Photo: Don Idio Visuals
In just one week, dance music’s premier floating festival, Groove Cruise, will make history on its 37th voyage as the world’s largest music cruise ever. Departing from Miami on January 23rd, Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas will return to the breathtaking resort of Labadee, an exclusive destination on Haiti’s northern coast. The five-day expedition boasts 96 hours of nonstop music, 40 bars and restaurants, 12 electrifying stages, and over 90 artist-hosted activities and unique excursions. To top it all off, the star-studded lineup features EDM trailblazers such as Eric Prydz, MEDUZA, and melodic bass boss Seven Lions. Attendees (aka Captains) can explore the depths of the dance music spectrum and perhaps discover a new favorite artist or two. Whether you want to shuffle to house & techno icons like Cristoph and KREAM, get lost in a trance with Markus Schulz and Orjan Nilsen, or headbang with bass heavyweights like ALLEYCVT and MitiS, the musical opportunities are endless.
From sunrise to sunset, the beats will be bumping at all hours of the day. But if you need a break from the music, Groove Cruise organizers have you covered. Test your luck in a game of blackjack, tap into your spiritual side with a tarot card reading, or break a mental sweat playing Family Feud with Rave Culture Cast. While in Labadee, reconnect with nature by snorkeling in the pristine coral reefs. For adrenaline junkies, soar over the ocean on a half-mile zip line ride or race down the mountainside on the Dragon’s Tail Roller Coaster. Groove Cruise’s signature programming offers an array of soul-enriching and immersive activities designed for every type of traveler.
Back in full swing this year are the highly-coveted artist-hosted experiences. Ever dream of playing Mario Kart with Dada Life or competing in the Hot Ones Challenge with Trivecta? How about indulging in a private dinner hosted by Gem & Tauri? By participating in these once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, you’ll also be contributing to the Whet Foundation, a non-profit organization that aids underprivileged children through its Destination Donation program. Groove Cruise takes pride in giving back to the community while elevating artist-fan engagement to new heights.
Since its inception in 2004, Groove Cruise has become a global phenomenon for dance music lovers and artists alike. Its mantra is centered on human connection, self-expression, and the celebration of life. For Jason Beukema, Founder of Whet Travel and Groove Cruise, community and family are the heartbeat of the festival. By fostering an inclusive atmosphere that encourages personal growth and discovery, Captains embark on a transformative journey while forging meaningful, lasting connections with fellow cruisers. From artist-hosted events and community-driven activities to the impactful volunteer programs led by the Whet Foundation, Groove Cruise consistently delivers an unforgettable experience filled with lifelong memories.
Read on to hear from fellow Captains who’ll be returning to (and maybe playing) Groove Cruise this year!
Alex (@dj_afrovibe):
What makes Groove Cruise special & standout amongst other festivals?
The unparalleled vibes. I’ve been to festivals all around the world including other cruise festivals, and Groove Cruise just feels like coming home to family. You see the same people every year and build relationships. Also, all the artists are stuck on the same boat with everyone else, so you never know who you could be eating lunch next to. The boat is big but also small enough that you can really make lifelong friends you see over and over.
What are you most looking forward to returning to Groove Cruise this year?
96 hours of nonstop music! Some of the best underground artists can be found if you explore. There are even renegade stages happening all over, even the elevators. Good luck choosing the best time to sleep!
If you had to describe Groove Cruise in three words to someone who’s never been, what would they be?
I’d tell them what I say to myself every time the first night of Groove Cruise – Is this real?!
Michelle (@melodic_bassheads):
What makes Groove Cruise special & standout amongst other festivals?
Attendance wise, it’s one of the smallest festivals which I love. No big crowds, no lineups, room to dance, up close & personal with your fav artists (and opportunities to hang out and party with them 🤯), THE FOOOOOOD 🤤, the fact your bed is always a 5 min walk away and it’s so comfy and clean, as a northerner it’s nice to escape the freezing cold temps to a tropical paradise. Combines everything I love into one magical experience! ALSO the team behind it is literally the best. No greedy billionaire corporations in charge 🙌🏻
What’s the one essential item you make sure to pack for Groove Cruise?
Comfy closed toe shoes! My first time I thought I’d just be in sandals or barefoot the whole time so I didn’t even pack proper footwear - my feet were DESTROYED by the end of it.
If you had to describe Groove Cruise in three words to someone who’s never been, what would they be?
Community, paradise, life-changing
Photo: Don Idio Visuals
Years of War (@yearsofwarmusic):
What are you most looking forward to returning to Groove Cruise this year?
Getting to see all of our artist friends and spend time together in between everyone’s busy tour schedules. Also, to be in the mix surrounded by the energy that the GC community brings.
What does playing Groove Cruise again mean to you?
It’s almost become a tradition for us and something that we look forward to each year. It’s about community, music, and carefree fun.
Do you have a favorite memory from previous Groove Cruise(s)?
The time we cruised right after our wedding and Skeeter surprised us with a cake during one of our sets.
Kyliente (@kylieente):
What are you most looking forward to returning to Groove Cruise this year?
I’m most looking forward to returning to Groove Cruise to perform multiple sets across the span of the festival! Since I have more than one time slot this year I can get super creative and play to each vibe individually.
What does playing Groove Cruise again mean to you?
Playing at Groove Cruise is such a unique and fun experience because the attendees and artists are all intertwined and everyone’s like a big family on board. Us artists get to DJ multiple times throughout the weekend and it’s amazing to see so many talented people aboard.
Favorite activity or experience on the ship besides performing?
This might sound crazy but one of my favorite parts about Groove Cruise are the elevator parties!! People literally throw mini raves in the elevators and it’s so much fun and the perfect way to meet new friends.
Kitty (@kittysinthejungle):
What are you most looking forward to returning to Groove Cruise this year?
I’m beyond excited to reunite with my GCFam and be immersed in such an uplifting environment. Along with that, I’m happy that this will be my mom’s first big festival experience!
If you had to describe Groove Cruise in three words to someone who’s never been, what would they be?
Euphoric, Magical, Vacation
What advice would you give to first-time attendees to get the most out of their experience?
As many GC vets will say, “It’s a marathon not a sprint.” Make sure you are hydrated and nourished, take time to explore the ship/activities, join the FaceBook groups to make connections and get information, say hello and introduce yourself, try to catch a sunrise set, and of course check out the GCFam DJs!