The second annual Malt Shop Memories Cruise will set sail on October 27, 2011 from Tampa to the Grand Bahamas, returning on October 31st, 2011. Inspired by Time Life's popular Malt Shop Memories CD series, the entire ship will be transformed into a "floating malt shop" complete with performances by some of the biggest artists of the era, including the Beach Boys (celebrating their 50th anniversary), Chubby Checker & The Wildcats (celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Twist), Little Anthony and The Imperials, Jay Black (former lead singer of Jay and The Americans), Shirley Alston Reeves of The Shirelles, Kenny Vance & The Planotones, Jimmy Beaumont & The Skyliners, Lou Christie, The Fireflies, The Devotions, and the Del Rays.
Hosted by America's favorite oldies DJ, Jerry Blavat aka "The Geator with The Heater," the cruise was developed in association with Entertainment Cruise Productions, LLC and will be held on the majestic Carnival Inspiration.
In addition to the incredible line-up of concerts, The Malt Shop Memories cruise will offer non-stop events, parties, and 50s and 60s-themed activities throughout the ship and the entire length of the cruise. Grab your blanket for the beach party, kick off your shoes for the sock hop, get ready to meet the performers in person during specially designed meet and greets and put on your very best Elvis gear for the best Elvis impersonator contest on the high seas, hosted by Shawn Klush (the world's top Elvis professional tribute artist) and featuring a cash prize for the winner.
"I can't wait to be on the Malt Shop Memories Cruise with everyone!" says Chubby Checker. "It's gonna be fun, fun, fun 'til your daddy take the T-Bird away!"
"I sailed on the inaugural Malt Shop Memories Cruise and it was a wonderful experience," adds Little Anthony. "I thoroughly enjoyed working with the Malt Shop Memories Cruise team and I am so excited to be asked back for the second one, it is a pleasure and my honor. Let's rock and roll together again on the high seas!"
"Last year's Malt Shop Memories cruise was a runaway success, mirroring the ongoing popularity of our CD series. The fans couldn't get enough of the concerts, events and personal interaction with their favorite singers," said Chris Hearing, Time Life General Manager and Executive VP. "We're thrilled to be back with a new, even bigger event than before." Michael Lazaroff, Executive Director of Entertainment Cruise Productions (Jazz Cruises) added, "When we were approached to produce this year's Malt Shop Memories cruise, we jumped at the opportunity. We are probably more excited than the guests, if that's possible, about being a part of this terrific event."
The Time Life Malt Shop Memories CD collection, featuring a 10-CD box set, a 4-CD set and a holiday disc, has sold nearly 4 million CDs and remains one of Time Life's most popular sellers.