victoria BC) under the guidance of superstar <strong>Chris Botti</strong>. <em>Chris Botti at Sea III </em>will be the perfect combination of a topflight music cruise and exciting excursions.  <br><br>Joining Chris on the cruise are several icons of the world of music:  <strong>Elvis Costello</strong>, <strong>Boz Scaggs</strong>, <strong>Melody Gardot</strong>, <strong>Peabo Bryson</strong>, <strong>Regina Belle </strong>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.  <br><br>Another menu of excursions awaits guests when the cruise docks in Victoria, BC. Trust us, this is the perfect music experience!</p>
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<h4 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><em><strong><em><strong>David Foster: The Hitman Cruise &#8217;27</strong></em></strong></em></h4>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">1.12.27 &#8211; 1.17.27</h6>



<p class="has-text-align-center"><strong><strong>Encore! Encore! </strong></strong></p>



<p><em>David Foster: The Hitman Cruise ’26 </em>(Foster ’26) was a runaway hit program. From the first note to the last song, the brilliance of <strong>David Foster </strong>was evident in every show and event. As you recall, David wanted to learn more about how the cruise programs unfold before he casted the lineup for <em>David Foster: The Hitman Cruise Encore Sailing ’27</em>.<br><br>That moment has arrived. Last week, the lineup for <em>David Foster: The Hitman Cruise </em>Encore Sailing ’27 was announced and includes <strong>Michael McDonald</strong>,<strong> Dianne Reeves</strong>,<strong> Katharine McPhee</strong>,<strong> Erich Bergen</strong> and more.<br><br>Foster ’26 Guests are currently able to finalize rebooking of their staterooms through April 10, after which Pre-Sail Reservations holders will be eligible to select a stateroom and complete their reservation. There is still time to <a href="https://sail.scecruises.com/c/1yDnW4kGwNCyllmxkCM7VLR12w3q">complete a Pre-Sail Reservation (no deposit or obligation required) on the website here</a></p>
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<h4 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><em><strong><em><strong>The Jazz Cruise &#8217;27</strong></em></strong></em></h4>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">1.17.27 &#8211; 1.24.27</h6>



<p class="has-text-align-center"><strong>Still the Greatest Jazz Festival at Sea</strong></p>



<p><em>The Jazz Cruise </em>is the first program that Signature Cruise Experiences ever produced. Since its first sailing in 2001, <em>The Jazz Cruise </em>has been the world leader in presenting “straight ahead” jazz at sea. <br> <br><em>The Jazz Cruise </em>has reached “fully reserved” every year it has sailed and <em>The Jazz Cruise ’27 </em>is on its way to reaching that goal again. Open Booking began on February 24, 2026 and the cruise is <strong>nearly 80% reserved</strong>.  </p>
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<h4 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><em><strong><em><strong>Journey of Jazz &#8217;27</strong></em></strong></em></h4>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">1.24.27 &#8211; 1.31.27</h6>



<p class="has-text-align-center"><strong>Now in Open Booking</strong></p>



<p><em>Journey of Jazz ’27</em> is in <strong>Open Booking</strong>.<strong> </strong><em><strong>For more information, check out the articles above.</strong></em></p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="792" height="792" src="https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/SJC_PortholeCircleLogo.png" alt="THE SMOOTH JAZZ CRUISE SIGNATURE CRUISE EXPERIENCES" class="wp-image-6549" style="width:200px" srcset="https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/SJC_PortholeCircleLogo.png 792w, https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/SJC_PortholeCircleLogo-300x300.png 300w, https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/SJC_PortholeCircleLogo-150x150.png 150w, https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/SJC_PortholeCircleLogo-768x768.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 792px) 100vw, 792px" /></figure>
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<h4 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><em><strong>The Smooth Jazz Cruise</strong></em></h4>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><em><strong>  ’27.1 (1.31.27 – 2.7.27)</strong></em><strong><br><strong>  ’27.2 (2.7.27 – 2.14.27)</strong><br><strong>2 Sailings of “The Greatest Party at Sea”</strong></strong></h6>



<p>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.<br><br>The star studded lineup is led by hosts <strong>Marcus Miller </strong>and <strong>Boney James </strong>and features <strong>Brian Culbertson</strong>, <strong>Jonathan Butler</strong>, <strong>Candy Dulfer</strong>, <strong>Kirk Whalum</strong>, <strong>Peter White </strong>and more.<br><br>Both sailings are in “Open Booking” and both are 90% reserved at this time.</p>
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<h4 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><em><strong><em><strong>Botti at Sea IV (’27)</strong></em></strong></em></h4>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">10.6.27 – 10.13.27</h6>



<p class="has-text-align-center"><strong>Chris Botti Takes His Cruise from Boston to Quebec</strong></p>



<p>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 <strong>Chris Botti </strong>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.</p>



<p>Stay tuned for more programming and reservation procedure details. As is always the case on a Signature Cruise Experiences program, guests on <em>Botti at Sea III (’26) </em>(’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.<br>&nbsp;<br>Look for most of this to happen around 8.15.26!</p>
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<h4 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><em><strong><em><strong>The Smooth Jazz Cruise &#8216;27.3</strong></em></strong></em></h4>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">10.13.27 – 10.20.27<br></h6>



<p>This program will be an exciting combination of our customary great music, Fall colors and other special events. <br><br>Currently, guests sailing on <em>The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’26.3 </em>(’26 Guests) have the exclusive opportunity to reserve their ’26 stateroom for <em>The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’27.3 </em>through <strong>3.31.26</strong>. Those who are not ’26 Guests may establish their priority for selecting a stateroom for that cruise by completing a <a href="https://sail.scecruises.com/c/1yDocfcaPmyW18vTLIOWt3xP1v1U">Pre-Sail Reservation</a>.</p>
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<p></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://scecruises.com/2026/03/25/jazz-notes-3-25-26/">Jazz Notes: 3.25.26</a> appeared first on <a href="https://scecruises.com">Signature Cruise Experiences</a>.</p>
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		<title>Our Take: Music in the Car</title>
		<link>https://scecruises.com/2025/04/26/our-take-music-in-the-car/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Kim Kelley]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 26 Apr 2025 06:27:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[The Weekender]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[CHRISTIAN MCBRIDE'S WORLD AT SEA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EXCURSIONS]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[LIVESTREAM]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[MUG SHOTS]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[NEWPORT JAZZ FESTIVAL]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[NEWS]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[SIRIUSXM]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[STATEROOM AVAILABILITY]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[THE WEEKENDER]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://scecruises.com/?p=8701</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>We have been celebrating Jazz Appreciation Month in The Weekender and Jazz Notes for the past few weeks. Our tribute ends next Wednesday with a special edition of Jazz Notes and the recognition of International Jazz Day (IJD) which is hosted in Abu Dhabi this year. Since this is the last edition of The Weekender [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://scecruises.com/2025/04/26/our-take-music-in-the-car/">Our Take: Music in the Car</a> appeared first on <a href="https://scecruises.com">Signature Cruise Experiences</a>.</p>
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<p>We have been celebrating Jazz Appreciation Month in <em>The Weekender </em>and <em>Jazz Notes </em>for the past few weeks. Our tribute ends next Wednesday with a special edition of <em>Jazz Notes </em>and the recognition of International Jazz Day (IJD) which is hosted in Abu Dhabi this year. Since this is the last edition of <em>The Weekender </em>during April, I thought we should take a moment to reflect on the impact of our music on our lives, our outlook and our community.<br><br>Regardless of your political, religious or world views, we should agree that we are living in a world where change, uncertainty and anxiety appear to be significant. Some say that it is the most difficult time ever. Not sure that is right. The Great Depression, World War II and The Pandemic are “recent” examples of existential threats to our way of life. Perhaps the ability to see and hear things in real time from all around the world makes our current state of affairs more frightening. Ranking difficult times is not a very productive exercise, so I will move from that to a discussion of how our music provides solace, space and even safety from the travails of the day.<br><br>Especially, when you are in your car!<br><br>When you get into your car, the first thing you do is to turn on the engine, then you fasten your seatbelt and, before you shift into your required gear, you adjust the station and audio level of your radio. Few of us are willing to begin the morning drive to work or the return drive home without music. Your selection reflects your mood. As an SXM subscriber, my choices include <em>Real Jazz </em>(Channel 67) and <em>Watercolors </em>(Channel 66), of course. With our shows from <em>The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’25</em> being rebroadcasted on <em>Watercolors </em>every evening in April, that station is my “go to” for now.</p>



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<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="589" height="299" src="https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Watercolors-OG-CECM-29207-v1-e1745440396882-edited-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-8709" style="width:275px;height:auto" srcset="https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Watercolors-OG-CECM-29207-v1-e1745440396882-edited-1.jpg 589w, https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Watercolors-OG-CECM-29207-v1-e1745440396882-edited-1-300x152.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 589px) 100vw, 589px" /></figure>



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<p>Saturday mornings, when I am running errands and, in the car more than usual, I am a <em>Real Jazz </em>guy. I try never to miss an edition of <em>The Lowdown with </em><strong><em>Christian McBride</em></strong>. Here, too, there is a direct connection, as the recent shows were recorded live on <em>The Jazz Cruise ’25</em>. I will cop to feeling proud that our cruises can be the backdrop to these shows. No Sunday would be complete without a full shot of <em>Miller Time</em>, <strong>Marcus Miller</strong>’s show where he presents a full circle of jazz. And, as often as I can, I find <strong>Mark Ruffin</strong>’s shows. They are in the afternoon for me, so I sneak him into our office when I can.<br><br>Most of what I have shared, thus far, is predictable behavior for someone whose occupation is producing jazz cruises. But there is a dark side to my radio music selections. Call them guilty pleasures, alternative listening or, as most of you would say, really bad taste in music listening, but there are two SXM channels that appear on my Favorites list that I select when the mood is right…or wrong: <em>&#8217;60s Gold</em> and <em>The Blend</em>.</p>



<p>I offer no excuses or apologies for my selection of <em>“60s Gold</em>. They say that the music of your life is the music you listened to when you were in high school. As a ’68 graduate, I can recall vivid moments of those years by listening to the music of <em>&#8217;60s Gold</em>. As that era moved from innocence to turmoil, so, too, did the music. 15 minutes of that station will sometimes allow me to relive my life from being 10 to being 20. At times I can feel my hair growing longer and my sideburns becoming more prominent.<br><br><em>The Blend </em>as a selection is more difficult to explain. When I began to listen to that channel, the song mix was pretty broad, hence the name “blend.” Its eclectic array of pop hits from the &#8217;70’s to now was a nice journey. Random as heck, but most of the time the music was appealing. That format has been refined to be hits from the &#8217;70s and &#8217;80s. I guess that is still a “blend.” Though what was once a sundae with syrup, nuts, cherries and whipped cream, is now ice cream with chocolate sauce. Still tasty, but not as interesting.<br><br>I continue to listen to <em>The Blend</em> as it has become the compromise selection if <strong>Paula </strong>(my wife) and I are in the car together. In her car alone, she selects soothing mood music to combat the world of bad drivers. Songs with words are selected in rare instances. The monotony of that music to me is noted by my wife and she will vocally change the station. The sound of her saying “Please play <em>The Blend</em>” makes me smile. Me doing the same when I am alone in the car is simply a sign that I wish she were there.<br><br>I cannot remember the last time she was willing to “let me drive.” I have had no accidents and I am a much better parker than she is, but, once in the car with her, I am a passenger! By the way, at home, there are no deviations from jazz, the Great American Songbook or any of our favorite cruise performers. I have no idea how our sound system works, however, so, once again, she is “driving” and I am a “passenger.”<br><br>By this time, I will assume that our female readers are smiling and nodding, and our male readers are frowning and wincing. Early warning….Mother’s Day is May 11.</p>



<p>By <strong>Michael Lazaroff</strong>, Executive Director of <em>The Jazz Cruise</em>, <em>The Smooth Jazz Cruise, Chris Botti at Sea, Christian McBride&#8217;s World at Sea, Journey of Jazz, Homecoming: The Cruise </em>and <em>Top Shelf Country Cruise</em>. Feel free to express your views or pose questions to him at <a href="mailto:michael@scecruises.com">michael@scecruises.com</a>.</p>



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<h4 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><em>Christian McBride&#8217;s World at Sea <br></em>Join Christian for his First Ever &#8220;Cruise&#8221; Lowdown Livestream<br>Featuring Special Guests &amp; a Major Lineup Announcement</h4>



<p>Want to learn more about <em>Christian McBride’s World at Sea </em>cruise? Sign up now to join the first ever &#8220;Cruise&#8221; Lowdown Livestream with <strong>Christian McBride </strong>on Tuesday, April 29 at 3 PM ET for information about the cruise straight from the host!<br><br>Christian will preside over this livestream, share his thoughts, ideas and goals for this amazing cruise and talk about the first-class musicians who will be joining him. Guests will have the opportunity to send in questions and comments which will be answered in real time!<br><br>Christian will be joined by a few of the musicians on the cruise and be prepared for an important announcement regarding the lineup for the cruise. Big News!<br><br>Top musicians, great ship, and fun programming are the hallmarks of this cruise. When you add in the warmth, spirit and talents of Christian, you know that something special is about to happen.<br><br>To learn more, join us for &#8220;The Cruise Lowdown&#8221; livestream on <strong>April 29</strong>.</p>



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<h5 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><em>Journey of Jazz &#8217;25</em></h5>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">Food Lover&#8217;s Choices<br></h3>



<p class="has-text-align-center"><strong>On the Ship</strong></p>



<p>Besides the award winning “included” food service on Celebrity Summit, guests will be able to select among various specialty restaurants as well. Celebrity Cruises’ famous <em>Tuscan Grille</em> and the elegant<em> Luminae</em> are guest favorites and available by reservation. <em>Sushi on Five</em> has always been a popular hang for guests and talent. No reason to believe that will change for this sailing. Recently, we took over the menu of <em>Blu </em>at night and converted that restaurant to a first-class steakhouse, we call <em>Chop’s</em>. Almost over night that concept has become one of the most popular dining choices for guests.<br><br>Another, Signature Cruise Experiences’ concept is in the works and may be ready in time for the cruise.</p>



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<p class="has-text-align-center"><strong>In San Francisco</strong></p>



<p><strong>Brad Pavlik</strong>, who serves as our Hotel Director, has been working with <strong>Michael Bauer</strong> to curate some amazing dining experiences in San Francisco for brunch and lunch on both days we are in port and for dinner on the first night. Dinner the first night is limited in numbers so that we can ensure that guests can both dine and see the main show, that night being the <strong>Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra</strong>. For those unfamiliar with Michael Bauer, for 32 years he was the Food Critic for the <em>San Francisco Chronicle</em>. Donning disguises and making reservations under false names, Michael was the most feared, revered and sometimes disliked food critic in San Francisco, a city known for high end dining and high end expectations. Telling it like it is can be a difficult road to follow when you are doing it night after night in a defined geographic area. Upsetting people is easy to do and hard to overcome.<br><br>The list of dining experiences that we are offering is amazing….we are about two weeks away from full disclosure and the opportunity to sign up.</p>



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<p class="has-text-align-center"><strong>Ron Carter Quartet Performance</strong></p>



<p>At the time of contracting, NEA Jazz Master <strong>Ron Carter </strong>was not willing to sail, but was excited about performing for our guests at SFJAZZ. To make that work for SFJAZZ, a below market fee was required for our guests, together with preferred seating. Subsequently, Ron has addressed his concerns and will be sailing on <em>The Jazz Cruise ’26</em>. Since the plans with SFJAZZ were already completed we were compelled to go ahead with the SFJAZZ plan which includes subsequent performances of the Ron Carter Quartet at SFJAZZ.</p>



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<p class="has-text-align-center"><strong>Sailing on <em>Journey of Jazz &#8217;25</em></strong></p>



<p><em>Journey of Jazz ’25 </em>is nearly 92% reserved. What remains are a few Concierge Class Staterooms, 20 or so Veranda Staterooms, a few Ocean View Staterooms and a nice choice of Inside Staterooms. If you are interested in sailing, you have some new choices available.<br>&nbsp;</p>



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<li>Veranda Staterooms may be reserved at the Past Guest Price, regardless of your cruise history. The promo code is <strong>PAST</strong>.</li>



<li>Some Veranda Staterooms and Inside Staterooms may be reserved as singles. The promo code is <strong>SINGLE</strong>.</li>



<li>And for guests who are 10+ Status or who are on the Wait List for <em>Journey of Jazz</em>, there are price opportunities for all remaining staterooms. The promo code is <strong>VIP</strong>.</li>
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<p>If you act now, there is still time for you to sign up for the <a href="https://sail.scecruises.com/c/1sLeXt2DfJe16n9O7ZTieoYaqM9x">excursions</a>. Only the Napa Valley Wine Train events are fully reserved.<br><br>You do not want to miss this cruise!</p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">Guess What&#8217;s New? You Are Right With The First Guess! <br>Signature Cruise Experiences is Launching a New Cruise!</h3>



<p>Check out the April 30 edition of <em>Jazz Notes</em>. In addition to our celebration of International Jazz Day, we will be announcing a <strong>new cruise program</strong>! It is a fun one, so stay tuned!</p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">Newport Jazz Festival</h3>



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<p>The lineup for the iconic Newport Jazz Festival, held August 1-3 on the grounds of Fort Adams in Newport, RI, has just been announced. Curated by artistic director <strong>Christian McBride</strong>, host of <em>McBride’s World at Sea</em>, the festival’s lineup features many artists who have sailed on our programs in the past or will sail with us in the future, including <strong>Dianne Reeves</strong>, <strong>Cecile McLorin Salvant</strong>, <strong>Marcus Miller</strong>, <strong>esperanza spalding</strong>, <strong>Emmet Cohen</strong>, <strong>Antonio Sanchez</strong>, <strong>Ron Carter</strong>, <strong>Etienne Charles</strong> and, of course, Christian.<br><br>Also performing, will be Christian&#8217;s Big Band, as well as the <strong>Philadelphia Experiment </strong>(featuring <strong>Questlove </strong>and <strong>Uri Caine</strong>). Other headliners include <strong>The Roots</strong>, <strong>Jacob Collier</strong>, <strong>Janelle Monae</strong>, <strong>Rachael &amp; Vilray</strong> and <strong>Hiromi</strong>.</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">Stateroom Availability</h3>



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<h5 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">Cruise Programs &#8211; 2025</h5>



<figure class="table-responsive"><table class="table " class="has-fixed-layout"><tbody><tr><td><em>Journey of Jazz</em></td><td>Over 92% Reserved. Balcony Staterooms Available &#8211; Special Pricing for Remaining Staterooms</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



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<h5 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">Cruise Programs &#8211; 2026</h5>



<figure class="table-responsive"><table class="table " class="has-fixed-layout"><tbody><tr><td><em>Christian McBride&#8217;s World at Sea</em></td><td>Open Booking Now; Special Prices for Ocean View and Inside Staterooms. Promo Code: <strong>JAM</strong></td></tr><tr><td><em>The Jazz Cruise &#8217;26</em></td><td>Open Booking Now</td></tr><tr><td><em>The Smooth Jazz Cruise &#8216;26.1</em></td><td>98%+ Reserved &#8211; Open Booking Now</td></tr><tr><td><em>The Smooth Jazz Cruise &#8216;26.2</em></td><td>Fully Reserved</td></tr><tr><td><em>Top Shelf Country Cruise</em></td><td>Full Lineup and Itinerary Announced <br><br>Open Booking Now</td></tr><tr><td><em>The Smooth Jazz Cruise &#8216;26.3</em></td><td>77% Reserved &#8211; Open Booking Now</td></tr><tr><td><em>Botti at Sea &#8217;26</em></td><td>Open Booking Now</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">Signature Cruise Experiences&#8217; Programs<br></h3>



<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:15% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://sail.scecruises.com/c/13Hjgt2lllRwck3KN6p0EzX1I"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="280" height="346" src="https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/JOJ25_FutureJazzCruise_Ad2.jpg" alt="JOURNEY OF JAZZ
SIGNATURE CRUISE EXPERIENCES" class="wp-image-6988 size-full" srcset="https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/JOJ25_FutureJazzCruise_Ad2.jpg 280w, https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/JOJ25_FutureJazzCruise_Ad2-243x300.jpg 243w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 280px) 100vw, 280px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
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<h5 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><em>JOURNEY OF JAZZ &#8217;25<br></em>Limited Time Promotional Pricing</h5>



<p style="font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.093), 15px);">The cruise is more than 92% reserved! The remaining staterooms consist, mainly, of Veranda Staterooms, Inside Staterooms and Single Inside Staterooms! <br><br>We would like to close out the manifest as soon as possible so that we can finalize the arrangements for the amazing JOJ Excursions. Availability remains for most of the excursions, but they will close shortly.<br><br>These remaining staterooms are favorably priced through May 15, 2025(*). You can learn those prices by calling the office or starting a reservation online. Please use the promo code: <strong>PORTER</strong>. There is no obligation to complete a reservation once you learn the prices.<br><br><em>(*) Restrictions do apply and some selections and choices are no longer available. These prices are per person, based upon double occupancy, non-commissionable and may not be combined with other offers or discounts. For new reservations only.</em></p>



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<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:15% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://sail.scecruises.com/c/13HjihsXgAQ1bp7Qbs7TCtGwr"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="290" height="357" src="https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/MWS26_FutureJazzCruise_Ad.jpg" alt="CHRISTIAN MCBRIDES WORLD AT SEA
SIGNATURE CRUISE EXPERIENCES" class="wp-image-7555 size-full" srcset="https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/MWS26_FutureJazzCruise_Ad.jpg 290w, https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/MWS26_FutureJazzCruise_Ad-244x300.jpg 244w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 290px) 100vw, 290px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
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<h5 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><strong><em>CHRISTIAN MCBRIDE&#8217;S WORLD AT SEA </em></strong><br>Limited Time Promotional Pricing</h5>



<p style="font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.093), 15px);">9X GRAMMY® winner <strong>Christian McBride </strong>will host legions of musicians who comprise the various ensembles that are the hallmarks of Christian’s music world AND first-class comedy talent. See the<a href="https://sail.scecruises.com/c/1sLfBUcm08zYhR2ddK0kzCcboeAK"> full lineup here</a>!<br><br>Open Booking has begun! From now through April 30, 2025, we are offering a Jazz Appreciation Month (Super Special) for those staterooms. Use Promo Code <strong>JAM </strong>when you register online.<br><br>*Discount applies to new reservations only</p>



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<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:15% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://sail.scecruises.com/c/13Hjk5TzbPOwaubVzNQMAnq1a"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="466" height="574" src="https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/TJC26_FutureJazzCruiseAd-466x574_112724.jpg" alt="THE JAZZ CRUISE
SIGNATURE CRUISE EXPERIENCES" class="wp-image-7820 size-full" srcset="https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/TJC26_FutureJazzCruiseAd-466x574_112724.jpg 466w, https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/TJC26_FutureJazzCruiseAd-466x574_112724-244x300.jpg 244w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<h5 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><strong><em>THE JAZZ CRUISE &#8217;26</em></strong> <br>Open Booking Now Available</h5>



<p style="font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.093), 15px);">Hailed as “Jazz Heaven” by musicians and guests alike, <em>The Jazz Cruise ’26 </em>lineup will feature some of the most iconic musicians from the straight-ahead jazz genre. See the <a href="https://sail.scecruises.com/c/1sLfMGM0RQxyJIt7vO2cVNZo2Tf4">full lineup here</a>. <br><br><em>The Jazz Cruise &#8217;26 </em>is in Open Booking!<br>Anyone may now reserve any available stateroom. This program always hits “fully reserved.” The only question is when! </p>



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<h5 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><em><strong>THE SMOOTH JAZZ CRUISE &#8216;26.1 &amp; 26.2</strong></em><strong> </strong><br><strong>Open Booking Now Available</strong></h5>



<p style="font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.093), 15px);"><em>The Smooth Jazz Cruise &#8216;26.1</em> is in Open Booking (anyone may reserve any available stateroom) and staterooms are more than 97% reserved. <em>The Smooth Jazz Cruise &#8216;26.2</em> is Fully Reserved, but you may join the Waitlist.<br>  <br>Reserve your stateroom today!<br> </p>



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<div class="wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:15% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><a href="https://sail.scecruises.com/c/13sRPhtXQWRoFSIz6CozuVFCs"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="290" height="357" src="https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/TSCC26_FutureCruiseAd_011425-1.jpg" alt="Top Shelf Country Cruise Signature Cruise Experiences" class="wp-image-8146 size-full" srcset="https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/TSCC26_FutureCruiseAd_011425-1.jpg 290w, https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/TSCC26_FutureCruiseAd_011425-1-244x300.jpg 244w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 290px) 100vw, 290px" /></a></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
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<h5 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><em>THE TOP SHELF COUNTRY CRUISE</em><br>Open Booking Now Available</h5>



<p style="font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.093), 15px);">Our headliners are <strong>Keith Urban</strong>, <strong>Lee Brice</strong>, <strong>Scotty McCreery</strong>, <strong>Parmalee</strong>, <strong>LeAnn Rimes</strong>, <strong>Thelma &amp; James </strong>and <strong>Kassi Ashton</strong>. As you can see, the lineup is Top Shelf country music star power!<br><br>When the talent is combined with the iHeartMedia Team of <strong>Bobby Bones</strong>, <strong>Amy Brown</strong>, <strong>Lunchbox</strong>, <strong>Eddie </strong>and <strong>Lorianne Crook &amp; Charlie Chase</strong>, the ultra-luxurious Celebrity Reflection cruise ship and wonderful ports of call (Key West, Nassau and Bimini), <em>Top Shelf Country Cruise</em> earns its title as the First-Class Country Music Cruise. Reserve your stateroom today!</p>



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<h5 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><strong><em>THE SMOOTH JAZZ CRUISE &#8216;26.3 </em></strong><br>Open Booking Now Available</h5>



<p style="font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.093), 15px);">For the first time in many years, <em>The Smooth Jazz Cruise </em>will sail on the West Coast, embarking in Vancouver, sailing to Victoria and San Francisco before disembarking in Los Angeles. Exciting land excursions will be available in the ports-of-call!<br><br><em>The Smooth Jazz Cruise &#8216;26.3 </em>is in Open Booking! Anyone may now reserve any available stateroom. </p>



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<h5 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center"><em><strong>BOTTI AT SEA&#8217;2</strong>6</em><br>Open Booking Now Available</h5>



<p style="font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.093), 15px);">We&#8217;re thrilled to be able to announce that <strong>Boz Scaggs, Elvis Costello </strong>and <strong>Melody Gardot </strong>will be onboard <em>Botti at Sea ’26</em>. <br><br>Of course, <strong>Chris Botti </strong>will be there with his very talented band and, as always, we will fill the remaining performance slots with a variety of great music, comedy and more.<br><br>Open Booking has begun. Reserve your stateroom today! </p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">Send us Your Mug Shots</h3>



<p>We know many readers of <em>The Weekender</em> like to peruse each edition over their morning coffee. And, if you’ve sailed with us, you likely have at least one (or perhaps many) Signature Cruise Experiences mugs just for that purpose. Over the years, <em>The Weekender</em> has featured several pictures of cruisers showing off their mugs, pictures we affectionately refer to as “Mug Shots.”<br><br>If you want to share your “Mug Shot” with the 100,000+ readers who receive <em>The Weekender</em> each Saturday, email a photo of yourself and your mug to <a href="mailto:mugshot@scecruises.com">mugshot@scecruises.com</a>.&nbsp;Who knows? You may just see yourself in a future edition.</p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">Mug Shot of the Week</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Janet-S._-VA-1024x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-8704" style="width:464px;height:auto" srcset="https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Janet-S._-VA-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Janet-S._-VA-300x300.jpg 300w, https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Janet-S._-VA-150x150.jpg 150w, https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Janet-S._-VA-768x768.jpg 768w, https://scecruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Janet-S._-VA.jpg 1362w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Janet S &#8211; Virginia</figcaption></figure>



<p>Tag us @thejazzcruise, @bottiatsea, @thesmoothjazzcruise, #signaturecruiseexperiences and #theweekender. Email your photo to <a href="mailto:MugShot@jazzcruisesllc.com">MugShot@scecruises.com</a>.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://scecruises.com/2025/04/26/our-take-music-in-the-car/">Our Take: Music in the Car</a> appeared first on <a href="https://scecruises.com">Signature Cruise Experiences</a>.</p>
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