soul train cruise itinerary

• The Soul Train Cruise

THE SOUL TRAIN CRUISE 2025

• Black Cruise Events Calendar 2024 - 2025
• Cruise For Less Than $200.00
• The Grown And Sexy Cruise
• Tom Joyner Fantastic Cruise
• The Smooth Jazz Cruise
• Super Bowl Cruise
• Aventura Latin Dance Cruises
• Capital Super Cruise
• Festival At Sea Cruise
• The Blues Cruise
• Jamrock Reggae Cruise
• Blacks Over 40 Cruise
• Black Singles Cruise
• The Groove Cruise
• Travel Passports
• The Jazz Cruise
• Urban Cruise Weekend
• Dave Koz Cruise At Sea
• The Old School Cruise
• Crab And Cruise
• Rock The Bells Cruise
• Days Of Summer Cruise
• New Year's Eve Cruise
• Black History Cruise
• Melanin At Sea
• Super Legends Cruise
• Huddle On The Sea
• Love And Harmony Cruise
• The Vibe Cruise
• 1980s And 1990s Old School Cruise
• UberSoca Cruise
• The Steppers Cruise
• Black Boaters Bimini Bash
• Grown And Sexy Group Cruise
• Sistahood At Sea Cruise
• The Girlfriends Cruise
• Feteopia Cruise
• Caribbean Fest At Sea
• Botti At Sea
• Wave Jam Cruise
• Soca On The Seas
• Mr. Smooth Cruise
• Mature Black Men Cruise
• Black Yacht Weekend
• Past Cruise Events
• House Heads At Sea
• One Love Afro Beats Cruise

Soul Train Cruise

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Soul Train is one of the most well-known, recognized and trusted brands in African American Entertainment. The Soul Train Cruise continues that tradition, with the best R&B entertainment experience in themed cruising. And of course it wouldn’t be complete without honoring the incredible legacy of Soul Train creator, Don Cornelius. Fans get to relive their favorite moments and create new memories as they dance down the Soul Train Line with original Soul Train Dancers at Club Soul Train each night, see artists during the nightly performances, attend Q&As, partake in meet and greets and nightly themed parties. Guests laugh until they cry at the Soul Train Cruise Comedy Club and raise the roof in Gospel Hour.  Cruisers also run into their favorite artists all week long. Unparalleled access to the superstar artists of R&B all day and all night…the party never stops.

Just a few of the many superstar artists who have sailed with us include Smokey Robinson, Earth Wind & Fire, The O’Jays, Gladys Knight, Patti LaBelle, Chaka Khan, Kool & The Gang, CHIC featuring Nile Rodgers, The Isley Brothers, Charlie Wilson, Frankie Beverly & Maze, Roberta Flack and more !

For more information visit http://soultraincruise.com

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• Malt Shop Memories Cruise OCT 27-NOV 3, 2024
• The Big Easy Cruise January 5-12, 2025
• Ultimate Disco Cruise FEBRUARY 19-24, 2025
• Sandy Beaches Cruise JANUARY 12-19, 2025
• The Country Music Cruise JANUARY 19-26, 2025
• Soul Train Cruise JAN 26-FEB 2, 2025
• '70s Rock & Romance Cruise  MARCH 15-22, 2025
• Flower Power Cruise MARCH 22 - 29, 2025
• Southern Rock Cruise Not Scheduled
• Abbey Road on The River MAY 23-27, 2024  

Our Promise

StarVista LIVE promises to provide you with a unique entertainment experience, bringing you together with a community of like-minded enthusiasts to relive favorite moments, create new memories, and enjoy unparalleled access to the superstars you love. 

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2025 CRUISE INFO COMING SOON

 Call (214)495-1963  to make your deposit for your 2025 cabin!

FV2024 Performers

Earth, Wind & Fire

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Earth, Wind & Fire  is an American R&B and disco band formed in Chicago, Illinois, in 1969 by Verdine and Maurice White. Also known as  EWF , the band has won six Grammy Awards and four American Music Awards. They have been inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Vocal Group Hall of Fame.  Rolling Stone  has described them as “innovative, precise yet sensual, calculated yet galvanizing” and has also declared that the band “changed the sound of black pop”. In 1998, they were ranked at number 60 on VH1’s list of the  100 Greatest Artists of Rock N’ Roll .

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 Chaka Khan is the latest woman to be inducted into the coveted Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s Class of 2023. She is a global music star that has served as an inspiration for generations of singers, songwriters, recording artists, storytellers, and musicians. 

Aside from being a singer, she is a distinguished songwriter, producer, visual artist, author, actress, humanitarian, activist, and mother. 

While her birth certificate may say Yvette Marie Stevens, in many ways, Chaka Khan is one of a kind. 

She is a trendsetter, a fighter, and a survivor. She redefined pop, soul, jazz, and funk, and has helped mold the contemporary music landscape into what it is today. 

Although Chaka has affectionately been referred to as the “Queen of Funk” and is also known as the “Empress of Funk, Rock and Soul,” she prefers to ditch the genre limiting monikers. After all, she has the rare ability to sing in eight different music genres, these include R&B/soul, pop, rock, gospel, country, world music, dance, and classical music. 

Chaka has developed a vast and loyal international fan base, and she has performed in six continents. 

Humble beginnings 

She grew up in Chicago, Illinois, and she was the eldest of four siblings. In her teenage years, Chaka and her sister, Bonnie, formed a vocal group, The Crystalettes, with two school friends. 

Chaka subsequently sang with several local bands before she became the lead singer for the band Ask Rufus, which would become Rufus, a group that would churn out hit after hit. 

She learned to trust her heart and instincts and follow her dreams from an early age. She caught the attention of Stevie Wonder, who wrote Rufus’ debut single “Tell Me Something Good.” 

This song earned Chaka and Rufus their first Grammy Award in the “Best R&B Vocal Performance by A Duo, Group or Chorus” category; moreover, it became a Top 5 hit single on the Billboard Hot 100 charts and the Billboard R&B songs charts. 

Rufus entertained audiences with sold-out concerts, and their smash hits include the ubiquitous “Ain’t Nobody,” “Once You Get Started,” “Sweet Thing,” “Do You Love What You Feel,” and “You Got the Love,” which was co-penned by Chaka and Ray Parker Jr. 

A Landmark Year 

2023 is a landmark year for Chaka. She celebrates her 50th anniversary in the music business, as well as her 70th birthday. 

An induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, class of 2023, solidifies her legacy as a musical powerhouse. With the once-in-a-lifetime performance at the ceremony, a dynamic medley of hits alongside H.E.R., Common, and Sia, stands as a testament to her generational influence within popular culture. She was bestowed the “Musical Excellence Award.” The prestigious acknowledgement recognizes artists, musicians, songwriters, and producers whose originality and influence have made an impact. 

“The Musical Excellence Award means a lot to me,” she said. “This meant even more to me than getting in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, especially just to have the words ‘musical excellence’ attached to my name.” 

Earlier this spring, on March 29, 2023, Chaka made a special appearance at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, as part of “Women’s History Month,” where she celebrated her golden anniversary in the music industry, and her 70th birthday. Five of her outfits from her music career are displayed in the “Legends of Rock” exhibit. 

For over five decades, Chaka has remained relevant as one of the mightiest and most influential voices in modern music. Her artistic work has stood the test of time, and it continues to inspire fellow recording artists, musicians, and fans alike. 

Chaka possesses a voice of seductive fire and sweet smoke. At the age of 18, she came to prominence with the innovative multiracial funk and rock group Rufus. Back in the 1970s, Chaka was the group’s secret weapon, and she was both fearless and feminine. 

Rufus is credited for being “funky, sexy and soul,” and they subsequently “made an indelible mark on a generation of music.” 

‘I’m Every Woman’ and other solo hits 

“I’m Every Woman” was her debut single from her solo album “Chaka,” which she released in 1978. It was Khan’s first hit outside of her recordings with the group Rufus. Her signature song “I’m Every Woman” is more than just a hit single and Grammy-nominated tune, it’s a lifestyle filled with positivity. 

As a solo recording artist, her other hits include “Clouds,” “What Cha’ Gonna Do for Me,” “Through the Fire” and “I Feel For You,” all of which have become pop, R&B/soul, and adult contemporary classics in their own right. 

Speaking of “I Feel For You,” which was written by Prince, it was her rendition that catapulted her to the stratosphere. It was one of the most popular songs of the ‘80s, and it made history by becoming the first R&B tune to feature a rap vocal (performed by Grandmaster Melle Mel). 

She also lent her powerhouse vocals on two of the biggest Grammy-winning songs of 1986: Steve Winwood’s “Higher Love” and Robert Palmer’s “Addicted to Love.” 

Chaka: The frequent collaborator 

Aside from being one of the world’s most distinctive artists, she is known as a perennial musical explorer and song stylist. She has collaborated with such 

diverse artists as Prince, Joni Mitchell, Stevie Wonder, Mary J. Blige, and Ariana Grande to George Benson, Dizzy Gillespie, Quincy Jones, and Miles Davis. 

Her collaborative spirit has birthed so many musical gems. One that has become a musical trivia topic is that in 1999 Chaka’s voice became the voice for the theme song of the children’s television show “Reading Rainbow.” 

Chaka has also collaborated on countless film soundtracks over the years including “Love Me Still” from Spike Lee’s film, Clockers , “My Funny Valentine” on the Waiting to Exhale soundtrack, “Missing You,” from the Set It Off soundtrack, and her Grammy Award winning performance of the Marvin Gaye classic, “What’s Goin’ On,” from the documentary film Standing in the Shadows of Motown . 

Chaka: The stage and theater performer 

In 1995, Chaka made her theater debut on London’s iconic West End, where she starred in “Mama I Want to Sing.” 

Seven years later, in 2002, she headlined “Signed, Sealed Delivered,” the musical based on the music and lyrics of Stevie Wonder. Then, in 2008, she made her way to Broadway, where she stepped into the leading role of Sophia in Oprah Winfrey’s Tony-nominated musical “The Color Purple.” 

10-time Grammy Winner 

With music and streaming sales in excess of 100 million units, Chaka’s mantel holds 10 Grammy Awards (and she has been nominated 22 times, three of which were as a band member of Rufus), and she is consistently listed as a musical influence for generations of young artists, especially women. 

“It is lovely to be recognized by your peers, where they think you are doing a good enough job that you deserve a Grammy. It would be nice, however, if that would affect my pay grade,” Chaka said with a sweet laugh. 

Influences 

One of her biggest musical influences, the late but great Aretha Franklin proclaimed Chaka as a “premier vocalist.” Another one of her greatest musical inspirations, Miles Davis, paid her what she considers to be a huge compliment when he acknowledged that “she sings like my horn.” 

Chaka was also inspired by the legend ary Sarah Vaughan, as well as folk rock star Joni Mitchell and R&B/soul pioneer St evie Wonder. 

Modern artists such as Mary J. Blige, Erykah Badu, Janelle Monae, Lizzo, and Sam Smith have all cited Chaka as a musical influence. 

An eclectic discography 

In her respected and prolific career, Chaka has released 22 studio albums, 10 of which were certified gold and platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). 10 of her singles have catapulted to the top spot on the Billboard charts. 

Her recorded music has produced well over 2,000 catalog song placements. 

Her latest single “Woman Like Me” was released in July of 2022, and it raises awareness on self-respect for all women and encourages them to live in their own truths. 

“Life inspires my music. Love, breakups, and almost everything in life,” she said about her music and songwriting inspirations. 

The entrepreneur 

Aside from being an entertainer, she is also an entrepreneur. She is known for “Chakalates,” her gourmet chocolates, which she launched in 2004, as well as Khana Sutra, a fragrance collection, which includes candles, as well as room and linen sprays. 

The Chaka Khan Foundation 

In 1999, she founded the Chaka Khan Foundation, whose mission is to educate, inspire, and empower women and children to reach their full potential. 

It featured a variety of educational programs and initiatives to help women and children at risk, especially children with difficult backgrounds and autism. 

She is now relaunching her foundation and focusing initiatives on mental health and wellbeing. 

With this foundation, she is able to make a huge difference, and help people, especially children, on a higher scale. She is a firm believer that “the arts, music, and mental health are all very important, especially for our youth.” 

In return, Chaka feels that “giving is better than receiving,” so she is happiest when she is doing something for somebody else. 

Chaka: The bestselling author 

Chaka’s life story and her music career was profiled in her autobiography “Through the Fire,” which was published in 2003 via Rodale Books. 

Her memoir “Through the Fire” is a candid account of the trials and tribulations she went through in her life and music career. She is not afraid to be raw and vulnerable and opens up about her substance abuse, where she offers optimism and encouragement for her fans and readers. She refers to “walking through life” as a metaphor of “walking through the fire” accordingly. 

Dr. Chaka Khan: Honorary Doctorate Recipient 

In December of 2004, Chaka was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Music from the Berklee College of Music in Boston for her services and accomplishments in contemporary music and for her philanthropy. 

“A lot of kids get sidetracked and feel like they should put on some booty shorts, and do the song, and that’s sad. That’s one of the things that bothers me and makes me sad about this business. I always also remind kids to go to college because they are always hiring at the post office, and somebody has to work the computers,” she told young and aspiring artists. 

Chaka’s Awards and Accolades 

Chaka has been the recipient of countless well-deserved accolades and awards. Notable acheivements include a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, an induction into the Hollywood Bowl Hall of Fame, the Soul Train Legend Award, the BET Lifetime Achievement Award and Triumph Award, the World Music Lifetime Achievement Award, the United Negro College Fund’s “An Evening of Stars” Tribute, and a Grammy Honors Award from the NARAS Chicago Chapter. 

Her Chicago hometown also honored her with “Chaka Khan Way,” a street in her name, and Sunday, July 28, 2013, was officially declared “Chaka Khan Day.” 

Personal life 

Chaka has lived for a time in both London and Germany, as well as New York. She now resides in California. She is the mother of two children, daughter Indira Milini and son Damien Holland. 

Chaka is a true renaissance woman who can use her music and her book as a vessel to help spread her radio energy and indomitable spirit with the rest of the globe. 

“Thank you for hanging in there with me for all these years. I hope I brought somebody some joy, some truth, and some love,” she told her dedicated fans. 

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Bobby Brown

Bobby Brown, born in Boston in 1969, is an iconic American singer, actor, and former member of the R&B group New Edition. He shot to solo stardom with his 1988 album “Don’t Be Cruel,” featuring chart-topping hits like “My Prerogative” and “Every Little Step,” and left an indelible mark on the music world by blending R&B with hip-hop, pop, and funk. Beyond music, he ventured into acting and garnered media attention for his high-profile marriage to Whitney Houston. Brown’s enduring influence on contemporary R&B solidifies his status as a beloved and influential figure in the music industry.

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Durrell Artaze Babbs, known by his stage name Tank, is a highly influential R&B singer and songwriter hailing from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Born on January 1, 1976, Tank has solidified his status as a prominent figure in the realm of contemporary R&B. With his soulful and emotionally charged vocals, he has cultivated a dedicated fan base and garnered critical acclaim. Beginning his music career in the late 1990s, Tank has consistently delivered a series of chart-topping albums and hit singles, including tracks like “Maybe I Deserve,” “Please Don’t Go,” and “When We.” Renowned for his unique ability to seamlessly fuse smooth, seductive melodies with heartfelt lyrics, Tank remains a respected and enduring presence in the world of R&B, continuously shaping the genre with his distinctive voice and artistic versatility.

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Jeffrey Bruce Atkins  (born February 29, 1976) a leap year child, better known by his stage name  Ja Rule , is an American rapper. Born and raised in Hollis Queens. Atkins began his rap career in 1994 with the hip hop group Cash Money Click alongside members Chris Black and O-1. He took the stage name “Ja Rule”. Together they worked with DJ Irv to produce a number of songs, releasing their debut single  “ Get Tha Fortune “  independently in 1994. In 1998 he wrote a single which was picked up and recorded with Jay- Z “ Can I Get A ” which was featured on the Rush Hour Soundtrack.

Ja Rule has received many accolades for his musical endeavors – 2002 he received the BET Award for Best Male Hip-Hop Artist – from GQ he won the Musician of the Year – MTV Best Hip-Hop Video – NAACP Image Awards, he won for Best Rap/Hip-Hop Artist. As an artist, he has always been generous and has many respective collaborators most notable Ashanti, Jennifer Lopez, Mary J Blige, Jay-z, DMX, R. Kelly, Bobby Brown, Missy Elliot, Christina Milian, Charli Baltimore, Black Child, Caddilac Tah Murda, Lil Mo, Vita and Case to name a few.  

Following the release of his debut album “ Venni Vetti Vecci ” (1999), and its lead single “ Holla Holla ”, the album was Certified Platinum July 1999. He released his respective second album “ Rule 3:36 ” (2000), the album was a commercial success, selling 276,000 copies during its first week of release and debuting at number one on the Billboard 200. Kicking off chart topping hits “ Between Me and You ”, “ Put It On Me “and “ I Cry ”. He followed this with a couple of singles with Jennifer Lopez “ I’m Real ” – “ I’m Real – Murder Remix ” and “ Ain’t That Funny “ all of which placed in Billboard top 20. His 3 rd released album came right behind this successful movement in October 2001 titled “ Pain Is Love ” on this album he delivered “ Living It Up ”, “ Down Ass Chick ” and the Billboard No 1 hit “ Always On Time ”. Both albums topped the US  Billboard  200 album chart, launching him into the mainstream, selling over a combined 15 million units to a worldwide audience. Ja Rule followed up with his respective fourth, fifth and sixth albums “ The Last Temptation”  (2002), “ Blood in My Eye”  (2003), and “ R.U.L.E ”.  (2004), with “ The Last Temptation”  attaining platinum status and “ R.U.L.E. “ reaching gold status. As of 2018, Ja Rule has sold 14.4 million units in the US and has sold over 30 million records worldwide.

In between his very successful music career he was able to work on 4 Movie Soundtracks and about 20 movies. Most Notable “Fast and the Furious”, “Cookout”, “Scary Movie”, “Assault on Precinct 13”, “Cookout 2” and “I’m In Love with a Church Girl” to name a few as well as many TV shows Most notable “Follow the Rules” and “Growing up Hip Hop – New York”,  

In 2023, Ja Rule is the curator of the Iconic Vibes concert series, which celebrates the legendary Rappers in a signature one night only live band performance, which can be viewed on his https://iconn.live/ or in your App store. He is involved in bringing his Roses Wines to consumers and is instrumental in the creative for other products in development currently, Ja Rule is an Innovative Creative Entertainer whom we most certainly have not heard everything from yet.    

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Kirk Franklin

With a celebrated career spanning 30 years, Kirk Franklin continues to make a profound mark on the music industry. The eclectic 19-time GRAMMY Award-winning artist, songwriter, music producer, and television and film producer has successfully bridged the gap between gospel, R&B, hip-hop, and pop as he continues to take his career and craft to new levels. It’s no doubt that Franklin’s God-given talent and deep faith have helped him remain the influential, relevant, and visionary he is today.

Franklin is back with his 14 th and most personal and reflective studio album yet, titled Father’s Day. The album, slated to be released in early October from his RCA-distributed label, Fo Yo Soul Recordings, is a collection of 10 inspirational, beautifully curated tracks (all written by Franklin) with the constant theme of love, faith, and resilience flowing through them. Father’s Day will be accompanied by a short film that will be released a few days before the album and provide a deeper context to what Father’s Day means for Franklin.

Making the album wasn’t exactly easy for the artist. While creating Father’s Day , the man Franklin grew up thinking was his father (whom he didn’t have the best relationship with) passed away, and shortly after that, he discovered his real biological father after a series of DNA tests. This was one of the most traumatic experiences Franklin had to go through, and someone else in the same position might have faltered. But for Franklin, who had his fair share of ups and downs throughout his life, his music and heavenly father God helped him get through this latest storm and also helped him come up with the name of the album. “I have no idea how I was able to finish this album with all that was going on at the time. But I know that I would have been in an even worse troubling state if I wasn’t working on it. Father’s Day gave me an escape and an emotional outlet,” he admits.

The lead single, “All Things,” released in May 2023 with an official video, is a bold, upbeat, soul-stirring track that is a reminder that God is what makes everything and all things possible. The second single, “Try Love,” which will be released in late August, is an uplifting song with a rousing chorus that goes: “ This is your day love/This is the day that you can’t give away love/ I’ve been waiting all day love/Waiting for your embrace love,” before switching gears midway into a funky R&B throwback. “Needs” is an authentic, comforting gospel ballad that delves into the need of God in one’s life. Gospel royalty such as Chandler Moore, Tori Kelly, Jonathan McReynolds, and Jekalyn Carr join Franklin on the exhilarating track “Again,” while Kelontae Gavin and Maranda Curtis lend their vocals to its sequel “Again & Again,” with both songs rejoicing in how no matter what, God will continuously move mountains for you. Franklin closes out the album with “Somebody’s Son” a deeply moving and touching song where he candidly expresses the heartbreak and pain he’s felt throughout his life (especially most recently) due      to the familial trauma he’s endured.

Franklin hopes the album resonates with people and gives them permission to accept the highs and lows of life while still understanding that God is always there for them. “For many people, the image of God is Him always keeping score of their wrongdoings. So there’s some fear when it comes to their relationship with God,” he says. “I hope this album is a stripped-down, honest conversation about the difficulty of the life journey and how life can be messy, nuanced, and a matter of trial and error even for those who subscribe to faith. But it’s all wrapped in a bow of love, and that love doesn’t always make sense, but is always constant.”

Since bursting onto the scene in 1993 with the release of his critically acclaimed debut album Kirk Franklin & The Family, Franklin has blessed the world with hit after hit, a bevy of award-winning, lauded albums (in addition to multiple GRAMMYs, he has garnered nearly 40 Stellar Awards and is a 22-time Dove Award winner), and a plethora of epic collaborations with artists such as Mariah Carey, Lil’ Baby, Chance the Rapper, Justin Timberlake, Justin Bieber, Demi Lovato, Khalid, and Michael Jackson. His most recent album, Kingdom Book One (Tribl Records, Fo Yo Soul Entertainment, and RCA Inspiration), a live, collaboration album with the gospel group Maverick City Music, was recorded at the Everglades Correctional Institution in Miami-Dade, Florida, to raise awareness on the injustice of mass incarceration and debuted at number two on Billboard’s Top Christian Albums chart and the Top Gospel Albums chart. The album also received three GRAMMY Awards, a BET Award, and NAACP Image Award. In March 2023, Franklin made history by spending 100 weeks at No. 1 on Billboard’s Gospel Songwriters Chart and becoming the first person to reach the 100-week milestone on a songwriters chart.

In addition to his music awards and accolades, Franklin’s 2022 tour with Maverick City Music broke records as one of the highest-grossing tours in the history of gospel and Christian contemporary music. This fall, Franklin will hit the road again with The Reunion Tour, which will feature Israel Houghton, David and Tamela Mann, Tye Tribbett, and The Clark Sisters, and kick off in Boston with stops in 29 cities across the country.

Making hit records and selling out concerts isn’t the only thing Franklin has mastered. He has served as an executive producer for two popular holiday films such as Kirk Franklin’s The Night Before Christmas in 2022 and Kirk Franklin’s A Gospel Christmas in 2021 and also served as an executive producer for the BET+ television series “Kingdom Business” in 2022, which was renewed for a second season. In addition to that, Franklin and his wife, Tammy Franklin, premiered their new dating series “The One,” on TV One this past May and served as co-hosts and executive producers. Franklin is now shopping a few more projects around and plans to continue working on unscripted and scripted programming. “I’ve been very excited about being part of these projects,” says Franklin. “I still enjoy doing music, but I’m very grateful to be used by God to bring his name to the conversation and use the vehicle of entertainment to do it.”

For Kirk Franklin, his iconic songs, unforgettable verses, and undeniable showmanship have made him the star and household name he is. Still, he remains humble and extremely grateful to be blessed to share his passion for music with the world. Right now he is in the healing process, and the music gives him the strength to persevere. And yes, the past several months have been a trying time for the renowned artist, but at the same time he is excited about the release of Father’s Day . “The Lord has been super kind to me. This album is an opportunity for me to escape and an opportunity to communicate what I may not always emotionally be able to say,” he says. “This album has been a lifesaver God has blessed me with, and I am truly grateful.”

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Method Man & Redman

Method Man & Redman (also referred to as Meth & Red, Red & Mef, John Blaze and Funk Doc or Funk Doctor Spock and Johnny Blaze) are an American hip hop duo, composed of East Coast rappers Method Man (of Wu-Tang Clan) and Redman (of Def Squad). They are signed to Def Jam Recordings both as solo artists and as a duo.

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Ashanti is a GRAMMY® Award-winning singer/songwriter, actor and author, who burst onto the music scene with her smash hit, self-titled debut album Ashanti. The album landed the #1 spot on both the Billboard Top 200 and R&B album charts, selling a whopping 504,593 units in its first week and set a SoundScan record as the most albums sold by any debut female artist in the chart’s history, granting her a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records, which she still holds today. Ashanti has released six studio albums and received eight Billboard Awards, a GRAMMY, two American Music Awards, two Soul Train Awards, six ASCAP Awards, and many more awards and illustrious honors. Ashanti has continued to reign at the top as one of Billboard’s “Top Females of the Decade from 2000-2010” and continues to break Billboard records as having a Hot 100 entry in the 2000’s, 2010’s and 2020’s.

In 2005, Ashanti made her telefilm debut starring as Dorothy in The Muppets’ Wizard of Oz , opposite Miss Piggy and Kermit. She also starred in the Disney animated series The Proud Family and continued to receive roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Army Wives , Sabrina, the Teenage Witch , and portrayed Dionne Warwick on NBC’s American Dreams . She has also played herself and performed on the hit TV series, Vegas .

In her feature film debut in Coach Carter , Ashanti co-starred with Samuel L. Jackson, and the film was a #1 box office hit. Ashanti’s other film credits include Resident Evil Extinction, John Tucker Must Die and Bollywood film Bride & Prejudice . Ashanti executive produced, starred in the musical drama and feature film STUCK , released April 2019. She also executive produced the feature film Mothers and Daughters , starring Sharon Stone, Susan Sarandon, Mira Sorvino and more.

Ashanti recently starred in Honey Girls , in partnership with Build-A-Bear Entertainment and Sony Pictures’ rom-com The Plus One , that she will Executive Produce and star in, alongside Cedric the Entertainer, released September 29, 2023. Ashanti will also star in No Address , a film about a group of people that are experiencing homelessness and realize they must bond together as a family if they are going to survive, to be released in 2024.

Ashanti has built her brand with several major partnerships and has her own fragrance, “Precious Jewel” with AMC Beauty, American Express, Shea Moisture and Ciroc, to name a few. Her endorsements include Herbal Essences , where she is the first African American to land a national campaign, and Candies Apparel . She launched her clothing line in collaboration with Miss Circle and partnered with Pretty Little Thing to create her own swimsuit line “Ashanti.”

She has written her first book of poetry through Hyperion titled Foolish/Unfoolish: Reflections on Love and released her first children’s book, My Name Is A Story , with Harper Collins on July 12, 2022. My Name Is A Story was voted, “2023 Best Children’s Book” by the African American Literary Awards.

To celebrate her contributions to music and recording, Ashanti received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on April 7, 2022.

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FV24 CRUISE PHOTOS

*All itineraries, dates and times, vessel, ports, artists, performers, appearances, locations, etc. are subject to change without notice.

**Consult with your accountant or preparer regarding the tax-deductible donation.

7 Night Soul Train Cruise

Find out how crowded are ports - cruise ship traffic during this voyage. Click on each port for more details.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Half Moon Cay, Bahamas

Soul Train Cruise 2024

Fort Lauderdale – Tortola – St. Maarten

January 27 – February 3, 2024

Boys II Men - The Temptations - Stephanie Mills - Rolls Royce - En Vogue - Melba Moore & More!

What's included.

• All musical performances – All musical entertainment presented on the cruise is included. Enjoy over 50 LIVE performances from classic soul, funk, and R&B legends!
• Themed Events – Join us for artist-led events and themed activities including wine tasting, gospel hour, gameshows, women’s seminar, renewal of vows ceremony, T-shirt Party at the Pool, All Access Pass LIVE interviews, Contests, Dance Class with the Soul Train  Dancers, Costume Parties, and many more!
• All Meals – All meals served on the ship (except for meals at the specialty restaurants) are included in your reservation, including 24 hour room service*.  All breakfasts and dinners and some lunches are served in both formal and casual restaurants. 
• WonderList will provide transportation from hotel in Fort Lauderdale to the port

What's NOT Included

• Specialty Dining Restaurants  – Reservations recommended at the specialty dining restaurants: The Pinnacle Grill, Tamarind and Canaletto.
• Bottled Beverages  – The ship provides coffee, water, tea, fruit juice, lemonade and other drinks as part of the offerings, however bottled beverages, such as soda, various water drinks and energy drinks are available on the ship for purchase only, as are all alcoholic beverages including beer, wine, mixed drinks, etc. Special packages for the purchase of non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages are always available.
• Onboard Purchases  – Items purchased in the gift shops will be charged to your onboard account as well.
• Onboard Services  – Excursions, spa services, internet services and other similar services are also subject to additional costs and charges.
• Airfare to/from Fort Lauderdale

2025 The Big Easy Cruise

PRODUCED BY STARVISTA LIVE

JANUARY 5-12, 2025 | FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – KEY WEST – BELIZE CITY – COZUMEL

• Cruise Itinerary
• Early Interest List

Laissez le bon temps rouler

(Let the good times roll)

On board the

2025 big easy cruise, make pre-reservations to be onboard early because availability may not last long get ready, get set., the big easy cruise is returning in 2025.

Cabin sales for 2025 open to the public on Tuesday, November 21st. Zydeco!

Enjoy Celebrity-Hosted Activities!

So much more than just a concert, you will have the opportunity to meet and interact with the artists onboard at events including:

• Cooking demonstrations
• Artist-hosted wine tasting
• Panel discussions
• Artist Q&A Sessions

Bons Temps et Bons Amis!

Soak up the music, the food, and the good vibes on this New Orleans music festival at sea!

• Round-the-clock concerts & entertainment
• Interactive events with the artists
• New Orleans themed special events
• Exciting ports of call
• 7 nights of luxury on the highly rated  Nieuw Amsterdam
• Sail with other music fans like you

Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue

The Allman Betts Band

Anders Osborne

The Soul Rebels

Marcia Ball

Jon Cleary & The Absolute Monster Gentlemen

Blind Boys of Alabama

Louisiana’s LeRoux

Bender Brass Band

John Boutté

Minx Burlesque

Johnny Sansone

Dwayne Dopsie and the Zydeco Hellraisers

John “Papa” Gros

Sierra Green

Big Chief Monk Boudreaux

J’Wan Boudreaux

Co-Host Cole Williams

Music Host Keith Spera

Artist lineup subject to change

CABIN PRICES

If you have sailed on any StarVista LIVE Cruise, then you are eligible for the “Alumni Rate.” To inquire about the “Alumni Rate,” please call the office at 585.653.8746 .

Wait List available for sold out cabins.

• Port Charges/Taxes/Gratuities/Admin Fee: $365 per person is due when remaining balance is due. The cost for 3rd and 4th passengers in a stateroom is $1,000 per person plus all applicable taxes and fees.

These prices are “cruise only” in U. S. Dollars (USD) and are quoted per person based upon double occupancy, except for “Singles”, and do not include port charges, airfare, ground transportation, onboard purchases, purchased drinks onboard or excursions. It does include all meals, shows and onboard events produced by StarVista LIVE.

To qualify for the “Military Rate” you must provide a copy of your DD-214 or a military ID. Please call/text 585-653-8746 and the 5% discount will be applied to your balance. Please note that in order to receive this discount, you cannot have already paid your cruise in full.

2025 Itinerary

Holland America Line Nieuw Amsterdam

Consistently highest-rated premium cruise line by Conde Nast Traveler’s “Readers’ Choice Awards” and “World’s Best” by Travel + Leisure, we could not have a better partner to provide you luxury dining during this unique experience.

Ship Highlights

The Nieuw Amsterdam features 11 passenger decks, premier dining options, lounges surrounded by panoramic views, the popular Greenhouse spa and salon with hydro pool as well as the award-winning fitness center to fulfill our promise of excellence.

Every Stateroom, A Gracious Retreat

Spacious staterooms average 25% larger and private verandahs average 50% larger than on typical ships.

Enjoy Exquisite Dining Across a Range of Venues

Enjoy delicious and innovative menus across a broad range of dining venues prepared by our master chefs. From a casual bite poolside to a formal five-course affair in our classic main Dining Room, you will have a truly memorable dining experience. Venues include:

• Pinnacle Grill
• The Dining Room
• Lido Market
• New York Pizza
• Ship’s Registry:  The Netherlands
• Passenger capacity:  2,106
• Crew members:   929
• Gross tonnage:   86,700grt
• Length:   936 feet
• Beam:   105.8
• Maximum speed:   23.9 knots
• Dedicated:  July, 04, 2010, by HM Queen Maxima of the Netherlands

Interesting links

• Soul Train Cruise 2025 – November Information
• 2025 Soul Train Cruise – November
• Soul Train Cruise Sold Out
• The Big Easy Cruise 2025
• Country Music Cruise 2025
• Country Music Cruise 2024
• 2025 Soul Train Cruise – January
• Ultimate Disco Cruise and Beyond
• 2024 Malt Shop Memories Cruise
• Protected: August CocoCay
• Protected: Nicole’s Thanksgiving Cruise

12 Themed Cruises You Should Have On Your Radar In 2024

T aking a cruise is an experience unlike anything else. Days at sea on a ship full of entertainment and relaxation make for a fantastic vacation. But what if you want even more from your cruise? A theme might be what's missing. In addition to all the usual cruise experiences, themed cruises allow fans of a particular artist, lifestyle, hobby (or even animal), to celebrate their passion on the high seas with activities, events, surprises, and sometimes special guests.

There are dozens of themed cruises on offer each year, usually hosted by major cruise lines like Norwegian , Carnival, and Royal Caribbean. But don't let their numbers fool you. According to  Business Insider , themed cruises are rapidly climbing in popularity, and some trips are selling out in record time. That means it's important to find your dream-themed cruise and reserve your tickets as early as possible.

Fortunately, even if they're sold out, most themed cruises will let you join a waiting list, so there's still hope! Here are 12 themed cruises that will set sail in 2024 and are well worth boarding, either now or the next time they hit the high seas.

Read more: Under-The-Radar Beaches You Need To Visit In The Caribbean

The Emo's Not Dead Cruise

If you truly know it's not a phase, the Emo's Not Dead Cruise is perfect for you. Gather with fellow emo fans for four days (and nights) of concerts, activities, and even a private party at Great Stirrup Kay in the Bahamas. Over a dozen bands will perform, including Yellowcard, Senses Fail, and Armor for Sleep. Alongside themed activities like a masquerade ball, cruisegoers can also enjoy surprisingly cheerful activities like a bellyflop competition in the ship's pool.

The first Emo's Not Dead cruise was in 2022. Cruisegoer and emo fan TheReelChris shared highlights on  YouTube , calling it "EPIC." Fans in the comments section agree, with Schecterplayer92 adding, "This was one of the best experiences of my life." With a killer lineup and entertaining activities scheduled, it seems like Emo's Not Dead 2024 will also be a rad experience. The cruise will be hosted on the Norwegian Pearl, leaving from Miami on February 26 and returning on March 1, 2024. But what would an emo-related cruise be without a little sadness? Unfortunately, the cruise is already sold out. If you're interested, you can  sign up for the waiting list  and hope.

Meow Meow Cruise

Some of us know that no matter how great a vacation might be, cats would make it even better. Meow Meow Cruise has solved that problem. While guests unfortunately aren't allowed to bring their own furry friends aboard Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady, the four-day cruise will give them their feline fix in plenty of other ways. 

Activities include cat-themed trivia and a scavenger hunt. But the best part may be communing with fellow cat people (many of whom stroll around the ship wearing cat ears). You'll also be able to mingle with real cats -- one of 2024's ports of call is Key West, where you'll find the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum and its community of about 60 friendly polydactyl kitties, many of them descended from one of the author's own pets.

It's hard to find reviews for Meow Meow Cruise, but the fact that this themed cruise has been going on annually since 2015 speaks for itself. The 2024 Meow Meow Cruise sets sail from Miami on February 21, with a return date of February 25. Tickets are still available, but to be sure you don't miss out, consider booking right now.

In My Cruise Era

Sure, cruises are great — and cruising is a multi-billion dollar industry — but is anything more popular than Taylor Swift? For those who can't imagine anyone saying "no" to that question, there's no better cruise than In My Cruise Era. While not officially affiliated with Taylor Swift, this themed cruise is a passionate fan homage. Swifties will be able to dress up in their favorite Taylor-inspired looks, exchange friendship bracelets, perform their idol's songs during karaoke sessions, and more. We're also guessing there will be of lots impromptu song breaks throughout the ship from Taylor's extensive catalog.

Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas will host this cruise, which sets sail from Miami on October 21, 2024 -- which, as People Magazine points out, is one day after the Eras Tour will be in the city. Fans lucky enough to attend the concert can continue their Taylor euphoria for four more days on the high seas. Since this is a new themed cruise, there aren't any reviews, but based on the positive fan vibes from Eras Tour concerts and movie viewings, among other events, we're guessing it's going to be a great time for Swifties. Swifties must agree, since the cruise is already sold out. Cancellations do happen, though, so hopeful fans can join the waiting list.  Contact the cruise's organizers to sign up.

Disney's Halloween On The High Seas

Go on just about any cruise-related blog or website and you'll see that Disney Cruise Line's Halloween-themed cruise, officially called Halloween on the High Seas, is a popular favorite. As you probably expect from Disney, this themed cruise is perfect for a family vacation , so it's not too scary. The cruise is hosted on multiple Disney Cruise Line ships, and each one is decorated with the care and attention to detail you'll find in most Disney-related enterprises. The Pumpkin Tree is the highlight of the decor, with pumpkins that eventually appear on its branches and transform into lit and unlit jack o'lanterns.

Halloween on the High Seas also features Halloween activities (including a trick-or-treating night) and exclusive Halloween-themed desserts. Disney cruises in general are known for their opportunities to meet the studio's beloved characters, and during the Halloween on the High Seas cruises, some of those characters are in costume. Notably, Disney Cruise Line's official site tells us, Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck, and Clarabelle Cow will be dressed as the Sanderson Sisters -- who wouldn't want to see that? 

This magical mixture of whimsy, fun, and exclusive opportunities is the perfect way to cast a spell on Disney fans of all ages. Luckily, Halloween on the High Seas is held during a number of different times in September and October, so you and your family should be able to find a place on board!

The Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise

Sure, Hallmark Channel Christmas movies might be a little on the cheesy side, but let's be honest: lots of us dream of being in one in real life. You can get a little of the real-life Hallmark movie experience by visiting some of the movies' filming locations , but now there's a way to have an even more immersive experience: The Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise.

Passengers will get to meet Hallmark Channel movie stars, attend panels and photo ops, and get to see a new Hallmark Christmas movie before its world premiere. Maybe best of all, passengers can take part in lots of Hallmark Christmas movie-inspired activities, including tree lighting and cookie decorating -- all while wearing their favorite ugly Christmas sweaters.

2024 is the first year of the Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise. It was originally intended to be just one cruise, but a second one was added after the first one sold out. As of now, two Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruises are scheduled for 2024. Both go from Miami to the Bahamas and back and last four days in November. ... And both are sold out. But Christmas is a time of miracles, so if a Hallmark Channel Christmas experience on the high seas sounds like your dream come true, sign up for the waiting list as soon as you can!

Hurtigruten Northern Lights Cruises

Themed cruises are often about fandoms and hobbies. But Norway-based cruise line Hurtigruten offers a themed cruise that's about something even bigger: the Northern Lights . There are several Northern Lights-themed cruises out there, including some luxurious options by Cunard. Unfortunately, the Northern Lights aren't always visible, but Hurtigruten stands out by offering a Northern Lights Promise for cruises scheduled between September 26 and March 31 and lasting longer than 11 days. If the Northern Lights aren't visible during your cruise, they'll give you another one. So if you're serious about seeing the Aurora Borealis, this is the company to choose.

The Northern Lights are the focus of Hurtigruten's eponymous cruises, but there are also other things to do on board, including scientific lectures and photography lessons. There are excursions, too -- notably a dog sledding option. Passengers who've taken one of Hurtigruten's cruises unanimously praise the stunning fjords and landscapes you can admire from the ship and during excursions, not to mention their experiences of seeing the Northern Lights. Some warn that the ships aren't as luxurious or modern as many other cruise ships, primarily because Hurtigruten's ships are also functional vessels intended to transport and deliver mail to various points on the Norwegian coast. Still,  Cruise Critic reviewers like cmolaison praise the friendly crew, the surprising level of comfort, and the "stunning vistas" you'll see, saying he and his family "highly recommend" taking a Hurtigruten cruise.

Cruise & Crop Crafting Cruises

If the perfect vacation for you is a combination of R&R and crafting, you're in luck! There are several crafting-themed cruises. One of the most popular is organized by Cruise & Crop, with ships around the world hosting different crafting- and arts-themed trips. This makes them the most accessible themed cruises on our list, with different price ranges, departure points, itineraries, and ports of call. One thing all crafting cruises have in common, though, is groups of like-minded people exploring their creativity amid the other joys of cruising.

For instance, one of Crop & Cruise's 2024 offerings is a Mexican Riviera cruise aboard Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas, featuring scrapbooking and other papercraft classes taught by artist Barb Warne. The ship departs from Los Angeles on April 19, returning April 26. Many Cruise & Crop cruises sell out quickly, so if this idea has sparked both your wanderlust and your creativity, be sure to check their list of 2024 cruises and reserve as soon as you can.

Star Trek: The Cruise

For seven days and nights every year, thousands of Star Trek fans gather to be a part of a fandom extravaganza at sea. Star Trek: The Cruise is an experience that features celebrities aboard (2024's guests include LeVar Burton and Wil Wheaton, among many others), costume and cosplay events, and lots of fun activities. 

But what makes Star Trek: The Cruise truly unique is that audience participation is very much encouraged. Passengers and celebrity guests are all considered the crew of one great, big, intergalactic vessel. Passengers get to interact with the guest stars in events like karaoke battles, and stars share parts of their earthly lives with Q&A sessions and even glimpses at other projects they may be involved in.

The first Star Trek: The Cruise was held in 2017 and since then it's been a fan favorite. Star Wars and cruising aficionado Aaron Bossig writes on  Trek Movie.com that many fans go on the cruise every year, and proudly wear t-shirts from the previous ones. He calls Star Trek: The Cruise "an extra special convention experience." 2024's edition will be held on the Mariner of the Seas, departing from Cape Canaveral, Florida, on February 22 and returning on February 29.

Literature Festival At Sea

Once a year, aboard the legendary Queen Mary 2, passengers can mingle with writers, poets, journalists, and critics in a full-blown literary festival in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Literature Festival at Sea invites writers in all genres to host round table discussions, participate in Q&As revolving around their work and areas of expertise, host workshops, and converse with passengers.

Whether passengers want to participate as much as possible or just attend a few events, the Festival seems to be an excellent addition to a typical Queen Mary 2 voyage. On TripAdvisor , passenger Artemis C writes of her experience at a previous Literature Festival at Sea that "the whole week was a joy". 

2024's lineup features crime novelists, journalists, historians, and more, for what's sure to be a fascinating week of discussion and discovery. If you'd like to combine an elegant transatlantic cruise and a literary experience, 2024's Literature Festival at Sea will take place from November 13-20, departing from Southampton, U.K., and arriving in New York. Cunard has also launched an Australian Literature Festival at Sea, scheduled from December 11-16, 2024, on the Queen Elizabeth, which departs from and returns to Sydney. 

Chefs Making Waves

Many cruise lines are proud of their food offerings. Some cruises feature dishes created by world-famous chefs, and others even host food and wine festivals. But no culinary cruise event seems quite as, well, fun, as Chefs Making Waves. This culinary-themed cruise will set sail for the first time in 2024. Onboard will be a number of beloved celebrity chefs, including Anne Burrell and the Cake Boss himself, Buddy Valastro. Cooking demos and, of course, food tastings of all kinds (including sit-down meals, desserts, and street food) are on the menu. Best of all, Chefs Making Waves is an all-inclusive cruise, so everyone can eat and drink without having to pay extra!

There will be all of the usual cruise-related fun, from swimming to excursions, to help you work up an appetite. There will also be unique games, with some of the chefs participating in events like bingo and a celebrity chef sing-off. If this sounds like an awesome cruise, you're not the only one who feels that way. Chefs Making Waves will take place from March 25-29, departing from Miami with excursions in Great Stirrup Cay and Nassau, Bahamas ... and it's already sold out. But you can still  sign up for the waiting list . With a little luck, you'll be able to enjoy this delicious, themed cruise experience.

Soul Train Cruise

Imagine a festival with a lineup featuring some of the best soul and R&B acts of all time. Now imagine it's on a relaxing cruise ship. This dream is actually reality -- it's called the Soul Train Cruise. The popular themed cruise will be celebrating its 11th year in 2024 and the lineup is on fire. Dozens of groups and artists will perform, including The Temptations, Boyz II Men, and En Vogue. Passengers can also learn how to dance like people did back in the old school days of Soul Train's TV show, with lessons from some of the show's actual dancers. There will also be wine tastings, Q&A's, comedy shows, and a lot more.

With all of this on offer, it's no surprise that the Soul Train Cruise is sold out. But sign up on the waiting list and keep your calendar free from January 27-February 3, and you may get lucky. If you do, the cruise leaves from Fort Lauderdale, with ports of call in Tortola (British Virgin Islands) and St. Maarten.

The Gothic Cruise

The Gothic Cruise is an annual event held on an ordinary cruise ship. Goths mingle with "norms" but have their own private events on board, mostly DJ sets and concerts. There's also a masquerade ball, with Goths decked out in their finest Victorian-style garb ... as long as it meets ship safety requirements, that is. The cruise's website specifies that simulated weapons aren't allowed and notes that hoop skirts are fine for the ball but not in the ship's dining areas, "due to the close proximity of the tables". And yet, the Goth community thrives on these cruises -- and even gains norm fans along the way. 

In a Porthole Magazine article about the Gothic Cruise, longtime attendee Spike Pittman says that many mainstream passengers are wary of the Goths at first, "But by the end they're begging to get into our private events." Some even book their future cruises to coincide with the Gothic Cruise, even if they don't plan on attending every event. 

The Gothic Cruise has been held since 1989. Cruising doesn't seem very Goth, but in the end, the article points out, it comes down to what all themed cruises offer: a sense of community (in this case, one that often stays up all night and sleeps during the day). If this moves your little black heart, the 2024 Gothic Cruise will be held on the Norwegian Escape (but book through the Gothic Cruise's website for private event access), departing from Orlando on March 2, and returning March 9.

Read the original article on Explore .