14 Music Cruises That Really Rock

In the past decade or so, rock cruises have taken over the high seas, bringing their fans closer than ever to their favorite bands. As these musical boat rides have become more popular, more and more of them have been popping up. Outside of the live performances featured on these cruises, there are also a flurry of "alternate" activities that make rock cruises different from attending traditional shows. Beyond just hanging with your fellow fans, you can kick it with band members, and even participate in activities with your favorite rockers.

So, what's the best music-themed cruise out there? That depends on what you're looking for. Classic rock cruises are the most widespread, but if you like metal, then there's a metal cruise - and the same goes for indie rock, jam bands, etc. - most genres of rock have dedicated music cruise packages. Whatever you're looking for, there's a musical cruise out there for you.

This is the definitive list of rock cruises. If you're looking for music cruise ship packages that will have you rockin' on the high seas, this list will serve as your guide to which rock cruise to select for your next vacation.

Now in its eighth edition, Shiprocked is old enough to be called a legacy act. But make no mistake of it, this hard rock joyride is full of thrills (and hopefully no spills). Starting off in Miami, and zipping through Grand Turk in the Turks & Caicos Islands and back, the likes of Sevendust, Breaking Benjamin, Papa Roach, and more will be entertaining the masses.

If that isn't enough, there's a tattoo parlor and other assorted theme nights to entertain you throughout the five-day voyage.

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As you'd expect from the name of this one, Def Leppard bring their hijinx to the high seas. The Sheffield natives are the centerpiece of this cruise, and they will often bring out pals with them for their four-day adventure. Other highlights include theme nights, Q&As with the bands, and acoustic storyteller-inspired sets where musicians explain their songs.

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One of the best (and hardest) rock cruises is Motörhead's Motorboat. Though it isn't setting sail in 2016 and beyond due to Lemmy's death, the Motorboat will be remembered for thrilling sets by Anthrax, Slayer, Suicidal Tendencies, and more. Basically, this was the cruise your principal would have suspended you for going on. 

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This reggae-rock-themed cruise will see veteran stoner outfit 311 take pals like Rebelution, Reel Big Fish, and Stick Figure on a Norwegian Cruiseliner traveling from Tampa to Cozumel. Highlights here include activities hosted by artists, a photo with 311, and a whole lot more. 

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Every year, Carnival has a series of live shows across different genres that they bring to the high seas. The likes of Journey, Boston, Chicago, 38 Special, Styx, REO Speedwagon, Heart, Daughtry, Kansas, and Jewel have all played Carnival Live in the past.

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Started in 2011, this cruise is one of the longer cruises on this list. Unlike others, there's an east coast and west coast edition, allowing for fans to not only pick a different lineup that suits their interests, but a different travel experience as well. 

In 2017, the ship will be out on the waters for six days and five nights. This hard rock/heavy metal-themed voyage features a number of activities that will entertain guests. On top of performances by the likes of Vince Neil, Nightranger, Slaughter, Cinderella’s Tom Keifer, Tesla, Stevie Vai, Uli Jon Roth, Queensrÿche, Warrant, Quiet Riot, Mr. Big, Great White, Firehouse, L.A. Guns, Faster Pussycat, and more through the years, there will be plenty of other activities.

There's artist photo experiences, a Monsters Rock & Roll Formal, and exclusive MOR Craft Beer Tasting, which will help take the edge off your rockin'. Additionally, the Monster Gong Show Karaoke and Cooking with Rock Stars hosted by Lisa Tirone add another element that goes beyond music. 

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Formed in 2013, this cruise, put together by the Moody Blues, is one of several prog rock jaunts. But unlike other rock cruises (and much like the band itself), Moodies Cruise is all about the music. Of course, the amenities are still plentiful - this is a standard cruise experience, albeit with multiple rock bands to take attendees through their days and nights.

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Leaving from Miami, the KISS Kruise is everything you'd expect from the Rock n' Roll Hall of Famers. There are multiple sets included with rarities, photo opps with every band member, and more activities (including some with the members of KISS) throughout the cruise's four days. In addition to KISS, there are always plenty of bands performing that will keep the good times rolling while you head from Miami to Grand Cayman and Cozumel.

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Heading into its fifth year, this cruise's name isn't misleading. Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo, REO Speedwagon, Thin Lizzy, John Mayall, and Leon Russell highlight 2017's edition, while past performers included Peter Frampton, Gregg Allman, Ace Frehley, ZZ Top, and many more. Prepare to rock out with some legends of rock.

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This cruise is comprised of prog rock bands like Yes, Kansas, and a host of others. The beauty of Cruise to the Edge is that it also serves as a fantasy camp for wanna-be rockers. If you want to learn from some of the best musicians in rock history - and watch them on stage - then you may want to sail through the Gulf of Mexico with the bands on this cruise.

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