blues cruise and you

Keeping the Blues Alive at Sea

Joe Bonamassa

Grace Potter

Black Country Communion

The Marshall Tucker Band

The Fabulous Thunderbirds

Jimmy Vivino

Jackie Venson

Brandon "Taz" Niederauer

Robert Jon & The Wreck

Ron Artis II and the Truth

Jesse Roper

Daddy Long Legs

Jerron Paxton

Ghalia Volt

Jack Barksdale

Fortune Child

Dwayne Haggins

Memphissippi Sounds

The Jake Walden Band

2 Unforgettable Joe Bonamassa Performances

Experience two remarkable sets, one featuring Joe's solo band and one with his supergroup, Black Country Communion.

Unique Collaboration Sets

Witness established legends and up-and-coming blues artists collaborate together for one-of-a-kind performances you can't see anywhere else!

Beyond The Music

In between all the incredible performances, grab an autograph from your favorite artist, sip coffee during Acoustic Mornings, sit in on live podcasts, and so much more.

Once In A Lifetime Fan Experiences!

Connect with like-minded blues fans and make unforgettable memories with your favorite artists onboard!

4 Night Round-Trip Cruise To Cozumel

Vacation the right way with impeccable amenities on the Norwegian Pearl for you to enjoy all the way to the beautiful island of Cozumel, Mexico.

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Live Show Reviews

Legendary rhythm & blues cruise, true blues on the deep blue sea.

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Photos by Laura Carbone

Twice a year, the blues takes a vacation with the grandfather of all music cruises, the Legendary Rhythm and Blues Cruise (LRBC), one of the largest floating festivals at sea. This February it celebrated its 30 th sailing with 50 bands, over 100 shows, 1500 passengers and a support staff of 1000 on one of Holland Americas largest flagships, the Koningsdam, while the best bands in the blues, rock and soul rotate through its onboard venues. It sells out over a year in advance.

This February’s cruise shipped out from Fort Lauderdale but not without the prerequisite pre-cruise party. There is such a high percentage of returning cruisers that’s people greet each other as long lost beloved family, with a number as to how many cruises taken, or if they are in the awkward position of being a blues cruise virgin. Once on the boat, the music has already started on 5 stages. On several decks, from the large two-story theater, two separate large pool deck stages (why swim when you can dance?), the inner sanction of BB King’s Blues Club, Rocket 88 piano bar and the infamous late night Crow’s Nest where you can see the sun rise as a fantasy jam collaboration is still going strong. A large hand-painted pirate sign hangs from the mast: “OUR CRUISE KICKS BUTT” warning other ships to be wary, as if they could not hear the 24/7 hour music that rocks this boat.

The artist list is long and impressive. Topping the list is multi Grammy Award-winner Taj Mahal, as the King of this cruise, bringing his experienced Trio, with special guest Roger Glenn on vibes. A real treat was to see Taj doing his Caribbean-based songs while being caressed by Island breezes. Add Buddy Guy, Shemekia Copeland, Ronnie Baker Brooks, Nellie Tiger Travis and real-deal Chicago Blues was on da boat! The bayou was represented by the swamp boogie of Kenny Neal with his talented family band including nephew Tyree, Tab Benoit, The Legendary Ils Sont Partis Band and Jon Cleary and The Absolute Gentlemen, Vasti Jackson and Charlie Musslewhite. Musical reunions with boat’s favorite Trampled Under Foot as well as the supergroup collaboration of Victor Wainwright, JP Soars and Damian Fowler in Southern Hospitality. Tommy Castro’s popularity has inherited him a regular spot every cruise as well as kicking off the opening night jam. Not to be outrocked, Kenny Wayne Shepard, Walter Trout, Commander Cody and Collin James electrified the boat. Zac Harmon hosted a gospel Brunch. The upcoming generation of blues was represented by old souls but young blues masters Marquise Knox and Quinn Sullivan. Personal favorites included the ever-smiling saxophone, keyboardist and vocalist Deanna Bogart and Canadian Dawn Tyler Watson the International Blues Challenge Winner, who stole hearts across the boat with her vocal ballads and the tight backup of the Ben Racine band. There is also the mix-and-match with artists jumping on stage together, multi- guitar masters mashups, legendary vocal duos to 3 AM mind blowing horn jams.

Even when the ship docks, they bring the bands to local Island bars, beaches or town squares. The Islands on the February cruise, Tortola, Puerto Rico and Grand Turk, were the ones heavily hit by Hurricane Irma and whose local economy needed a shot of blues music as well as tourists. Other activities include theme nights of Give me Back My Wig, Casino Royale, Mardi Gras, Blue Toes and Pajama night where the fans get into the spotlight with parades and competitions. Notable lectures included advice by Grammy-winning producers and artists on How to Produce and Record, a Women in Blues Lecture hosted by Marie Trout and 100 Years of Rufus Thomas, presented radio host DJ Bob Porter, and a finger picking workshop by Reverend Peyton. Other activities included silent auctions of vintage instruments and collectible memorabilia, pro and amateur jams, and an artist autograph/meet-and-greet session. Despite the blues’ humble beginnings, the LRBC cruise includes all the luxuries of cruising, with specialty restaurants, spa, casino, shopping and pampering service. No wonder why most people are return cruisers!

—Laura Carbone

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1 Comment on Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise

I remember the night like it was yesterday – Jamie Forbes, myself along with The Slickers, whosae song “Johnny Too Bad” was a centerpiece of Taj’s “Mo’ Roots” album of mid 70s — was headlining The Bottom Line – somehow I managed to wrangle us 5 passes and The Slickers, here in the USA for the first time (1978) were dressed to the nines and happily met Taj and the band in the tiny dressing room. Taj said he would bring them out for Johnny …. I was standing off to stage right …. noticing Keith and Stevie Wonder in the crowd …. when Taj hit his National Steel intro to the tune …. and did it in its entirety as The Slickers were ignored. Rather than the escstasy I expected from this, it was a long ride back to Long Island. The next day I managed to reach Taj on the phone at his hotel and he said “Come tonight. I won;t forget them.” But The Slickers, Derrick Crooks, Hylton Beckford and Abraham Green would have no part ot it. This began 40+ years of looking in from the outside. C’est la vie.

KET 634×90 (1)

• The October 2024 Blues Cruise Waitlist
• Accommodations
• Confirmation

• October 26, 2024 - November 3, 2024

Welcome to the October 2023 Legendary Rhythm and Blues Cruise Waitlist!

Only one passenger per cabin will need to be added to the waitlist. There is no need to contact us if you have two passengers as each cabin is double capable. If you are requesting triple or quad occupancy, please notify us after submitting your waitlist request at [email protected].

We will be sailing October 28- November 4, 2023 on Holland America’s Pinnacle Class ship, the Koningsdam, roundtrip from San Diego, CA to Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, and Puerto Vallarta.

You will be placed on the waitlist according to the date and time of your request. Previous passengers do not receive priority. Cabins are first come, first serve and joining the waitlist offers no guarantee of cabin placement. If a cabin does become available, the price will likely be approximately $2400 to $2900 per person based on double occupancy plus ship fees and gratuities onboard.

Thank you for your interest and we hope to see you on-board!

Only one passenger per cabin will need to on the waitlist. There is no need to contact us if you have two passengers as each cabin is double capable.

If you have already created an account and are returning to make a payment or to review your reservation information, please enter your user name and password to logon.

If you made your reservation over the phone or have forgotten your user name or password, please click "View Your Account" below, then "Forgot your User Name or Password?" and temporary login info will be emailed to you.

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More Than A Cruise... More Than A Festival... More Than You Can Imagine! The Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise has truly been a wildly life changing experience for literally thousands of musicians and blues cruisers alike. We have created a "Blues Village" for all to see multiple performances, jam at will with one another, network and simply relax... for an entire week at sea. Our Blues Mecca showcases more music than you can possibly see during the voyage! Imagine dancing at the front of the pool deck stage while our luxury ship sails at 20 knots under the stars, or sunbathing on an upper deck while the bands play directly below. It's an experience that can only be described as Bluesin'®. …

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This Cruise is NOT for you ! You will absolutely HATE being in the Caribbean in January, exploring tropical Islands and basking in the warm sunshine. Also, you will utterly detest the almost 24-hour a day live Blues music that is on this ship - it is just too noisy with the likes of Johnny Winter, Taj Mahal, Dion DiMucci, Keb Mo, Magic Slim, Tommy Castro, etc., etc. And, you will definitely despise hanging out and parting for a week with these same performers into the wee small hours of the night. So for the love of Zeus, please please stay away from this Cruise - I'm begging you !

Life changing experience. If you love the blues then this must be something you do for yourself. Aside from the amazing music it is more fun than should be allowed. Great people add to the loving community and did I say music ! What a whirlwind week of amazing jamming and musical creativity that you'd never find anywhere else. You owe it to yourself to get on ths ship !

My wife and I just put a deposit in for blues cruise #23 to the Mexican Rivera and this will be our second one in two years! Our first cruise (#19) departed from San Juan PR with four island stops of wonderful memories in the Caribbean. If you love the blues and enjoy cruising with friendly people, this is for you. LRBC conducts well organized casual cruises in the Caribbean and Pacific featuring the best of the new and established blues artists. The ships and service are the best, so you can completely experience the music in each venue on-board as well as enjoy the excursions at each port. A blues cruise is a once (or twice) in a lifetime experience, so... let's go bluesin'!!!

If you like music and warm weather, this cruise is for you. These guys put on what is essentially a blues festival on a ship, with upwards of a dozen internationally reknowned blues artists performing in multiple venues on the ship. Typically, the January version of the cruise takes place in the Caribbean while the October version is on the West Coast. The cruise line of choice has been Holland America, who relaxes all those rules that have made you questioning whether cruising is for you. There's no dress code and the ship is chartered, so everyone on board is there for the music. It attracts a lot of very talented amateurs, and one of the highlights is the various jam sessions that happen throughout the day, amateurs, professionals, and changing combinations. It's a little pricier than the ordinary cruise cuz face it, you're paying for premium talent, but what a luxury to be able to enjoy all the music and only have to take an elevator or staircase home! Another thing - the cruiser community is a mix of couples and singles, and the age range is from ~25-55 years old. There are very few kids on board. The web site offers a great discussion board with lots of discussion including reams of tips for first-timers, commonly described as virgins. If you decide to check it out, please reference my name, and introduce yourself on board.

I work on the Legendary Rhthym & Blues Cruise, and it is truely amazing. It's an unforgettable expierience. Nothing compares. Its sure to be a major highlight, when you look back at everything cool that you've done. It's worth the money! Sell somthing, take out a loan...just get on that boat!

Vacation of a lifetime! CANNOT wait to repeat it!!!!!! The music goes on day and night on several stages, also jams that the amateurs can participate in. Great friends, great party, great service!

Like Blues music? Want to have the time of your life? This is literally as good as it gets. I am about to depart on my fourth Blues Cruise to the Mexican Riviera. Before my first cruise, I didn't even like boats and I used to get sea sick. Now I am a believer and you can't drag me away! How would you like to talk to Irma Thomas for 90 minutes one on one in the piano bar over a glass of brandy, or how about Tab Benoit in the hot tub? Elvin Bishop in the dining room or play chess with Marcia Ball? Drink tequila with beer all night with Captain Cody? These are the quality of musicians on this ship and they are on vacation with you for a week too. Playing on the boat and on shore. What is the itinerary? Who cares? You're there for the late night jams that go until 5:00 a.m. and for the fun and dancing with a great community of people who return time and time again and care about each other. If I haven't convinced you yet, then you don't know how to go out and enjoy yourself and have great time. See you on the Blues Cruise!

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Tom Cruise, 61, reveals robust and ripped physique during sun-kissed swim in Mallorca

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Hollywood legend Tom Cruise showed off his rippling body while out filming for a new project under the sun.

The Mission Impossible star, 61, showed no signs of slowing down with age as he was spotted in navy swimming trunks and a hench physique.

He was certainly rocking that hot ‘dad’ bod.

The actor, who has long been known for doing his own stunts in his daring, action-packed movies, seemed to be all smiles as he entered the ocean while at Formentor beach in Pollensa. 

Elsewhere in the day, he chucked on more comfy attire as he swapped the topless action out for a sandy sunhat, simple grey top, striped blue shorts and a classic trainer sock pairing.

You know, as opposed to the usual sandals you would expect to find on the famous beach.

The luxury seaside location has seen many well known names at its shore, including the likes of Winston Churchill and Charlie Chaplin.

The father-of-three was joined on the day by acclaimed film director Alejandro G. Iñárritu. The Top Gun star was seen sharing laughs with the director, both waist deep in water.

At another point Tom was ferried around the waves on a boat.

The actor and Mexican filmmaker have been rumoured to be working together as far back as February when Iñárritu appeared to be in talks with Warner Bros to create his first English language project since The Revenant (the film which secured Leonardo DiCaprio his Oscar).

If looks are anything to go by, this is yet another film where Tom will be hands-on.And he is fitter than ever.

Just last month guests at Victoria Beckham’s extravagant birthday bash reported seeing Tom do the splits and that you would ‘never know’ he was in his sixties.

Last year he wowed audiences as he reprised his role in the latest instalment of the Mission Impossible franchise .

Previously on Graham Norton he spoke about the importance of doing his own stunts.

‘I feel that [when] acting you’re bringing everything, you know, physically and emotionally, to a character in a story,’ he said at the time.

‘And I’m able to do it [stunts], and I’ve trained for 30 years doing things like this that it allows us to put cameras in places where you normally are not able to.’

And at Cannes last year he quipped: ‘Would you ask Gene Kelly why he does all his own dancing?’ when asked about doing in his own deadly action sequences.

While filming for Mission Impossible he attempted his ‘most dangerous’ stunt yet after flying his motorcycle off a steep cliff, free-falling and finally, opening a parachute.

He performed 13,000 motorcycle crosses and 500 skydives through years of preparation for the big moment.

‘I have to get so good at this that there’s just no way that I miss my marks. You train and drill every little aspect over and over and over and over again,’ he told press at the time.

Here’s hoping he gets to execute many more stunts in this latest film.

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Subscriber only, beth peerless, where it’s at: return of the blues to peninsula.

All the big blues festivals that once were a part of our musical landscape have fallen by the wayside. Nothing has come along to replace this huge hole, other than the now and-then appearance of a blues-type artist at either of the performing arts theaters here in town.

Yes, there are occasional appearances of a regionally known blues-based artist at the summer Seaside Blues in the Park, but no one of the caliber of the Grammy-winning Ingram, who appears Wednesday at Carmel’s Sunset Cultural Center. There are still tickets available, and the good news is the show is a week out. But don’t sit on it if you crave the sound of a beautifully played guitar solo with the feeling behind it reminiscent of the classic blues and rock guitarists like B. B. King, Jimi Hendrix or Prince.

The 25-year-old Clarksdale, Mississippi-born Ingram has a family history that speaks to his musical development as a young child. A cousin of country star Charley Pride, he began playing the drums when he was 6 and picked up the bass when he was 9. He developed an interest in the blues when he saw a documentary on Muddy Waters with his father, and when he was 11, his parents bought him his first guitar and he soon enrolled in music classes at Clarksdale’s Delta Blues Museum.

Mississippi blues musicians Bill “Howl-N-Madd” Perry and Daddy Rich, who taught at the museum, saw potential in him, and Perry nicknamed the youngster “Kingfish” when they performed at a local venue called the Ground Zero Blues Club. In 2014, Kingfish performed for Michelle Obama at the White House when a group of students from the Delta Blues Museum played in the capital. In 2015 he was presented with the Rising Star Award by the Rhythm & Blues Foundation and Tony Coleman, who played in B.B. King’s road band, liked his music enough that he later arranged for the young guitarist to meet King at a festival in Mississippi.

It seems he was destined for greatness in the blues pantheon. He’s among a very few at his age who care to delve deeply into America’s original music, a music carried by the souls who were brought to this land from Africa. It was developed and nurtured in the Delta Region of the South where Kingfish is from. How could he not be more suited for what is and will be an amazing career, to be the continuing thread that ties today to the past.

His debut album, “Kingfish” was released on Alligator Records in 2019. It was produced by Grammy-winning musician Tom Hambridge at Ocean Way Studio in Nashville. “Kingfish” was the #1 album on The Billboard Blues Chart and the #1 Billboard Heat Seeker album upon release. Billboard called Kingfish a blues prodigy. No Depression magazine said the album was “a stunning debut from a young bluesman with an ancient soul and a large presence in the here-and-now.” The album was nominated in the category Best Traditional Blues Album for the 62nd Annual Grammy Awards.

Ingram released his second record “662” in 2021. The title is a reference to the Delta region’s area code where he grew up. His sophomore effort won him the Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Blues Album at the 64th Annual Grammy Awards. In September 2021, Fender released a custom Kingfish Telecaster Deluxe guitar. The Rolling Stones invited him to play on the bill at the 2022 British Summer Time concerts in Hyde Park, London. In 2023, Ingram was named as the Contemporary Blues Male Artist of the Year at the Blues Music Awards.

Released in September, his third and most recent recording is “Live in London.” Recorded on June 6 in front of a sweaty, sold-out, standing-room-only crowd at the famous UK club, The Garage, “Live in London” is the guitar-driven live album Ingram’s fans around the world have been waiting for since they first watched him perform as a teenager on YouTube.

“This album is a short lifetime in the making,” said Kingfish. “I’ve long had an interest in recording a live album and I finally felt the timing was right. Not only do I have a deeper catalog of music to choose from, but I also have been extensively touring with my band. Both of which truly made recording a live album smooth. Sprinkle in the opportunity to perform in a city I love, it’s all a no-brainer and something that makes me deeply proud.”

In the four short years since the release of his self-titled debut album, Kingfish has taken the music world by storm. From his hometown of Clarksdale to stages around the globe, the young blues star has already headlined multiple U.S. and European tours and amazed fans in Australia, New Zealand and India. Kingfish has also performed and toured with friends including Vampire Weekend, Jason Isbell, Steve Miller and Buddy Guy, a mentor of his, with whom he appeared on “Austin City Limits.” The tour he’s on that brings him to Carmel will see him hit stages around the U.S., Canada, the U.K., the Netherlands, Brazil, Japan and back to the States as part of the 2024 Experience Hendrix Tour. He caps off the year as part of the lineup on the Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise #41.

Get on board for the show at Sunset Cultural Center next Wednesday, 7:30 p.m., part of the Sunset Presents season of shows. Tickets range from $35-$65, available online at www.sunsetcenter.org . Or you can purchase by calling the Box Office at (831) 620-2048 during business hours Monday – Friday, noon-4 p.m.

Friday marks the first in a series of six free and open-to-the-public concerts to take place successive Fridays beginning at 6 p.m., except May 31, through June 21 outdoors at the Sunset Cultural Center. The Terrace Hour, as the shows are known, will feature some of the best musicians who call the Monterey Peninsula home. The bar opens at 5:30 p.m., and food and drink is allowed to be brought in, but alcohol must be purchased at the venue. Terrace Hour is sponsored by KRML Radio, 94.7 FM. Rain cancels.

For this first one, someone pretty new to the area appears, Wendi Kirby & Wings Band, her music described as melodic contemporary. Kirby is a pianist, composer and educator. As described in a press write-up, “She has received national recognition for her contributions to music education. Kirby has released two albums of her own original music on Pastiche Records, “Bloom” and “Wings.” She has performed on stages throughout the US and Europe. Her local Wings band includes notable local talent Mike Shannon (drums), Adam Astrup (guitar), Michael Martinez (keys, vibes), and Etienne Franc (bass). She has a music studio in downtown Monterey where she teaches and invites local musicians to come perform for the public.

The schedule is: May 17, Katherine Lavin Band (pop rock); May 24, Miranda Perl & Adam Astrup (modern jazz); June 7, The Suborbitals (low rock); June 14, River Voices (Americana); and June 17, Cindy Alexander (singer/songwriter).

Might as well stay in Carmel to report that the Carmel Art Association is having its May Opening Reception, Saturday, 4-7 p.m. Artists whose exhibits just opened and are being welcomed at the reception are Alicia Meheen, Cornelia Emery, and Kate Martin under the title “Anything Goes.” Also, Benjamin Anderson and Bryce Elischer, “Peninsula Compositions.” Plus Dick Crispo, “A Tribute to 300 lb. Paper and Other Human Beings.” For more information on the CAA happenings, visit www.carmelart.org.

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Joel Hofer: How a conversation with a teammate relaxed the Blues goaltender

ST. LOUIS — The St. Louis Blues were on the road a couple of weeks ago, and backup goalie Joel Hofer was sitting in a hotel room with defenseman Scott Perunovich . The two are close friends and can be completely honest with one another.

“Yeah, I can say whatever to Joel, and he can say whatever to me,” Perunovich said.

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So, Perunovich took the opportunity to tell Hofer exactly what he thought. He had noticed that the netminder wasn’t playing soccer with teammates before games as he had done before. He wasn’t as chatty on the ice as he’d been in the past. He wasn’t talking between periods, either.

“I said, ‘You used to be way more relaxed and have more fun,’” Perunovich said. “When we were in (the American Hockey League), we were always chatting. We’d have full conversations throughout the game, and that seemed to be when he was at his best.”

In his two starts since that conversation, Hofer is 2-0 and has allowed just two goals on 78 shots for a .974 save percentage. That includes 39 saves in a 2-1 win over the Dallas Stars on Wednesday at Enterprise Center, helping the Blues match their season-high three-game winning streak and improve to 5-1 under interim coach Drew Bannister.

“Not thinking at all,” Hofer said. “I’m just going out there and having fun. I’ve been fortunate enough to do this for a long time and every day is a blessing. Yeah, just going out there and having fun.”

It was sort of surprising that Hofer got the start against Dallas. The Blues were coming off a three-day holiday break and trying to piggyback off their 7-5 come-from-behind win over the Chicago Blackhawks on Saturday.

But with a heavy schedule coming out of the break, Bannister turned to Hofer, who made 38 saves in a 4-1 victory over the Florida Panthers in the game before Chicago.

“He deserved to be in net,” Bannister said Wednesday morning. “He had a great game for us in Florida so we want to get him back up and running. We have three games in the next four days, so it gives us that ability to rotate our goalies. But Joel deserved the start and we expect him to be on his game.”

Hofer was on his game, making 14 saves in the first period, which included two Stars power plays. He stopped five of six high-danger chances, according to Natural Stat Trick.

“He was incredible,” Perunovich said. “He seems to be having a lot more fun. He’s playing soccer before the games, and laughing. He’s not as dialed in. He’s more relaxed.”

DON'T HASSLE THE HOF. #stlblues pic.twitter.com/3s3zZcYbk1 — St. Louis Blues (@StLouisBlues) December 28, 2023

Finding that familiarity wasn’t the only comfort level Hofer had been seeking lately. He played a career-high 47 games with the Springfield Thunderbirds last season when he was 27-15-5 with a 3.22 goals-against average and .905 save percentage. That was under Bannister, who coached the affiliate until his promotion on Dec. 12.

Though Hofer has made just 13 appearances with the Blues in 2023-24 (11 starts), the NHL schedule is a lot more rigorous than the AHL’s, and Bannister senses that the goalie was feeling it.

“The schedule early on maybe wore him down a little bit,” Bannister said. “He’s getting into a groove a little bit where he was able to get some rest and get his strength back. I think we saw that in the Florida game. He looked more like the goalie that I’ve seen over the past couple years playing for us in Springfield. The rest gives him a little bit of time to reset himself and get his game back to where it was.”

After a 5-2 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets on Dec. 8, when Hofer gave up four goals on 21 shots, he went 13 days before his next start against Florida on Dec. 21. (He did relieve starter Jordan Binnington in a 6-1 loss to Tampa Bay on Dec. 19 but played just half the game.)

“Yeah, it’s a tough schedule,” Hofer said. “It’s hard adjusting with all the travel. It’s a lot different than the AHL. It’s pretty important getting sleep and lots of fluid and eating a lot, which is the most important.”

That’s a steep learning curve for many young players, not just goalies.

“It’s a long season,” Blues defenseman Marco Scandella said of the NHL. “It’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon, and you just have to stay composed every day. I just feel now like (Hofer) is relaxed and poised out there, and he’s making hard saves look easy. He’s seeing where the puck is going before the shot is taken.”

When do you ever remember seeing a goalie go to the bench for high-fives after his team scores? Joel Hofer does it EVERY time. #stlblues pic.twitter.com/4bihA24E0A — St. Louis Blues (@StLouisBlues) December 28, 2023

Scandella scored midway through the second period Wednesday for a 2-0 lead on Dallas. The Blues looked like they might cruise their way to a win when they went on a five-on-three advantage shortly after taking the two-goal lead.

But despite having eight shots on goal on the five-on-three, the power-play unit couldn’t convert against Stars goalie Scott Wedgewood , and instead of a 3-0 game, it was 2-1 when Jason Robertson scored for the visitors.

“What can you do about it?” Hofer said. “The guy made a good shot and, like I said, you can’t go back on the past. It is what it is. They’re going to score, it’s a good league, and you just try to put it behind you as quick as you can.”

There’s that newfound relaxation again.

“When that happens, they kind of let the play come to themselves and they’re able to read and react to plays,” Bannister said. “I saw that (Wednesday with Hofer), where he was able to fight through a lot of traffic. There were some tip plays in the high slot that he reacted really well to and was able to seal the ice.”

Dallas added 15 more shots in the third period, including a shot by veteran Joe Pavelski out of midair that Hofer came up with.

“(Pavelski) looked at me and said, ‘That was lucky,’” Hofer said. “I kind of laughed at him. It’s part of the game. There’s luck everywhere. But yeah, I had a good chuckle.”

Coming from Pavelski, Scandella said, that’s “a very nice compliment.”

This is another post about Joel Hofer because he was THAT GOOD. #stlblues | @pncbank pic.twitter.com/r7mdEkkmuF — St. Louis Blues (@StLouisBlues) December 28, 2023

That allowed the Blues to hang on for victory in which they were outshot 40-30.

“I thought Joel was outstanding,” Bannister said. “He was great on the PK. He made some key saves for us in the third with some difficult saves in tight. He did a really good job controlling his rebounds. He was outstanding from the beginning right till the end.”

It was the team’s second win in 12 days over the Stars, including a 4-3 overtime victory on Dec. 16.

“It was a good challenge,” Hofer said. “Those are the kind of games you look forward to, especially a divisional rival. So yeah, it was a lot of fun, and we got the win, which made it even better. It’s obviously good for the confidence to get a couple wins against good opponents. I’m just trying to have fun out there, go day by day and enjoy it as much as I can.”

Hofer was enjoying it just fine until after the game when Perunovich approached him about the goal he allowed.

“I told him to make that save,” Perunovich said. “I said, ‘C’mon,’ and he said, ‘I know.’ He said, ‘I got a piece of it,’ and I said, ‘A piece of it isn’t enough.’ He said, ‘I know.’

Just two teammates being honest.

(Photo of Joel Hofer blocking a shot against the Stars: Joe Puetz / NHLI via Getty Images)

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Jeremy Rutherford is a senior writer for The Athletic covering the St. Louis Blues. He has covered the team since the 2005-06 season, including a dozen years at the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. He is the author of "Bernie Federko: My Blues Note" and "100 Things Blues Fans Should Know & Do Before They Die." In addition, he is the Blues Insider for 101 ESPN in St. Louis. Follow Jeremy on Twitter @ jprutherford

Nude cruise and a Taylor Swift cruise: 8 themed ships leaving Florida ports in 2024 and 2025

From swinging to Swifties, there's truly a themed cruise for everything nowadays.

Seasoned cruisers know you can take your travel up a level by boarding a themed cruise, exploring the seas with those with the same passions and interests as you.

Whether you adore the cheesy Christmas movies that come out every year or you're a hip-hop fanatic, here are some of the top-themed cruises sailing out of Florida over the next year.

Big Nude Boat

The " Big Nude Boat " cruise is an 11-day adventure set for 2025 on the Norwegian Pearl, departing from the Port of Miami on Feb. 3 and returns to the same port on Feb. 14 (just in time for Valentine's Day).

"Bare Necessities’ newest nude cruise is a private island double-dip with a brand new travel partner," the company wrote on its website .

The itinerary includes stops at the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, St. Maarten, Dominica, Martinique and St. Lucia. Rates for an inside cabin start at $2,000 per person and go to up to $33,000 for a top room.

Guests are encouraged to park their bare behinds on towels provided on board in areas including the pool deck and the buffet area, according to the website.

"Passengers can easily follow our rule on nudist etiquette by always placing a towel down before sitting," it reads. "Remember to pack a swimsuit; not all excursions are clothing optional."

In My Cruise Era

The “ In My Cruise Era … ” is a  Taylor Swift-themed cruise  that is set to launch from Port of Miami on Oct. 21,

The cruise, on a Royal Caribbean ship, leaves for the Bahamas the day after Swift's final show of her three-day stop in Miami. According to the website, the cruise fare includes stateroom accommodations, dinner in the main dining room nightly as well as additional buffet and a la carte options around the ship. It also includes entertainment.

All aboard the Taylor Swift ship! Popstar-themed cruise sets sail in Florida next year

"This cruise is for all fans, so bring your besties, your moms and dads, your baby fans, and if you need someone to room with, post on our page and ask," the organizers wrote on the  website .

The itinerary, though not finalized and "subject to change," includes:

• " We can’t make any promises now can we babe, but you can make me a drink " Welcome Cocktail Party
• " Make the friendship bracelets, take the moment and taste it " Friendship Bracelet Swapping
• " I don't wanna dance if I'm not dancing with you " ThemedDance Party
• " Heartbreak is the national anthem, we sing it proudly " Themed Karaoke
• " Can I ask you a question? " Taylor Trivia
• "Lately she’s been dressing for revenge " Nightly eras outfit themes

Halloween on the High Seas on the Disney Cruise Line

Looking for a more family-friendly option? The Disney Cruise line has you covered.

The Disney Cruise Line will offer its " Halloween on the High Seas " cruises in September and October. Patrons can choose from sailings ranging from 3-7 days, most of which travel to the Bahamas or the Caribbean islands. The Halloween-themed cruise is offered on four of the Disney cruise ships, including the Disney Magic, Disney Wish, Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.

While on board the Halloween on the High Seas cruise, AAA writes guests will enjoy magical, spooktacular entertainment every day, such as:

• Meet and greets with your favorite Disney characters, all decked out in their own Halloween costumes.
• Halloween parties with Mickey, Minnie and the whole gang.
• Ghoulish menus at every meal.

Hallmark Christmas Cruise

In case Halloween isn't your preferred holiday to spend on the seas, why not pretend you're in your own made-for-TV Christmas movie?

The Hallmark Channel, holiday season film factory, will host a Christmas Cruise that will embark on a four-night sailing on Nov. 5 from Miami. According to USA Today, passengers will be able to experience holiday cheer on the high seas, complete with cookie making, “carol-oke,” photo ops with network stars, and an exclusive movie premiere of one of the famed Countdown to Christmas films.

The Christmas cruise will take place aboard the Norwegian Gem Cruise Ship, a 965-foot Jewel-class ship.

The company announced that the cruise has already sold out, sharing to USA TODAY via email last year: "Christmas cheer filled every tier, and now the first ever Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise is SOLD OUT."

Rock the Bells Cruise

Hip Hop Hooray! The Rock the Bells Cruise: A Hip-Hop Experience is a four-day jam session founded by LL Cool J back in 2023. After seeing major success last year, the cruise is returning for 2024.

MCs, DJs, and producers will lead nonstop parties and live performances on the Norwegian Gem from Nov. 13 through 17. The cruise leaves from Miami to Great Stirrup Cay and Nassau.

Some of the acts lined up for the cruise include Busta Rhymes, DJ Jazzy Jeff, Method Man & Redman, Scarface, Kid Capri and more.

Comic-Con: The Cruise

Get ready to join the CCU (Cruise Cinematic Universe). San Diego Comic-Con and Entertainment Cruise Productions have team up for Comic-Con: The Cruise . It will run from Feb. 5 through 9 of 2025.

Sailing on Royal Caribbean's  Serenade of the Seas  from Tampa to Cozumel, participants will interact with Comic-Con icons and attend nonstop activities on board, such as cosplay events, trivia, parties and more

Some of the stars who are slated to be on board include:

• George Takei
• Robb Pearlman
• Mary McDonnell

Star Trek - The Cruise

Live long and prosper! Trekkies can geek out with one another on best cruise experience in the galaxy, according to U.S. News .

Sailing on Royal Caribbean International's Explorer of the Seas, the Star Trek cruise will sail from Miami on Feb. 23-through March 2 of 2025. Passengers will head to Costa Maya, Cozumel and Belize.

"Each night of the cruise celebrates a different dimension of the Star Trek experience and, since the cruise's debut in 2017, guests have knocked it out of the park with show-stopping costumes," U.S. News writes.

Norwegian: Ultimate Disco Cruise

Dig out those old bell-bottom pants and practice your dance moves while you have time!

Norwegian Cruise Line Ultimate Disco Cruise leaves from Miami on Feb. 19 through 24, 2025. During this groovy cruise, you will travel aboard the Norwegian Pearl to ports of call such as Cozumel and Costa Maya. Awhile attending the hottest disco parties along the high seas.

AAA notes these are some of the performers and guests that are going to be on board alongside you:

• Kool & The Gang
• Original Stone City Band
• The Spinners
• Shalamar featuring Howard Hewett, Carolyn Griffey and Jeffrey Daniel

When is the best time to cruise?

Here are AAA’s trend forecasts for the best times to cruise in 2024, according to the kind of cruise you choose:

• The Caribbean  is popular year-round, but spring and summer are the most popular sailing times. 
• Alaska cruise  season runs from May to September. Because this is an abbreviated period, there’s more competition for availability.  
• Weekend cruises  have gained popularity in recent years. Weekend warriors have realized the value an all-inclusive cruise compared to a weekend getaway in a big city resort. Cruise lines have recognized this growing trend and are making weekend cruises more of a priority in 2024, by mobilizing some of their newest ships to accessible ports for weekend excursions. 
• European river cruising  is now operational year-round. Because European travel is most popular during the summer, travelers can avoid the crowds and find lower priced cruises and airfares in the early and later parts of the year.

Cunard’s New Queen Anne Ship Has the Largest Collection of Artwork at Sea

This well-appointed ship is made for design lovers.

As guests of Cunard, our group of journalists, travel execs, and selfie-taking influencers were invited to sample the ship’s many diversions, from fourteen dining venues and “clubs,” to various musical acts and theatrical revues, to games ranging from pub quizzes to party bingo. It was dizzying to the uninitiated like me, but fun, with a prevailing and communal sense of curiosity and adventure that I imagine to be part of most cruises.

Other activities would include spin classes, open-air yoga, archery, pickleball, dance, and swimming in the stunning blue-and-white Pavilion with retractable roof. The spa offers everything from cryotherapy to micro-needling to pain management, complete with on-staff physician. There is even a sauna encased in Himalayan salt. By the look of it, no extravagance is spared.

Not to mention, the ship looks wonderful. Designers Adam Tihany , Sybille de Margerie , and David Collins Studio’s Simon Rawlings have created sleek, sophisticated and colorful spaces punctuated by more than 4,300 specially commissioned artworks, the largest collection at sea.

With de Margerie and David Collins collaborating under the direction of Tihany, the staterooms, like the ship’s public spaces, are inspired by Cunard history and rich with archival references deploying a streamlined Deco vibe to feel modern but timeless, in honey-toned wood, gleaming brass, and tactile, multi-textured fabrics in strong, classic colors.

All three firms were new to maritime design. Britannia cabins were steered by de Margerie and are dressed in deep blues and yellows, with the windowless Britannia Inside cabins being the most budget-friendly. De Margerie also did the Princess Grill suites, where I stayed. Each has a private balcony and is schemed in warm ambers, bronzes, and autumn reds, with sleeping and seating areas divided by a dressing table/desk and bar/bookcase.

When I went to adjust the position of the decorative objets (as one does), I giggled to discover that they are firmly epoxied to the shelves (duh). Collins Studio helmed the top level Queens Grill suites, which have palettes in emerald, blush, gold and champagne, some embellished with marble floors and furnishings, pendant lights, and bespoke drinks cabinets with starburst veneer fronts and interior gold leaf mirrors.

The Queens Grill Master and Grand Suites have an extra room that may be made into a private dining room or guest bedroom. The trick, says Rawlings, was to avoid the predictable while warding off what might become dated by keeping things “fresh, unique, and bold.”

With thoughtful design, sumptuous materials, and a massive art collection, the public spaces, restaurants, and lounges feel less like you're on a cruise ship and more like you're hanging out in someone's well-appointed living room.

Fun facts: Not only is the ship captained by a woman, Inger Klein Thorhauge, but the uniforms were designed Kathryn Sargent, the world’s first female master tailor.

To book, go to cunard.com or call 1-800-728-6273. On June 23, an 11-day cruise through the Norwegian fjords embarks from Southampton (about $4,700 for a balcony suite) As a cruise ship and not an ocean liner, per se , the Queen Anne primarily covers environs of Europe, though she will make a maiden global voyage for 111 days early next year, embarking Southampton January 9.

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