A cruise ship company sailing out of the Port of Tyne has hit upon a novel way to entertain its guests. This September will see the ship Magellan embarking for a water-borne rock festival entitled Rock the Boat 2017.
Cruise ship firm Cruiseco hopes its idea will appeal to rock lovers who would prefer to enjoy their music in luxury rather than enduring the tents, muddy wellies and questionable sanitary arrangements normally associated with festivals.
Cruiseco has been putting on music-based cruises for the past seven years. The company says that Rock the Boat will visit a number of iconic destinations in the British Isles while iconic musicians play for the passengers.
Rock the Boat 2017 is due to call at Aberdeen, Skye, Liverpool (so guests can pop into the Beatles’ old haunt the Cabin Club), Dublin and Invergorden.
Cruiseco describes Rock the Boat as “Europe’s biggest rock ‘n’ roll music festival at sea” and “a musical adventure you’ll never forget.” The acts lined up include Slade, Suzie Quatro, Big Country, The Yardbirds, The Troggs, and Newcastle’s own The Animals and Friends.
Also performing will be From The Jam (a spin-off from legendary mod group The Jam) and The Manfreds (featuring ex-Manfred Mann personnel), as well as Rod Stewart and Bon Jovi tribute bands.
In addition, the cruise will host a number of theme nights including School’s Out (a school uniform party), Rock Gods (a costume party), and Pirates of the South Pacific (said to feature pirates, mermaids and maidens).
The national sales manager of Cruiseco, Joe Lavers, said, “If the idea of standing in a field, packing the wellies and camping isn’t for you, our Rock the Boat cruise provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy luxury accommodation, five-star cuisine and seven days of world class live music.”
Suzie Quatro said, “I can’t wait to perform on Rock the Boat. The ship looks amazing and I’m really looking forward to rocking out.”
Port of Tyne commented, “Themed cruises offer unique experiences and we are really looking forward to welcoming guests on board Rock the Boat.”
Rock the Boat 2017 will take place from September 2nd to 9th. You can find out more by visiting www.rocktheboatuk.com.