During this brief hiatus, besides the usual mid-summer activities, we will be preparing for our mid-2025 meetings during which we will be assessing our ’26 Programs and planning for our ’27 Programs. Doing so causes me to reflect upon the 25+ years of producing our programs, the musicians we have known and the amazing guests that we have met, befriended and enjoyed. We are very fortunate to be doing something that we love, with people that we respect, and for people whom we wish to make happy at all times. If you have to toil, it makes it so much easier when you love doing it.

As you know, we have expanded our cruise programs to include additional jazz programs (Journey of Jazz and Christian McBride’s World at Sea) together with some entertainment programs that are outside of the world of jazz. Some, like Botti at Sea and David Foster: The Hitman Cruise, though not entirely jazzy, are within the general vicinity of the jazz world. Others, like Top Shelf Country Cruise and past programs like NASCAR and Star Trek are far from striking distance of our music. Since we will be heading into a planning phase for our next set of programs, we thought it would be interesting if we asked our most loyal fans, the readers of The Weekender, to weigh in and suggest what types of cruise programs they would like us to tackle.

You see, we love our music more than anything in the world, but our singular skill is being able to produce a charter theme cruise. Very few people know how to do that and we believe that we do it better than anyone else. Applying that skill set to any theme is doable for us. One of our mission statements is to add a different theme cruise each year. Top Shelf Country Cruise was the choice for ’26. We are excited to announce that there will be a ’27 sailing of Top Shelf Country Cruise. I should have bought those boots instead of renting them!

Back to our request of you. If you have a cruise concept in mind for us to consider producing, please let us know by sending the information to info@scecruises.com. If we select your theme and it becomes a cruise, not only will you sail on the cruise for life for free, but you will be an “owner”!   

By Michael Lazaroff, Executive Director of The Jazz Cruise, The Smooth Jazz Cruise, Chris Botti at Sea, Christian McBride’s World 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.

Samara Joy’s New Single and BBC Orchestral Debut

The jazz vocal star Samara Joy, who will be performing during McBride’s World at Sea, has just released a new single, “Flor de Lis,” a Portuguese outtake from her 2024 album Portrait, on June 27 In the lead up to her upcoming South American dates in Argentina and Brazil.

In addition, Samara will perform with her octet and the BBC Concert Orchestra on July 19. Her first time performing with a full orchestra, the concert will be broadcast live on BBC4.

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Christian McBride Big Band Album

Samara will also appear on the upcoming recording from the Christian McBride Big Band, Without Further Ado, Vol. 1, singing “Old Folks.” Released on Mack Avenue on August. 29, the album features classic jazz and pop standards sung by Samara and other special guest vocalists, including Cécile McLorin Salvant, Dianne Reeves, José James, Jeffrey Osborne and Antoinette Henry. The first single from the album has just been released and it features Sting and Andy Summers performing “Murder By Numbers,” their tune from The Police’s 1982 multi-platinum Synchronicity.

“This album has been a fantastic opportunity to record some of my favorite big band arrangements, with some of my favorite singers,” Christian said.

Signature Cruise Experiences’ Mid-Summer Break

As we mentioned in the Our Take, our office will be closed from Monday, June 30 through Friday, July 4. We will be open as usual starting at 10 AM ET on Monday, July 7. Though away from the office, we remain available via email at info@scecruises.com. 

All of us at Signature Cruise Experiences wish you and yours a happy, fun and safe July 4th holiday. Whether you spend it on the beach, at a pool, on the deck or just lounging, every holiday deserves a few hours of great jazz! Do not live without it!

Stateroom Availability

Cruise Programs – 2025

Cruise Programs – 2026

Signature Cruise Experiences’ Programs

Journey of Jazz ’25 – Limited Time Promotional Pricing

Journey of Jazz is more than 97% reserved! There are less than 40 available staterooms consisting of Veranda and Inside Staterooms. These remaining staterooms are currently at their final, lowest price. Don’t miss your chance – join us on our Journey this September! *New reservations only

BOOK NOW

David Foster: The Hitman Cruise – 5 Days, 5 Nights, 5 Star Experience

David Foster: The Hitman Cruise will deliver five incredible days and nights of five-star entertainment, all centered around the music and career of 16-time GRAMMY® winner David Foster. Michael McDonald, Babyface, Katharine McPhee and other preeminent talents will join us aboard. Open Booking has begun and staterooms are already moving fast! Act soon to reserve your stateroom of choice.

BOOK NOW

Christian McBride’s World at Sea – Limited Time Promotional Pricing

Open Booking has begun! Special pricing available for a limited time on Ocean View & Inside Staterooms. Use Promo Code CMW when you make your reservation! *New reservations only

BOOK NOW

The Jazz Cruise ’26 is in Open booking

The Jazz Cruise ’26 is in Open Booking! Anyone may now reserve any available stateroom. This program always hits “fully reserved.” The only question is when!

BOOK NOW

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.1 & ‘26.2 are Fully Reserved

Of course, you may join the Waitlist. Or, if you’d prefer to sail the West Coast this fall (two novel concepts for this program), consider joining us on The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.3.

JOIN WAITLIST

Top Shelf Country Cruise is now in Open Booking

With premium talent like Keith Urban, Lee Brice, Scotty McCreery, Parmalee, LeAnn Rimes, Thelma & James and Kassi Ashton, Top Shelf Country Cruise earns its title as the First-Class Country Music Cruise! Reserve your stateroom today!

BOOK NOW

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.3 is in Open Booking

For the first time in many years, The Smooth Jazz Cruise will sail on the West Coast! The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.3 is in Open Booking and staterooms are more than 75% reserved. Reserve your stateroom today!

BOOK NOW

Botti at Sea ’26 is in Open Booking

We’re thrilled to be able to announce that Boz Scaggs, Elvis Costello, Melody Gardot, Peabo Bryson and Regina Belle will be onboard Botti at Sea ’26 in Fall 2026. Reserve your stateroom today!

BOOK NOW

The post Our Take: Is it a June Swoon or Just a Nice Break? appeared first on Signature Cruise Experiences.

With this background, no one should be surprised that my gravesite visit on Sunday was interrupted by a soft voice that only I could hear. At first, I did not understand the words nor could I recognize the voice. As the message continued, the words became clear and the identity of the speaker was unmistakable. Mom was admonishing me for spending too much time on The Weekender talking about all the other cruises we present and not enough time on The Jazz Cruise! Her criticism of my running of The Jazz Cruise was not new. If it were up to her, the cruise would never change. New ideas were met with skepticism, if met at all.

Her desire for sameness would sometimes apply to musician’s fees. There was the time that she asked me what we were paying a certain musician, only to be upset that the current fee was higher than what she had paid in the past. When I told her that the amount she was quoting was at least four years old, she exclaimed, “he hasn’t gotten any better!” Mom was not a comedian, but she said some truly funny things. 

The one innovation of mine that Mom liked from the start was The Jazz Cruise Hall of Fame Concert and Induction. Mom loved honoring musicians, colleagues and music people who were important contributors to The Jazz Cruise. The one privilege that she held onto until her death was naming the annual recipients. Only once did we deny her choices. That was the year that she would be our sole honoree. Once she knew it was her, she happily demurred.

If she were still in charge of The Jazz Cruise Hall of Fame, she would love the choices for The Jazz Cruise ’26. We are proud to announce that Paquito D’Rivera and Chucho Valdés will be the ’26 inductees.

Having shared much of their professional and personal lives, it is only right that they enter our shrine together. For those who have not seen them perform together, you will be in for a great treat. The mutual admiration and respect, coupled with their amazing musicianship, always produces something wonderful. Speaking of something special, the entire lineup for The Jazz Cruise ’26 is amazing.

The highest honor in jazz is being an NEA Jazz Master. The Jazz Cruise ’26 features three such members, Paquito, Chucho and Dee Dee Bridgewater. Other icons of jazz onboard are Monty Alexander, Houston Person, Randy Brecker, Herlin Riley, Jeff Hamilton, Lewis Nash, John Clayton, Renee Rosnes and Benny Green. We also welcome back our annual heroes, Ken Peplowski, James Morrison, Eric Marienthal, Shelly Berg, Wycliffe Gordon and Rickey Woodard.

For those guests who love their jazz in vocal form, we are loaded: Dee Dee, Catherine Russell, Janis Siegel, Bria Skonberg, Veronica Swift, Niki Haris, Kurt Elling, John Pizzarelli and Benny Benack III. The ship is full of talented sidemen, Big Band Members and All Stars. Nearly 100 jazz musicians in all.

Of course, we have our Cruise Host, Emmet Cohen, to set the tone and the vibe for the cruise. Always friendly. Always engaged (no, not that kind of engaged). Emmet combines the very best in chops and charisma. 

In honor of the circle of life, it is only fitting that one of Mom’s picks for future stardom, a teenage Emmet Cohen when first onboard, would become the host of “her cruise”! Next time I visit the cemetery, I am sure she will tell me how much she loves The Jazz Cruise and how pleased she is that I have not buggered it up…yet.

By Michael Lazaroff, Executive Director of The Jazz Cruise, The Smooth Jazz Cruise, Chris Botti at Sea, Christian McBride’s World 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.

James Moody’s 80 Year’s Young: Live at the Blue Note

Linda Moody, the wife of the late great James Moody, is releasing a live recording of Moody’s
80th birthday celebration at the Blue Note in New York City in 2005. This was the grand finale of a week-long celebration that had already featured amazing performances from jazz giants like Jimmy Heath, Ray Barretto, Mike Long, and George Wein. The live recording features Jon Faddis, Paquito D’Rivera, Slide Hampton, Randy Brecker, Roberta Gambarini and Cedar Walton. Featured in the set was “Moody’s Mood for Love,” over a half-century since it was a major hit for King Pleasure and Moody’s signature tune over the decades. 

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James Moody’s 100th Birthday Concert

On May 27, an all-star collection of jazz artists will celebrate Moody’s centennial in a concert at Sony Hall as part of the Blue Note Jazz Festival in NYC.

Performing music by and associated with Moody are Randy Brecker, Terri Lyne Carrington, Todd Coolman, Paquito D’Rivera, Jon Faddis, Roberta Gambarini, Christian McBride, Elena Pinderhughes, Madeleine Peyroux, Adam Nussbaum and Renee Rosnes.

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Jose James’ 1978: Revenge of the Dragon

Set against the backdrop of his birth year, Jose James’ new album, 1978: Revenge of The Dragon, captures the electric tension of a transformative cultural moment. Jose, who will be sailing on McBride’s World at Sea in 2026, draws from the swirl of influences that defined the late ’70s: the experimental edge of New York’s loft and jazz scenes, the pop brilliance of Elton John and Billy Joel, the revolutionary pulse of Bob Marley and the Isley Brothers, the cosmic funk of Parliament-Funkadelic and the unstoppable rise of punk and disco.

Beneath it all was a sense of convergence—genres colliding, boundaries dissolving. Jose channels that restless spirit into a bold, cinematic sound that feels both timeless and radical. Jose will be touring the U.S. and Europe this summer.

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Stateroom Availability

Cruise Programs – 2025

Cruise Programs – 2026

Signature Cruise Experiences’ Programs

Journey of Jazz ’25
Limited Time Promotional Pricing

The cruise is more than 94% reserved! The remaining staterooms consist, mainly, of Veranda Staterooms, Inside Staterooms and Single Inside Staterooms! These remaining staterooms are favorably priced through June 15, 2025(*). Please use the promo code: NOW. There is no obligation to complete a reservation once you learn the prices. *New reservations only.

BOOK NOW

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David Foster: The Hitman Cruise
5 Days, 5 Nights, 5 Star Experience

Join us aboard the luxurious Celebrity Summit for David Foster: The Hitman Cruise — five incredible days and nights celebrating timeless hits, legendary artists and 5-star entertainment, all curated by one of the greatest musical minds of our time. Join the Pre-Sail to register for first access to your stateroom of choice before Open Booking becomes available to the public. Register below! 

JOIN PRE-SAIL

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Christian McBride’s World at Sea
Limited Time Promotional Pricing

Open Booking has begun! Special pricing is available for a limited time on Ocean View and Inside Staterooms. Use Promo Code CMW when you make your reservation! *New reservations only

BOOK NOW

The Jazz Cruise ’26
is in Open booking

The Jazz Cruise ’26 is in Open Booking! Anyone may now reserve any available stateroom. This program always hits “fully reserved.” The only question is when!

BOOK NOW

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The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.1 is in Open Booking
The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.2 is Fully Reserved

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.2 is Fully Reserved, but you may join the Waitlist. The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.1 is in Open Booking and staterooms are 99% reserved.

BOOK NOW

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Top Shelf Country Cruise
is now in Open Booking

With premium talent like Keith Urban, Lee Brice, Scotty McCreery, Parmalee, LeAnn Rimes, Thelma & James and Kassi Ashton, Top Shelf Country Cruise earns its title as the First-Class Country Music Cruise! Reserve your stateroom today!

BOOK NOW

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The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.3
is in Open Booking

For the first time in many years, The Smooth Jazz Cruise will sail on the West Coast! 

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.3 is in Open Booking and staterooms are more than 75% reserved. Reserve your stateroom today!

BOOK NOW

Botti at Sea ’26
is in Open Booking

We’re thrilled to be able to announce that Boz Scaggs, Elvis Costello, Melody Gardot and Peabo Bryson will be onboard Botti at Sea ’26. 

Open Booking has begun. Reserve your stateroom today! 

BOOK NOW

The post Our Take: The Jazz Cruise ’26 – Bigger & Better Than Ever appeared first on Signature Cruise Experiences.

By Michael Lazaroff, Executive Director of The Jazz Cruise, The Smooth Jazz Cruise, Chris Botti at Sea, Christian McBride’s World 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.

120 Days Until Journey of Jazz

By the numbers, Journey of Jazz ’25 sails in 120 days. 78 Staterooms remain available. 2nd Show Seating is 100% filled. If you act now, and are willing to accept a few restrictions, you can save up to 20%.

Anyone reserving a stateroom now on Journey of Jazz ’25 will be part of the “BLUE” guest group. What does that mean? We divide our guests into two groups: “BLUE” and “RED.” Guests with “BLUE” Cruise Identification Cards attend the 1st main show each night and dine afterwards. Guests with “RED” Cruise Identification Cards dine first and attend the 2nd Main Show.

The “RED” option is full, so anyone reserving one of the 78 remaining staterooms will be part of the “BLUE” group. Since the element of choice is gone, we have decided to provide savings for those who book now.

*Applies to new reservations only. Cannot be combined with any other offer or discount. Pricing is per-person, based on double occupancy and does not include pass-through charges. Offer expires June 15 (or while staterooms are available). 

Openings remain on most of the excursions that Signature Cruise Experiences has curated for this cruise.

David Foster: The Hitman Cometh

Signature Cruise Experiences has been fortunate through the years to be able to present some of the most respected and successful musicians and vocalists in the world. We have also worked with a few of the true legends of music in terms of writing, arranging and producing. Johnny Mandel and George Wein come to mind.

Johnny Mandel, known best for his “Suicide is Painless” theme, was a 5-time GRAMMY® Winner. He sailed on The Jazz Cruise and will forever be remembered as the man who received a standing ovation from the Big Band he was conducting as he walked onto the stage. George Wein, the founder of the Newport Jazz Festival among other jazz promotions, was a leader of a topflight band on The Jazz Cruise and is a member of that cruise program’s Hall of Fame.

Our next music icon to become a part of our team is probably the most significant living music impresario in the world. Though numbers are not determinative, at some point, they matter. David Foster has won 16 GRAMMY® Awards, been nominated 47 times and has launched, catapulted or redirected the careers of countless super vocalists. At the risk of forgetting someone, that list includes Celine Dion, Kenny Loggins, Joni Mitchell, Babyface, Josh Groban, Michael Bublé, Renee Olstead, Clarice, Kenny Rogers, Chicago, Earth, Wind & Fire, Boz Scaggs, Toni Braxton, LeAnn Rimes, Whitney Houston, Peter Cetera, Katharine McPhee, Brian McKnight, Blake Shelton, Chris Botti, Barbra Streisand, Andrea Bocelli, Bryan Adams, Jewel and more.

Superstar Chris Botti, when creating the lineup for his first cruise, chose David Foster (and his wife, Katharine McPhee), as his first guest. He reprised that role for the second sailing and, to our pleasant surprise, was interested in hosting his own cruise program. When a slot opened for us (January 15-20, 2026), we went to work, finalized a deal and proceeded to work with David on a lineup. Digging into his repertoire of talented friends, Babyface and Michael McDonald were called and committed. Pia Toscano, Peter Cincotti and Daniel Emmet were next, followed closely by Nathan East, Noah East, Frédéric Yonnet, Emmet Cohen, Yacht Jazz Trio (John JR Robinson, Tom Scott, Mitch Towne) and one of our all-time favorite groups, Take 6.

The cruise will sail from Ft. Lauderdale to Key West and Nassau. Celebrity Summit, our customary cruise ship, will be the vessel. Pre-Sail Reservations are being processed now through May 23 and Open Booking starts on May 30.

SFJAZZ Events

SFJAZZGala

On Thursday, June 12, SFJAZZ will present its annual gala that includes a VIP cocktail reception and dinner, followed by an All-Star concert featuring Executive Artistic Director Terence Blanchard, Kurt Elling, Ambrose Akinmusire, Melissa Aldana, Bill Frisell, Charles Lloyd, the SFJAZZ Collective and many others. In addition, Blue Note Records President Don Was will be presented with the SFJAZZ Lifetime Achievement Award.

San Francisco Jazz Festival

SFJAZZ has revamped its San Francisco Jazz Festival, held this year June 13-15 at the SFJAZZ Center and Festival Tent, featuring 35 concerts over three days, with performances by Stanley Clarke, Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Patrice Rushen, Cimafunk, The Soul Rebels, Charles Lloyd, Lakecia Benjamin, Ambrose Akinmusire, Dave Holland, Lisa Fischer and many others. It will also include an outdoor festival street market with rotating DJs, food trucks, beer garden, specialty wine vendors, art and a vinyl record swap and more.

Stateroom Availability

Cruise Programs – 2025

Cruise Programs – 2026

Signature Cruise Experiences’ Programs

Journey of Jazz ’25
Limited Time Promotional Pricing

The cruise is more than 92% reserved! The remaining staterooms consist, mainly, of Veranda Staterooms, Inside Staterooms and Single Inside Staterooms! These remaining staterooms are favorably priced through June 15, 2025(*). Please use the promo code: NOW. There is no obligation to complete a reservation once you learn the prices. *New reservations only.

BOOK NOW

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David Foster: The Hitman Cruise
5 Days, 5 Nights, 5 Star Experience

Join us aboard the luxurious Celebrity Summit for David Foster: The Hitman Cruise — five incredible days and nights celebrating timeless hits, legendary artists and 5-star entertainment, all curated by one of the greatest musical minds of our time. Join the Pre-Sail to register for first access to your stateroom of choice before Open Booking becomes available to the public. Register below! 

JOIN PRE-SAIL

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Christian McBride’s World at Sea
Limited Time Promotional Pricing

Open Booking has begun! Special pricing is available for a limited time on Ocean View and Inside Staterooms. Use Promo Code CMW when you make your reservation! *New reservations only

BOOK NOW

The Jazz Cruise ’26
is in Open booking

The Jazz Cruise ’26 is in Open Booking! Anyone may now reserve any available stateroom. This program always hits “fully reserved.” The only question is when!

BOOK NOW

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The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.1 is in Open Booking
The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.2 is Fully Reserved

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.2 is Fully Reserved, but you may join the Waitlist. The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.1 is in Open Booking and staterooms are 99% reserved.

BOOK NOW

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Top Shelf Country Cruise
is now in Open Booking

With premium talent like Keith Urban, Lee Brice, Scotty McCreery, Parmalee, LeAnn Rimes, Thelma & James and Kassi Ashton, Top Shelf Country Cruise earns its title as the First-Class Country Music Cruise! Reserve your stateroom today!

BOOK NOW

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The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.3
is in Open Booking

For the first time in many years, The Smooth Jazz Cruise will sail on the West Coast! 

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.3 is in Open Booking and staterooms are more than 75% reserved. Reserve your stateroom today!

BOOK NOW

Botti at Sea ’26
is in Open Booking

We’re thrilled to be able to announce that Boz Scaggs, Elvis Costello, Melody Gardot and Peabo Bryson will be onboard Botti at Sea ’26. 

Open Booking has begun. Reserve your stateroom today! 

BOOK NOW

The post Our Take: Peabo is Back! appeared first on Signature Cruise Experiences.

For those who bet on this week’s Our Take being a commentary on Jazz Appreciation Month, you win. For those who felt otherwise, you are invited to our weekly poker game. Bring your money and something comfortable upon which to sit.

JAM reminds me of the Star Trek Cruise we produced for years. Though our guests wore Star Trek costumes all the time, the cruise gave them the unfettered right to do so all day and all night for seven days and not feel the least guilty or self-conscious. During April, I am free to annoy my friends who are not jazz fans with stories about the music and 24/7 jazz references. Actually, I have only one friend who does not like jazz. Now, my other friend loves jazz. No worries there.

Most of my jazz world interaction is with our guests, our musicians and our team. Next week (Friday), I will be at the Berks Jazz Fest in Reading, Pennsylvania, which will be my first significant jazz interaction since the cruises. I cannot wait to see our jazz friends and to enjoy some great music. Marcus Miller and Eric Marienthal will be reprising their brilliant Tribute to David Sanborn on Friday, April 11 at the Scottish Rites Cathedral. Mindi Abair and her wine expert husband, Eric Guerra, will conduct a wine tasting at the venue immediately before the show.

Signature Cruise Experiences is the sponsor of the event and the wine reception and 100% of the proceeds will be donated to the David Sanborn Fund at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. David’s widow, Alice Soyer Sanborn, will be in attendance and will participate in the show as well. If you have the opportunity to join us for this special show and for the rest of Berks Jazz Fest, by all means do so. 

I promised you that I would take this month to detail those jazz events and jazz opportunities that I believe would enhance your knowledge and love of jazz. In thinking about this, my first thought was The Lowdown: Conversations with Christian, Christian McBride’s tour de force weekly show where he spends nearly an hour with an icon of jazz. They talk about their careers, laugh at their pitfalls, perform some live music together and play one of Christian’s quiz games. Those games include identifying musicians from recordings, a sports quiz or other mind-bending event.

The Lowdown is presented on the Real Jazz channel of SiriusXM radio, channel 67. Shows are broadcasted on Saturday mornings, but repeated throughout the week. And, like everything else in the world, you can stream the shows of your choice. About the only things that you cannot stream these days are The Weekender or one of our cruises. Which reminds me, Christian has recorded several of his shows on our cruises. Though not presented live, I have heard those shows being recorded and the on-air broadcasting sounds as live as it can be. Christian’s interview of Houston Person was particularly fun. Having known Houston for 25 years, I am hip to his funny side, which is in stark contrast to his stoic, seemingly standoffish, demeanor on stage.

Like so many of the icons of jazz, Houston takes his role very seriously and believes that the bandstand is for working, not joking. I get it, but it would be wonderful if everyone who loves jazz would be able to see Houston as the loving, caring and warm person that he is. I guess that if you listen to his music, you would know that only a truly kind person could make such beautiful music.

For those of you who are only casual jazz fans, you would love the people who love jazz and the musicians who play that music. Just as it is with Houston, it is difficult to imagine a bad person loving a music genre so beautiful. JAM is our Jam and it has only just begun.

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

Christian McBride’s World at Sea

Join Christian for his First Ever “Cruise” Lowdown Livestream

Want to learn more about Christian McBride’s World at Sea cruise? Sign up now to join the first ever “Cruise” Lowdown Livestream with Christian McBride on Tuesday, April 29 at 3 PM ET for information about the cruise straight from the host!

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!

Learn why guests are calling this cruise the best of past programs such as North Sea Jazz Cruise, Playboy Jazz Cruise and Blue Note at Sea cruise. Christian McBride is the only bandleader we know whose ensembles make that boast.

When you add in the warmth, spirit and talents of Christian, you know that something special is about to happen. Join us for “The Cruise Lowdown” livestream on April 29.

Jeff Hamilton Organ Trio’s Coast to Coast

Guests on The Jazz Cruise earlier this year were treated to performances by a new band – the Jeff Hamilton Organ Trio, featuring Jeff with organist Akiko Tsuruga and guitarist Steve Kovalcheck. They’ve just released a new album, Coast to Coast, which is Jeff’s 23rd album as a band leader.

The title comes in part from the bandmembers’ divergent geographic bases – with Akiko coming from NYC, Steve from Colorado and Jeff, of course, based in LA. The three cover some classic organ trio cuts, as well as a few new compositions by Jeff. 

“The compatibility of this trio is what reaches the ears,” Jeff told us. “There is a musical friendship of thinking the same way and trusting each other…while tapping your foot.”

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Berks Jazz Fest Wine Reception with Mindi Abair

Join Mindi Abair and her husband, wine producer Eric Guerra, for a special VIP Wine Tasting Reception at Berks Jazz Fest immediately prior to the David Sanborn Tribute Concert. During the reception, you will enjoy a meet-and-greet with Eric Marienthal, Marcus Miller and other concert performers.

The reception will be held on Friday, April 11 at 4PM in the banquet area of the Scottish Rite Cathedral. Tickets are $55 and all proceeds benefit the David Sanborn Memorial Fund at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Click below to reserve your spot today.

WINE RECEPTION RSVP

Stateroom Availability

Cruise Programs – 2025

Cruise Programs – 2026

Signature Cruise Experiences’ Programs

JOURNEY OF JAZZ ’25
Limited Time Promotional Pricing

Promotional pricing is available on Ocean View and Inside Staterooms for Journey of Jazz! Make your reservation today using promo code WEEKENDER for significant savings*! Exciting land-based concerts and excursions are also available! *Discount applies to new reservations only. 

BOOK NOW

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HOMECOMING: THE CRUISE ’26
Limited Time Promotional Pricing

Join us for a celebration of HBCUs and inspired by the tradition of the Divine Nine Challenge from recent sailings of The Smooth Jazz Cruise. Sailing January 15 – 20, 2026 (including MLK Day), this cruise will deliver Excellence, Education and Entertainment. For the best available prices on all Stateroom Categories, use Promo Code HTC during the booking process. Reserve Your Stateroom Today! 

BOOK NOW

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CHRISTIAN MCBRIDE’S WORLD AT SEA
Limited Time Promotional Pricing

9X GRAMMY® winner Christian McBride will host our newest Signature Jazz Cruises’ program, Christian McBride’s World at Sea! The cruise will feature legions of musicians who comprise the various ensembles that are the hallmarks of Christian’s music world AND first-class comedy talent. See the full lineup here! Open Booking has begun! Right now, special pricing is available for Ocean View and Inside Staterooms*. To save, use the promo code CMW during the reservation process. *Discount applies to new reservations only.

BOOK NOW

THE JAZZ CRUISE ’26
Open Booking Now Available

Hailed as “Jazz Heaven” by musicians and guests alike, The Jazz Cruise ’26 lineup will feature some of the most iconic musicians from the straight-ahead jazz genre. See the full lineup here. The Jazz Cruise ’26 is in Open Booking! Anyone may now reserve any available stateroom. This program always hits “fully reserved.” The only question is when!

BOOK NOW

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THE SMOOTH JAZZ CRUISE ‘26.1 & 26.2
Open Booking Now Available

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.1 is in Open Booking (anyone may reserve any available stateroom) and staterooms are more than 96% reserved. The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.2 is Fully Reserved, but you may join the Waitlist. Reserve your stateroom today!

BOOK NOW

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THE TOP SHELF COUNTRY CRUISE
Open Booking Now Available

The inaugural sailing will feature headline artist Keith Urban and widely popular personalities from iHeartMedia’s The Bobby Bones Show, led by Bobby Bones himself. Top Shelf Country Cruise is now in Open Booking! Anyone may select any available stateroom and complete a reservation. Guests are not required to submit a Pre-Sail Reservation and may proceed directly to the Stateroom Selection process. Reserve your stateroom today!

BOOK NOW

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THE SMOOTH JAZZ CRUISE ‘26.3
Open Booking Now Available

For the first time in many years, The Smooth Jazz Cruise 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! The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.3 is in Open Booking! Anyone may now reserve any available stateroom. 

BOOK NOW

BOTTI AT SEA’26
Open Booking Now Available

We’re thrilled to be able to announce that Boz Scaggs, Elvis Costello and Melody Gardot will be onboard Botti at Sea ’26. Of course, Chris Botti 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.  Open Booking has begun. Reserve your stateroom today! 

BOOK NOW

Send us Your Mug Shots

We know many readers of The Weekender 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, The Weekender has featured several pictures of cruisers showing off their mugs, pictures we affectionately refer to as “Mug Shots.”

If you want to share your “Mug Shot” with the 100,000+ readers who receive The Weekender each Saturday, email a photo of yourself and your mug to mugshot@scecruises.com. Who knows? You may just see yourself in a future edition.

Mug Shots of the Week

Tag us @thejazzcruise, @bottiatsea, @thesmoothjazzcruise, #signaturecruiseexperiences and #theweekender. Email your photo to MugShot@scecruises.com.

The post Our Take: JAM is Our Jam appeared first on Signature Cruise Experiences.

So, what type of jazz fan are you? In golf you are judged by your handicap. Tennis has numerical rankings. Other sports have beginners, novices, intermediates, advanced, etc. Let’s see if we can derive a system to measure the degree and type of jazz fan each of us are. It will not be easy nor will it be determinative, but, with any luck, it will be fun and thought provoking.

Level 1: “I Think I Know What Jazz Is”

Once people know what I do for a living, most will say (politely) “I like jazz, too.” Three ways to respond here. Smile and move on. Ask them to name their favorite jazz musicians (usually the best way to learn about the jazz tastes of someone who is, in fact, listening to jazz). Or, if you are in a diabolical mindset and wish to “out” an impostor, ask them “what type of jazz do your prefer?” If the response is on point, then you should feel badly about judging them. If not on point, then you have found a Level 1 Jazz Fan – someone who believes they know what jazz is, but simply cannot articulate it.

Level 2: “Fake It ‘Til You Make It”

Level 2 folks know a few names and may have seen a show or two. They know that being a “jazz” person is cool and will elevate their status in your eyes. It is entirely up to you as to how to handle this person. The most benevolent approach is to let them bask in the glory of making you think that they know jazz. Whether you take that approach or circle in for the kill is largely dependent upon your sense of whether the person is harmless or not. In defining “harm,” the test is whether the person is perpetrating their limited knowledge upon others, particularly those who are genuinely trying to learn.

I would argue that, in those cases, you have a duty to burst their bubble. It is hard enough to encourage folks to learn more about jazz without someone feeding them the wrong information. The unsuspecting fan may pass that wrong information on and could become embarrassed by someone who is more knowledgeable. This would likely thwart our hopeful pupil from trying to learn more.

I am reminded of the guest who grilled Freddy Cole on his latest recordings, claiming to know each of his sidemen. At one point, he asked Freddy “do you come from a musical family?” No recovery from that one.

Level 3: “I Know What I Like”

These are my favorite fans. They know what they like to hear and could care less about who wrote the song, who arranged the song and who the sidemen are on the recording. There is an authenticity and genuineness in someone who likes what they like and does not need to justify or explain it away. Hopefully, at some point, their curiosity will blossom and they will delve into the “who,” “when” and “what” of a tune. Or not!

Level 4: “Of Course I Know That One”

This fan is tricky. Not only do they love the music, but they know a lot about it. Only they do not know everything about it and are unwilling to admit that. It will take a moment to identify one of those as they will be on subject most of the time. Their fatal flaw is not that they do not know everything, it is their refusal to be okay with that. I’ve never understood why someone would fear having others know that they do not know a particular song, singer, instrumentalist, composer or arranger. Unless you selected “JAZZ” as a topic on Jeopardy!, the penalty for being wrong is minimal at best.

Level 5: “I Love Jazz. Tell Me More”

This level is sublime. You know you love the music. You know a lot about the music. Enough to be able to realize the context of the song, to identify the instruments, if not the musicians themselves, and to know that you can “feel” what is happening. If you are at a live set, you are watching the interaction of the musicians. If you are listening to a recording of the music, you are imagining what that interaction must be like.

You are at peace with yourself, your surroundings and your purpose in listening. As the nuances of the music are unveiled to you, you ask yourself if you have heard other renditions of this song, who performed on those recordings and whether you like the new version or the older version. Your mind wanders, relaxes and settles in to enjoy the music. Your thoughts are simplified. You love Jazz. You want more.

Even if I never reach Level 5, the Holy Grail of Jazz, I am having a great time trying!

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

Hot Offers: Journey of Jazz ’25

Regardless of your Jazz Fan Level, Journey of Jazz ’25 fits your jazz acumen. In many respects, the cruise is a 7-day tutorial on the life of jazz. Marcus Miller will reprise his History of Jazz, only this time doing so in 100, not 60 minutes. Each performer has been selected to reflect one or more aspects of what makes jazz so special. 

And, the West Coast itinerary, while not customarily associated with the history of the music, is certainly in line with the music’s lifestyle. Excursions to Sonoma and Napa, shows at SFJAZZ, culinary opportunities in San Francisco. No other music would be as perfect for those settings than jazz.

Journey of Jazz ’25 sails in about 6 months and fewer than 100 staterooms remain available. While staterooms with balconies (Concierge Class/AquaClass and Veranda) remain available, the largest inventory are Ocean View and Inside Staterooms.

You can reserve an Inside Stateroom on the cruise for under $2,000/person and there are special prices for Ocean View staterooms. Reservations may be completed online or by calling the office and are based upon double occupancy, available for new reservations only and non-commissionable. Further, this discount may not be combined with any other offer (Promo Code: JOURNEY).

Berks Jazz Fest Wine Reception with Mindi Abair

Join Mindi Abair and her husband, wine producer Eric Guerra, for a special VIP Wine Tasting Reception at Berks Jazz Fest immediately prior to the David Sanborn Tribute Concert. During the reception, you will enjoy a meet-and-greet with Eric Marienthal, Marcus Miller, and other concert performers.

The reception will be held on Friday, April 11 at 4PM in the banquet area of the Scottish Rite Cathedral. Tickets are $55 and all proceeds benefit the David Sanborn Memorial Fund at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Click below to reserve your spot today.

WINE RECEPTION RSVP

John Splithoff’s Far From Here

Singer-songwriter John Splithoff, a regular performer on Botti at Sea, has just released Far From Here, a new album that reflects upon his move from New York to Los Angeles.  “City Days” which features Chris Botti on trumpet, pays homage to his relationship with New York City at the various stages of his life. Tracks like “Glacier” symbolize relationships growing apart against the backdrop of Montana’s natural beauty, while “Oh Betty” tells a nostalgic story about the Buick Century he drove during his college days in Miami. “Same Page” recalls a transformative camping trip in Arizona that inspired his move west, and “Kyoto Snow” transports listeners to Japan, where he saw snowfall for the first time at a temple in Kyoto.
 
“A lot of these songs are associated with a time and place that hold a lot of meaning to me,” John explained. “I also noticed, within all that change, how my relationships ebbed and flowed—I felt closer to people I didn’t know as well, and I felt distant from people who I considered my best friends and family. So it’s been an eye-opening path.”

100th Episode of Jazz Cruises’ Conversations Podcast

John Pizzarelli with Catherine Russell

Stateroom Availability

Cruise Programs – 2025

Cruise Programs – 2026

Signature Cruise Experiences’ Programs

JOURNEY OF JAZZ ’25
Limited Time Promotional Pricing

Promotional pricing is available on Ocean View and Inside Staterooms for Journey of Jazz! Make your reservation today using promo code WEEKENDER for significant savings*! Exciting land-based concerts and excursions are also available! *Discount applies to new reservations only. 

BOOK NOW

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HOMECOMING: THE CRUISE ’26
Limited Time Promotional Pricing

Join us for a celebration of HBCUs and inspired by the tradition of the Divine Nine Challenge from recent sailings of The Smooth Jazz Cruise. Sailing January 15 – 20, 2026 (including MLK Day), this cruise will deliver Excellence, Education and Entertainment. For the best available prices on all Stateroom Categories, use promo code HTC during the booking process. Reserve Your Stateroom Today! 

BOOK NOW

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CHRISTIAN MCBRIDE’S WORLD AT SEA
Limited Time Promotional Pricing

9X GRAMMY® winner Christian McBride will host our newest Signature Jazz Cruises’ program, Christian McBride’s World at Sea! The cruise will feature legions of musicians who comprise the various ensembles that are the hallmarks of Christian’s music world AND first-class comedy talent. See the full lineup here! Open Booking has begun! Right now, special pricing is available for Ocean View and Inside Staterooms*. To save, use the promo code CMW during the reservation process. *Discount applies to new reservations only.

BOOK NOW

THE JAZZ CRUISE ’26
Open Booking Now Available

Hailed as “Jazz Heaven” by musicians and guests alike, The Jazz Cruise ’26 lineup will feature some of the most iconic musicians from the straight-ahead jazz genre. See the full lineup here. The Jazz Cruise ’26 is in Open Booking! Anyone may now reserve any available stateroom. This program always hits “fully reserved.” The only question is when!

BOOK NOW

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THE SMOOTH JAZZ CRUISE ‘26.1 & 26.2
Open Booking Now Available

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.1 is in Open Booking (anyone may reserve any available stateroom) and staterooms are more than 95% reserved. The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.2 is Fully Reserved, but you may join the Waitlist. Reserve your stateroom today!

BOOK NOW

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THE TOP SHELF COUNTRY CRUISE
Final Lineup & Itinerary Now Available!

Our headliners are Keith Urban, Lee Brice, Scotty McCreery, Parmalee, LeAnn Rimes, Thelma & James and Kassi Ashton. As you can see, the lineup is Top Shelf country music star power. 

When the talent is combined with the iHeartMedia Team of Bobby Bones, Amy Brown, Lunchbox, Eddie and Lorianne Crook & Charlie Chase, the ultra-luxurious Celebrity Reflection cruise ship and wonderful ports of call (Key West, Nassau and Bimini), Top Shelf Country Cruise earns its title as the First-Class Country Music Cruise. Reserve your stateroom today!

BOOK NOW

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THE SMOOTH JAZZ CRUISE ‘26.3
Open Booking Now Available

For the first time in many years, The Smooth Jazz Cruise 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! The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.3 is in Open Booking! Anyone may now reserve any available stateroom. 

BOOK NOW

BOTTI AT SEA’26
Open Booking Now Available

We’re thrilled to be able to announce that Boz Scaggs, Elvis Costello and Melody Gardot will be onboard Botti at Sea ’26. Of course, Chris Botti 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.  Open Booking has begun. Reserve your stateroom today! 

BOOK NOW

Send us Your Mug Shots

We know many readers of The Weekender 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, The Weekender has featured several pictures of cruisers showing off their mugs, pictures we affectionately refer to as “Mug Shots.”

If you want to share your “Mug Shot” with the 100,000+ readers who receive The Weekender each Saturday, email a photo of yourself and your mug to mugshot@scecruises.com. Who knows? You may just see yourself in a future edition.

Mug Shot of the Week

Tag us @thejazzcruise, @bottiatsea, @thesmoothjazzcruise, #signaturecruiseexperiences and #theweekender. Email your photo to MugShot@scecruises.com.

The post Our Take: Almost Jazz Appreciation Month appeared first on Signature Cruise Experiences.

I would like to believe that our organization, amazing events, top performers and other acts of Signature Cruise Experiences was responsible. And, in part, that is true. I have never been prouder of our team and staff and the dedication and commitment shown by our fabulous lineups of performers.

The shows were crafted brilliantly, executed flawlessly and reflected a true desire by the performers to connect with the guests. A couple of performances missed the target for some, but, overall, the 400 hours of music was memorable, magical and meaningful.

With the benefit of a few days to mull this over, I realize that, though we did a great job, our amazing guests walked onto the ship ready to have fun, craving great music and excited about leaving the travails of the world behind them.

Between the natural disasters, social upheaval and other disorienting events, our guests were seeking the simplicity and joy of these cruise programs. Being able to spend a week with 2,000 like-minded folks, seeing and listening to world class performers and doing so in a safe, friendly and harmonious setting was a small taste of utopia that excited, enthused and invigorated our amazing guests.

In many respects, the fate of the cruises were ours to lose. All we had to do was not mess up and not impair our fans. Granted, we did a lot more than that, but it was an audience ready to party, ready to enjoy themselves and, most of all, ready to share that joy with their fellow passengers.

Among the 8,000 guests we entertained were folks of every gender, race, religion and station in life. At no time did the differences that existed in those categories interfere with or upset the shared experiences on the ship.

For that special feeling, we have the music to thank. Though the music presented on The Jazz Cruise, Botti at Sea and both sailings of The Smooth Jazz Cruise were different, they shared three commonalities, each of which contributed to the special vibe on the ship.

First, our performers were top notch. Each cruise featured multiple GRAMMY® winners and highly acclaimed musicians. Second, the performances were authentic. No cover bands or tribute artists. It was the real deal at all times.

Finally, the shows were produced with care and expertise, as if each one of them was the main show for that day. The musicians respected the audience’s commitment to excellence and the audience responded with thunderous applause and approval.

Was it 28 days of pure magic and mirth? No cruise program can sustain that level 24/7 for a month, but, from January 28, 2025 – February 25, 2025, we came as close to a perfect score as I can remember. Overall score of 9.8, including the vote of the jazz police.

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

Stateroom Availability/Special Offers

Having been at sea for four weeks, we thought it best to share what is new with respect to our next 9 cruise programs and to highlight special offers for select programs.

Cruise Programs 2025

Journey of Jazz

Journey of Jazz ’25 is our first West Coast Cruise and our first cruise featuring Signature Cruise Experiences curated land events in many years. Led by Marcus Miller and Gregory Porter, the cruise features Diana Krall, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Cecile McLorin Salvant, Chucho Valdes, Clayton Hamilton Jazz Orchestra, Ravi Coltrane, Emmet Cohen, Benny Benack III, Brubeck Brothers and more. 

When we overnight in San Francisco, you can elect to sign up for many of our very own excursions, including trips to Napa and Sonoma, a day on the Napa Valley Wine Train, and a special show at SFJAZZ featuring Ron Carter, Renee Rosnes, Jimmy Greene & Payton Crossley.

SPECIAL OFFER: Though a few Concierge Class, AquaClass and Veranda Staterooms remain available, the bulk of the available staterooms are Inside and Ocean View. For now, those staterooms are priced favorably for readers of The Weekender. Go online and use the promo code: WEEKENDER, for your price. These are the lowest cruise prices for those staterooms and this promotion will end soon.

Cruise Programs 2026

Homecoming: The Cruise

Join us for a celebration of HBCUs and inspired by the tradition of the Divine Nine Challenge from recent sailings of The Smooth Jazz Cruise. Sailing January 15 – 20, 2026 (including MLK Day), this cruise will deliver Excellence, Education and Entertainment. 

ALLBLK’s Homecoming: The Cruise is produced in association with the National HBCU Alumni Alliance is hosted by Debbie Allen and Norm Nixon and features Babyface, Chanté Moore, Take 6 and more! The best part is that we will award over $200,000 in scholarships to deserving organizations. 

SPECIAL OFFER: Again, patrons of The Weekender are being provided special prices at this time. The promo code for this offer is HTC. These savings are significant and will not last long…act now.

Christian McBride’s World at Sea

9X GRAMMY® winner Christian McBride will host our newest Signature Jazz Cruises’ program, Christian McBride’s World at Sea! The cruise will feature legions of musicians who comprise the various ensembles that are the hallmarks of Christian’s music world AND first-class comedy talent. See the full lineup here!

Open Booking has begun! Reserve your stateroom today! 

SPECIAL OFFER: For now, Inside and Ocean View Staterooms are priced favorably for readers of The Weekender. Go online and use the promo code: CMW, for your price.

The Jazz Cruise

Hailed as “Jazz Heaven” by musicians and guests alike, The Jazz Cruise ’26 lineup will feature some of the most iconic musicians from the straight-ahead jazz genre. See the full lineup here. 

The Jazz Cruise ’26 is in Open Booking! Anyone may now reserve any available stateroom. This program always hits “fully reserved.” The only question is when!  Act Now to secure your stateroom on the most important straight-ahead jazz program in the world.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.1/’26.2/’26.3

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’26.2 is fully reserved and The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’26.1 has fewer than 50 staterooms remaining. Since The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’26.3 does not sail for more than 550 days, there is more availability, but, even so, the cruise is over 75% reserved. Go to www.thesmoothjazzcruise.com for details.

Top Shelf Country Cruise

The inaugural sailing will feature headline artist Keith Urban and widely popular personalities from iHeartMedia’s The Bobby Bones Show, led by Bobby Bones himself. 

Top Shelf Country Cruise is now in Open Booking! Anyone may select any available stateroom and complete a reservation. Guests are not required to submit a Pre-Sail Reservation and may proceed directly to the Stateroom Selection process. Reserve your stateroom today!

Botti at Sea III

We’re thrilled to be able to announce that Boz Scaggs, Elvis Costello and Melody Gardot will be onboard the Botti at Sea ’26.

Of course, Chris Botti 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.
  
Open Booking has begun. Reserve your stateroom today! 

New Artist Releases

ARTEMIS’ Arboresque

The supergroup, ARTEMIS, who has sailed with us on The Jazz Cruise, has just released Arboresque, their third album for Blue Note Records. The recording features a new quintet line-up of the band helmed by pianist and musical director Renee Rosnes with trumpeter Ingrid Jensen, tenor saxophonist Nicole Glover, bassist Noriko Ueda, and drummer Allison Miller. The 8-song set presents original compositions by each of the band members, as well as Renee’s arrangements of pieces by Wayne Shorter, Burt Bacharach and the unsung pianist Donald Brown.

“Our goal is to make honest music that touches people,” said Renee. “We inspire one another and feel passionate about playing together. All that positive energy comes through in the music and I believe the audiences feel it.”  ARTEMIS will be celebrating the album release with their debut appearance at the legendary Village Vanguard in New York City March 4-9.

LEARN MORE

Peter White’s Light of Day

Fresh off his two weeks sailing with us on The Smooth Jazz Cruise, Peter White has just released Light of Day, his 17th album as a leader.

Featuring guest appearances by saxophonists Ernie Watts and Vincent Ingala, the recording also includes Peter’s tribute to the late guitarist Nick Colionne.

“I think this recording is one of the best I’ve ever made,” Peter said. “I have as much enthusiasm and energy for music as I did in my twenties!”

LEARN MORE

Mug Shot of the Week

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

While We Are At Sea

Though we are at sea for the next several weeks (January 28 – February 25), please know that while some of us are away, our office will be open during normal business hours, our email lines will be open and the websites for each of our cruise programs will be available 24/7.

These services are available to guests who have questions about their upcoming ’25 Sailings and those who wish to complete or discuss a ’26 Reservation. To contact us, you may choose among the following:

  Call the Office: 
Toll Free US & Canada – 888.852.9987
Toll Free International – 01.800.852.99872
Monday – Thursday: 10 AM ET – 6 PM ET
Friday: 10 AM ET – 5 PM ET

Inquire by E – Mail:
info@scecruises.com

Learn More or Make a Reservation:
www.scecruises.com or review SCE Brand Book
Select the Cruise Program You Wish
Follow prompts

Stateroom Availability

With 13 active cruise programs, it is difficult to keep up with Stateroom Availability. To assist you with your planning, below is a chart that we will update weekly in The Weekender. 

Cruise Programs 2025

Cruise Programs 2026

Hot Offers

Inside Staterooms are available on Journey of Jazz ’25. From now through February 28, you can reserve an Inside Stateroom on the cruise for under $2,000/person. Reservations are based upon double occupancy, available for new reservations only and non-commissionable. Further, this discount may not be combined with any other offer (Promo Code: ATSEA).

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’25.2 has been fully reserved for months. Guests do cancel their reservations for various reasons and we place those staterooms with guests on the Wait List. If you are on the Wait List or wish to reserve a stateroom for one of these sailings, call the office for availability and pricing.

Sullivan Fortner’s Southern Nights

The pianist Sullivan Fortner, who was a big hit during the last two weeks with our guests sailing on The Jazz Cruise and Botti at Sea, has just released Southern Nights, his fifth album as a leader. 

Recorded live at the iconic Village Vanguard in NYC, the album features a wide-ranging repertoire, including tunes by Allen Toussaint and Clifford Brown, and tributes to Sullivan’s late mentor Bill Lee and Lee’s sister, the underappreciated pianist and educator Consuela Lee, as well as an original from Sullivan. Accompanied by bassist Peter Washington and drummer Marcus Gilmore, Sullivan celebrates his roots in the Crescent City.

“New Orleans is at the top of the Caribbean,” he explains. “It’s definitely not America. The Spanish and Caribbean influences run deep, and you can hear that in the music.”

LEARN MORE

Signature Jazz Cruises’ Programs

JOURNEY OF JAZZ ’25
Limited Time Promotional Pricing

Now through February 28, or until fully reserved, promotional pricing is available on Inside Staterooms for Journey of Jazz! Make your reservation today using promo code ATSEA for significant savings*! Exciting land-based concerts and excursions are also available! *Discount applies to new reservations only. 

BOOK NOW

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HOMECOMING: THE CRUISE ’26
Open Booking Now Available!

Join us for a celebration of HBCUs and inspired by the tradition of the Divine Nine Challenge from recent sailings of The Smooth Jazz Cruise. Sailing January 15 – 20, 2026 (including MLK Day), this cruise will deliver Excellence, Education and Entertainment. ALLBLK’s Homecoming: The Cruise is produced in association with the National HBCU Alumni Alliance and features Babyface, Chanté Moore, Take 6 and more! The best part is that we will award over $200,000 in scholarships to deserving organizations. Reserve Your Stateroom Today! 

BOOK NOW

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CHRISTIAN MCBRIDE’S WORLD AT SEA
Open Booking Now Available!

9X GRAMMY® winner Christian McBride will host our newest Signature Jazz Cruises’ program, Christian McBride’s World at Sea! The cruise will feature legions of musicians who comprise the various ensembles that are the hallmarks of Christian’s music world AND first-class comedy talent. See the full lineup here!

Open Booking has begun! Reserve your stateroom today! 

BOOK NOW

THE JAZZ CRUISE ’26
Open Booking Starts February 19!

Hailed as “Jazz Heaven” by musicians and guests alike, The Jazz Cruise ’26 lineup will feature some of the most iconic musicians from the straight-ahead jazz genre. See the full lineup here.  Guests who registered for the Pre-Sail are selecting their staterooms now, and Open Booking will begin on February 19!

LEARN MORE

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THE SMOOTH JAZZ CRUISE ‘26.1 & 26.2
Open Booking Now Available

 The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.1 & ‘26.2 are in Open Booking (anyone may reserve any available stateroom) and staterooms are more than 85% reserved. Reserve your stateroom today!

BOOK NOW

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THE TOP SHELF COUNTRY CRUISE
Headline Artist Just Announced – Keith Urban

Fans of the country genre love the music that represents the simple, humble American lifestyle and they love to party. Top Shelf Country Cruise brings these ideas together on a luxury ship for one unforgettable week, February 27 – March 6, 2026! The inaugural sailing will feature headline artist Keith Urban and widely popular personalities from iHeartMedia’s The Bobby Bones Show, led by Bobby Bones himself. Pre-Sail reservations are open now through tomorrow, February 9! Visit topshelfcountrycruise.com for more information and join the Pre-Sail today! 

LEARN MORE

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THE SMOOTH JAZZ CRUISE ‘26.3
Open Booking Now Available

For the first time in many years, The Smooth Jazz Cruise 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! The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.3 is in Open Booking! Anyone may now reserve any available stateroom.

BOOK NOW

BOTTI AT SEA’25 is Fully Reserved!
Pre-Sail Reservations Accepted Until February 11!
Open Booking Begins February 28

We’re thrilled to be able to announce that Boz Scaggs, Elvis Costello and Melody Gardot will be onboard the Botti at Sea ’26 . Of course, Chris Botti 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. Establish your priority for reserving a stateroom NOW by joining the Pre-Sail. 

LEARN MORE

Mug Shot of the Week

Guests on the ’24 jazz cruises received The Weekender mug, which we hope you will use with your Saturday morning coffee while you read the latest edition. Please share a picture of yourself & your mug with us so that we can include it for the 100,000+ folks who receive The Weekender each Saturday.

Tag us @thejazzcruise, @bottiatsea, @thesmoothjazzcruise, #jazzcruises and #theweekender. Email your photo to MugShot@scecruises.com.

The post Our Take: From Botti to Smooth appeared first on Signature Cruise Experiences.

10. Watching Frank Manning dance as he was inducted into The Jazz Cruise Hall of Fame.

9. Any and all memories of Jeff Clayton, Red Holloway, Keter Betts and Joe Ascione.

8.  Spending time with my father at the Ocean Bar on Holland America, particularly the night when Richie Cole lost his demeanor.

7. Anytime John Clayton led the Big Band.

6. Listening to Dee Dee Bridgewater, Dianne Reeves or Kurt Elling.

5. All editions of the Gospel Hour with Wycliffe Gordon and Niki Haris.

4. When the entire Big Band stood up and applauded as Johnny Mandel came up to conduct.

3. Being behind the scenes with Shelly Berg, Wycliffe Gordon, Marcus Miller, Arturo Sandoval and Lewis Nash as they discussed what tunes they were going to play. Then listening to them play only one of the tunes discussed and taking turns trying to stump the others with their on-the-fly selections.

2. The late-night piano solos performed in the Rendezvous Lounge that provided solace, comfort and time to reflect on how amazing life on the cruise has been.

1. By far, reading notes from guests thanking us for the cruise, telling us how meaningful the cruise is to them, and how their lives have been impacted by these experiences.

On six occasions, guests have chosen to sail on The Jazz Cruise as their last act of life. One guest had the following inscribed on his tombstone: “I’d Rather Be On The Jazz Cruise.” Very touching, indeed.

Not so touching was a phone call from a long-time guest. She called to tell us that her husband of 45 years had died. Since The Jazz Cruise was fewer than two weeks away, I told her that we would, of course, refund her payments. I can still hear her response: “No darling, I will be there. I just wanted to let you know that Ralph will not.” 

I believe in the box theory of life. Every deed, every statement, every action belongs in a particular box. A box that defines the item for the sake of clarity and understanding.

The interaction above with our guest was more than 15 years ago. I am still hunting for a box in which to place her comment.

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

While We Are At Sea

After reading “Our Take” some may ask “What if I want to contact the office from January 28 – February 25?” No worries! Our office will be fully staffed to assist you with any questions you may have about your ’25 Sailing or with reserving a stateroom for one of the eight ’26 Sailings. Check your email on Monday, January 27, 2025 for an in depth “While We Are At Sea” memo. We got this!

Carl Allen’s Trippin’

Veteran drummer Carl Allen, who will be sailing on The Jazz Cruise ’25 and McBride’s World at Sea ’26 with Inside Straight, has just released Tippin’, his first album as a leader in more than 20 years. Appearing on the recording with Carl is his longtime friend and bandmate Christian McBride, as well as saxophonist Chris Potter. This chordless trio approach originated from Carl’s desire to come up with something different for collaborating with Christian and also from playing with Chris on a recent Renee Rosnes album.

“Listening to Chris reminded me so much of the Sonny Rollins chordless trio date, Live at the Village Vanguard,” Carl explains. “That intuition solidified my decision to record with saxophone, bass and drums. I wanted the recording process to feel organic, natural, and free-flowing. We did not rehearse before entering the studio and we recorded the entire album in about five hours. I trusted the gifts that McBride and Potter brought to the table, allowing their interpretations to shape the music.”

Stateroom Availability

With 13 active cruise programs, it is difficult to keep up with Stateroom Availability. To assist you with your planning, below is a chart that we will update weekly in The Weekender. 

Cruise Programs – ’25

Cruise Programs – ’26

Hot Offers

Inside Staterooms are available on Journey of Jazz ’25. From now through February 28, you can reserve an Inside Stateroom on the cruise for under $2,000/person. Reservations are based upon double occupancy, available for new reservations only and non-commissionable. Further, this discount may not be combined with any other offer (Promo Code ATSEA).

The Jazz Cruise ’25, Botti at Sea ’25 and both The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’25.1 and ’25.2 have been fully reserved for months. Guests do cancel their reservations for various reasons and we place those staterooms with guests on the Wait List. If you are on the Wait List or wish to reserve a stateroom for one of these sailings, call the office for availability and pricing.

Signature Jazz Cruises’ Programs

JOURNEY OF JAZZ ’25
Limited Time Promotional Pricing!

Now through February 25, or until fully reserved, promotional pricing is available on Ocean View and Inside Staterooms for Journey of Jazz! Make your reservation today using promo code ATSEA for significant savings*! Exciting land-based concerts and excursions are also available! *Discount applies to new reservations only.

BOOK NOW

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HOMECOMING: THE CRUISE ’26
Open Booking Coming Soon!

Join us for a celebration of HBCUs and inspired by the tradition of the Divine Nine Challenge from recent sailings of The Smooth Jazz Cruise. Our newest cruise, sailing January 15 – 20, 2026 (including MLK Day), will deliver Excellence, Education and Entertainment.  ALLBLK’s Homecoming: The Cruise is produced in association with the National HBCU Alumni Alliance and features Babyface, Chanté Moore, Take 6 and more! The best part is that we will award over $200,000 in scholarships to deserving organizations. 

Open Booking begins on January 31! 

LEARN MORE

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CHRISTIAN MCBRIDE’S WORLD AT SEA
Open Booking Now Available!

9X GRAMMY® winner Christian McBride will host our newest Signature Jazz Cruises’ program, Christian McBride’s World at Sea! The cruise will feature legions of musicians who comprise the various ensembles that are the hallmarks of Christian’s music world AND first class comedy talent. See the full lineup here!

Open Booking has begun! Reserve your stateroom today! 

BOOK NOW

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THE JAZZ CRUISE ’26
Artist Lineup Now Available!

Hailed as “Jazz Heaven” by musicians and guests alike, The Jazz Cruise ’26 lineup will feature some of the most iconic musicians from the straight-ahead jazz genre. See the full lineup here. 

Guests sailing on The Jazz Cruise ’25 may reserve their current stateroom for the ’26 sailing now through Jan. 31, 2025. New guests and those not sailing in ‘25 may join the Pre-Sail now.

JOIN PRE-SAIL

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THE SMOOTH JAZZ CRUISE ‘26.1 & 26.2
Reserve Your Stateroom Today!

Both sailings for The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’25 are fully reserved and the Waitlist has more than 4,000 entrants. 
  
The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.1 & ‘26.2 are in Open Booking (anyone may reserve any available stateroom) and are over 80% reserved. Reserve your stateroom today!

BOOK NOW

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TOP SHELF COUNTRY CRUISE
Join the Pre-Sail Today!  

Fans of the country genre love the music that represents the simple, humble American lifestyle and they love to party. Top Shelf Country Cruise brings these ideas together on a luxury ship for one unforgettable week, February 27 – March 6, 2026! The inaugural sailing will feature widely popular personalities from iHeart Media’s from The Bobby Bones Show, led by Bobby Bones himself. Pre-Sail reservations are open now. The artist line up is coming soon (and it’s a good one!) Visit topshelfcountrycruise.com for more information and join the Pre-Sail today.

JOIN PRE-SAIL

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THE SMOOTH JAZZ CRUISE ‘26.3
Now in Open Booking!

For the first time in many years, The Smooth Jazz Cruise 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!

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.3 is in Open Booking! Anyone may now reserve any available stateroom. 

BOOK NOW

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BOTTI AT SEA ’26
Artist Lineup will Feature Boz Scaggs!

While we continue to assemble first-rate musical talent for which Signature Cruise Experiences is known to entertain you on Botti at Sea ‘26, we’re thrilled to be able to announce that Boz Scaggs will be onboard the ’26 Sailing. Of course, Chris Botti 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. Establish your priority for reserving a stateroom NOW by joining the Pre-Sail. 

JOIN PRE-SAIL

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

John Clayton would give you the shirt off his back if that was needed. He is always there for his fellow musicians and the guests on our cruises. No job is too big or too small for him to undertake. Though he may be upset inside, there is always a kind word from his mouth and a smile on his face. That fate chose to cause tragedy to this man is inexplicable.

As I write this edition of Our Take, I realize that all the “good” and all the “great” things in life can balance out, or even surpass, the “bad,” but there is no cure for the “tragic.” At best, you can “cope” and, over time, repair and move on, but most of the scars incurred will remain in some form or another. 

John, I know that you read this column every week. If you found the time to do so amid all that is happening, please know that every asset of Signature Cruise Experiences is here to help you. For nearly 25 years now, you have stood tall and strong for our cruises, our guests, and, most of all, for our music. Lean on us now, please.

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

ALLBLK to be the Title Sponsor of
Homecoming: The Cruise

Media powerhouse, ALLBLK, will be the Title Sponsor of Homecoming: The Cruise! 

ALLBLK is a star in the world of streaming, being the first streaming entertainment service that is inclusively, but unapologetically – Black. Featuring a diverse lineup of content that spans across genres and generations, the ALLBLK library includes exclusive original series, must-see independent films, nostalgic Black cinema, popular We TV originals, lively stage plays and so much more.

Formed by Robert L. Johnson, the founder of Black Entertainment Television (BET), in November 2014, ALLBLK’s growth and influence in the entertainment world has been phenomenal. 

Signature Cruise Experiences welcomes ALLBLK to Homecoming: The Cruise and wishes to thank Brett Dismuke, Head of Content for ALLBLK & We TV, and his entire team for their commitment to the program and its goals of Excellence, Education & Entertainment. For more information about ALLBLK, visit https://allblk.tv/.

To join the Homecoming: The Cruise Pre-Sail click here. Pre-Sail Reservations for Homecoming: The Cruise will be accepted through Wednesday, January 15! Guests holding Pre-Sail Reservations will receive information and directions for selecting a stateroom and completing a Reservation soon thereafter. As of now, Pre-Sail Reservations will be activated starting on Monday, January 20.

Cancellation Staterooms: Last Chance to Sail in ’25

Below, you can find a list of staterooms that are now available due to cancellations as of today (1.11.25). With limited time before sailing, these staterooms can be reserved at prices less than previously quoted. Since Your Cruise History will be a factor in determining the Cruise Price, you must contact the office during normal business hours to learn your Cruise Price and to complete a reservation. Cancellation Staterooms may not be reserved online.

Reveal Dates for ’25 Cruises’ Performance Schedules

We know that our guests love to review the Performance Schedules for their cruise programs well in advance of sailing. Not only does doing so build excitement and energy for the cruise, but many guests use the schedules to develop their personal plans for shows, dining and more.

So that the Performance Schedules that we present are as accurate as possible, we issue the Performance Schedules 10 days before each sailing. Guests will receive an email with the appropriate link at that time and the Performance Schedule will be posted on the website (see chart below for Reveal Dates for Performance Schedules).

As always, there will be changes to the schedule. The Performance Schedule link will be updated in real time and, once again, we will be providing a mobile app that you can utilize when you are on the ship that will keep you up to date with the schedule. You will also have a Daily Program delivered to your stateroom each night that includes the Performance Schedule for the next day. Finally, when needed, we make announcement on the ship’s public address system for last minute changes.

Join the Webinars

Below is the schedule for the upcoming webinars related to the ’25 Cruises. We urge you to sign up and attend. If that is not possible, each webinar will be recorded and available on the respective website of each cruise. 

(Note: It is much more fun to be on the webinar. We have fun doing it.)

Botti at Sea ’25
Date: Tuesday, January 14, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM ET

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘25.1 & ‘25.2
Date: Tuesday, January 16, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM ET

Journey of Jazz ’25

Our First West Coast Cruise in More than 10 Years!
Limited Offer/Significant Savings

With all that is happening at Signature Cruise Experiences, we have not spent much time talking about Journey of Jazz ’25, our first West Coast cruise in more than 10 years. Though we do not sail for over 9 months from now, the cruise is 80% reserved and many of the special excursions are fully subscribed.

The first excursion that filled up was the Napa Valley Wine Train, which was surprising only because it was the most expensive of all the choices. We are investigating chartering another train for those who wish to enjoy traveling through the wine country, drinking great wine and enjoying gourmet food. Reading that description takes some of the mystery out of why the excursion sold out so quickly.

Most Expensive First Offer

The “Most Expensive First” syndrome for Journey of Jazz also applies to stateroom selection. The higher end staterooms were the first to go and most of the remaining inventory are Ocean View and Inside Staterooms! Amazing! Since our entire team will soon be “at sea” for a month, we decided to offer some of these staterooms at favorable prices. From now through February 25, 2025, the day we head back home or until the staterooms are fully reserved, you can use promo code ATSEA to reserve an Ocean View or Inside Stateroom at these amazing prices.

And, with the significant savings, you can afford a luxurious excursion! 

Cruise Prices are Per Person based on Double Occupancy
Reservations are Non-Commissionable 
This Offer may not be combined with any other offer or discount
New Reservations Only
Cruise Prices do not include per person Pass Through Charges

Signature Jazz Cruises’ Programs

THE JAZZ CRUISE ’26
Artist Lineup Now Available!

Hailed as “Jazz Heaven” by musicians and guests alike, The Jazz Cruise ’26 lineup will feature some of the most iconic musicians from the straight-ahead jazz genre. See the full lineup here. 

Guests sailing on The Jazz Cruise ’25 may reserve their current stateroom for the ’26 sailing now through Jan. 31, 2025. New guests and those not sailing in ‘25 may join the Pre-Sail now.

JOIN PRE-AIL

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THE SMOOTH JAZZ CRUISE ‘26.1 & 26.2
Reserve Your Stateroom Today!  

Both sailings for The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’25 are fully reserved and the Waitlist has more than 4,000 entrants. 
  
The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.1 & ‘26.2 are in Open Booking (anyone may reserve any available stateroom) and are over 80% reserved. Reserve your stateroom today!

BOOK NOW

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THE SMOOTH JAZZ CRUISE ‘26.3
Now in Open Booking!

For the first time in many years, The Smooth Jazz Cruise 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!

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.3 is in Open Booking! Anyone may now reserve any available stateroom. 

BOOK NOW

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BOTTI AT SEA’25 is Fully Reserved!
BOTTI AT SEA ’26 Just Announced!

Sailing from Los Angeles to Vancouver, with calls on San Francisco and Victoria, BC, Botti at Sea III (’26) is moving to the West Coast in September ’26! 

The website for the cruise will be available later this month, just before Botti at Sea II (’25) sails in February
Establish your priority for reserving a stateroom NOW by joining the Pre-Sail. 

JOIN PRE-SAIL

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CHRISTIAN MCBRIDE’S WORLD AT SEA
Open Booking Now Available!

9X GRAMMY® winner Christian McBride will host our newest Signature Jazz Cruises’ program, Christian McBride’s World at Sea! The cruise will feature legions of musicians who comprise the various ensembles that are the hallmarks of Christian’s music world AND first class comedy talent. See the full lineup here!

Open Booking has begun! Reserve your stateroom today! 

BOOK NOW

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JOURNEY OF JAZZ ’25
Limited Time Promotional Pricing!

Now through February 25, or until fully reserved, promotional pricing is available on Ocean View and Inside Staterooms for Journey of Jazz! 
 
Make your reservation today using promo code ATSEA for significant savings! Exciting land-based concerts and excursions are also available! *Discount applies to new reservations only. 

BOOK NOW

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HOMECOMING: THE CRUISE ’26
New Cruise Just Announced!

Join us for a celebration of HBCUs and inspired by the tradition of the Divine Nine Challenge from recent sailings of The Smooth Jazz Cruise. Our newest cruise, sailing January 15 – 20, 2026 (including MLK Day), will deliver Excellence, Education and Entertainment. 

Homecoming: The Cruise is produced in association with the National HBCU Alumni Alliance and features Babyface, Chanté Moore, Take 6 and more! The best part is that we will award over $200,000 in scholarships to deserving organizations. Establish your priority for reserving a stateroom NOW by joining the Pre-Sail before it closes on January 15!

Mug Shot of the Week

Tony and Connie P. – Florida

Guests on the ’24 jazz cruises received The Weekender mug, which we hope you will use with your Saturday morning coffee while you read the latest edition. Please share a picture of yourself & your mug with us so that we can include it for the 100,000+ folks who receive The Weekender each Saturday.

Tag us @thejazzcruise, @bottiatsea, @thesmoothjazzcruise, #jazzcruises and #theweekender. Email your photo to MugShot@jazzcruisesllc.com.

The post OUR TAKE: A Potpourri of Activities, Emotions & Responses appeared first on Signature Cruise Experiences.

For those who are sailing on the upcoming cruises, be sure to join us for the webinars scheduled for each of the sailings. In each session, we walk through the various aspects of the cruises, talk about check-in, provide hints to make the cruise experience more enjoyable and answer your questions in real time.

For more information check out our Cruise ’25 Webinars below.

Customarily, I take the first “OUR TAKE” of the year and detail the New Year’s Resolutions for the company and for me personally. As someone who will soon be 75, I must choose resolutions that are important, but do not require extensive commitment. Learning Chinese or going around the world in a canoe have been ruled out, as an example.

What has not been ruled out is continuing to enjoy every moment of our cruises and to broaden my personal music palate and experiences. For the company, meaning Signature Cruise Experiences, our resolutions center on broadening our reach as well, while making sure that our jazz programs are stronger than ever.

Following up on the resolutions for Signature Cruise Experiences, you have seen, or heard about, two new programs we are advancing, Homecoming: The Cruise and Top Shelf Country Cruise. 

Homecoming is active and we are pleased to report that the HBCU and Divine Nine communities are enthusiastically supporting the programs. The scholarship component of the cruise is up and running and our entertainers, Debbie Allen, Norm Nixon, Babyface, MC Lyte, Nephew Tommy, Chante Moore, Take 6, etc., are completing their own promotional materials.

Top Shelf Country Cruise will be launched in the coming weeks. If we were unsure as to the meaning of “mosey,” finalizing the terms and conditions of this program has confirmed our understanding. Crystal clear. But, when it is ready, it will be amazing. We are working closely with iHeart Radio on the concept and the cruise will feature some of their top country music proponents. Led by Bobby Bones, radio personalities Crook & Chase, Lunchbox and others will be key elements of the promotion and on ship programming. Top performers are being lined up for what will be the “top-shelf” example of a country music cruise.

2025 will also see the promotion of a new jazz program, as Christian McBride’s World at Sea ’26 joins The Jazz Cruise, The Smooth Jazz Cruise, Botti at Sea and Journey of Jazz as the largest fleet of jazz cruises in the world. We will strive to make each program unique and special yet sharing the ideals and branding that Signature Cruise Experiences draws from its predecessor producer, Jazz Cruises, LLC.

Other company goals including continuing to expand our management team and to add services and opportunities for our guests to enjoy great music with great musicians. Being able to provide such joy and spirit for a week each year is inspirational to our entire team. We know how much our guests look forward to being with their friends, family and colleagues on the ship and we are dedicated to continuing to make that experience special.

And, we want to spend more time understanding what our guests want to see in future programs, whether that means additional genres, different talent or other aspects of the cruise program. Our programs belong to the guests, are defined by the guests and will be designed for the guests for the future.

Learning about more musicians is my main personal resolution for 2025. To do so, I have identified 10 musicians (4 vocalists and 6 instrumentalists) that I have “heard of,” but do not know well. Each month, I will write about one of these folks, telling you their story and how I went about learning about them. No need to send in names for me to consider, as I spent several hours on New Year’s Day making my selections. Combing the internet to learn about names I have accumulated over the past few months was fun and provided respite from watching some really bad football.

Now that project fits my definition of a resolution for me. Important, but not overly ambitious or too long term. If you want to share your musical New Year’s Resolution, feel free to send them to me. We will print these Wish Lists right next to the Mug Shots.

Bring on 2025! We are more than ready! 

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

Join the Webinars

Below is the schedule for the upcoming webinars related to the ’25 Cruises. We urge you to sign up and attend. If that is not possible, each webinar will be recorded and available on the respective website of each cruise. 

(Note: It is much more fun to be on the webinar. We have fun doing it.)

The Jazz Cruise ’25
Date: Thursday, January 9, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM ET

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘25.1 & ‘25.2
Date: Thursday, January 16, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM ET

Homecoming: The Cruise
Pre-Sail Reservation Ends on 01.15.25

Due to high volume and some confusion as to dates over the holiday, Pre-Sail Reservations for Homecoming: The Cruise will be accepted through Wednesday, January 15! Guests holding Pre-Sail Reservations will receive information and directions for selecting a stateroom and completing a Reservation soon thereafter. As of now, Pre-Sail Reservations will be activated starting on Monday, January 20.

Securing a Pre-Sail Reservation is easy, without cost and does not obligate the guest in any way. A Pre-Sail Reservation is, however, the very best way to jump to the head of the line to select a stateroom.

Journey of Jazz ’25

Our First West Coast Cruise in More than 10 Years!
Limited Offer/Significant Savings!

With all that is happening at Signature Cruise Experiences, we have not spent much time talking about Journey of Jazz ’25, our first West Coast cruise in more than 10 years. Though we do not sail for over 9 months from now, the cruise is 80% reserved and many of the special excursions are fully subscribed.

The first excursion that filled up was the Napa Valley Wine Train, which was surprising only because it was the most expensive of all the choices. We are investigating chartering another train for those who wish to enjoy traveling through the wine country, drinking great wine and enjoying gourmet food. Reading that description takes some of the mystery out of why the excursion sold out so quickly.

Most Expensive First Special Offer

The “Most Expensive First” syndrome for Journey of Jazz also applies to stateroom selection. The higher end staterooms were the first to go and most of the remaining inventory are Ocean View and Inside Staterooms! Amazing! Since our entire team will soon be “at sea” for a month, we decided to offer some of these staterooms at favorable prices. From now through February 25, 2025, the day we head back home or until the staterooms are fully reserved, you can use promo code ATSEA to reserve an Ocean View or Inside Stateroom at these amazing prices.

And, with the significant savings, you can afford a luxurious excursion! 

Cruise Prices are Per Person based on Double Occupancy
Reservations are Non-Commissionable 
This Offer may not be combined with any other offer or discount
Cruise Prices do not include per person Pass Through Charges

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘25.1 Hotel Reservations:
Stay with the Artists!

Still arranging your travel plans for The Smooth Jazz Cruise 25.1? Good news: We’ve managed to reserve another room block at a special rate for our guests at the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina!

And because you’re reading this, you’re one of the first to know that this is the same hotel the artists will be staying at!

We will also be offering coach transportation from the hotel to the pier on Embarkation Day. Guests may register for this service now ($30/person) by completing the transportation form. 

There are a limited number of rooms available, so make sure you book soon. Just click the button below to get started.

Jazz in NYC

In large part because of the sprawling APAP conference dedicated to performing arts presenters, early January in New York City has become a hotbed for jazz artists, professionals and fans. Three major jazz-focused events during that time bring together members of the jazz community from all over the world. And you’ll find many artists who have been associated with our cruise programs involved in each of those events.

Jazz Congress (January 8-9)

This jazz industry conference, produced by Jazz at Lincoln Center and our own Lee Mergner, features a series of panels, workshops and events, dedicated to expanding the audience for jazz. John Clayton will receive the Bruce Lundvall Visionary Award, named for the longtime jazz record executive. The life and music of Russell Malone will be celebrated in an all-star performance featuring John, Ron Carter, Diana Krall, Christian McBride, Monty Alexander, Kenny Barron, Benny Green and others. Bryan Stevenson, the founder and Executive Director of the Equal Justice Initiative, will give the keynote address. Other artists from our cruises who are participating in the conference include Dee Dee Bridgewater, Bria Skonberg, Etienne Charles and Patrice Rushen.

Unity Jazz Festival (January 10-11)

Now in its second year, this two-day jazz festival will also take place at the beautiful facilities of Jazz at Lincoln Center and will feature more than 20 performances by artists such as Sullivan Fortner, Rachael & Villray, Helen Sung and many others. Our own Emmet Cohen will host a musical celebration of one of his mentors, Tootie Heath. In addition, there will be a special all-star tribute to Roy Haynes, featuring Dee Dee Bridgewater, Dave Holland, Graham Haynes, Marcus Gilmore, Terri Lyne Carrington, John Patitucci, Dave Kikoski, Jaleel Shaw, Kenny Barron and more.

LEARN MORE

Winter JazzFest (January 9-15)

Founded in 2005 by impresario Brice Rosenbloom, this festival takes place at various venues throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn and is anchored by two “Marathon” nights on January 10 and 11. During those evenings, performances by more than 40 groups take place at 18 venues. Attendees get a pass to experience the music in pub crawl fashion with Friday night being held in Manhattan and Saturday night in Brooklyn. The lineup features a mix of established and emerging artists, with an emphasis on the more cutting-edge styles of jazz. Among the more mainstream jazz performers in the program are the Christian McBride Big Band, Orrin Evans Big Band with Lisa Fischer, Matthew Whitaker, Tyreek McDole, Melissa Aldana and JD Allen.

Signature Jazz Cruises’ Programs

THE JAZZ CRUISE ’26
Artist Lineup Now Available!

Hailed as “Jazz Heaven” by musicians and guests alike, The Jazz Cruise ’26 lineup will feature some of the most iconic musicians from the straight-ahead jazz genre. See the full lineup here. 

Guests sailing on The Jazz Cruise ’25 may reserve their current stateroom for the ’26 sailing now through Jan. 31, 2025. New guests and those not sailing in ‘25 may join the Pre-Sail now.

JOIN PRE-AIL

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THE SMOOTH JAZZ CRUISE ‘26.1 & 26.2
Reserve Your Stateroom Today!  

Both sailings for The Smooth Jazz Cruise ’25 are fully reserved and the Waitlist has more than 4,000 entrants. 
  
The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.1 & ‘26.2 are in Open Booking (anyone may reserve any available stateroom) and are over 80% reserved. Reserve your stateroom today!

BOOK NOW

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THE SMOOTH JAZZ CRUISE ‘26.3
Now in Open Booking!

For the first time in many years, The Smooth Jazz Cruise 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!

The Smooth Jazz Cruise ‘26.3 is in Open Booking! Anyone may now reserve any available stateroom. 

BOOK NOW

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BOTTI AT SEA’25 is Fully Reserved!
BOTTI AT SEA ’26 Just Announced!

Sailing from Los Angeles to Vancouver, with calls on San Francisco and Victoria, BC, Botti at Sea III (’26) is moving to the West Coast in September ’26! 

The website for the cruise will be available later this month, just before Botti at Sea II (’25) sails in February
Establish your priority for reserving a stateroom NOW by joining the Pre-Sail. 

JOIN PRE-SAIL

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CHRISTIAN MCBRIDE’S WORLD AT SEA
Open Booking Now Available!

9X GRAMMY® winner Christian McBride will host our newest Signature Jazz Cruises’ program, Christian McBride’s World at Sea! The cruise will feature legions of musicians who comprise the various ensembles that are the hallmarks of Christian’s music world AND first class comedy talent. See the full lineup here!

Open Booking has begun! Reserve your stateroom today! 

BOOK NOW

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JOURNEY OF JAZZ ’25
Excursions Available to Book Now!

In addition to a spectacular lineup of musicians, Journey of Jazz ’25 includes a brilliant offering of special excursions, events and entertainment while the ship is docked in both Victoria, BC and San Francisco, CA.
  Check out the wide range of Signature Jazz Cruises’ curated trips to Wine Country, Special Land Based Concerts and more. New opportunities are available to book now.

BOOK NOW

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HOMECOMING: THE CRUISE ’26
New Cruise Just Announced!

Join us for a celebration of HBCUs and inspired by the tradition of the Divine Nine Challenge from recent sailings of The Smooth Jazz Cruise. Our newest cruise, sailing January 15 – 20, 2026 (including MLK Day), will deliver Excellence, Education and Entertainment. 

Homecoming: The Cruise is produced in association with the National HBCU Alumni Alliance and features Babyface, Chanté Moore, Take 6 and more! The best part is that we will award over $200,000 in scholarships to deserving organizations! Establish your priority for reserving a stateroom NOW by joining the Pre-Sail.

Mug Shots of the Week

Guests on the ’24 jazz cruises received The Weekender mug, which we hope you will use with your Saturday morning coffee while you read the latest edition. Please share a picture of yourself & your mug with us so that we can include it for the 100,000+ folks who receive The Weekender each Saturday.

Tag us @thejazzcruise, @bottiatsea, @thesmoothjazzcruise, #jazzcruises and #theweekender. Email your photo to MugShot@scecruises.com.

The post OUR TAKE: 2025 is Here. We are Ready! appeared first on Signature Cruise Experiences.