Join this Unforgettable Christian Cruise to Alaska with Gaither Homecoming & Friends
Dear Friends,
We couldn’t be more excited to invite you on our 2017 Alaska Homecoming Cruise August 6-13, 2017. Whether you’re a first-timer, or you’ve cruised with us before and know the incredible joy of these “extended family reunions,” Welcome! You’re in for a real treat... Not only are we going to spend an entire week in one of the most gorgeous places on earth, we’re all going to be revitalized as we reconnect with God and one another.
Every day we’ll see new sights of the Pacific coastline and explore charming frontier towns like Juneau and Ketchikan. Picture yourself taking in the beautiful glaciers and majestic mountains Alaska is known for; not to mention ocean life—like humpback whales, towering elk and adorable puffins. Of course the spectacular setting is just the beginning. Each evening we’ll gather for the main attraction: exciting Gaither Homecoming concerts full of fun and spiritual encouragement.
The Christian fellowship is what makes this week of praise and celebration all the more meaningful. Reunite with old friends and make new ones. We love having seven full days to interact with you much more deeply than we would during a regular one-night concert. The retreat atmosphere on the cruise ship also gives us a chance to share from our hearts during times of devotion and testimony.
There are so many unforgettable experiences you can count on during this Alaska Homecoming Cruise: breathtaking landscapes, world-class accommodations, fine dining, a soul-nourishing atmosphere and, of course, the best Gospel Music you’ve ever heard. But we’re looking forward to all the moments we can’t possibly orchestrate... The kind of God-ordained surprises that leave your heart keenly aware of His presence. That’s something to look forward to!
So, on behalf of the many superb Christian Gospel artists who will be there, we warmly invite you to ‘come home’ with us to Alaska. We hope you’ll join us for this amazing journey!
Because He Lives,
Bill & Gloria Gaither
Meet These Special Guests During Your Exceptional Travel Experience
Reggie and Ladye Love Smith have become an integral part of the Gaither Homecoming family during the past 18 years; first as back-up singers in Nashville, and later as a feature vocal duet in the award-winning Gaither Homecoming video series. These internationally-loved musicians have performed in more than 25 countries. Most recently, Reggie joined the Gaither Vocal Band’s legendary line-up of talent. Musically, the Smith’s versatile voices and broad range of influences lend themselves to a variety of styles, from country to big band to contemporary worship. Yet in all of its refreshing variety, the music of Reggie and Ladye Love Smith retains their signature, heart-melting sound.
Reggie and Ladye Love Smith have become an integral part of the Gaither Homecoming family during the past 18 years; first as back-up singers in Nashville, and later as a feature vocal duet in the award-winning Gaither Homecoming video series. These internationally-loved musicians have performed in more than 25 countries. Most recently, Reggie joined the Gaither Vocal Band’s legendary line-up of talent. Musically, the Smith’s versatile voices and broad range of influences lend themselves to a variety of styles, from country to big band to contemporary worship. Yet in all of its refreshing variety, the music of Reggie and Ladye Love Smith retains their signature, heart-melting sound.
After nearly a decade of pursuing individual music careers, the trio reunited in 2010, much to the delight of long-time Martin music lovers, and released their first new recording in 10 years, New Day, produced by Jay DeMarcus (Rascal Flatts).
In 2014, The Martins joined renown arranger, Lari Goss and long-time friends and producers, Michael English, David Phelps and Matthew Holt to record a new a cappella hymns project. The recording, simply titled A Cappella was released in May of 2014, and features The Martins’ unmatched and unmistakable family harmony. The recording earned the group a Grammy nomination for Best Roots Gospel Album, as well as the Dove Award nomination for Inspirational Album of the Year from the Gospel Music Association.
Most recently, The Martins returned to the recording studio to produce their latest recording. Still Standing. This all-new recording, which received a 2019 Grammy nomination, finds the vocal group standing stronger than ever, showcasing their benchmark family blends and intricate arrangements produced by renowned producer Gordon Mote. These compositions, including the remake of their classic hit Wherever You Are, reflect the latest chapters in siblings Judy, Joyce and Jonathan’s journeys as they share messages of God’s goodness and providential hand at work in every season of our lives.
After nearly a decade of pursuing individual music careers, the trio reunited in 2010, much to the delight of long-time Martin music lovers, and released their first new recording in 10 years, New Day, produced by Jay DeMarcus (Rascal Flatts).
In 2014, The Martins joined renown arranger, Lari Goss and long-time friends and producers, Michael English, David Phelps and Matthew Holt to record a new a cappella hymns project. The recording, simply titled A Cappella was released in May of 2014, and features The Martins’ unmatched and unmistakable family harmony. The recording earned the group a Grammy nomination for Best Roots Gospel Album, as well as the Dove Award nomination for Inspirational Album of the Year from the Gospel Music Association.
Most recently, The Martins returned to the recording studio to produce their latest recording. Still Standing. This all-new recording, which received a 2019 Grammy nomination, finds the vocal group standing stronger than ever, showcasing their benchmark family blends and intricate arrangements produced by renowned producer Gordon Mote. These compositions, including the remake of their classic hit Wherever You Are, reflect the latest chapters in siblings Judy, Joyce and Jonathan’s journeys as they share messages of God’s goodness and providential hand at work in every season of our lives.
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.
Mark Lowry’s signature, outlandish comedy was born of necessity. He found this calling while trying to entertain audiences during his early years as a vocalist. Since that time, Mark has recorded five comedy and music videos; four of which have achieved 'Gold' status, and two of which have achieved 'Platinum' status. In addition to making people laugh, he has also moved Believers to tears by penning the lines to the modern, Christmas classic, "Mary, Did You Know?" Countless audiences across the world have enjoyed both his solo career as well as his 13-year journey as baritone singer and silly sidekick for Bill Gaither and the Gaither Vocal Band.
Mark Lowry’s signature, outlandish comedy was born of necessity. He found this calling while trying to entertain audiences during his early years as a vocalist. Since that time, Mark has recorded five comedy and music videos; four of which have achieved 'Gold' status, and two of which have achieved 'Platinum' status. In addition to making people laugh, he has also moved Believers to tears by penning the lines to the modern, Christmas classic, "Mary, Did You Know?" Countless audiences across the world have enjoyed both his solo career as well as his 13-year journey as baritone singer and silly sidekick for Bill Gaither and the Gaither Vocal Band.
A bestselling author, performer, and motivational speaker, Nicole Johnson communicates with humor, compassion and wisdom using her unique blend of drama and speaking skills. Playing to sold-out crowds of approximately three million women as part of the “Women of Faith” conferences for over ten years, Nicole’s “Fresh Brewed Life®” message gives hope for the daily grind to hard-working, overextended women everywhere. Most recently, she is the founder of the non-profit organization “SEASONS WEEKEND” –a spiritual retreat experience designed to refresh and replenish those who serve others (SeasonsWeekend.com). Whether she is performing one of her original sketches or sharing lessons from her own life, Nicole Johnson will leave your cup filled with a Fresh-Brewed perspective that brings hope to the daily grind. www.FreshBrewedLife.com
A bestselling author, performer, and motivational speaker, Nicole Johnson communicates with humor, compassion and wisdom using her unique blend of drama and speaking skills. Playing to sold-out crowds of approximately three million women as part of the “Women of Faith” conferences for over ten years, Nicole’s “Fresh Brewed Life®” message gives hope for the daily grind to hard-working, overextended women everywhere. Most recently, she is the founder of the non-profit organization “SEASONS WEEKEND” –a spiritual retreat experience designed to refresh and replenish those who serve others (SeasonsWeekend.com). Whether she is performing one of her original sketches or sharing lessons from her own life, Nicole Johnson will leave your cup filled with a Fresh-Brewed perspective that brings hope to the daily grind. www.FreshBrewedLife.com
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.
K. Wesley Pritchard sang with the Old Friends Quartet from 2000 through 2002. He filled in for Ernie Haase & Signature Sound in 2003, while they were seeking a new lead singer. He has traveled extensively with "Bill Gaither's Homecoming Friends" and can be seen on many of the Gaither Homecoming Videos/DVDs. He owns and operates Mill West Studios in Fayetteville, North Carolina. He is currently the Senior Pastor of the church his Father, Ken W. Pritchard founded - Fayetteville Community Church in Fayetteville, North Carolina.
K. Wesley Pritchard sang with the Old Friends Quartet from 2000 through 2002. He filled in for Ernie Haase & Signature Sound in 2003, while they were seeking a new lead singer. He has traveled extensively with "Bill Gaither's Homecoming Friends" and can be seen on many of the Gaither Homecoming Videos/DVDs. He owns and operates Mill West Studios in Fayetteville, North Carolina. He is currently the Senior Pastor of the church his Father, Ken W. Pritchard founded - Fayetteville Community Church in Fayetteville, North Carolina.
For Jeff and Sheri, gospel music is genetically programmed into their DNA. As members of acclaimed musical families—Jeff’s father is one of the Easter Brothers and Sheri’s mother is a member of The Lewis Family—they grew up surrounded by the sound of people praising God through their musical gifts.
Jeff & Sheri have been nominated for numerous Dove Awards and won five. They’ve also received a Grammy nomination and Sheri has been named the Singing News Favorite Alto eleven times and the Singing News Female Vocalist four times. Jeff & Sheri’s wall of awards also include three Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music Association Awards, two International Country Gospel Music Association, nine Voice Awards for Female Artist, five Voice Awards for Song/Single of the Year, two Voice Awards for Christian Country Group, four SGM Fan Fair/USGN awards, five SGN Scoops Diamond Awards, four Hearts Aflame Awards and three Cash Box awards.
For Jeff and Sheri, gospel music is genetically programmed into their DNA. As members of acclaimed musical families—Jeff’s father is one of the Easter Brothers and Sheri’s mother is a member of The Lewis Family—they grew up surrounded by the sound of people praising God through their musical gifts.
Jeff & Sheri have been nominated for numerous Dove Awards and won five. They’ve also received a Grammy nomination and Sheri has been named the Singing News Favorite Alto eleven times and the Singing News Female Vocalist four times. Jeff & Sheri’s wall of awards also include three Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music Association Awards, two International Country Gospel Music Association, nine Voice Awards for Female Artist, five Voice Awards for Song/Single of the Year, two Voice Awards for Christian Country Group, four SGM Fan Fair/USGN awards, five SGN Scoops Diamond Awards, four Hearts Aflame Awards and three Cash Box awards.
Few names are as synonymous with Inspirational music as Larnelle Harris. Admired by fans and peers alike for his majestic tenor voice, Larnelle has become the epitome of talent and integrity in a career that spans over three decades. Honored with five Grammy Awards, eleven Dove Awards, including being named Male Vocalist of the Year three times, a Stellar Award and numerous other accolades, Larnelle was one of the first Christian artists to cross racial barriers
and build healing bridges with predominantly white churches who had never had a black singer on their platform. He has garnered nineteen #1 radio singles and countless top 10 hits, including three top 10 national Inspirational singles coming in the past 12 months alone. Songs such as "How Excellent Is Thy Name," "I Miss My Time With You," "I've Just Seen Jesus" with Sandi Patty, plus many others, including his signature song, "Amen," are now considered modern classics.
Married to wife Cynthia (a.k.a. Mitzy) for over 35 years, Larnelle has successfully combined the demanding lifestyle of a global music ministry with being a husband and father of two grown children. Still a sought-after vocalist for special events and ceremonies, Larnelle also continues to perform solo concerts for churches and Christian organizations worldwide each year. His latest recording titled "I Want To Be A Star" has garnered three, top 20 national radio singles, including the hit "Look At Your Hands" which went to the top 3 position. Billboard Magazine dubbed "I Want To Be A Star" another gem in the crown of one of Christian music's true treasures. In October 2007, Larnelle was inducted into the prestigious Gospel Music Hall of Fame.
Few names are as synonymous with Inspirational music as Larnelle Harris. Admired by fans and peers alike for his majestic tenor voice, Larnelle has become the epitome of talent and integrity in a career that spans over three decades. Honored with five Grammy Awards, eleven Dove Awards, including being named Male Vocalist of the Year three times, a Stellar Award and numerous other accolades, Larnelle was one of the first Christian artists to cross racial barriers
and build healing bridges with predominantly white churches who had never had a black singer on their platform. He has garnered nineteen #1 radio singles and countless top 10 hits, including three top 10 national Inspirational singles coming in the past 12 months alone. Songs such as "How Excellent Is Thy Name," "I Miss My Time With You," "I've Just Seen Jesus" with Sandi Patty, plus many others, including his signature song, "Amen," are now considered modern classics.
Married to wife Cynthia (a.k.a. Mitzy) for over 35 years, Larnelle has successfully combined the demanding lifestyle of a global music ministry with being a husband and father of two grown children. Still a sought-after vocalist for special events and ceremonies, Larnelle also continues to perform solo concerts for churches and Christian organizations worldwide each year. His latest recording titled "I Want To Be A Star" has garnered three, top 20 national radio singles, including the hit "Look At Your Hands" which went to the top 3 position. Billboard Magazine dubbed "I Want To Be A Star" another gem in the crown of one of Christian music's true treasures. In October 2007, Larnelle was inducted into the prestigious Gospel Music Hall of Fame.
Departing From Seattle, WA (Sunday, August 6, 2017)
Embarkation: 11:30 A.M.—2:30 P.M. Depart: 4:00 P.M.
DAY AT SEA Monday, August 7
JUNEAU, ALASKA Tuesday, August 8, 1:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.
Plan a day of fun family exploration in Alaska’s capital city! Hike or bike your way to the top of Mount Roberts (or take the famous tramway). Adventurers will love taking a floatplane over the ice fields, while the rest of the family can ride to the foot of the famous Mendenhall Glacier and see it up close. Zoom down a treetop zipline or sip hot cocoa from the cabin of a whale-watching excursion—there’s an experience for every member of the family in Juneau’s magnificent wilderness.
SCENIC CRUISING HUBBARD GLACIER Wednesday, August 9, 2:00 P.M. – 6:00 P.M.
SITKA, ALASKA Thursday, August 10, 8:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M.
The extraordinary vistas of Sitka are the perfect backdrop to that family portrait for the mantel at home. Kids of all ages will be enthralled with the variety of eagles and falcons in the Raptor Center, or you can join a kayak adventure through the bay where you’ll see humpback whales, otters and seabird rookeries. For an even more invigorating day, charter a salmon fishing excursion!
KETCHIKAN, ALASKA Friday, August 11, 7:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M.
This rustic Alaska frontier town serves as the launching point for a world of outdoor adventures and memorable family moments. Put dad behind the wheel of a 4x4 Jeep Wrangler® and caravan along abandoned logging roads in the Tongass National Forest or climb into the skies on a floatplane sightseeing trip everyone will enjoy. For a more relaxed outing, visit Creek Street historical museum, see original Native American art in the many galleries or watch thousands of salmon as they leap up waterfalls on their annual upstream trek “home”!
VICTORIA, B.C., CANADA Saturday, August 12, 6:00 P.M. – 11:59 P.M.
Stroll with the family through the charming downtown of this very British city, with its double-decker buses and turreted castles, or head toward the Inner Harbor to watch your kids stare (and laugh) at one of the many street performers. Just outside the city, visit the lush Butchart Gardens filled with a variety of extraordinary plants and animals.Concluding In Seattle, WA (Sunday, August 13, 2017)
Arrive: 7:00 A.M. Debarkation: 8:00 A.M.–10:00 A.M.
*All dates and locations subject to change
America's Last Frontier
This is a land where ancient glaciers drop house-size chunks of ice into the sea with a roar, where grizzlies fish for spawning salmon, where the lush green canopy of trees is offset by distant snowy mountains and where the word majestic is hardly enough to describe what you see. Nowhere else in North America is the scenery so spectacular and God’s creative wonder so vivid. From Juneau to Ketchikan, from caribou to king salmon, Alaska is the perfect place to reconnect with your Creator.
North American Animals
Have your camera ready as moose and bears wander through meadows and streams, whales burst from the ocean’s surface and eagles fly overhead.
Calving Glaciers
Watch in amazement as columns and shards of glacial ice shear off and splash into the ocean.
Towns on the Edge of the World
Explore and learn the unique personality and culture of cities and towns living on the border of the Alaskan wilderness.
Holland America's 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 to sumptuous casual dining options throughout the ship. The food will be everything you 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.
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Prices
Cabin Category |
Deck |
Prices |
Description |
INTERIOR STATEROOMS |
|||
N |
4 |
$1,598 |
Interior: A starter option for those wanting an interior cabin, these cozy staterooms include two luxurious twin beds (convertible to a queen-size), a sitting area, vanity area and private bathroom in 151-233 square feet of space. |
MM |
8 |
$1,678 |
|
M |
7 |
$1,698 |
|
L |
4, 5, 6, 7 |
$1,728 |
|
K |
1, 4, 5, 6, 10 |
$1,798 |
|
J |
1 |
$1,858 |
|
I |
6, 7, 8 |
$1,958 |
|
OCEAN-VIEW STATEROOMS |
|||
HH |
4 |
$2,198 |
Ocean-View: An optimal choice for passengers wanting to see the ocean, these comfortable cabins pack a surprising number of luxuries into 174-180 square feet of space, including twin beds (convertible to queen-size), a sitting area, vanity area and private bathroom. |
H |
4 |
$2,268 |
|
G |
4 |
$2,318 |
|
F |
1, 6 |
$2,398 |
|
E |
1 |
$2,478 |
|
DD |
1 |
$2,498 |
|
D |
1, 4 |
$2,568 |
|
C |
1 |
$2,598 |
|
CABINS BELOW THIS LINE INCLUDE BALCONIES |
|||
VH |
4 |
$2,798 |
Deluxe Verandah Ocean View: A great selection for those wanting a balcony. These relaxing staterooms feature a sitting area, private verandah and floor-to-ceiling windows. There are two lower beds that convert to one queen and some have additional sofa beds or upper beds. Approximately 212-359 sq. ft. including verandah. |
VF |
4, 8 |
$2,848 |
|
VE |
4, 7, 8 |
$2,898 |
|
VD |
6, 7 |
$3,098 |
|
VC |
4, 5, 6, 8 |
$3,298 |
|
VB |
4, 5, 6, 7, 10 |
$3,458 |
|
VA |
4, 5, 6, 8 |
$3,498 |
|
SZ |
8 |
$3,548 |
Signature Suite: The best option for those wanting a balcony. These beautiful suites feature a large sitting area, private verandah, floor-to-ceiling windows and full-size whirlpool bath. There are two lower beds that convert to one queen and an additional sofa bed. Approximately 372-384 sq. ft. including verandah. |
SY |
5,8 |
$3,578 |
|
SS |
6 |
$3,598 |
|
SC |
6, 7 |
$3,898 |
Neptune Suite: The ultimate choice for those seeking luxury. These stunning suites feature a large sitting area, dressing room, private verandah and a full-size whirlpool bath. There are two lower beds that convert to one king, plus an additional sofa bed. Includes access to the exclusive Neptune Lounge. Approximately 500-712 sq. ft. including verandah. |
SB |
4, 5, 6, 7, 8 |
$4,198 |
|
SA |
7 |
$4,398 |
|
PS |
7 |
$5,998 |
Pinnacle Suite: The signature choice for passengers seeking a full first-class experience, these enormous staterooms on the ship include a king-size bed and sofa bed for two people. They also offer an oversize whirlpool bath and shower, with an additional shower stall, living room, dining room, dressing room, pantry, private verandah with whirlpool, private stereo system, and floor-to-ceiling windows in 1,150 square feet (including verandah). Other amenities include priority boarding, exclusive daily breakfast service, special disembarkation service, and access to the Neptune Lounge, a private haven offering personal concierge service. |
SIGNATURE SERVICE OPTION |
(AIR TRANSPORTATION NOT INCLUDED IN PRICE)
Conference Fee: $148
FLIGHT & HOTEL QUOTES ARE ALSO AVAILABLE
MON - FRI 8:30AM - 5:00PM (PACIFIC TIME)
This event is exclusive to those who book in advance through Inspiration Cruises & Tours. Booking through a secondary travel agent on the same cruise ship will not permit you entrance to any event programming.
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Frequently Asked Questions
