Christian McBride, the nine-time GRAMMY® Award-winning bassist and one of the most influential figures in contemporary jazz, has announced the launch of Christian McBride’s World at Sea, an immersive and unique cruise experience combining world-class music, inspiring events, and breathtaking destinations. Set to sail in January 2026, the voyage is designed to celebrate McBride’s expansive musical universe, with an all-star lineup that spans multiple genres, including jazz, soul, and comedy.
This newly curated cruise experience will take place aboard the luxurious Celebrity Summit, offering guests the opportunity to sail from Fort Lauderdale on January 20, 2026. Over the course of seven days, the ship will make stops in Jamaica and Grand Cayman before returning to Fort Lauderdale on January 27, 2026. The cruise, produced in partnership with Signature Cruise Experiences, features an extraordinary lineup of musicians, vocalists, and comedians, all personally invited by McBride himself.
An Unmatched Lineup of Talent
True to McBride's reputation for excellence, Christian McBride’s World at Sea will feature some of the most celebrated and sought-after artists in jazz and beyond, including:
José James – A soulful voice blending jazz, soul, and R&B.
Cécile McLorin Salvant – The Grammy-winning jazz vocalist with a rare, distinctive voice.
Angélique Kidjo – The Afrobeat and world music legend, bringing her vibrant sound to the sea.
Chris Potter – A master saxophonist known for his innovative approach to jazz.
Melissa Walker – An outstanding vocalist and advocate for the arts.
Sullivan Fortner – A rising star on the piano, blending jazz with improvisation.
Benny Green – A virtuoso pianist with a deep, soulful jazz tradition.
Greg Hutchinson – A legendary drummer known for his precise yet dynamic style.
Christian Sands – An exciting pianist blending straight-ahead jazz with a modern edge.
Warren Wolf – A multi-instrumentalist and vibraphonist who brings a unique flavor to jazz.
Additionally, World at Sea will include comedic performances by Alonzo Bodden and George Wallace, ensuring that there’s no shortage of entertainment throughout the voyage.
Christian McBride: A Personal Invitation to Join His World
In a statement, McBride expressed his enthusiasm for the cruise, which he describes as a “celebration of jazz and more.” He said, “For more than three decades, it has been my honor to be a part of the universe of jazz. My world within that universe is best understood through the ensembles I have had the privilege of creating, leading, and performing with. I am gathering many of the musicians who have been a part of my life for years for seven days and seven nights of amazing music, camaraderie, and joy. Enter my world and enjoy a funky good time.”
Guests will not only experience outstanding performances by McBride and his handpicked artists, but they will also be treated to special concerts and intimate events that provide deep insights into McBride’s musical journey. Performances by McBride’s own ensembles will also be highlights of the trip:
Christian McBride & Inside Straight – McBride’s acclaimed ensemble known for its energetic performances and tight ensemble playing.
Christian McBride Big Band – A larger-than-life musical experience, showcasing McBride’s mastery as both a composer and bandleader.
Christian McBride & Ursa Major – A new project that pushes the boundaries of jazz.
Christian McBride: Remembering Ray Brown – A special tribute performance with Benny Green and Greg Hutchinson honoring the legendary bassist Ray Brown.
Exclusive Events and Experiences
Beyond the live music performances, Christian McBride’s World at Sea will feature a wide range of exclusive events designed to enrich the guest experience:
Artist-hosted Tastings – Experience the tastes of the sea with McBride’s curated dining events and musical pairings.
In-Depth Interviews & Conversations – McBride will host educational and inspirational sessions with the artists, offering insights into the creative process and the world of jazz.
Private Performances & Jam Sessions – A chance to witness spontaneous performances by McBride and his collaborators in intimate settings.
Special Events – From Q&A sessions to meet-and-greets with the artists, there will be no shortage of memorable moments throughout the cruise.
Luxurious Accommodations on the Celebrity Summit
The Celebrity Summit, a long-time favorite among Signature Cruise Experience guests, provides the perfect setting for this musical voyage. With world-class performance venues, state-of-the-art facilities, and luxurious accommodations, guests will have the opportunity to relax, unwind, and immerse themselves in the world of jazz in style. Stateroom prices for Christian McBride’s World at Sea begin at $2,975 per person, with pre-sale reservations now open through December 9, 2024.
A Legacy of Excellence
Signature Cruise Experiences, the production partner behind Christian McBride’s World at Sea, is renowned for its expertise in creating extraordinary music-themed cruise experiences. With over 80 full-ship charters and more than 170,000 guests served since 2001, Signature Cruise Experiences has set the gold standard for jazz at sea. Their previous programs have included The Jazz Cruise, Chris Botti at Sea, The Smooth Jazz Cruise, and Journey of Jazz.
About Christian McBride
Christian McBride’s remarkable career spans multiple genres, and his influence is felt across jazz, R&B, classical, and even hip-hop. A prolific performer, McBride is also an educator and advocate for the next generation of musicians. He serves as the Artistic Director of the Newport Jazz Festival, the National Jazz Museum in Harlem, and the TD James Moody Jazz Festival. He is also a prominent voice in the jazz community, hosting NPR’s Jazz Night in America and The Lowdown: Conversations with Christian on SiriusXM. Whether on stage, in the studio, or in the classroom, McBride continues to inspire and shape the future of music.
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