Join this Unforgettable Christian Cruise to the Caribbean with Bill & Gloria Gaither and Your Homecoming Friends
“Real life” rarely offers us the chance to focus on our spiritual, physical and emotional well-being…and the Homecoming family rarely has more than one or two evenings at a time in one place. But Homecoming cruises remedy all that! You enjoy a week away from the demands of everyday life and we enjoy singing to the same friends each night for an entire week. What a treat! And to enjoy this get-away while surrounded by the Caribbean’s breathtaking beauty that offers constant reminders that we are on holy ground…even in the middle of the ocean.
As always, your Homecoming Friends are a truly outstanding group of artists who will help us create an environment overflowing with purpose and rich in meaningful moments; and, thanks to Inspiration Cruises & Tours and everyone at Holland America Line, there’s always an abundance of fun activities, great food, luxurious amenities and countless ways to nurture and rekindle relationships with the family of God. We hope you will make it a priority to be a part of this unique cruise vacation and enjoy 7 days of great music among friends and fellow-believers.
Because He Lives,
Bill & Gloria Gaither
Meet These Special Guests During Your Exceptional Travel Experience
With feet firmly planted in faith and family, drawing from the stream started by the Lefevres and carried on by Rex Nelon, Kelly, Jason, and Amber crystallize a new vision for the Nelons’ three decade gospel legacy. With numerable awards and accolades including three GRAMMY Nominations, Six Gospel Music Association DOVE Awards and many songs that have soared to the top of national radio charts, this family trio continues to produce innovative music that embraces their traditional roots, while simultaneously reaching beyond various musical boundaries with an emphasis on introducing songs for the church. All the while bridging the generational gap of music lovers with incomparable harmonies and great songs.
The Nelons’ continue a heavy touring schedule consisting of more than 150 concerts annually that takes their brand of Christian music around the world, recently just finishing a very successful Scandinavian Tour. They are regulars on the famed Gaither Homecoming Video Series. In addition they have become sought after worship leaders in various State Music and Choral Conferences.
During the rare times when the Nelons’ are not on the road, they serve as Artists in Residence at Jacksonville’s Trinity Baptist Church. As they travel, they’re Ambassadors for Trinity Baptist College, where Amber is a sophomore. For (original group member) Kelly Nelon Clark, singing alongside her husband (song-writer and group arranger) Jason Clark, and daughter (vocal power-house), Amber Nelon Thompson this is a full-circle moment as she reflects on the countless nights she shared the stage with her Hall of Fame Father, Rex Nelon.
Today, the Nelons’ take all the elements you’ve come to expect from the group—unparalleled vocal excellence, a sound built on the interplay between a soaring soprano and Kelly’s emotional smooth alto with an intertwining tenor, and add impeccable tight family harmony with an uncanny gift of communicating God’s love and you have a worship experience that you’ll not soon forget
With feet firmly planted in faith and family, drawing from the stream started by the Lefevres and carried on by Rex Nelon, Kelly, Jason, and Amber crystallize a new vision for the Nelons’ three decade gospel legacy. With numerable awards and accolades including three GRAMMY Nominations, Six Gospel Music Association DOVE Awards and many songs that have soared to the top of national radio charts, this family trio continues to produce innovative music that embraces their traditional roots, while simultaneously reaching beyond various musical boundaries with an emphasis on introducing songs for the church. All the while bridging the generational gap of music lovers with incomparable harmonies and great songs.
The Nelons’ continue a heavy touring schedule consisting of more than 150 concerts annually that takes their brand of Christian music around the world, recently just finishing a very successful Scandinavian Tour. They are regulars on the famed Gaither Homecoming Video Series. In addition they have become sought after worship leaders in various State Music and Choral Conferences.
During the rare times when the Nelons’ are not on the road, they serve as Artists in Residence at Jacksonville’s Trinity Baptist Church. As they travel, they’re Ambassadors for Trinity Baptist College, where Amber is a sophomore. For (original group member) Kelly Nelon Clark, singing alongside her husband (song-writer and group arranger) Jason Clark, and daughter (vocal power-house), Amber Nelon Thompson this is a full-circle moment as she reflects on the countless nights she shared the stage with her Hall of Fame Father, Rex Nelon.
Today, the Nelons’ take all the elements you’ve come to expect from the group—unparalleled vocal excellence, a sound built on the interplay between a soaring soprano and Kelly’s emotional smooth alto with an intertwining tenor, and add impeccable tight family harmony with an uncanny gift of communicating God’s love and you have a worship experience that you’ll not soon forget
Kevin Williams is an accomplished musician who is no stranger to Southern Gospel Music. His expertise as a guitar player is heavily utilized on the Homecoming video series, as well as many well-known gospel artists’ recordings. While growing up in Russell Springs, KY, Kevin began playing bluegrass and gospel music at the age of 12 for various groups in the area. Within a few years he was playing on radio jingles at a nearby studio. In 1995, he produced the last project for Wendy Bagwell & The Sunliters, I Feel Like Singing. He considers that project among his career highlights. Since then, he has performed with Janet Paschal, Buddy Greene and currently can be found backing up the Gaither Vocal Band and Homecoming Friends. Bill Gaither says of Kevin, “His guitar and his spirit always add that special touch.” Kevin is the co-owner of UpFront Recording Studios and he maintains a full-time recording schedule in addition to producing several artists each year. He also has a solo project entitled Homecoming Guitar which features his distinctive guitar sound, along with guest performances by many of the Homecoming instrumentalists including Anthony Burger, Roger Bennett and Buddy Greene. Kevin and his wife, Kathy, reside in Franklin, TN, just outside Nashville. They have two beautiful daughters, Carolina and Olivia Rose.
Kevin Williams is an accomplished musician who is no stranger to Southern Gospel Music. His expertise as a guitar player is heavily utilized on the Homecoming video series, as well as many well-known gospel artists’ recordings. While growing up in Russell Springs, KY, Kevin began playing bluegrass and gospel music at the age of 12 for various groups in the area. Within a few years he was playing on radio jingles at a nearby studio. In 1995, he produced the last project for Wendy Bagwell & The Sunliters, I Feel Like Singing. He considers that project among his career highlights. Since then, he has performed with Janet Paschal, Buddy Greene and currently can be found backing up the Gaither Vocal Band and Homecoming Friends. Bill Gaither says of Kevin, “His guitar and his spirit always add that special touch.” Kevin is the co-owner of UpFront Recording Studios and he maintains a full-time recording schedule in addition to producing several artists each year. He also has a solo project entitled Homecoming Guitar which features his distinctive guitar sound, along with guest performances by many of the Homecoming instrumentalists including Anthony Burger, Roger Bennett and Buddy Greene. Kevin and his wife, Kathy, reside in Franklin, TN, just outside Nashville. They have two beautiful daughters, Carolina and Olivia Rose.
This talented musical family has enjoyed many popular hit releases during three decades of tremendous success. Their first Number One release came in 1990 with the song entitled Here I Am. Since that time, five Hopper releases have peaked at number one, including, Jerusalem. In addition to radio success, the Hoppers have enjoyed other national recognition. In 1981, The Hoppers represented Southern Gospel Music at the Religious Inaugural Celebration for President Ronald Reagan. In 1998, they performed a song for Bill Gaither’s video entitled Shouting Time. Since then, they have often appeared on the Gaither Homecoming tour and in several Gaither Homecoming videos.
This talented musical family has enjoyed many popular hit releases during three decades of tremendous success. Their first Number One release came in 1990 with the song entitled Here I Am. Since that time, five Hopper releases have peaked at number one, including, Jerusalem. In addition to radio success, the Hoppers have enjoyed other national recognition. In 1981, The Hoppers represented Southern Gospel Music at the Religious Inaugural Celebration for President Ronald Reagan. In 1998, they performed a song for Bill Gaither’s video entitled Shouting Time. Since then, they have often appeared on the Gaither Homecoming tour and in several Gaither Homecoming videos.
Russ Taff is one of the most celebrated and innovative voices in gospel music. He has experimented with rock, pop, blues, southern gospel, black gospel and country during a career spanning over 30 years. Two years after his teenage band opened for the Imperials, Russ was invited to sing lead for the legendary Christian group. He has received five Grammy® Awards and nominations during five glory years with the Imperials. During his next several years as a soloist, he co-wrote, with wife Tori, songs about his personal spiritual pilgrimage. During his solo stretch, he won Grammy® Awards for Walls of Glass and Under Their Influence, as well as for his work on the movie soundtrack, The Apostle, while collecting three Dove Awards for Male vocalist of the Year. He began appearing on Homecoming videos in the early ‘90s and toured with the Gaither Vocal Band for three years during which two GVB projects won Grammy® nominations. Now he appears as a featured artist on the Homecoming circuit and tours solo.
Russ Taff is one of the most celebrated and innovative voices in gospel music. He has experimented with rock, pop, blues, southern gospel, black gospel and country during a career spanning over 30 years. Two years after his teenage band opened for the Imperials, Russ was invited to sing lead for the legendary Christian group. He has received five Grammy® Awards and nominations during five glory years with the Imperials. During his next several years as a soloist, he co-wrote, with wife Tori, songs about his personal spiritual pilgrimage. During his solo stretch, he won Grammy® Awards for Walls of Glass and Under Their Influence, as well as for his work on the movie soundtrack, The Apostle, while collecting three Dove Awards for Male vocalist of the Year. He began appearing on Homecoming videos in the early ‘90s and toured with the Gaither Vocal Band for three years during which two GVB projects won Grammy® nominations. Now he appears as a featured artist on the Homecoming circuit and tours solo.
As a professional background vocalist, Angela Primm added her outstanding vocals to many recordings and live performances for artists of various genres, Andraé Crouch, Patti Austin and Gretchen Wilson to name just a few. Her musical history spans genres, continents and audiences. She has commanded the attention of mega- stars from Aretha Franklin, Barbara Mandrell and Brooks & Dunn, as well as country and gospel legends Dolly Parton and the late Vestal Goodman.
This delightful lady with the powerhouse voice has now begun to step into a musical journey all her own as a solo artist, yet she knows beyond a doubt that her steps have been ordered by her Creator. She has recently appeared in Homecoming DVDs and live performances, and she has just completed her debut solo recording entitled, A Little Bit of Heaven.
As a professional background vocalist, Angela Primm added her outstanding vocals to many recordings and live performances for artists of various genres, Andraé Crouch, Patti Austin and Gretchen Wilson to name just a few. Her musical history spans genres, continents and audiences. She has commanded the attention of mega- stars from Aretha Franklin, Barbara Mandrell and Brooks & Dunn, as well as country and gospel legends Dolly Parton and the late Vestal Goodman.
This delightful lady with the powerhouse voice has now begun to step into a musical journey all her own as a solo artist, yet she knows beyond a doubt that her steps have been ordered by her Creator. She has recently appeared in Homecoming DVDs and live performances, and she has just completed her debut solo recording entitled, A Little Bit of Heaven.
You may not automatically know their names, but if you've seen a Gaither Homecoming video, attended a Billy Graham Crusade, listened to Disney's The Lion King Soundtrack or seen the Grand Ole Opry on television, you've heard the voices of Reggie and Ladye Love Smith. While their singing talents open many doors for the couple, it is their ability to relate to the personal needs of the people in the seats that earn them a standing invitation at most places where they minister. As a couple and as individuals, the Smith's offer audiences much more than just mere entertainment. Ladye holds a Master's Degree in Counseling and is frequently involved in women's retreats and conferences. Reggie, in addition to producing various album projects, lends his music education background to conducting retreats and praise & worship conferences. It is when they take the stage together, however, appreciating each other's strengths and weaknesses, and loving, laughing, and sharing the special bond created by their long friendship and fourteen-year marriage, that the Smith's truly connect with people around the globe.
You may not automatically know their names, but if you've seen a Gaither Homecoming video, attended a Billy Graham Crusade, listened to Disney's The Lion King Soundtrack or seen the Grand Ole Opry on television, you've heard the voices of Reggie and Ladye Love Smith. While their singing talents open many doors for the couple, it is their ability to relate to the personal needs of the people in the seats that earn them a standing invitation at most places where they minister. As a couple and as individuals, the Smith's offer audiences much more than just mere entertainment. Ladye holds a Master's Degree in Counseling and is frequently involved in women's retreats and conferences. Reggie, in addition to producing various album projects, lends his music education background to conducting retreats and praise & worship conferences. It is when they take the stage together, however, appreciating each other's strengths and weaknesses, and loving, laughing, and sharing the special bond created by their long friendship and fourteen-year marriage, that the Smith's truly connect with people around the globe.
For 30+ years, The Isaacs have forged a uniquely artistic path from the mean streets of New York City to the foothills of Eastern Kentucky and down every stretch of highway in between and beyond—fusing bluegrass, gospel and country—to make an extraordinary mark on three distinctive genres of music. But when the time came to record their 30th album, they were looking to shake up the status quo, to break new ground musically. So with the help of producer Mark Bright, (who also produced Carrie Underwood, Rascal Flatts and Sara Evans) and the opportunity to record at Reba McEntire's Starstruck Studio, The Isaacs set out to show what they're really made of. Naturally, the band's second release for Gaither Music Group, is the stunning, eclectic and joyful result.
The Isaacs will always be a family band; emphasis on family. They will always sing to the people who come to hear them sing—country folk, city folk and all the folks in between. They will always 'dance with the one who brung 'em.'
"It doesn't matter where we go or how the music changes or grows, we'll always be glad for the home folks, for the bluegrass and southern gospel fans who have supported us," Sonya says. "And I think they'll always be excited for us."
For 30+ years, The Isaacs have forged a uniquely artistic path from the mean streets of New York City to the foothills of Eastern Kentucky and down every stretch of highway in between and beyond—fusing bluegrass, gospel and country—to make an extraordinary mark on three distinctive genres of music. But when the time came to record their 30th album, they were looking to shake up the status quo, to break new ground musically. So with the help of producer Mark Bright, (who also produced Carrie Underwood, Rascal Flatts and Sara Evans) and the opportunity to record at Reba McEntire's Starstruck Studio, The Isaacs set out to show what they're really made of. Naturally, the band's second release for Gaither Music Group, is the stunning, eclectic and joyful result.
The Isaacs will always be a family band; emphasis on family. They will always sing to the people who come to hear them sing—country folk, city folk and all the folks in between. They will always 'dance with the one who brung 'em.'
"It doesn't matter where we go or how the music changes or grows, we'll always be glad for the home folks, for the bluegrass and southern gospel fans who have supported us," Sonya says. "And I think they'll always be excited for us."
The Martins' vocal and musical talents speak for themselves. Their impact on the Christian music industry has been widely unique and accepted, yet the industry has been unable to appropriately identify their style. Rather than resting in a single niche among the numerous Christian music genres, The Martins have rummaged freely through a stack of style books, grabbing whatever interests them. Sometimes the different elements are unaltered and traditional, but more often they are tossed into the trio's musical blender so that a new -- and exceedingly tasty -- mixture emerges. The result has been labeled simply as Martin Music .
While each of the vocalists grew up firmly and proudly planted in the Southern Gospel tradition, it is not surprising that as they have matured, a broad range of influences have entered their musical mix. Billboard Magazine describes The Martins as, breaking down walls and blurring the lines that separate Southern Gospel from Inspiration, Adult Contemporary, and other popular Christian music formats. The trio is now touring in support of their latest Spring Hill Music release, Decade. This project showcases the trademark harmonies that The Martins have become known for and offers a satisfying taste for every musical palate, ranging from innovative and refashioned hymn arrangements to contemporary songs of praise & worship. There is a lot of variety in our repertoire now, says Joyce. But it's still very recognizably us.
After many years of music ministry, and traveling down some of life's toughest paths, The Martins have garnered six Dove awards and a Grammy nomination to become one of Christian music's most critically acclaimed and best-selling vocal groups. These artists have showcased their stunning and distinctive harmonies before a vast array of audiences, ranging from Bill Gaither s award-winning Homecoming Video and Concert Series to the White House for a televised concert with President and First Lady Bush, called Celebrating America's Musical Heritage. But, perhaps one of their biggest accomplishments is the fact that regardless of their environment, whether performing at historic venues like Carnegie Hall in New York or sharing the platform at crusades with a hero like Billy Graham, The Martins can be seen portraying their usual persona of being identifiable and approachable in a word, real. Regardless of their circumstances, they haven not forgotten from where they have come, and are still trusting God to take them where He wants them to go.
The Martins' vocal and musical talents speak for themselves. Their impact on the Christian music industry has been widely unique and accepted, yet the industry has been unable to appropriately identify their style. Rather than resting in a single niche among the numerous Christian music genres, The Martins have rummaged freely through a stack of style books, grabbing whatever interests them. Sometimes the different elements are unaltered and traditional, but more often they are tossed into the trio's musical blender so that a new -- and exceedingly tasty -- mixture emerges. The result has been labeled simply as Martin Music .
While each of the vocalists grew up firmly and proudly planted in the Southern Gospel tradition, it is not surprising that as they have matured, a broad range of influences have entered their musical mix. Billboard Magazine describes The Martins as, breaking down walls and blurring the lines that separate Southern Gospel from Inspiration, Adult Contemporary, and other popular Christian music formats. The trio is now touring in support of their latest Spring Hill Music release, Decade. This project showcases the trademark harmonies that The Martins have become known for and offers a satisfying taste for every musical palate, ranging from innovative and refashioned hymn arrangements to contemporary songs of praise & worship. There is a lot of variety in our repertoire now, says Joyce. But it's still very recognizably us.
After many years of music ministry, and traveling down some of life's toughest paths, The Martins have garnered six Dove awards and a Grammy nomination to become one of Christian music's most critically acclaimed and best-selling vocal groups. These artists have showcased their stunning and distinctive harmonies before a vast array of audiences, ranging from Bill Gaither s award-winning Homecoming Video and Concert Series to the White House for a televised concert with President and First Lady Bush, called Celebrating America's Musical Heritage. But, perhaps one of their biggest accomplishments is the fact that regardless of their environment, whether performing at historic venues like Carnegie Hall in New York or sharing the platform at crusades with a hero like Billy Graham, The Martins can be seen portraying their usual persona of being identifiable and approachable in a word, real. Regardless of their circumstances, they haven not forgotten from where they have come, and are still trusting God to take them where He wants them to go.
Buddy Greene's live concert is equal parts hymn sing, jam session, church house revival and journey through his Southern musical history. At age 19 Buddy picked up the harmonica and has since become one of the finest players in the United States. Buddy’s musical expertise has found him gladly received into various genres of music from gospel to folk to bluegrass. You’ll even find him playing a bit of classical music on the harmonica.
Buddy is cowriter with Mark Lowry of the modern-day Christmas favorite, “Mary, Did You Know?”
During this Alaskan adventure, Buddy will be joined on stage by multi-instrumentalist Jeff Taylor.
Buddy Greene's live concert is equal parts hymn sing, jam session, church house revival and journey through his Southern musical history. At age 19 Buddy picked up the harmonica and has since become one of the finest players in the United States. Buddy’s musical expertise has found him gladly received into various genres of music from gospel to folk to bluegrass. You’ll even find him playing a bit of classical music on the harmonica.
Buddy is cowriter with Mark Lowry of the modern-day Christmas favorite, “Mary, Did You Know?”
During this Alaskan adventure, Buddy will be joined on stage by multi-instrumentalist Jeff Taylor.
Popular female vocalist Charlotte Ritchie has become a favorite among Gospel music circles, and particularly the Gaither Homecoming Tour, having spent the past decade with Jeff & Sheri Easter. Prior to joining the Easters, Charlotte gained national attention during her years with The Nelons. The talented soprano embarked upon a solo career in the Spring of 2008 and has enjoyed much success with two solo recordings, “Closer” and “Bridges,” to her credit. Both recordings have spawn national success, including hit releases on both Southern Gospel and Inspirational radio. Over the past year she has enjoyed solo engagements, sharing her testimony and exceptional vocal talent with audiences in churches and women’s conferences nationwide. She and her husband, Greg, now make their home in Lincolnton, GA, with their two children, Landon and Jayna.
Popular female vocalist Charlotte Ritchie has become a favorite among Gospel music circles, and particularly the Gaither Homecoming Tour, having spent the past decade with Jeff & Sheri Easter. Prior to joining the Easters, Charlotte gained national attention during her years with The Nelons. The talented soprano embarked upon a solo career in the Spring of 2008 and has enjoyed much success with two solo recordings, “Closer” and “Bridges,” to her credit. Both recordings have spawn national success, including hit releases on both Southern Gospel and Inspirational radio. Over the past year she has enjoyed solo engagements, sharing her testimony and exceptional vocal talent with audiences in churches and women’s conferences nationwide. She and her husband, Greg, now make their home in Lincolnton, GA, with their two children, Landon and Jayna.
Gene McDonald has already accumulated impressive credentials in the Southern Gospel Industry. He sang with the Plainsmen for two years after having sang with Jack Campbell and the Ambassadors. You may remember Jack Campbell as the writer of a number of Gospel Classics such as "I Know A Man Who Can" and "Jesus Use Me."
Gene cut his teeth on Gospel singing. He started singing at the age of three. He said that his parents took him to singing schools and taught him how to read music and harmonize. Gene says that if not for his parents, he would probably be doing something besides singing today.
Gene attended college at ASU in Jonesboro, AR where he received his Music Education degree and developed his deep, rich bass voice. In 1989, Gene attended the Ben Speer School of Music. Ben took a special interest in Gene and took him under his wing when he moved to Nashville. Gene even lived in Ben's studio for his first six months there. In 1990, Gene started singing for the Plainsmen Quartet as their lead/baritone. Then in 1994, Gene had a dream opportunity when Ben invited him to sing on a Bill Gaither session. Not long after that, Mr. Gaither gave him the privilege to be on the Homecoming video series. Rex Nelon got to hear and know Gene through the taping sessions they did together for Gaither. Rex was another person who took a special interest in Gene's career. He asked Gene to sing on the Grand Ole Opry with the Carol Lee Singers, and was also the person who recommended Gene to Les Beasley when The Florida Boys were looking for a new bass singer. He was recently nominated as Favorite Male Vocalist by the readers of the Gospel Voice magazine.
Gene and his wife Teri have been married for six years and have one child, Nathan Taft. The McDonalds currently reside in Nashville, TN.
Gene McDonald has already accumulated impressive credentials in the Southern Gospel Industry. He sang with the Plainsmen for two years after having sang with Jack Campbell and the Ambassadors. You may remember Jack Campbell as the writer of a number of Gospel Classics such as "I Know A Man Who Can" and "Jesus Use Me."
Gene cut his teeth on Gospel singing. He started singing at the age of three. He said that his parents took him to singing schools and taught him how to read music and harmonize. Gene says that if not for his parents, he would probably be doing something besides singing today.
Gene attended college at ASU in Jonesboro, AR where he received his Music Education degree and developed his deep, rich bass voice. In 1989, Gene attended the Ben Speer School of Music. Ben took a special interest in Gene and took him under his wing when he moved to Nashville. Gene even lived in Ben's studio for his first six months there. In 1990, Gene started singing for the Plainsmen Quartet as their lead/baritone. Then in 1994, Gene had a dream opportunity when Ben invited him to sing on a Bill Gaither session. Not long after that, Mr. Gaither gave him the privilege to be on the Homecoming video series. Rex Nelon got to hear and know Gene through the taping sessions they did together for Gaither. Rex was another person who took a special interest in Gene's career. He asked Gene to sing on the Grand Ole Opry with the Carol Lee Singers, and was also the person who recommended Gene to Les Beasley when The Florida Boys were looking for a new bass singer. He was recently nominated as Favorite Male Vocalist by the readers of the Gospel Voice magazine.
Gene and his wife Teri have been married for six years and have one child, Nathan Taft. The McDonalds currently reside in Nashville, TN.
In November of 1990, John took the stage at an Indianapolis comedy club with the intention of getting comedy out of his system. "I figured they'd at least boo me off stage. Worst case scenario, they'd throw stuff at me."
As it turned out, there was no booing or throwing.
And since that fateful maiden voyage, John has made lots of people laugh from coast to coast. On stage, he's energetic and contagiously enthusiastic about numerous topics including: Electronic cigarettes, Snuggies, automatic flushing toilets and the proper age to stop chewing your shoe in church. Born and raised in the heart of fly-over country, John is committed to "comedy that won't leave a filthy residue". There's nothing in his act that you wouldn't want to hear your children repeat. (In fact, if your children repeat anything he says, send him a video copy of it...he'd love to see it!) "People didn't invent laughter. It was given to us by someone who knew we'd enjoy it. Every show, my goal is to hurt people. Seriously. I want people's jaws to ache. I want their sides to cramp up. I want them to experience dizziness from oxygen deprivation. When they are in pain, I've done my job."
And hundreds of audiences eagerly respond, "Bring on the pain..."
In November of 1990, John took the stage at an Indianapolis comedy club with the intention of getting comedy out of his system. "I figured they'd at least boo me off stage. Worst case scenario, they'd throw stuff at me."
As it turned out, there was no booing or throwing.
And since that fateful maiden voyage, John has made lots of people laugh from coast to coast. On stage, he's energetic and contagiously enthusiastic about numerous topics including: Electronic cigarettes, Snuggies, automatic flushing toilets and the proper age to stop chewing your shoe in church. Born and raised in the heart of fly-over country, John is committed to "comedy that won't leave a filthy residue". There's nothing in his act that you wouldn't want to hear your children repeat. (In fact, if your children repeat anything he says, send him a video copy of it...he'd love to see it!) "People didn't invent laughter. It was given to us by someone who knew we'd enjoy it. Every show, my goal is to hurt people. Seriously. I want people's jaws to ache. I want their sides to cramp up. I want them to experience dizziness from oxygen deprivation. When they are in pain, I've done my job."
And hundreds of audiences eagerly respond, "Bring on the pain..."
Departing From Ft. Lauderdale, Florida (Saturday, February 22, 2014)
Embarkation: 11:30 A.M.—2:30 P.M. Depart: 4:00 P.M.
Half Moon Cay, Bahamas (February 23, 8:00 A.M.– 4:00 P.M.)
Half Moon Cay is ideal for beach lovers, watersports and nature enthusiasts. Snorkel among the coral reefs, or paddle boat in the crystal clear bay. This island is a designated wild bird sanctuary with nature trails leading visitors to the vantage points that are ideal for bird watching.
Day At Sea (February 24)
Georgetown, Cayman Islands (February 25, 8:00 A.M.– 4:00 P.M.)
You’ll enjoy crystalline waters, snorkeling with tame stingrays, civilian submarines: This duty free port has it all, plus Seven Mile Beach and a charming turtle farm.
Cozumel, Mexico (February 26, 10:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m.)
Located 12 miles east of the Yucatán Peninsula, Cozumel’s coral reefs make it an underwater sanctuary for hundreds of exotic fish species, while the lush vegetation inland makes it a haven for a range of tropical bird species.
Day At Sea (February 27)
Key West, Florida (February 28, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.)
Key West offers a perspective on life that differs from that found anyplace else in the U.S. Home to Ernest Hemingway, it’s now the site of a ritual enjoyed by natives and visitors alike—the nightly gathering on Mallory Docks to pay homage to the most glorious sunset you may ever experience.Concluding In Ft. Lauderdale, Florida (Saturday, March 1, 2014)
Arrive: 7:00 A.M. / Debarkation 8:00 A.M.—10:00 A.M.
Sun-Drenched Magnificence
Few destinations boast as much tropical beauty or cultural diversity as the islands of the Caribbean. The colorful quilt-work of cities and ancient ruins fill a breathtaking backdrop of lush jungles, fresh water caves, coral reefs, blue lagoons and white-sand beaches—all bathed in warm sunlight. Swaying palm trees and calypso rhythms fill the air in this tropical paradise perfectly suited for relaxing and getting away. The Caribbean provides the perfect backdrop to unplug and be spiritually refreshed during your Christian travel experience while meeting and enjoying new friendships with other believers.
Tropical Destinations
Caribbean islands host some of the most beautiful cities and scenery you’ll ever see.
Best World Beaches
Picture yourself soaking up the sun and sinking your feet into the powder-white sand beaches that rank in the top beaches in the world.
Caribbean Culture
From thatched huts to the vibrant and colorful buildings that fill the Caribbean, come experience island living at its finest.
Holland America's ms Westerdam
TIMELESS ELEGANCE IS EVERYWHERE
Understated, refined, welcoming, and warm—in the fresh floral arrangements, in the fine furnishings, in the impressive sculptures, and in the gracious hospitality that is Holland America’s hallmark. With a multimillion-dollar art collection as the backdrop, your universe for the next seven days revolves around a myriad of activities, plush staterooms, soaring spaces, and attention to every detail. Holland America Line serves incomparable cuisine in a variety of wonderful ways—from beautifully served dinners in the main dining room and bountiful buffets on deck to the sumptuous late-night buffet, the food will be everything you would expect and more. The gracious crew members dedicate themselves to your satisfaction and are known for impeccable five-star service. Holland America offers everything you could want in this world-class floating resort.
Prices
Cabin Category |
Deck |
Prices |
Description |
OCEAN-VIEW STATEROOMS |
|||
PS |
7 |
$4,998 |
Penthouse Verandah Suite: The best option for those wanting a luxurious suite, these feature a bedroom with a king-size bed, a separate living room and dining room, an oversize whirlpool bath, dressing room, private verandah with whirlpool, pantry and an additional two person sofa bed. Access to the exclusive Neptune Lounge is included. Approximately 1,150 sq. ft. including verandah. |
SA |
7 |
$3,298 |
Deluxe Verandah Suites: These beautiful suites feature a large sitting area, dressing room, private verandah and whirlpool bath. There are two lower beds that convert to one king, and a sofa bed for 1 or 2 persons. Approximately 506-590 sq. ft. with verandah. |
SB |
6, 7, 8 |
$3,098 |
|
SC |
4, 5, 6 |
$2,898 |
Deluxe Verandah Suites: These beautiful suites feature a large sitting area, dressing room, private verandah and whirlpool bath. There are two lower beds that convert to one king, and a sofa bed 1 or 2 persons. Approximately 506-590 sq. ft. with verandah. |
SS |
6, 7 |
$2,448 |
Superior Verandah Suites: Exclusively available on Vista and Signature Class ships, these nice suites feature a large sitting area, private verandah, and floor-to-ceiling windows. There are two lower beds that convert to one queen, and a single sofa bed for one person. Approximately 372-384 sq. ft. with verandah. |
SY |
5 |
$2,298 |
|
SZ |
5 |
$2,198 |
|
VA |
4, 5, 6, 7,8 |
$2,068 |
Verandah Stateroom: These ocean view staterooms feature a sitting area, private verandah and floor-to-ceiling windows. There are two lower beds that convert to one queen, some have additional sofa beds. Approximately 213-359 sq. ft. with verandah. |
VB |
4, 6 |
$1,998 |
|
VC |
5 |
$1,948 |
|
VD |
4 |
$1,898 |
|
VE |
5 |
$1,828 |
|
VF |
5 |
$1,778 |
|
VH |
10,11 |
$1,698 |
|
CABINS ABOVE THIS LINE INCLUDE BALCONIES |
|||
C |
1 |
$1,578 |
Ocean View Large: The best option for those wanting a full ocean view window. These staterooms feature a sitting area and two lower beds that convert to one queen. Many have an additional sofa bed or upper bed. Approximately 174-180 sq. ft. G cabin categories have a partial sea view. GG, H & HH have fully obstructed views. |
D |
1 |
$1,548 |
|
DD |
1 |
$1,498 |
|
E |
1 |
$1,478 |
|
F |
1, 6 |
$1,458 |
|
G |
4 |
$1,438 |
|
GG |
4 |
$1,418 |
|
H |
4 |
$1,398 |
|
HH |
4 |
$1,378 |
|
INTERIOR STATEROOMS |
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I |
5, 6, 8 |
$1,358 |
Interior Stateroom: A nice starter option. This stateroom features a sitting area and two lower beds that convert to one queen. Approximately 151-233 sq. ft. |
J |
1, 7, 8 |
$1,278 |
|
K |
1, 4, 6 |
$1,198 |
|
L |
5, 6 |
$1,158 |
|
M |
4 |
$1,098 |
|
MM |
4 |
$1,058 |
|
N |
4 |
$998 |
|
NN |
4 |
$958 |
SIGNATURE SERVICE OPTION |
Conference Fee: $138
FLIGHT & HOTEL QUOTES ARE ALSO AVAILABLE
MON - FRI 8:30AM - 5:00PM (PACIFIC TIME)
Conferences
Frequently Asked Questions
