Sailing August 22-29, 2025 Out Of Boston, MA Aboard Norwegian Gem

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On The Blue Cruises, Inc., one of the leading music cruise experience producers over the past 20 years, has announced the final 2025 lineup for the world's greatest classic rock experience at sea, On The Blue Cruise (OTBC).

Hosted and headlined by Rock & Roll Hall of Fame artist Justin Hayward, the voice of THE MOODY BLUES, and featuring an array of events and musical performances from over 25 artists, this seven-night full-ship charter cruise will set sail August 22-29, 2025 aboard Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Gem and depart out of Boston, Massachusetts. The voyage, dubbed Forever Autumn, will visit four ports: Halifax and Sydney, Nova Scotia, Saint John, New Brunswick, and Portland, Maine.

This voyage is truly unique for several reasons. It's the first seven-day cruise that promoter On The Blue Cruises, Inc. has ever produced and it's also their inaugural itinerary visiting these four ports. Additionally, OTBC '25 marks the first music cruise charter to depart out of the Northeast and visit the beautiful Canada/New England shoreline, making it an unprecedented experience for all attendees.

A limited number of cabins are still available starting at $1,899.00 per person (double occupancy, not including mandatory taxes and fee supplement). For booking and more info, visit OnTheBlueCruise.com and follow @OnTheBlueCruise on Facebook.

Hayward's performances will include songs from his solo archives along with deep cuts from five decades of material from THE MOODY BLUES. Plus, fans will be able to attend an intimate Q&A with the rock legend, who will be sharing insight into his career and music. This year's cruise theme, Forever Autumn, is taken from the title of a fan-favorite recording of Hayward's.

In addition to Hayward, OTBC 2025's lineup features Alan Parsons, Starship featuring Mickey Thomas, The Orchestra feat. Electric Light Orchestra and ELO Part II former members, Colin Blunstone from The Zombies, Al Stewart, Leonid & Friends (the music of Chicago), Ambrosia, April Wine, Wishbone Ash, Honeymoon Suite, Michal Sadler of SAGA, Richie Furay of Buffalo Springfield and Poco, Fran Cosmo (former lead singer of Boston), The Weeklings, The Young Dubliners, Ricky Nelson Remembered, Pat Travers, Randy Hansen, Top of the World (the music of The Carpenters), Mellow Yellow, Marbin, Fernando Perdomo, The Bottom Feeders, The Empty Pockets, All Hat No Cattle, and Dueling Pianos.

Beyond the many band performances on multiple stages, the cruise will feature well-curated activities and events, such as artist photo experiences, themed-nights, Mellow Yellow Dance Party, Painting with Rock Stars, Exclusive Dance Club Experience with Instructors, and a wine tasting event, with much more to be announced. Also, it will be whale watching season, so travelers might catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures.

For the first time in OTBC history, attendees will enjoy the intimate and relaxed ambiance of Norwegian Cruise Line's stunning Jewel-class ship, the Norwegian Gem. This ship is specifically designed to cater to the concert cruise industry, offering a unique and memorable experience, top-tier music venues, exceptional dining choices, and the renowned friendly and attentive service of NCL. The ship also features a stellar pool deck that transforms into the Outdoor Concert Stage where guests can bask in the sun while watching the all-star lineup of bands perform. When it comes to dining, you can find a variety of complimentary and specialty restaurants, including Cagney's Steakhouse, Le Bistro, and Teppanyaki. For some "me time," there's the award-winning Mandara Spa and Thermal Suite, as well as hot tubs and pools. The excitement doesn't end when the sun goes down, the ship also offers unique bars and lounges, as well as a casino.

OTBC '25 cruisers will embark on their adventure in the historic city of Boston, where the past seamlessly blends with the present. Stroll along the cobblestone streets of the Freedom Trail, explore the lively markets at Faneuil Hall, enjoy the breathtaking views from Boston Harbor, catch a live show at the Boston Opera House, wander through the bustling streets of Harvard Square, or catch a ball game at the beloved Fenway Park. Boston's cuisine is unparalleled ‒ from classic New England clam chowder and lobster rolls to freshly caught raw clams and oysters paired with Boston cream pie. With its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and delectable cuisine, Boston is the perfect starting point.

Next, voyagers will sail to the enchanting city of Halifax. Renowned for its maritime heritage, Halifax offers a delightful mix of history and modernity. Travelers can visit the iconic Citadel Hill, take a scenic drive to Peggy's Cove, a quaint fishing village with fewer than 40 residents and home to one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world, or spend the afternoon sipping award-winning wines from the vineyards of Annapolis Valley near the Bay of Fundy on the Annapolis Valley Wine and Cheese excursion.

The journey continues to the picturesque beauty of Sydney. Nestled on Cape Breton Island, Sydney serves as a gateway to stunning landscapes and rich Celtic heritage, making it a highlight of the cruise. Some of the featured excursions in this port include a scenic drive along the Cabot Trail, renowned for its breathtaking coastal views and hiking trails, and a visit to the Fortress of Louisbourg, a meticulously restored 18th-century French fortress. Sydney is famous for traditional Acadian dishes, such as rappie pie and meat pie, both savory indulgences considered iconic to the area.

In Saint John, cruisers will be enchanted by the blend of history and natural wonders. Discover the unique phenomenon of the Reversing Falls, wander through the charming streets of the historic Uptown area, take a scenic drive along the Bay of Fundy, explore the city's history at the New Brunswick Museum and the Loyalist House, or stroll along the Harbour Passage, a scenic waterfront walkway with stunning views. For food, get on the Saint John Seafood Hopping tour or visit the Saint John City Market, the oldest continuously operating farmers' market in Canada.

The final port of call is the delightful coastal city of Portland. Renowned for its vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and delectable cuisine, Portland is a sensory delight. Cruisers can stroll through the Old Port district, explore breathtaking sights along the Maine Coast, visit the charming seaside town Kennebunkport, or experience fresh lobster, clam chowder, and blueberry pie, a Maine specialty. Portland's eclectic charm is the perfect way to conclude this incredible journey.

With two music-filled days at sea to keep fans entertained day and night, plus a myriad of events and activities, On The Blue Cruise is a playground for serious fans, where music and a luxury cruise unite for the vacation of a lifetime.