All Jazz Cruises

HOLLAND AMERICA
m/s WESTERDAM

The Playboy Jazz Cruise, like all of the cruises produced and promoted by Jazz Cruises, LLC, is offered by full ship charter with Holland America Line.

Jazz Cruises, LLC has elected to use Holland America Line exclusively for its operations for several important reasons:

* the finest food and the friendliest and most competent service in the industry

* guest accommodations include a large percentage of staterooms with verandas, superb suites and the industry’s finest lower priced staterooms, which provides our guests the best selection of living quarters.

* Holland America Line’s V-Class Ships, with a capacity for our use of just over 1800 passengers, is the proper balance between sufficient size to provide services to our guests and maintaining the intimacy that has been the hallmark of The Jazz Cruise for so many years.

* Holland America Line operates from several cities of embarkation, thereby offering us a high degree of flexibility in terms of ports-of-call and other experiences. Most important of all, Holland America Line’s venues work for the proper presentation of our music.

   
   
   
Host Performer



 
ARTIST LINE-UP


MARCUS MILLER

HERBIE HANCOCK

DIANNE REEVES

KEB' MO'

PONCHO SANCHEZ

JAMES MOODY

ROY HARGROVE

JAMES CARTER

ELDAR

ROBERTA GAMBARINI

NEW BIRTH BRASS BAND

ALONZO BODDEN


 

The double M's in the name Marcus Miller could stand for Many things to Many people. Over the course of among the most enviable careers in all of music, Marcus ascended into a two-time Grammy-winner and the composer/producer of eight critically acclaimed and genre-defying albums as a leader, featuring his astounding and singular technique as among the world's most gifted, forward-thinking and eclectic electric bassists.

As a producer, writer and player, he was the last primary collaborator of jazz legend Miles Davis, contributing the composition "Tutu" to the canon of contemporary jazz music. And, starting with David Sanborn's 1980 album Hideaway and its follow-up Voyeur (for which the alto sax giant won a Grammy performing Marcus' composition "All I Need is You"), Marcus not only left an indelible mark on Sanborn’s distinctive sound, he laid the often-copied blueprint for the coolest of contemporary jazz sounds.

As a co-producer, arranger and player, Marcus was highly influential in the success of Luther Vandross, co-writing dozens of R&B/pop million-sellers with the beloved singer, including "Never Too Much," "Any Love," "`Til My Baby Comes Home," "For You To Love" and the Grammy-winning “Power of Love/Love Power.”

As a multi-instrumentalist, Marcus is highly proficient as a keyboardist, clarinetist/bass clarinetist and, primarily, as a world-renowned electric bassist, topping critics' and readers' polls for three decades. His resumé is brimming with over 500 recording credits as a sideman on albums across the spectrum of musical styles: Jazz (George Benson, Dizzy Gillespie, Joe Sample, Wayne Shorter and Grover Washington, Jr.), rock (Donald Fagen and Eric Clapton), pop (Roberta Flack, Paul Simon and Mariah Carey), R&B (Aretha Franklin and Chaka Khan), hip hop (Jay-Z and Snoop Dogg), smooth jazz (Al Jarreau and Michael Franks) and opera (a collaboration with tenor Kenn Hicks).

In the movie world, Marcus rose from writing the all-time great go-go party jam "Da Butt" for Spike Lee's "School Daze" to becoming the go-to score composer of 20+ films, ranging from the Hudlin Brothers’ comedy classic "Boomerang" and the family gem "This Christmas" to the animated children's film "The Trumpet of The Swan," the basketball documentary "1 Love" and Chris Rock’s coming of age television series “Everybody Hates Chris.”

Today, Marcus’ interests and projects are expanding into even more artistic endeavors. Last year found him hosting the first North Sea Jazz Cruise, which called for him to not just bring his band and turn the boat out, but hand-pick the other musicians who participated, covering all the bases with legends Herbie Hancock, McCoy Tyner, David Sanborn and Dee Dee Bridgewater, edgy contemporary stars Roy Hargrove, James Carter, DJ Logic and Medeski, Scofield, Martin & Wood, European imports Ulf Wakenius and Silje Nergaard and fierce up-and-comers Lionel Loueke and Roberta Gambarini. Treating fans to excellently planned programs (including a Sunday morning “Gospel Hour” co-hosted with the chameleonic Kirk Whalum - who was all over the ship for the entire cruise) as well as spontaneously thrilling jam sessions (including one where ship guests could sit in with the pros), Marcus also led seminars, interviews with the giants, and insisted that all of the talent be available on downtime to mingle with the cruisers. It was an awesome experience.

“When I shared my vision with all the musicians and they agreed to come aboard, I knew it was going to be something special. We had the most wonderful people from around the world – all so into the music – which gave the whole event such a beautiful spirit. It was like having the dopest backstage pass ever, plus I got to do some fresh things that I’ve always wanted to do.”

Marcus Miller, the man, ultimately stand for one thing – Musical Magnificence.

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Special Performer

 

 

MUSICIANS LINEUP

MARCUS MILLER BAND

DIANNE REEVES BAND

PONCHO SANCHEZ LATIN BAND

ROY HARGROVE BAND

JAMES CARTER ORGAN TRIO

JAMES MOODY & TRIO

ELDAR TRIO

VINCENT CHANDLER

ALEX HAN

 

 

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Herbie Hancock

Jazz Cruises, LLC wishes to extend our deepest congratulations to Herbie on winning the Album of the Year Grammy Award! Once again, Herbie has reminded us, in the most magnificent way, of the power and importance of Jazz.

Herbie Hancock is a true icon of modern music. Throughout his explorations, he has transcended limitations and genres while still maintaining his unique, unmistakable voice. Herbie's success at expanding the possibilities of musical thought has placed him in the annals of this century's visionaries. With an illustrious career spanning five decades, he continues to amaze audiences and never ceases to expand the public's vision of what music, particularly jazz, is all about today. Herbie Hancock's creative path has moved fluidly between almost every development in acoustic and electronic jazz and R&B since 1960. He has attained an enviable balance of commercial and artistic success, arriving at a point in his career where he ventures into every new project motivated purely by the desire to expand the boundaries of his creativity. There are few artists in the music industry who have gained more respect and cast more influence than Herbie Hancock. As the immortal Miles Davis said in his autobiography, "Herbie was the step after Bud Powell and Thelonious Monk, and I haven't heard anybody yet who has come after him."

Hancock's new release "River: The Joni Letters" has been nominated for three GRAMMY® awards, including Album of the Year, Best Contemporary Jazz Album and Best Instrumental Jazz Solo for the track "Both Sides Now". Probably the most surprised by the nomination was Hancock himself. “Album of the year for jazz record?” he told billboard.biz, “I was shocked. But jazz is out there. It's alive and manifests itself in a lot of different ways; its influence on other genres of music still continues.”

   
   
Ports of Call

 

ITINERARY

Sunday, January 25
Departing from Fort Lauderdale
5:00pm

Monday, January 26
At Sea

Tuesday, January 27
San Juan, Puerto Rico
3:00pm – 12:00mn

Wednesday, January 28
Nevis, West Indies
10:30am – 6:00pm

Thursday, January 29
St. Barths, French West Indies
7:00am – 5:00pm

Friday, January 30
At Sea

Saturday, January 31
Half Moon Cay, Bahamas
10:00am – 4:00pm

Sunday, February 1
Arrive at Fort Lauderdale
7:00am
Disembarkation 9:00am

 

 

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SAN JUAN
There is no place quite like a tropical volcanic island, and no island in the Caribbean quite like Puerto Rico. The geography of the island is very unusual, as it encompasses distinctly different kinds of topography and microclimates in a relatively small area, and with over 500 years of fascinating history, needless to say there is an adventure awaiting you in San Juan. Also known as the Caribbean capital of nightlife and entertainment, where you can indulge in bar hopping, fine dining, Vegas-style gaming or anything in between. From museums to monuments, historic forts to flamenco shows, there are sightseeing tours and adventures that will entice you to go ashore and explore the moment the ships docks. It is an island teeming with beauty and vitality. Some of it is Spanish, some Indian, some African and some… something else. But somehow it all blends together into a culture that you will find fascinating and one-of-kind.

NEVIS
There's something about this small, sombrero-shaped island that grabs you. The charm and tranquility takes you back to a time when things were simpler, when life was more peaceful, when stress was just a word, not a way of life. Just listen to the monkeys chattering in the trees, the doves cooing in the distance. There is excellent snorkeling just offshore and scuba diving around wrecks and natural reefs. For those more interested in man-made exploration, try your hand at archaeology, or exploring the ruins of old sugar plantations, a lime kiln, or Amerindian sites. These are the rainforests, reefs, and ruins of Nevis, a fascinating destination for people who enjoy the natural side of the tropics. This 36-square-mile island lies near the top of the Lesser Antilles archipelago, about 200 miles south of Puerto Rico, and just west of Antigua. This island jewel is approximately 7 miles long and 5 miles wide, with natural vegetation that is un-paralleled. Green and serene, Nevis is truly one of the remaining un-spoilt places and proudly carries the name, "Queen of the Caribees." From the top of the 3,232-foot Nevis Peak to the depths of the clear waters offshore, there is a world of flora and fauna to be explored. In the hills, the comical green vervet monkeys chatter and scamper; in the sea, the whales cruise by. Stroll around and see the architecture of eras gone by: churches, windmills, and refurbished Great Houses. Its 10,000 residents are friendly and helpful, ready to make new friends and welcome back regular visitors. The genuine charm and hospitality radiate into the unspoken, "Welcome," "Be my guest," and "Do come again." Nevis is special, a place that will seduce you, and tug at your heart strings after you leave.

ST. BARTH'S

Take one beach-fringed volcanic island, sweltering in the tropical sun for several million years. Add a handful of French maritime adventurers in search of a new and better life. Simmer for four hundred years. Turn up the heat, and add luxurious villas, elegant small hotels, and world class French restaurants. Baste with equal amounts of sophisticated relaxation and rustic charm - this is the perfect recipe for nonchalance, up-scale and exquisite port of call that St. Barths is.

HALF MOON CAY
The highest-rated port of call on Holland America's Caribbean itineraries, Half Moon Cay is located on 55-acres of the 2,400-acre Little San Salvador Island, an international bird sanctuary in the Bahamas (only two percent of the island is developed). Rated as "Best Private Island" by Porthole Cruise Magazine for the past four years, Half Moon Cay now offers several new and exciting activities from which to choose. You can go Horse back riding by land or sea, swim with the stingrays, enjoy your own private beachfront cabana, feast on a delicious barbeque or simply swim, snorkel and relax in the warm waters of the Caribbean – the perfect way to finish your cruise.

   
   
   
The Ship

 

HOLLAND AMERICA LINE  m/s WESTERDAM

MAGNIFICENT VISTA CLASS

Introducing the m/s Westerdam, third member of the grand Vista-class ships defining the future of cruising. Westerdam offers guests more of everything they desire on a cruise ship: more staterooms with private verandahs, more dining choices from formal dinners to casual poolside dining, and more ways to relax in The GreenHouse Spa and Salon. As with all Vista-class ships, she embraces the latest industry and environmental technologies such as her use of a full-scale diesel-electric power plant for optimal energy efficiency and an Azipod propulsion system that maximizes maneuverability.

SHIP FACTS

SHIP’S REGISTRY:
The Netherlands
PASSENGER CAPACITY:
1,848
CREW MEMBERS:
800
GROSS TONAGE:
85,000 grt.
LENGTH:
951 feet
BEAM:
105.8
MAXIMUM SPEED:
24 knots
 
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Onboard Experiences


Pinnacle Grill

Greenhouse Spa & Salon

Crow's Nest

Piano Bar

Ocean Bar

Lido Pool & Bar

Gym Room

Atrium

SHIP HIGHLIGHTS

PINNACLE GRILL
Enjoy a dining experience themed to reflect the Pacific Northwest, complete with candlelight and fine décor to create a romantic ambiance that sets the stage for fresh Northwest dishes and select wines. Feast on premium hand-selected cuts of sterling-silver beef and unique items like wild mushroom ravioli or try one of the savory seafood dishes such as Northwest clam chowder, Alaskan king salmon and Dungeness crab cakes with spiral shaved cucumber and sweet chili sauce. Then to top it all off a collection of delectable desserts naturally includes Baked Alaska and the ever popular Chocolate Volcano Cake.

GREENHOUSE SPA & SALON
Enhance your vacation with a luxurious and pampering experience that is as self-indulgent as it is therapeutic. Relaxing treatment rooms offer breathtaking views where you can enjoy exotic skin, body and hair treatments ranging from hot stone massages and pedicures to hair styling and facials. The Greenhouse Spa fitness facility includes the latest exercise equipment, and experienced exercise professionals for personal training.

CROW'S NEST
The lively Crow's Nest offers a world-class view of the course ahead. From a fascinating artist seminar, to an autograph signing or a party to the wee hours of the morning with our special DJ -- with these sweeping ocean vistas, you'll never forget you're at sea.

PIANO BAR

Every night the ship’s Piano Player will take over for an evening of musical fun! Join in on a sing-along, request a song or simply sit back, relax and enjoy a martini – the choice is yours!

OCEAN BAR
At the center of the ship by the atrium, the Ocean Bar is the perfect place to enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail each evening. Then after showtime, the place heats up as a featured musician takes over to entertain with the occasional special guest artist!

NEPTUNE LOUNGE
The exclusive Neptune Lounge offers Deluxe Verandah Suite and Penthouse Suite guests a private retreat where they can relax, read and socialize throughout their cruise travel. Guests may take advantage of personalized services from the lounge's concierge, who will gladly make reservations for shore excursions, car rentals, the Pinnacle Grill dining experience and more.

LIDO POOL & BAR
By daytime, it’s the perfect place to relax, unwind and get a tan as the sun hits the deck – But by nightfall, we transform this deck into a party-town with bands in Jam Sessions, Pool Parties and Theme Nights that will take you into the wee hours of the morning.

GYM ROOM
For rejuvenation thru exercise, the ships gym offers fitness classes to help you achieve optimum health and vitality. Yoga, Pilates, spinning and cardio Ki-Bo circuit training are available for students of all levels. Take advantage of treadmills, stationary bikes, stairsteppers, rowing machines, weights and weight machines. And while you're working out, refresh your soul with soothing panoramic views of the ocean.

WINDSTAR CAFÉ
Start your day with a fresh Torrefazione coffee and a pastry, whether it’s a latte, Americano, cappuccino or a simple cup of tea, the Windstar Café will get you going - and every morning you might even bump into your favorite Latin Music Artist when we showcase their latest released CD.

ATRIUM
This is the heart of the ship, expanding over 3 decks with a Waterford Sailing Ship as the centerpiece. From the Ocean Bar, to the Pinnacle Grill, Windstar Café to the Front Office, they all resonate around the Atrium, so finding your way will be a breeze.

VISTA LOUNGE
In the dramatic, multi-tiered show lounge, each evening you will enjoy your favorite Smooth Jazz Artists in Concert. For 2 hours every night, you will have up on your feet dancing, singing clapping along, as the best of the best perform in a close, intimate environment with many spectacular surprises, which can only happen with Jazz Cruises, LLC.

DINING ROOM
Each evening as the dinner hour approaches, the melodious call of the chime master invites guests to the main dining room, where another incredible experience awaits. Rare art, elegant staircases and panoramic windows surround tables laid with fine linens, silver and sparkling stemware. Servers greet guests and present menus of sumptuous five-course selections, from appetizers and drinks to entrées and dessert.

QUEEN'S LOUNGE
In this smaller, intimate theater, Jazz Cruises LLC. hosts an array of up close and personal events with your favorite Smooth Jazz Artists. Hear stories, impromptu songs and learn what happens ‘Behind The Instruments” in an informal setting that will entertain you all cruise.

In addition to the above, the ship has many more entertainment venues to offer including the Erasmus Library, Seaview Bar, Cigar Room, Casino, Sports Bar, Shops, Internet Center to mention a few…

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 State Rooms

Cabin Descriptions - download PDF for deck views

PENTHOUSE VERANDAH SUITE
CATEGORY PS
Bedroom with 1 king-size bed, oversize whirlpool bath & shower & additional shower stall, living room, dining room, dressing room, private verandah with whirlpool, pantry, 1 sofa bed for 2 persons, microwave, refrigerator, guest toilet, private stereo system, floor-to-ceiling windows.
1,318 sq. ft. with verandah

DELUXE VERANDAH SUITE
CATEGORY SA,SB,SC
2 lower beds convertible to 1 king-size bed, bathroom with dual sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath & shower & additional shower stall, large sitting area, dressing room, private verandah,1 sofa bed for 2 persons, floor-to-ceiling windows.
510 sq. ft. with verandah


SUPERIOR VERANDAH SUITE

CATEGORY SS, SY, SZ
2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bathroom with dual sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath & shower & additional shower stall, large sitting area, dressing room, private verandah, 1 sofa bed for 1 person, floor-to-ceiling windows.
389 sq. ft. with verandah


DELUXE VERANDAH OUTSIDE STATEROOM

CATEGORY VA, VB, VC, VD, VE, VF, VH
2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bath & shower, sitting area, private verandah, floor-to-ceiling windows.
249 sq. ft. with verandah



LARGE OUTSIDE STATEROOM

CATEGORY C, D, DD, E, F, G, GG, H, HH
2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bathtub & shower. All G-category staterooms have a partial sea view. All GG-category staterooms have fully obstructed views. All H- & HH-category staterooms have fully obstructed views.
185 sq. ft.


LARGE OR STANDARD INSIDE STATEROOM

CATEGORY I, J, K, L, M, MM, N, NN
2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, shower.
183-207 sq. ft.

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Guest Information

IDENTIFICATION

For United States Citizens:

A valid passport is required for all travel outside of the United States. Passports must not expire within six months after your date of travel in order to be considered valid. For further information and passport requirements, please visit www.state.gov

For Non-United States Citizens:

You must have a valid passport and any necessary visas for travel. Please carefully verify the existing identification requirements for your particular travel situation with your local consulate. In addition, non-U.S. citizens who have previously been admitted to the United States for permanent residence must carry their Permanent Residence Card (Form I-551), commonly known as a Green Card. Resident aliens not in possession of this must obtain one at the nearest office of the United States Immigration Service.

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Passports & Visas

PASSPORTS

For United States Citizens:

A valid passport is required for all travel outside of the United States. Passports must not expire within six months after your date of travel in order to be considered valid. For further information and passport requirements, please visit www.state.gov

For Non-United States Citizens:

You must have a valid passport and any necessary visas for travel. Please carefully verify the existing identification requirements for your particular travel situation with your local consulate. In addition, non-U.S. citizens who have previously been admitted to the United States for permanent residence must carry their Permanent Residence Card (Form I-551), commonly known as a Green Card. Resident aliens not in possession of this must obtain one at the nearest office of the United States Immigration Service.

VISAS
Some countries require that you obtain official authorization (called a visa), before entering their country. Usually, there is a fee required. You are responsible for obtaining any necessary visas. If your itinerary requires a visa prior to boarding, Holland America Line will send a visa information kit to your travel agent. The visa kit will have information for U.S. and Canadian citizens. Citizens of other countries should contact the nearest representative embassies or consulates for the proper information. All guests should keep themselves advised of changes in government requirements. If you have questions about visa requirements, call Zierer Visa Service at 866-788-1100 or 202-745-4470. You may also choose to send an E-mail message to: info@zvs.com.

Schengen Visa Holders (applies to those EU-Member citizens only): New requirements pertaining to proof of medical insurance coverage have been adopted for all Schengen Visa holders. This requirement does not apply to US or Canadian citizens. All guests should keep themselves advised of changes in government requirements. If you have questions about visa requirements, call Zierer Visa Service at 866-788-1100 or local (202)745-4470. You may also choose to send an E-mail message to: info@zvs.com or visit their website at www.zvs.com.

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