‘Repeat Offenders’ Explain Why Jam Cruise Is A Can’t-Miss Experience

Jam Cruise 21 sets sail from Miami aboard the MSC Divina on February 14 and will stop in Cozumel, Mexico and Belize City, Belize before returning on February 19. Several “repeat offenders” will be back on the ship, including Galactic, Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe, ALO and Sammi Garett.

STS9, Snarky Puppy and Thievery Corporation top the Jam Cruise 21 lineup. Lettuce, LP Giobbi, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, Andy Frasco & The U.N., Tank and the Bangas, Dragon Smoke and Dogs In A Pile are among other acts set to perform on MSC Divina between February 14 and 19.

Karl Denson and Galactic are the only artists who have performed on each Jam Cruise. “It’s really like a family gathering/reunion every year,” Karl Denson said of the experience. “It’s definitely made me closer with a lot of people, musicians and fans alike over the years.”

“We are fortunate that Jam Cruise has continually booked us for every Jam Cruise since day one,” explained Galactic bassist Robert Mercurio. “What really sets it apart is that all of the musicians stay for the show. At a normal festival, the musicians play their set and most likely leave soon after,” added Mercurio. “On Jam Cruise there is nowhere to go, so all of the musicians are hanging out and sitting in which makes for a really fun hang and possible musical collaborations.”

Vocalist Sammi Garett returns next month for her fifth Jam Cruise in a row. Garett is among special guests on Jam Cruise 21 along with The Horn Section, percussionist Mike Dillon, vocalist Shira Elias, guitarist Will Bernard, fiddler Allie Kral, trombonist Alex Wasily and Perpetual Groove frontman Brock Butler.

“Jam Cruise is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. It’s an intimate and immersive environment for both artists and fans,” said Sammi Garett. “For the artists, it’s a rare chance to collaborate, jam, and connect with other musicians. For the fans, the opportunity to interact with their favorite artists on a personal level while being part of an incredible, music-loving community. It truly makes Jam Cruise unforgettable.”

Jam Cruise is a tradition Sammi Garett never wants to miss. “What keeps me coming back to Jam Cruise year after year is the unique combination of incredible music, amazing people and the once-in-a-lifetime experiences that only happens on the boat,” she noted. “It’s not just about performing — it’s about connecting. Getting to hang with fans in such a fun environment is something you don’t find anywhere else. Plus, playing music with my fellow musician friends, whether it’s on stage, in the jam rooms, or just spontaneously, is pure magic.”

The Jam Room takes place late each night of Jam Cruise and gives attendees a chance to witness one-of-a-kind collaborations. Karl Denson is a Jam Room regular. His favorite memory was the first time he “played free” with George Porter Jr.. “We had a great time and I got to see George create out of nothing,” Karl D. recalled. “It definitely deepened my reverence for his musical prowess. We were just creating songs out of thin air and he was holding the forms together and then letting them go at just the right moment.”

Performing with the legendary bassist also stands out to Robert Mercurio. “Anytime George Porter Jr. is playing is a favorite memory for me,” the Galactic bassist said.

Lebo (Dan Lebowitz) is a Jam Cruise regular will not only perform with ALO on Jam Cruise 21 but he’ll also take part in the debut of a new project entitled Summer Zen and perform a solo set at the Garden Pool. The all-star Summer Zen ensemble will see Lebo joined by George Porter Jr. on bass, guitarist Steve Kimock, keyboardist Robert Walter and drummer John Morgan Kimock.

“There are many aspects that set Jam Cruise apart from other festivals, but for me, there’s one standout element. It’s the fact that most all of the musicians are on board the whole time,” said Lebo. “This is really different from other festivals where bands / musicians pop in for their set, sometimes for a day, sometimes for just a few hours and then they’re off to the next tour stop. On Jam Cruise most of us are there the whole time and this brings out a whole other level of collaboration both on stage and off. Deep relationships are born and expanded, and the audience gets to bear witness!”

Lebo pointed to one specific element that keeps him coming back. “Truth be told, it’s the people. Both on stage and off. I love all of the opportunities to collaborate with these that I respect,” added Lebowitz. “Some are old friends and others I’m just meeting for the first time. And as far as the audience goes, it’s just such a great crowd to play for. The people bring huge joy and celebration on board year after year.”

Each of the “repeat offenders” provided guidance for Jam Cruise newcomers. “It is not a race, it is a marathon. Don’t blow it all out on Night One, there are many more days and nights ahead,” shared Mercurio. He also advised cruisers to check out a band they’ve never seen before. “You never know who might become your new favorite band.”

Karl Denson had a similar tip. “Even though it might be hard to do, I think the first rule of Jam Cruise is ‘pace yourself,'” said Denson. “You’ll see way more music and spend more quality time with your friends if you take an occasional look at yourself and your surroundings.”

Sammi Garett also warns pacing is crucial to making the most of your Jam Cruise experience. “My biggest tip would be to remember that it’s a marathon, not a sprint –there’s so much to see and do, so pace yourself! You’ll want to enjoy every moment, so stay hydrated and take breaks when you need,” Garett advises. “Trust me, there’s plenty of time to catch amazing performances, jams and connect with people, so don’t feel like you have to rush through it all. Embrace the spontaneity and enjoy the journey — it’s all part of the adventure!”

Lebo has advice for someone considering coming on Jam Cruise for the first time. “Do it! In the pantheon of music festivals, it’s just such a unique experience,” noted the guitarist. “This context changes everything. It’s the perfect balance of a high stimulation music experience, coupled with comfort and relaxation. Nothing like it!”

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