Jazz Cruises has produced The Jazz Cruise and The Smooth Jazz Cruise since 2001 and 2004, respectively. The cruises are iconic in their respective jazz worlds. The Jazz Cruise is the #1 “straight ahead” jazz event in the world and The Smooth Jazz Cruise holds the same status in the world of “smooth jazz.” Their missions are clear and their purposes are understood.

So, what about Blue Note at Sea?

Its moniker is not self-evident, though “Blue Note” has been a jazz rallying cry for decades. It connotes quality, variety, being “hip” and being “cool.” For those reasons, the term was selected for Jazz Cruises’ newest program, a program that began in 2017, paused due to the pandemic, but charging back to the excitement and enjoyment of its rabid fans.

Blue Note at Sea does not reflect any segment or category of jazz. Simply put, it is defined by its lineups which has included jazz superstars who are recognized worldwide for their unique skills. Each year it changes in subtle ways allowing the skills and talents of the musicians to define the vibe. There are constants, but no doctrines. Standards, but no regulations. As we say, GREAT MUSIC IS THE ONLY RULE.

Click to watch the video above to hear what may be the best explanation of the cruise we can offer directly from Music Co-Host Marcus Miller and Cruise Host Alonzo Bodden. They explain what Blue Note at Sea means to them and try to sum up what makes the experience so special. Besides noting their words, take stock of their emotion and reverence for this experience. For many, Blue Note at Sea is the jazz experience, one that goes beyond the music and straight to the soul.

Then join Marcus, Alonzo, Robert Glasper, Chris Botti, Cécile McLorin Salvant, Christian McBride, Sheila E., Brad Mehldau, Christian Scott, The Baylor Project, Damien Escobar, Cyrille Aimée, Gerald Clayton, Emmet Cohen, Derrick Hodge, José James, Jamison Ross, Warren Wolf and many more stars on Blue Note at Sea ’23.