If you enjoy country music and the occasional cruise, you’d be happy to know that the two have combined in the form of some country music theme cruises. There are now ship charters happening throughout the year, and they are even selling out. These cruises will often feature a special appearance and even live performances by some of country music’s biggest names both past and present.
You may even be able to hang out and interact with some of your favorites during special onboard activities. These include line dancing lessons, jam sessions, karaoke, and poker tournaments. The musicians not only aim to perform, but also to interact with fans. They typically do meet & greets, autograph signings, recreational activities, and occasionally some Q&A sessions, giving fans a chance to meet and even chat with the stars. The cruises, especially those with bigger name celebrities do sell out, so make sure you book early.
Here is a list of a few popular country music-themed cruises.
The Country Music Cruise
The Country Music Cruise is a huge bonanza, comprising upward of 50 shows per sailing by dozens of renowned country artists. Between the live performances, passengers are able to participate in activities such as cooking demonstrations, dancing classes, panel discussions, and jam sessions.
Outlaw Country Cruise
The Outlaw Country Cruise is a conglomerate of alternative country, honky-tonk, and rockabilly artists. Sponsored by Steve Van Zandt’s Renegade Circus, this tour is also organized in the manner of Van Zandt’s Outlaw Country On SiriusXM radio. The cruise lineup is typically stacked with live performances by over two dozen bands. It also features opportunities for fans to interact with the artists via autograph sessions, radio show tapings, and more.
Country Cruising
If you like a cruise that focuses primarily on the music, the Country Cruising music festival at sea may be your go-to. Headlined by some of country music’s biggest names, the cruise features a Q&A and autograph sessions, songwriting workshops and line dancing sessions. Live performances occur throughout the ship during the entire day, set in various locations. At night, the headlining show packs the main theater on the ship.
Carolina Country Music Cruise
The Carolina Country Music Cruise is an extension of the Carolina Country Music Fest, which brings the fun nature of the festival to the Caribbean seas. The cruise is rife with a party atmosphere as it sets sail from Charleston, SC. It not only features numerous live performances by big names in the country music sphere, but also exclusive shore excursions.
Brantley Gilbert’s Kick It In The Ship
This cruise is all about having a great time with other country fans and is hosted by country star Brantley Gilbert. About a dozen country artists perform on the cruise along with two shows headline by Gilbert himself. Passengers can also interact with the artists during onboard tournaments and compete in deck games hosted by, and participated in by the musical celebs. The cruise features a silent disco, as well as autograph sessions, but the primary focus is to party as much and as long as you want.