Local News

Welcome to Jamrock Reggae Cruise 2024, 10th-anniversary plans for ’25

21 January 2025
This content originally appeared on Jamaica News | Loop News.
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Set against an incomparable backdrop of clear blue waters, the ninth staging of the Welcome to Jamrock Reggae Cruise (WTJRC) exceeded expectations, rocked the high-seas, and trailblazed non-stop reggae and dancehall performances.

The WTJRC wrapped a ninth annual voyage on Saturday, December 14, leaving an unforgettable mark on all who attended – many passengers claiming it is the best one yet.

It was a vibrant celebration of Jamaican culture with a world-class lineup of artists with their sound systems, sound clashes, and word-class deejays.

By the time the ship returned to Miami, the 2025 cruise had already sold out – a true testament to WTJRC’s unrivaled reputation.

Founded in 2014 by four-time Grammy Award-winning artist Damian ‘Jr Gong’ Marley and his long-time manager Dan Dalton, WTJRC has become a premier destination for reggae enthusiasts and Jamaican culture lovers from around the world.

Representing over 50 countries, passengers experienced five days of incredible music, food, wellness activities, and cultural immersion that only the Jamrock experience can offer.

For the 10th anniversary edition, the 2025 Welcome to Jamrock Reggae Cruise represent fine style aboard the luxurious Norwegian Joy, sailing from October 27 to November 1, 2025.

This milestone voyage will incorporate a star-studded line-up, including Shenseea, Tarrus Riley, Sizzla, Super Cat, Valiant, and Ding Dong & The Ravers Clavers.

The WTJRC is committed to showcasing Rock culture, and every aspect of the experience is infused with tropical elements —from food to entertainment, and wellness activities, too.

Organisers plan Ital Rastafarian dishes and Jamaican delicacies, sound baths, yoga and sunrise meditation accompanied by Nyabinghi drumming on the pool deck, and authentic cultural exchanges way before passengers step foot on the island.

The WTJRC 2024 is set to deliver performances from reggae and dancehall legends, including Damian Marley, Stephen Marley, Bounty Killer, Collie Buddz, Marcia Griffiths, Luciano, Masicka, Teejay, Ding Dong, Big Youth, Jah9, Queen Omega, Jesse Royal, Julian Marley, Macka Diamond, and more — all bringing their vibrant energy to the stage.

A major highlight of the ninth voyage was the highly anticipated SoundClash at Sea Ultimate Champion, a thrilling deejay battle where the world’s top sound systems compete for the title.

This year’s clash featured four reigning champions going head-to-head, with Tony Matterhorn claiming the trophy—his second win—and the coveted Ultimate Jamrock SoundClash Champion title.

There was also celebrity football, domino tournaments, late-night concerts, impromptu jam sessions with deejays or full-set shows.

As the longest-standing reggae cruise, the WTJRC is hailed as a cultural phenomenon that celebrates not just the music, but the lifestyle and spirit of Jamaica, providing each passenger with a deeper understanding of, and appreciation for the island’s rich culture.

For more information about the cruise, including its 2025 waitlist, artist announcements and booking details, visit welcometojamrockreggaecruise.com.