odyssey cruise ship washington dc

Sightseeing and Dining Cruises

City cruises.

City Cruises (formerly known as Hornblower Cruises & Events) offers water experiences beyond compare. Choose from a variety of cruises including: dinner cruises, brunch cruises, lunch cruises, cocktail cruises, sightseeing cruises, and holiday cruises. All of the vessels are conveniently docked at The Wharf, giving you the perfect launch point to explore the nation’s capital from the water.

Odyssey Savor delicious entrees and desserts as this glass-enclosed vessel drifts by the sights—accompanied by a relaxing atmosphere and live music.

Spirit of Washington Cruises A unique mix of dining, entertainment, and views, Spirit of Washington offers offers lunch, dinner, and holiday cruises, plus a variety of themed cruises.

Elite Private Yachts Host your own event or plan an unforgettable jaunt on the Potomac by chartering one of our two private yachts. Our sleek vessels are the perfect backdrop for weddings and other special occasions.

Water Taxi   Come to The Wharf’s Transit Pier to catch a ride on the Water Taxi to Georgetown in DC, Old Town Alexandria in Virginia, or National Harbor in Maryland—and enjoy the scenic views of the nation’s capital from the Potomac. Sightseeing Cruises See the famous monuments of Washington, DC from an entirely new perspective on this narrated sightseeing cruise. You’ll travel along the Potomac River while taking in breathtaking views of the Washington monuments and famous landmarks.

Sightseeing cruises depart from Transit Pier (970 Wharf St SW). Dining cruises (all others) depart from Pier 4 ( 580 Water St SW ).

Learn about Getting to The Wharf , including metro and parking directions.

Get Your Fill at The Wharf

Fresh seafood is a given on the waterfront. But The Wharf offers more, including a wide selection of distinctive choices for food, drinks, and entertainment while you eat. Watch the chefs prepare your meal. Listen to music. Or just people-watch while you savor the flavors of The Wharf.

Do It All on the Waterfront

Whether you like to be on the Potomac or prefer the sparkling views from land, The Wharf offers ample things to do and ways to enjoy the water. Dine in one of our fabulous restaurants. Browse our shops. Or join us during one of our festivals. Take a look at our upcoming events to plan your next visit.

• United States
• Washington, D.C. Area
• District of Columbia
• Southwest Waterfront

Odyssey Cruises Washington D.C.

• Good for special occasions
• Great for scenic views

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Additional information

• Dining style Casual Elegant
• Price $50 and over
• Cuisines Dinner Cruise, American
• Hours of operation Brunch: Saturday & Sunday: 10:45am - 1:30pm Lunch: Monday - Friday: 11:15am - 2:00pm Dinner: Monday - Thursday: 6:00pm - 10:00pm Friday & Saturday: 7:00pm - 11:00pm Sunday: 5:00pm - 8:30pm
• Phone number (866) 306-2469
• Website http://www.odysseycruises.com/washington-dc
• Payment options AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
• Dress code Smart Casual
• Private party facilities Nothing compares to the dynamic, unique experience of a group event on the water. Delicious food and drinks, top entertainment and stunning views combine for an experience your guests won’t forget. From business meetings to special occasion celebrations, give your event a whole new energy.
• Private party contact Professional Event Planner: (855) 398-7088
• Location 600 Water Street Southwest, Washington, DC 20024
• Neighborhood Southwest Waterfront
• Cross street 6th Street SW
• Parking details For Odyssey parking, turn into the Gangplank Marina Lot off of Water Street. Please allow extra time to park as there is limited parking space available at Gangplank Marina. A number of nearby lots and meters offer additional convenient parking within walking distance. Additional parking charges at these areas may apply.
• Public transit From the Metro: Exit the Waterfront SEU Station. Turn Right on M ST. which turns into Maine Ave. Turn Left onto 6th. Odyssey is located at Gangplank Marina, 6th and Water Street.
• Entertainment Cruises feature our band, Chane Link, playing softer standards on our Brunch and Lunch cruises and throughout the earlier part of our Dinner cruises. During the later part of our Dinner cruises, expect a shift to more high-energy dance music. No matter when you cruise, there is something for everyone to enjoy, from Motown to disco, from 80"s ballads to swing, and from Latin to jazz standards.
• Additional Banquet, Beer, Dancing, Entertainment, Full Bar, Happy Hour, Late Night, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Shrimp Cocktail

Sriracha Cocktail Sauce. Available for an additional price

Seafood Tower

Maine Lobster | Alaskan King Crab | Jumbo Shrimp | Bay Scallop Ceviche | Sriracha Cocktail Sauce | Parsley Aioli. Avaialable for an additional price

First Course

Wedge salad.

Applewood Smoked Bacon | Sun-Dried Tomatoes | Chives & Italian Parsley | Buttermilk Ranch Dressing

Lobster Soup

Brioche Croutons | Chives

Smoked Moulard Duck Breast

Cranberry, Cherry & Caramelized Shallot Compote | Pickled Cornichons & Pearl Onions

Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes

Sweet Corn, Red Bell Pepper & Thyme Succotash | Cajun Cream Sauce

Oven Baked Atlantic Salmon Filet

Lemon Orzo with Red Onions & Sun-Dried Tomatoes | Citrus Dill Sauce

Maple & Mustard Glazed Chicken Breast

Fingerling Potatoes & Chives | Haricot Verts | Dijon Mustard Cream Sauce

Braised Beef Short Rib

Idaho Potato & Horseradish Mash | Baby Carrots | Pearl Onions & English Peas | Cabernet Sauvignon Sauce

Greek Zucchini Fritters

Lemon Orzo with Red Onions & Sun-Dried Tomatoes | Spring Onion & Cucumber Tzatziki

Filet Mignon & Lobster Tail

Truffle Potatoes | Glazed Baby Carrots | Herb Butter. Available for an additional price

Duo of Sorbet

Seasonal Sorbet | Fresh Fruit

Granny Smith Apple Parfait

Cinnamon Spiced Apples | Almond & Oat Crumble | Candied Chili Bacon

Salted Caramel Cake

Dark Chocolate Ganache | Raspberry Sauce

Odyssey Signature Warm Butter Cake

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream | Blackberry Sauce

What 10 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews.

• 3.8 Service
• 3.9 Ambience

Noise • Moderate

Dined on September 14, 2018

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Washington DC

Dined on July 10, 2018

1 person found this helpful

Dined on May 23, 2018

Dined on February 24, 2018

Dined on December 30, 2017

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Dined on September 22, 2017

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Dined on March 11, 2017

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148 reviews

Dined on January 18, 2017

Dined on January 29, 2016

How is Odyssey Cruises Washington D.C. restaurant rated?

Odyssey Cruises Washington D.C. is rated 4 stars by 10 OpenTable diners.

600 Water Street Southwest, Washington, DC 20024

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• United States
• Washington, D.C. Area
• District of Columbia
• Southwest Waterfront

Odyssey Cruises Washington D.C.

• Good for special occasions
• Great for scenic views

Not available on OpenTable

Unfortunately, this restaurant is not on the OpenTable reservation network.

If you like, we'll notify you by email if this restaurant joins.

There’s more to explore

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Additional information

• Dining style Casual Elegant
• Price $50 and over
• Cuisines Dinner Cruise, American
• Hours of Operation Dinner Mon–Thu 6:00 pm–10:00 pm Fri, Sat 7:00 am–11:00 pm Sun 5:00 pm–8:30 pm Brunch Sat, Sun 10:30 am–1:30 pm Lunch Mon–Fri 11:30 am–2:00 pm
• Phone number (866) 306-2469
• Website http://www.odysseycruises.com/washington-dc
• Payment Options AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
• Dress Code Smart Casual
• Private party facilities Nothing compares to the dynamic, unique experience of a group event on the water. Delicious food and drinks, top entertainment and stunning views combine for an experience your guests won’t forget. From business meetings to special occasion celebrations, give your event a whole new energy.
• Private party contact Professional Event Planner: (855) 398-7088
• Location 600 Water Street Southwest, Washington, DC 20024
• Neighbourhood Southwest Waterfront
• Cross Street 6th Street SW
• Parking Details For Odyssey parking, turn into the Gangplank Marina Lot off of Water Street. Please allow extra time to park as there is limited parking space available at Gangplank Marina. A number of nearby lots and meters offer additional convenient parking within walking distance. Additional parking charges at these areas may apply.
• Public Transit From the Metro: Exit the Waterfront SEU Station. Turn Right on M ST. which turns into Maine Ave. Turn Left onto 6th. Odyssey is located at Gangplank Marina, 6th and Water Street.
• Entertainment Cruises feature our band, Chane Link, playing softer standards on our Brunch and Lunch cruises and throughout the earlier part of our Dinner cruises. During the later part of our Dinner cruises, expect a shift to more high-energy dance music. No matter when you cruise, there is something for everyone to enjoy, from Motown to disco, from 80"s ballads to swing, and from Latin to jazz standards.
• Additional Banquet, Beer, Dancing, Entertainment, Full Bar, Happy Hour, Late Night, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Shrimp Cocktail

Sriracha Cocktail Sauce. Available for an additional price

Seafood Tower

Maine Lobster | Alaskan King Crab | Jumbo Shrimp | Bay Scallop Ceviche | Sriracha Cocktail Sauce | Parsley Aioli. Avaialable for an additional price

First Course

Wedge salad.

Applewood Smoked Bacon | Sun-Dried Tomatoes | Chives & Italian Parsley | Buttermilk Ranch Dressing

Lobster Soup

Brioche Croutons | Chives

Smoked Moulard Duck Breast

Cranberry, Cherry & Caramelized Shallot Compote | Pickled Cornichons & Pearl Onions

Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes

Sweet Corn, Red Bell Pepper & Thyme Succotash | Cajun Cream Sauce

Oven Baked Atlantic Salmon Filet

Lemon Orzo with Red Onions & Sun-Dried Tomatoes | Citrus Dill Sauce

Maple & Mustard Glazed Chicken Breast

Fingerling Potatoes & Chives | Haricot Verts | Dijon Mustard Cream Sauce

Braised Beef Short Rib

Idaho Potato & Horseradish Mash | Baby Carrots | Pearl Onions & English Peas | Cabernet Sauvignon Sauce

Greek Zucchini Fritters

Lemon Orzo with Red Onions & Sun-Dried Tomatoes | Spring Onion & Cucumber Tzatziki

Filet Mignon & Lobster Tail

Truffle Potatoes | Glazed Baby Carrots | Herb Butter. Available for an additional price

Duo of Sorbet

Seasonal Sorbet | Fresh Fruit

Granny Smith Apple Parfait

Cinnamon Spiced Apples | Almond & Oat Crumble | Candied Chili Bacon

Salted Caramel Cake

Dark Chocolate Ganache | Raspberry Sauce

Odyssey Signature Warm Butter Cake

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream | Blackberry Sauce

What 10 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews.

• 3.8 Service
• 3.9 Ambience

Noise • Moderate

Dined on September 14, 2018

Is this helpful?

Washington DC

Dined on July 10, 2018

1 person found this helpful

Dined on May 23, 2018

Dined on February 24, 2018

Dined on December 30, 2017

OpenTable Diner

Dined on September 22, 2017

Dined on July 14, 2017

Salt Lake City

Dined on March 11, 2017

New Orleans

148 reviews

Dined on January 18, 2017

Dined on January 29, 2016

How is Odyssey Cruises Washington D.C. restaurant rated?

Odyssey Cruises Washington D.C. is rated 4 stars by 10 OpenTable diners.

600 Water Street Southwest, Washington, DC 20024

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DC Odyssey Cruise: The most “sophisticated” brunch cruise on the Potomac

Last week, my fiancee and I celebrated 7 years of love, caring, and putting up with each other’s BS, by going on a brunch cruise around the Potomac on the critically acclaimed luxury dinner liner, The Odyssey.

Hailed for its size, luxury, and elegance, it seemed like the perfect way to mark the occasion, with panoramic views of our beloved home of Washington DC.  It also features award-winning wines, live entertainment, and an “inviting dance floor.”  It looked like the perfect way for two twenty-somethings like us to celebrate and relax, so we bought our tickets at a total cost of $160, and set out a few days later on a beautiful summer morning.

Getting on the boat, we were greeted by a wonderful and friendly staff that welcomed us with bright smiles and a congratulations on our anniversary.  (We checked the box for “celebrating anniversary” when we made the reservation.)

We were led along the elegant ship, windows wrapping from the floor all the way over the top like a greenhouse, delicate glassware and shiny silverware rest on fresh tablecloths, anointed with full table settings to give the full sense of luxury.  The buffet was in the middle, with a wide range of good breakfast foods, fresh fruit, and even a fondue fountain.

We were shown to our seats, and offered complimentary champagne and mimosas, and given our regular drink orders as well.  The food was pretty good, I got a typical array of breakfast foods (waffles, french toast, bacon, bacon, bacon, and more bacon).  All passed my inspection for taste and freshness, and were at least as good as IHOP (that’s a compliment, I really do love IHOP.  Especially after a drunk night at the club, but that’s another story…)  My fianceé’s said her food was excellent too, but I was too focused on my heaping plate of bacon to pay attention to whatever she ordered.  mmmm bacon…

We sat back and relaxed as everyone else got on.  We were probably the youngest group there, as most people were in their mid 30’s or older, but we still fit in because we were well behaved and properly dressed for the semi formal occasion.  I wore a nice casual button-up with pressed black slacks and dress shoes, my fiancee wore a lovely black dress.  We didn’t feel out-of-place at all among the families all dressed in their best Sunday attire, and the older couples in their polos, slacks, and sundresses.  It looked like things were going to be pretty cool.

Just then, a guy with a dirty tee, cargo camo shorts, and a pair of sneakers walked on.

Shortly thereafter, a woman donning her 8-inch wedges and a short dress that barely covered her ass strutted on to the ship.  Looking more like a “working girl” than a “dressy-casual” cruise patron, she boarded the ship with her date who was also inappropriately dressed for the occasion with his jeans with a white tee shirt and street shoes.

And there were a few others that failed to pass muster, but still got on anyways despite Odyssey’s supposedly strict dress code. Kinda made me feel like an asshole for dressing up nicely in long pants and proper collared shirt despite the blazing heat outside.

DRESS CODE: We recommend dressy-casual attire, such as nice slacks and collared shirts. We prefer no jeans, shorts, tank tops, halter-tops, athletic shoes or flip-flops be worn on any cruise. — Odyssey Cruises

Annoyed, we went outside to enjoy the beautiful weather and the views and smells of the Potomac.  Of course, I had forgotten just how wretched the Southwest Waterfront stank, just like rotten Lunchables.  It reminded me of my days working in a shit factory.

Still, the views were nice.  National Airport, 14th Street Bridge, The Watergate, Georgetown Waterfront and Memorial Bridge.  All the stunning views you see while sitting in traffic on Rock Creek Parkway or Ohio Drive.  And at 12mph, we were going about the same speed too.

It was all going well until the DJ opened up the dancefloor.  With all the advertisements we saw before going on the cruise telling us about the fantastic live entertainment and DJs, we were excited to see what they had to offer.

Of course, that excitement turned to epic disappointment pretty fast when his first song rang out across the ship’s speakers: The Electric Slide.  It was at that moment that I knew I had to get off.  Now.  Sadly, there was no escaping the torture as we were far from shore, floating in the middle of the Potomac where it meets the polluted Ana-toxic-a river.  Really it was a difficult choice between standing through pure acoustical torture or swimming 1/2 miles to shore through fecal matter bacteria and syringes.

The decision to abandon ship seemed even more tempting as the DJ then blasted the Cha Cha Slide, followed by the Cupid Shuffle, and capped with most awful fucking song in the history of the world– YMCA.  With no real escape from the terrible music, I felt like a prisoner at Gitmo.  Couldn’t they have just waterboarded us instead?

As the cruise finally reached port at the end of the two hour ride, we were left with mixed feelings.  Sure, the place was lovely and the service was great, but the music was dreadful and the ride was nothing impressive for a couple of young professionals like us.  Certainly not worth the $160 total price tag for a nice breakfast for two.  This is probably something my parents might enjoy.

Next time we feel like taking a breakfast cruise down the Potomac, we’ll just order IHOP carryout, rent a canoe from Jack’s Boathouse in Georgetown, and crank DJ Saam ‘s latest mix on our MP3 player as we float down the Potomac.

A Night Club Experience You'll Never Forget

DC Clubbing will make all your reservations including Nightclub Party Packages & VIP Bottle Service to the best Washington DC nightclubs.

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Indulge in a sophisticated DC lunch cruise along the Potomac River aboard the elegant Odyssey DC ship. Enjoy a chef-prepared plated lunch while taking in the views of iconic monuments from the comfort of the climate-controlled atrium deck. Soak in the DC skyline as you sip cocktails from the onboard cash bar with DJ music in the background. up to 2 hrs 1 or more people

Good To Know

• Departs from Pier 4 in The Wharf Marina. Boarding starts 30 minutes prior to cruise time.
• Due to development and construction at the District Wharf, nearby parking may be limited. Please allow time to find parking or ride the train.
• Recommended for colleagues, friends and the whole family. Kids ages two and under cruise free!
• The dress code is cocktail attire ((collared shirts, blouses, sports coats, slacks, and dresses).
• Relax indoors with an onboard cash bar and DJ entertainment or catch a breeze at the outdoor observation deck.
• Must be age 21+ with a government-issued ID to purchase cocktails, wine, and beer.
• Odyssey DC sails under the low bridges providing up-close views of the monuments.
• The boat features a climate-controlled interior deck and cruises rain, shine or snow.

Description

Odyssey Washington DC Premier Lunch Cruise Reviews

Odyssey Washington DC Premier Lunch Cruise is located at City Cruises Washington DC • Pier 4 • Washington , DC 20024

Nearby Things to Do

• Spirit of Washington DC Signature Lunch Cruise
• Washington DC Premier Brunch Cruise
• Spirit of Washington DC Dinner Cruise
• Washington DC Premier Dinner Cruise
• Smithsonian National Museum of Air & Space Tour

Nearby Hotels & Lodging

• Cambria Hotel Washington D.C. Capitol Riverfront
• Residence Inn by Marriott Washington Capitol Hill/Navy Yard
• Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Washington, DC/Downtown
• DoubleTree by Hilton Washington DC - Crystal City
• Club Quarters Hotel, Washington DC, White House

Frequently Asked Questions about Odyssey Washington DC Premier Lunch Cruise

Where does the potomac river lunch cruise depart from.

Odyssey Lunch Cruise departs from Pier 4 at 580 Water Street SW, Washington, D.C. 20024. It's located in The Wharf Marina.

Is there parking?

City Experiences does not operate any parking lots in the area. However, you'll find parking options at the garage next to Pier 4 at 607 Water Street, 1100 4th St. SW near the Waterfront subway station, and at District Wharf at 1000 Water Street SW. Fees may apply.

What's the closest train station to the pier?

The nearest station is Waterfront Metro (Greenline), just two blocks from the pier, at 399 M St. SW, Washington, DC 20024.

Are children allowed on the cruise?

Yes, absolutely. Children ages two and below cruise free! Don't forget to select a free ticket for infants to ensure admittance to Odyssey DC.

What is Odyssey DC?

Odyssey DC is an elegant one-level dining vessel featuring a glass-enclosed, climate-controlled interior deck and outdoor observation deck. It sails under the low bridges of Washington DC for up-close views of the monuments.

Is there a dress code?

Yes, the cruise requires cocktail attire: collared shirts, blouses, sports coats, slacks and dresses.

What should I bring?

Don't forget your camera or smartphone pictures and government-issued ID for guests ages 21+ planning to purchase alcoholic drinks from the onboard bar.

Can I bring a cake from outside?

Cakes brought from outside are allowed on board as long as they are covered and held at your table with only flameless/LED birthday candles. Cake-cutting fees apply.

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Washington DC Odyssey Brunch Cruise

-A two-hour cruise on the Potomac River

-a delicious sweet and savory plated brunch with freshly prepared breakfast, lunch and dessert dishes, -unlimited mimosas, coffee, hot tea, iced tea and water, -curated music via satellite radio, -the most breathtaking views of the nation's greatest landmarks including the washington monument and lincoln memorial.

580 Water St SW, Washington, DC 20024, Washington DC, 20024

Why take this tour?

A brunch cruise aboard Odyssey Washington DC is the ideal way to add enjoyment to your weekend. The relaxed, yet elegant, atmosphere makes it the perfect place to unwind. Enjoy a narrated cruise on the Potomac River as you take in sights like the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument, bathed in sunlight. The glass-enclosed Odyssey Washington DC provides incredible views from inside, or head to the observation deck along the perimeter of the ship for an equally impressive outdoor experience.

What’s included?

-2 hour brunch cruise, -guaranteed table for your party size, -coffee, tea and bottomless mimosas, -taxes and fees, -live band entertainment, -additional beverages (available for purchase), -gratuities, things to know, before you book.

-Additional beverages available to purchase

Before you go

-Valid Photo ID required

-On-board purchases only by credit card

Covid Policy

• Face masks required for travelers in public areas
• Face masks required for guides in public areas
• Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
• Social distancing enforced throughout experience
• Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
• Gear/equipment sanitized between use
• Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
• Guides required to regularly wash hands
• Regular temperature checks for staff

Guests are required to wear masks/face coverings when on board as they are interacting with others who are not members of their household. Masks not required while seated. Cloth face coverings are not required under on young children under age 2, and anyone who has trouble breathing.

Redemption information

On the day of your cruise, please check in at the ticket booth at least 45 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time. Guest should present their voucher s) and photo identification to receive boarding documents.

Operated by:

About operator:.

City Cruises, one of two sub-brands under City Experiences’ expansive portfolio of water- and land-based experience companies, operate dining, sightseeing and private events across 22 destinations in the U.S., Canada and the UK.  

Other products from this operator:

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The lower potomac the potomac estuary mount vernon to anacostia river mall area georgetown to great falls potomac piedmont upper potomac the north branch boat ramps monitoring sites bridges and ferries cruises and charters search potomac sites, also explore, odyssey cruises, washington, d.c., suggested links.

10 Top Music-Themed Cruises for 2025

U.S. News & World Report

August 22, 2024, 8:00 PM

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If you’re planning your next vacation on the high seas — and you enjoy listening to music and dancing till dawn — consider booking a music-themed cruise. These voyages offer round-the-clock music-centric activities in all types of genres for your listening and dancing pleasure — and you’ll have the chance to meet your favorite musical performers from across the decades.

The special four- to seven-night itineraries will please most music fans, covering everything from country, jazz and rock to the blues, disco and more. You’re also sure to have a rockin’ and rollin’ good time sailing on larger ships with lines like Norwegian Cruise Line , Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises . If you’re ready to get jiggy with it on your next vacation and visit sunny island destinations in the Caribbean, make reservations to join the party on one of these 10 top music-themed cruises.

Country Music Cruise: Jan. 19-26, 2025

For a boot-stomping country music party at sea, put your name on the waitlist for the January 2025 sailing of Holland America ‘s Country Music Cruise. The round-trip sailing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida , to Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico , on the 2,106-passenger (double occupancy) Nieuw Amsterdam is currently sold out, but a waitlist is available. Celebrity-hosted activities you won’t want to miss include Grand Ole Opry events, panel discussions, meet-and-greets with the performers, jam sessions and more. You can even boot scoot all night long with Texas swing, line dancing and two-stepping in the country saloon — and try your hand at Texas hold ’em poker. Featured artists on the cruise include John Michael Montgomery, Deana Carter, The Bellamy Brothers, Diamond Rio, T.G. Sheppard and many more of your country artist favorites.

ShipRocked: Jan. 19-25, 2025

If you prefer hard rock tunes to Grand Old Opry performances, then reserve your spot for Carnival Cruise Lines’ “Rock Hard and Vacation Harder” weeklong flashback at sea. The 3,690-passenger (double occupancy) Carnival Magic will be your home for the six-night sailing from Miami to St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands and Half Moon Cay — the cruise line’s private Bahamian island. Cruisers can expect dozens of concerts from well-known artists like Buckcherry, 10 Years, Goodbye June, The Ghost Inside, Austin Meade, Hollywood Undead and Parkway Drive. Themed nights, contests, games and artist-hosted activities round out the big rock music party at sea. There is also a waitlist for this voyage, but you can add your name to join in on the hard rockin’ fun in January 2025.

The Freshest 90s Party: Jan. 31-Feb. 5, 2025

Fans of ’90s music will be dancing back through the decades during this five-night cruise from Tampa on board Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Seas . The event lineup features iconic bands, such as Collective Soul, Blues Traveler, the Gin Blossoms, Everclear, Lit, Color Me Badd, Fastball, C+C Music Factory and Jesus Jones. Two MTV DJs host the voyage along with Lisa Loeb from SiriusXM’s ’90s on 9. Nonstop fun on board the 2,143-passenger (double capacity) ship includes four themed nights, so pack accordingly. You’ll want to bring a pair of baggy jeans and a Cross Colours jacket for a night of hip-hop with tunes from MC Hammer and Naughty By Nature — and save your butterfly clips and cheetah prints for the All That 90s Party. Pricing covers accommodations; included dining venues; basic beverages; the ship’s amenities; and all the performances, parties and events.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise: Feb. 11-18 and Feb. 18-25, 2025

The Smooth Jazz Cruise is available on two dates in February 2025, with each voyage featuring different itineraries. The themed event debuted in 2004 and has earned the title of “The Greatest Party at Sea.” Thanks to its popularity, both seven-night cruises on board the 2,158-passenger (double occupancy) Celebrity Summit are fully booked, but a waitlist is available. The first sailing from Fort Lauderdale calls on Key West, Turks & Caicos and Nassau, Bahamas. The second voyage stops in Puerto Plata , Dominican Republic, in lieu of Turks & Caicos. Highlights of the weeklong immersive music and cultural experience are the nightly main shows, festival-style lounge shows, a late-night club for dancing, pool events, theme parties, music seminars, culinary events, cocktail and wine parties, game shows, talent competitions and many other activities. Hosts Marcus Miller, Boney James and Alonzo Bodden head up the list of international singers, musicians and performers, which includes Brian Culbertson, Jonathan Butler, Candy Dulfer, Lee Ritenour, Patti Austin, Larry Braggs, Jazmin Ghent, DW3 and many other artists.

Ultimate Disco Cruise and Beyond: Feb. 19-24, 2025

Channel your inner John Travolta and the days of disco, party music, funk and soul during this five-night sailing from Miami to Mexico aboard the 2,394-passsenger (double occupancy) Norwegian Pearl . The impressive lineup features Kool & The Gang, The Spinners, The O’Jays, Tavares, Rose Royce, The Brothers Johnson, Lisa Lisa, Bee Gees Gold, a tribute to Donna Summer and many other artists. When you’re not getting your groove on with more than 40 live performances, you can attend panel discussions, Q&A sessions, game shows, karaoke, pool parties and more. You’ll also want to pack your bell bottoms and jumpsuits for late-night dance parties at the Club Studio 55 at sea. Pricing covers accommodations, all included meals, basic beverages, port fees and taxes, gratuities, the ship’s amenities and all events hosted by the production company. The 2025 cruise was so popular it is sold out, but there is a waitlist available.

Cayamo: Feb. 28-March 7, 2025

Cayamo’s 17th edition of “Journey Through Song” features an eclectic group of headliners, such as Jeff Tweedy, Emmylou Harris, Grace Potter, Ani DiFranco, Lucius and Nickel Creek. The sold-out event celebrates musical collaboration, creativity and discovery with live performances, community jams, open mic sessions, solo traveler meetups and more. The 2,344-passenger (double capacity) Norwegian Gem ‘s seven-night itinerary for the cruise includes stops in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, and St. John’s, Antigua , as well as four days at sea. The “First Available Program” is Cayamo’s alternative to a waitlist. Interested travelers can check back each week on Fridays at 11 a.m. EST to see if any rooms have been released for the sailing.

The 80s Cruise: March 2-9, 2025

Set sail with as many as 3,286 other ’80s music fans in March 2025 for The 80s Cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s Explorer of the Seas . This ultimate, all-inclusive seven-night nonstop party departs round-trip from Miami for three days at sea and three Caribbean ports of call — and is hosted by your favorite DJs from MTV: Downtown Julie Brown, Alan Hunter and Mark Goodman. Be sure to pack your wide-leg jeans, jackets with shoulder pads, sequined skirts and platform shoes to dance the night away listening to the sounds of Australian rock band Men at Work, British new wave singer Adam Ant, American musical performer Sheila E., the electronic sounds of Information Society and many more familiar ’80s icons. Four theme parties round out the weeklong musical odyssey with the New Orleans -inspired Fat Tuesday Prom night (bring your Mardi Gras mask) and a martini- and daiquiri-filled evening of “Miami Vice” vs. “The Golden Girls.” All-inclusive fares cover accommodations, included dining options (not specialty restaurants), a deluxe beverage package, all performances and events, the ship’s recreation facilities, and other amenities.

70s Rock & Romance Cruise: March 15-22, 2025

If you’re ready to boogie to the beat of disco and rock ‘n’ roll, you’ll need to put your name on the waitlist for the 2025 sailing of the 70s Rock & Romance Cruise. The eighth sailing of this popular cruise on Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Summit is currently sold out, thanks to more than 50 performances by Grammy Award-winning artists, celebrity-hosted events and nightly themed pool parties. The exciting lineup for this seven-night round-trip voyage from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, includes legendary bands, such as Kansas, Jefferson Starship, Atlanta Rhythm Section and Rare Earth. If your waitlist clears, you’ll also enjoy the music of Melissa Manchester, Al Stewart, Pure Prairie League and other great blasts from the past.

Keeping the Blues Alive at Sea X: March 21-26, 2025

Celebrate the 10th anniversary of Keeping the Blues Alive at Sea on this five-night round-trip sailing from Miami to Costa Maya, Mexico, and Harvest Caye, Belize, aboard the Norwegian Gem. The themed voyage, hosted by Keeping the Blues Alive Foundation founder Joe Bonamassa, benefits musicians, teachers and students — and features full days and evenings of live musical performances. The lineup for the cruise includes Big Head Todd and the Monsters, Larkin Poe, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Samantha Fish, Eric Gales, Robert Jon & the Wreck and more. Cruise fares cover accommodations, Norwegian Gem’s amenities, included meals (at the main dining room, casual restaurants and the buffet), basic beverages and all performances.

The Broadway Cruise 3: March 31-April 4, 2025

Norwegian Gem will be host to all things Broadway for four nights beginning March 31, 2025. Guests on board this music-themed sailing will enjoy live performances by Tony- and Emmy-nominated and award-winning stars, including Shoshana Bean, Wayne Brady, Alex Brightman, Laura Benanti and Corey Cott. The round-trip voyage from Miami has just one day in port at Cozumel, so there’s plenty of time on board to listen to musical scores and show tunes and participate in Broadway-inspired karaoke, dance classes, dance parties, sing-along movies, themed nights, autograph experiences and much more. You’ll want to book the Stardust Package (instead of the Basic Package) if you want confirmed seating for the three ticketed shows in the Stardust Theater, which welcomes just 850 audience members — smaller than most Broadway theaters in New York. Pricing for both packages covers accommodations, included meals, basic beverages, shows and onboard experiences, the ship’s facilities, and other amenities.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on the Mississippi River, traditional masted sailing yachts, an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia, and a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica, crossing the notorious Drake Passage twice. She used her extensive knowledge of the cruise industry, appreciation for great music and research to write this article. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

— The Best Themed Cruises

— The Best Party Cruises

— The Best Gay Cruises

— The Best Christmas Cruises

— The Best Cruise Insurance

More from U.S. News

The 18 Best Themed Cruises for 2024 and 2025

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The 9 Best Gay Cruises for 2024 (+ Planning Tips)

10 Top Music-Themed Cruises for 2025 originally appeared on usnews.com

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