The Jamrock Reggae Cruise is set to return this November, featuring Damian and Stephen Marley, the youngest sons of reggae legend Bob Marley, as headliners. Following a challenging year marked by Hurricane Melissa, which forced last year’s cruise to bypass Jamaica, the brothers are hopeful that this year’s voyage will celebrate and promote Jamaican culture while ensuring an enjoyable experience for attendees.
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In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Damian Marley shared his thoughts ahead of the cruise, which will take place from 11-16 November. The event, co-founded by the Marleys in 2014, aims to provide a unique blend of reggae music and Caribbean culture as it sails from Miami to Jamaica, with stops in Falmouth and Ocho Rios.
Reflecting on the previous year, which was marred by the impact of Hurricane Melissa, Damian expressed sadness about the missed opportunity to dock in Jamaica. The hurricane claimed at least 28 lives on the island and left many passengers aboard the cruise concerned for loved ones back home. “It was a sombre atmosphere compared to previous years,” he said, emphasising the importance of returning to Jamaica for this year’s event.
The Jamrock Reggae Cruise is described by Damian as “a reggae Disneyland for five days.” Over the years, the event has evolved significantly since its inception, with the Marleys expanding from a smaller ship to the larger Norwegian Joy, which will host this year’s cruise. “Every year we strive to improve the experience,” he added, noting plans to enhance the culinary offerings on board following feedback from last year’s attendees.
The cruise will showcase a diverse lineup of artists, including reggae stalwarts such as Burning Spear, Sizzla, and Junior Reid, alongside dancehall stars like Beenie Man and Elephant Man. According to Damian, it is crucial to represent the full spectrum of Jamaican music, from the genre’s pioneers to the latest contemporary talents. “Our goal is to be all-inclusive of Jamaican music,” he explained.
When discussing the cruise’s uniqueness, Damian asserted that there is no need to differentiate it from other music events, as it remains the original reggae cruise experience. “Imitation is the best form of flattery,” he remarked, acknowledging that other similar ventures have emerged since their launch. However, he believes their longstanding reputation and commitment to quality set the Jamrock Reggae Cruise apart.
Preparations for the cruise are already underway, although rehearsals for Damian and Stephen’s collaborative performance, known as the Traffic Jam set, will commence just days before embarkation. This special set will showcase a selection of their most popular songs together, reflecting their long-standing partnership in music-making.
As part of his musical journey, Damian also hinted at new projects on the horizon. He recently collaborated with fellow artist Masicka on the single “1 Psalms,” which was completed in just a few days. However, he revealed that he has several other songs in progress, some of which have been in development for over a decade. “Each song has its own story,” he stated, emphasising the varied timelines of creativity involved in his work.
For Damian Marley, the Jamrock Reggae Cruise signifies more than just a music event; it represents a heartfelt connection to Jamaican culture and the chance to unite fans in celebration. As the cruise approaches, both he and Stephen are eager to deliver an unforgettable experience, rejoicing in the resilience of their homeland and the enduring legacy of reggae music.