heaven 600 gospel cruise 2023

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Caribbean Cruise

IMC Gospel Music Celebration Caribbean Cruise

Feb 2 - 9, 2025.

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Join this unforgettable Christian cruise to the Caribbean with IMC Gospel Music Celebration

A note from imc gospel music celebration.

I can’t wait for you to join us for a fun-filled and invigorating week at sea in one of the most beautiful places on earth! These Gospel Music Celebration cruises hosted by IMC have become the highlight for so many. In fact, it feels like a family reunion retreat atmosphere.

We’ll enjoy island hopping to iconic destinations usually only seen in postcards for seven full days. Wake up in spectacular destinations like St. Thomas, San Juan and Half Moon Cay each morning. The sparkling waterfalls, deep blue oceans, vibrant rainforests and picture-perfect beaches of the Caribbean showcase a fragment of God’s creative power.

We’ll enjoy soaking up the tropical beauty and sun. Our time will include stories, laugh-out-loud moments, devotions and exclusive concerts from some of the biggest names in gospel music, including Booth Brothers, Triumphant, Legacy Five, Greater Vision, The Sound, Dennis Swanberg and so many more!

As you travel with other gospel music fans, enjoy lively conversations, intimate dinners with other believers and lasting memories. This cruise is the perfect getaway with God to refresh your faith. You’ll leave this paradise inspired by the songs and messages of your favorite artists and the new friendships you’ve made along the way.

These cruises always fill up fast, so sign up today for this experience of a lifetime!

The Booth Brothers

Legacy Five

Greater Vision

Triumphant Quartet

Dennis Swanberg

Poet Voices

The Kramers

Chosen Road

The Booth Brothers, an American southern gospel vocal trio, have been recognized as one of the finest in gospel music for decades. Composed of Michael Booth, Jim Brady and Buddy Mullins, they are known for their inspiring songs, uplifting humor and messages of encouragement. Their performances are a testament to their deep commitment to musical excellence and desire to minister to audiences. They have received numerous accolades, including GRAMMY nominations, Dove Awards and Singing News Fan Awards.

Legacy Five, a Southern gospel quartet, was formed by Scott Fowler and Roger Bennett in 2000. Their four-part harmony and ability to communicate the message of Christ resonated with audiences, securing them a firm place in Christian music. They have been nominated for approximately 75 Singing News fan awards and have received two Dove Award nominations. The group is composed of Matt Fouch (bass), Jake Losen (baritone), Scott Fowler (lead), Lee Black (tenor) and Tim Parton (pianist)

Greater Vision, the most-awarded trio in gospel music, has been inspiring audiences since 1990. Known for their rich vocal blend and effective communication of the Gospel, they've faced challenges with resilience and faith. Their journey, marked by a commitment to their mission and a dedication to their fans, serves to inspire and uplift. Their brand is built on authenticity, passion and a deep faith that resonates with audiences worldwide.

Triumphant Quartet, an American Southern gospel group, has captivated audiences since 2002 with its harmonious performances. Comprising David Sutton, Clayton Inman, Scott Inman and Eric Bennett, the quartet has received numerous accolades, including the Favorite Traditional Male Quartet award from 2009–2014. Their Yes album won the Dove Award for Southern Gospel Album of the Year in 2019. Known for their engaging personalities, they share the Gospel message through their music, creating a unique bond with their audience.

Dennis Swanberg, America's "Minister of Encouragement," is a motivational speaker, teacher, preacher, author, counselor and humorist. Born in Austin, Texas, Swanberg uses humor and impersonations to bring joy and encouragement to his audiences. His television shows, Swan's Place and The Dennis Swanberg Show, are viewed by over one million households weekly. He has also authored seven books, with another on the way. Swanberg believes that joy is a choice and encourages his audiences to find joy in their lives and help others do the same.

The Sound, a Dove Award-winning band, is known for their unique country-pop music. Comprising Levi, Jacob and Rob Mills, they've had four chart-topping songs since 2019 and five Dove nominations. Their latest album, God Is Real, won the Dove Award for Country Album of the Year. They aim to bring people to Jesus Christ through their creative and impactful music. Each member contributes uniquely to the band, with their roots in Detroit and the Great Smoky Mountains.

Considered progressive for its time, Phil Cross first introduced southern gospel to his band, Phil Cross & Poet Voices in the early 1990s. Fans quickly fell in love with their unique presentation of the gospel and soon they received an array of honors from chart-topping songs such as I Am Redeemed, Jesus Built A Bridge, When I Get Carried Away and more. Now known as Poet Voices, Cross, Donny Henderson, Nic Holland and K.C. Armstrong raise the bar in all aspects of their music and production, striving to provide a fresh and exciting concert experience every time.

The Kramers, a celebrated Christian family music group from Peoria, Illinois, are acclaimed for their soul-stirring gospel and worship music. Comprising D. Scott Kramer, Rachel West Kramer, Ben Wolf and Maria Kramer Wolfe, they're known for their exceptional musicality and heartfelt performances. Nominated for 2020 New Artist of the Year , their collaboration with StowTown Records and Wayne Haun led to the acclaimed album Sing Me There . Their concerts, a blend of diverse musical styles and family harmonies, offer more than music—they're spiritual journeys, ending with powerful testimonies and life-changing messages about Jesus Christ, the hope for all tomorrows.

The World’s Best Beaches

On a Caribbean cruise, lush landscapes rise from turquoise waters and palm trees sway in tropical breezes. Amid shimmering seas, your Christian travel experience combines uplifting music, biblical teaching and spiritual inspiration with the world’s most spectacular vistas. Explore the color and culture of the world’s best beaches each day. After relaxing in a tropical oasis, your evenings will overflow with Christian fellowship and worship.

Ascend over breathtaking views

Glide 700 feet above sea level, then emerge from the lush jungle to incredible sweeping coastline views offering fantastic photo opportunities.

Handcrafted, authentic finds

Major Caribbean ports offer some of the best shopping—and prices—especially for luxury goods and jewelry. Best of all, many items are duty-free!

Play on Half Moon Cay

Spend an entire day on a private Bahamian island, sunning, swimming and parasailing in this award-winning nature reserve, 98% of which remains untouched.

Snorkel with stingrays

After a tram ride, you’ll receive safety training before snorkeling in a protected wading area, where you can feed and touch these incredible creatures.

Submarine exploration

Board a U.S. Coast Guard-certified submarine to explore the ocean floor while marveling at the breathtaking views, diverse marine life and majestic coral heads.

Swim with dolphins

Swim with the Bahamas’ famous welcoming committee: dolphins! Play in the crystal clear waters and snap some pictures with your new friends.

INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCES

Come to where green islands rise out of turquoise waters and palm trees sway in tropical breezes. Make unforgettable memories as you draw closer to God in this bucket list destination.

7 - DAY ITINERARY

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Remarkable places.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

This port is known for its beaches, arts scene and rich history. Explore museums and waterfront restaurants, go shopping, and enjoy water sports on the ocean.

Half Moon Cay, Bahamas

This private island is known for its wonders—from the sugar-white sand to the turquoise lagoon. Experience its secluded cabanas and delectable dining options.

St. Thomas, USVI

This island offers stunning views, fantastic snorkeling opportunities, pristine beaches, excellent shopping and a glimpse of Danish colonial architecture.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Discover the rich history, diverse culinary options and ultimate beach lounging spots. Explore the national rainforest and the captivating architecture.

READY TO BOOK THIS EXPERIENCE?

Accommodations, holland america's nieuw amsterdam.

Timeless elegance is everywhere: understated, refined, welcoming and warm in the fresh floral arrangements, fine furnishings, impressive sculptures and the gracious hospitality that is Holland America’s hallmark.

With a multimillion-dollar art collection as the backdrop, your universe 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 feasts on deck to refined luxury dining. The food is everything you expect and more. The gracious crew members are dedicated to your satisfaction and are known for impeccable five-star service.

Holland America offers everything you could want in this world-class floating resort.

Ship's Registry: Netherlands

Deck 1 - Main

Deck 2 - lower promenade, deck 3 - promenade, deck 4 - upper promenade, deck 5 - verandah, deck 6 - upper verandah, deck 7 - rotterdam, deck 8 - navigator, deck 9 - lido, deck 10 - panorama, deck 11 - observation.

• The Atrium is a three-deck-high, open-floor-designed midship area that features a magnificent glass sculpture hanging from the ceiling.
• Less ocean movement and proximity to Lower Promenade dining and entertainment.
• Head to Guest Services if you have any questions or concerns.
• World Stage features innovative cruise ship shows and a two-story LED screen that creates a vivid wraparound display.
• Experience smoother seas on this deck.

• The Dining Room is the flagship dining experience and is a welcoming and sophisticated setting for an exquisite breakfast, lunch or superb multicourse dinner.
• Visit the Art Gallery , an expansive onboard gallery space exhibiting works by emerging artists curated from the destinations visited by the ships.
• Pinnacle Grill is the ultimate steakhouse at sea, with an exceptional menu of prime steaks, seafood and wine.
• Sing along, test your music trivia knowledge or sit back and enjoy as chart-topping hits fill the Billboard Onboard Room each night.

• Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping onboard at The Shops.

• Ideal for entertainment lovers, the Tasman Room and The Dining Room await one deck down.
• Conveniently close to music venues.
• Get easy access to restaurants.

• Reach the whole ship easily from this peaceful middle deck.
• A variety of cabins are available on this deck plan; see accommodation descriptions for details.
• There are no amenities or public spaces on this deck.

• Get easy access to the Lido Market, Sea View Pool and Greenhouse Spa & Salon located two decks up.
• Exclusive to suite guests, Neptune Lounge is a private place to relax, socialize and enjoy personalized concierge service. Enjoy complimentary refreshments, a relaxing seating area and access to Wi-Fi for a small charge.
• Conveniently close to the Lido deck.

• You’re never far from R&R on this deck. Lido deck pools, the Fitness Center and Greenhouse Spa & Salon await above.
• The Bridge (command center) navigates the waters from here.

• Sea View Pool is an adults-only pool with the perfect spot to get some sun and watch the world sail by.
• Lido Market is a casual modern marketplace that offers the widest range of food options onboard for breakfast, lunch, dinner or a late-night snack.
• Take a class in our professionally staffed Fitness Center.
• Greenhouse Spa & Salon is a heavenly retreat that nurtures every aspect of your well-being with renowned spa rituals and healing touches. In the spa, pamper your skin with facial treatments featuring premium, naturally sourced ingredients. Nurture your body, too, with massage treatments employing time-honored, hands-on massage techniques gleaned from around the world.

• Tamarind and Nami Sushi restaurants are one deck up when you're hungry.
• Club HAL's Kids Club offers an array of entertaining events for kids and teens ages 3-17, supervised by full-time, professionally trained staff.
• "Nothing but net" at our Sports Courts just one deck above.
• Sliding Dome Cover over the Lido deck pool is a fully retractable roof that can open or close to suit all climates.

• Explore traditional cuisines of Southeast Asia, China and Japan at Tamarind .
• Explorations Central is exclusive destination programming designed to deepen your understanding of the places you visit. Sip elegantly prepared espresso drinks and nosh on fresh pastries from Explorations Café as you take in fantastic views.
• Enjoy complimentary lessons, tournaments and courts with amazing top-deck views at the Sports Courts.
• Take in the spectacular sites and capture the best photos from this deck.
• Nami Sushi offers a tempting array of sushi rolls with an homage to the ocean views you'll enjoy, created by master sushi chef Andy Matsuda.
• Enjoy cocktails and sunsets with panoramic views at Crow's Nest.

ROOM OPTIONS

Interior Staterooms

Ocean View Staterooms

Verandah Staterooms

Deluxe Spa Verandah Staterooms

Signature Suites

Neptune Suites

A nice starter option for those wanting an inside cabin. These charming staterooms feature a host of modern functional details such as bedside USB ports, plush Euro-Top mattresses and premium massage showerheads. Two lower beds convert to one queen. Approximately 141-284 square feet. . All prices are based on double occupancy.

A good choice for those wanting a window in their cabin. These comfortable staterooms feature a sitting area and two lower beds that convert to one queen. Some have additional sofa beds or upper beds. Approximately 169-267 square feet. *All G cabins have a partially obstructed ocean view. **All H and HH cabins have a fully obstructed ocean view. All prices are based on double occupancy.

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 213-379 square feet including verandah. All prices are based on double occupancy.

The best choice for those seeking serenity. These luxurious, light-infused staterooms feature exclusive spa treatments at the nearby Greenhouse Spa & Salon, yoga mats and premium massage showerheads. They also include floor-to-ceiling windows, a sitting area, private verandah and two lower beds that convert to one queen. Approximately 213-379 square feet including verandah. All prices are based on double occupancy.

An upscale option for small families or cruisers wanting additional space and amenities, these beautiful cabins include luxurious twin beds (convertible to queen-size), a private verandah, a sitting area, a full-size whirlpool bath and shower, an additional shower stall, a private balcony and stunning floor-to-ceiling windows. Total space is 273-456 square feet, including verandah. All prices are based on double occupancy.

A luxurious choice for passengers wanting extra space and spectacular views, these are among the largest staterooms on the ship, offering two lower beds that convert to a king-size bed, dual-sink bathroom vanities and a full-size whirlpool bath and shower plus additional shower stall. These also feature a large sitting area, a private balcony and floor-to-ceiling windows in 506-590 square feet including verandah. Also included is access to the exclusive Neptune Lounge, a private haven offering personal concierge service. All prices are based on double occupancy.

Book with Confidence

As christians we care that your travels are spiritually significant., top-ranked service with leading industry awards and accolades., over 1,500+ ministries have trusted us to manage their group events., every detail is triple-checked so you can enjoy every moment abroad., caribbean cruise faqs.

Please carefully review the details of the Cancellation Policy below, as well as the full Terms & Conditions prior to booking your travel event.

All prices, penalties and change fees are quoted per passenger based on selected occupancy.

Most islands of the Caribbean possess a subtropical climate, with both wet and less wet seasons. During the wetter season—generally July to December—rainfall will vary from one island to another, depending on elevation, size and water currents. Common ports like the Bahamas, Turks & Caicos, Puerto Rico, St. Martin and Jamaica typically feature subtropical and tropical climates in which warm trade winds from the east and northeast bring occasional rainfall, with precipitation heaviest from May through October.

Packing Checklist

• Casual clothes including pants, jeans, shorts, T-shirts, collared shirts or blouses
• Light sweater or jacket
• Semi-formal clothes or dress clothes for 1-2 evenings, depending on the length of your cruise
• Bathing suit and a cover-up or wrap
• Light raincoat or compact umbrella
• Comfortable walking shoes or sandals with rubber soles
• Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
• Toiletries, in a sealed, clear bag inside your luggage
• Minor First Aid care items such as Band-Aids, aspirin, hand sanitizer, etc.
• Medications in their original containers
• Hair care appliances (see information on Using Electronics)
• Small bag or backpack for port days; large enough to carry your camera and other personal items
• Passport with separate photocopy

Dining Dress Code

Depending on the cruise line, there will be one to two nights of dressing up for dinner or other special events. We suggest a semi-formal dress or skirt and blouse for women and a dark suit for men. The remaining dinners on the cruise are informal—blouse and pants for women; and collared shirt with trousers for men. Remember that T-shirts, shorts or tank tops are not permitted in the dining room.

Packing Tips

Make certain your suitcase closes and fastens securely. Mark your luggage and carry-on bag with your name and address so you can distinguish them easily. We also recommend you put identification information—name, address and phone number—INSIDE your luggage in case the luggage tags are lost in transit. We also suggest keeping your essential toiletries and a one-day change of clothes in your carry-on. Do not pack your passport or travel documents in your luggage. It is suggested that you keep a color copy of the information page of your passport inside your luggage if your passport is lost.

For more information, please call one of our Reservation Coordinators at 800 247 1899 , Monday through Friday between 8:30am – 5:30pm, Pacific Time.

We know how nice it is to have the convenience of home when traveling on a cruise. Bringing your electronics and hair appliances can enhance your overall travel experience. Every cruise ship has plugs that accept U.S. and Continental European devices, and you do not need to bring plug adaptors. Here are some things to know about your electronics before you pack them:

Phones, MP3 Players, Laptops, Cameras & Video Cameras

Most small digital devices have chargers that will fit in the plugs on a cruise ship. One thing to be mindful of is the limited plugs in each cabin; you may want to bring a multi-plug extension cord.

Blow Dryers, Curling Irons & Straighteners

Each stateroom has a hair dryer for your personal convenience. If you prefer your hair appliances, you may want to consider purchasing or borrowing compact and travel-friendly appliances.

For more information, please call one of our Reservation Coordinators at 800 247 1899 , Monday through Friday between 8:30am-5:00pm, Pacific Time.

The scenic beauty of Caribbean can be enjoyed from onboard the ship and to make the most of your cruise vacation, you can also get out into the local ports. Shore excursions offer something for everyone. Choose from city tours, culinary explorations, shopping outings, cultural activities and more.

Because shore excursions have limited capacity and fill up quickly, we recommend you book early for the best selection on your cruise. Once you’ve booked your Inspiration cruise, check out the customized cruise line excursion list based on your itinerary. Using your cruise booking number, you can easily book shore excursions online as early as 60 days before your trip and up to 3 days before departure, depending on the cruise line.

Visit the cruise line’s website to find information on specific excursions:

• Celebrity Cruises
• Holland America Line
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Royal Caribbean International

You may also register for your Shore Excursions once onboard the ship. All shore excursion requests are processed on a first-come, first-serve basis. Waitlisted requests for sold-out shore excursions will be processed before requests made onboard.

For more information please call one of our Reservation Coordinators at 800 247 1899 , Monday through Friday between 8:30am-5:00pm, Pacific Time.

We want to help make your trip as smooth and as enjoyable as possible. We can book motorcoach transfers for you from the airport to your cruise departure port and on your return trip.

Hotel Stays

Remember that you always have the option of arriving earlier or staying later. For example, hotel reservations may be available if you want to arrive a few days early before boarding your cruise or stay a few days after the cruise returns.

As you plan for your upcoming Christian cruise with Inspiration, you may wonder about using money and credit cards during your travels. We’ve made the following recommendations to help you save money, avoid unnecessary fees and focus on an exceptional travel experience.

• Consider leaving all unnecessary credit cards at home.
• Once you determine which cards you’ll bring, remember to notify each credit card company of your intended travel dates and locations to ensure fraud alerts and holds are not placed on your accounts.
• For each card, you’ll want to store the bank’s contact information in a separate, secure location in the unlikely event your wallet or purse is lost or stolen.

Almost all Caribbean destinations accept U.S. credit or debit cards. If you plan to use your credit cards, you’ll want to check with each credit card company to determine the international exchange fee for each card. Because the difference of a few percentage points could cost you more (depending on your purchases), we recommend using cards with lower international exchange fees. Using your credit card for large purchases gives you more protection for the items you buy on your trip. You can review your credit card statement to verify all of your purchases.

The Bahamian dollar equals the U.S. dollar, and both are accepted interchangeably throughout the islands. The U.S. dollar is the official currency of Turks and Caicos, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. The U.S. dollar is widely accepted in the Cayman Islands, Jamaica, Belize, Honduras and St. Maarten. If traveling with currency other than the U.S. dollar you may exchange money on board the ship, although we always recommend checking the exchange rate before traveling to a foreign country.

Today’s technology allows you to stay connected while traveling—ensuring you get that memorable photo or message from your loved ones. On most ships, you should be able to use your cell phone or smartphone to do everything you’re used to doing at home. In addition, mobile phones provide convenient access for emergencies and confirming travel plans. Some basic guidelines and tips will help you save money, keep your phone working effectively and stay in touch.

Before you leave

Spending some time contacting your cell phone carrier before your trip will help ensure you can call friends and family back home and eliminate any surprises on your phone bill when you return. Let your phone carrier know your travel plans, including how you plan to use your phone on your cruise. You’ll want to make sure you understand all of the potential charges. Contact your carrier for specific information.

Check with your carrier for international dialing access

You will want to make sure international and cruise package dialing is active on your mobile phone plan so that you can use it in Caribbean ports, and remember that international and maritime roaming rates will apply to calls placed onboard the ship (charges will appear on your phone bill). Because roaming rates can be high on cruises, checking with your carrier for specific cost details before you leave is a good idea.

Aboard your flight and cruise

Your cell phone’s battery life is the key to keeping you connected. Below are some tips for staying powered up on your trip:

• Remember to set your phone to Airplane Mode when you board your flight. You can also do this aboard the cruise when sailing to avoid roaming charges unless you have the cruise ship package with your carrier. This suspends all calling and texting functions but still allows you to play games, use your camera and listen to music, etc.
• On the cruise, you’ll want to charge your phone every night to ensure enough battery life for the next day.
• Try to turn off your phone when you’re not using it. Leaving your phone on all day drains the battery, so it’s a good idea to turn it off while you’re on a shore excursion, eating or reading.

Smartphone tips

As one of the most popular communication devices today, smartphones have revolutionized how we connect and the world. We know leaving your smartphone behind for an hour, much less multiple days is difficult. The following tips will help you save your phone’s battery life and get the most out of your smartphone while on the cruise:

• Before your cruise, you’ll want to disable any applications that give you regular updates, such as sports reports and weather updates.
• Disable the Data Enabled or Data Roaming option on your phone and keep it off until you reach your destination. Turn off the function for “Automatic” checking of emails and change the email settings to “Manual” to reduce data roaming charges. During your trip, you can check for email messages when connected to a free, wireless Internet connection, such as in a hotel lobby or Internet cafe while in port.

In-room phones and phone cards

If you choose to not bring your mobile phone, you can stay in touch with others while on your cruise using the in-room phones. Please make sure you understand all of the charges associated with this before you place your call, as the rates can be expensive.

Your cruise vacation allows you to travel without the hassle of checking in and out of hotels, packing and unpacking, and spending valuable time trying to find quality restaurants–all with excellent service dedicated to enhancing your exceptional travel experience.

Each cruise line makes rewarding the excellent service you’ll receive onboard easy. A gratuity of $16-$19 per day (depending on the cruise line and cabin category), per guest for dining and stateroom services will be automatically added daily to your shipboard account. The cruise line also will automatically add an 18% service charge to beverages purchased through your onboard account. Before the end of the cruise, the Cruise Director will address more specific questions regarding tipping procedures.

If you take a taxi to the pier, it’s common to simply round up to the next dollar when paying your tab. The cab drivers appreciate this, and it is considered part of their income. When you arrive at the ship on embarkation day, we suggest tipping the porters at the pier $1.25 per bag when they take your luggage to place it on the ship.

A 15-20% tip for restaurant service workers is appreciated when visiting restaurants off the ship and during shore excursions.

Depending on your itinerary, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore the cities, beaches and attractions of each island on your route. Most ports will have shopping districts within an easily walkable distance from the cruise ship. You’ll also want to spend time in the sun since the Caribbean is home to some of the best beaches in the world. Other adventurous activities, from snorkeling to rainforest ziplining, are available at many ports.

Here are a few articles with the top experiences we recommend:

• Our Favorite Cruise Ports in the Western Caribbean
• Our 6 Favorite Eastern Caribbean Cruise Ports
• The Caribbean’s Christian Heritage
• Our Favorite Churches of the Caribbean
• Travel Poll: Top 6 Caribbean Islands
• Listen! The Caribbean is Calling

Articles on how to pack and prepare for your Caribbean Cruise

• 5 Travel-Friendly Fashion Finds
• 9 Tips for First-Time Cruisers
• The Key to a Good Night’s Sleep…Anywhere
• How Not to Lose Things While Traveling—Including Your Passport

Articles with cruising advice

• Magnets on the Cabin Walls (and 10 Other Insider Cruise Tips)
• Pro Tips for Better Travel Photography
• Stay Flexible, Make Friends and Other Pro Tips
• Room Service Isn’t Extra (and Other Cruise Dining Tips)

We hope these suggestions and tips help answer your questions! If you have any other inquiries, please don’t hesitate to call our Reservation Coordinators at 800 247 1899 Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 5:00pm Pacific Time.

WE CREATE EXCEPTIONAL TRAVEL EXPERIENCES

Call us to book your trip of a lifetime, 800 247 1899, traveler experiences.

“My husband & I deemed this our “Best Vacation Ever.” The Gospel Music Celebration Cruise to the Caribbean was like stepping on the shores of heaven for a week! What a blessing!”

“We've been on many cruises, but this one was by far the best ever. It was the music that drew us. And you could feel the Spirit when they were up on stage. An exceptional time!”

Gloria & Hubert N.

“This was one of the greatest times I had, cruising this beautiful region on a Christian cruise with like-minded people.”

Detroit, MI

Important information for your journey.

Packing Tips for the Caribbean

Using your Cell Phone in the Caribbean

Using Money & Credit Cards in the Caribbean

Help with Electronics in the Caribbean

• Radio Stations

Baltimore's Good News Station

WCAO (600 AM), branded as "Heaven 600", is a Gospel Music radio station licensed to Baltimore, MD, and serves the Baltimore radio market. The station is currently owned by iHeartMedia.

• Call sign: WCAO
• Frequency: 600 AM
• City of license: Baltimore, MD
• Owner: iHeartMedia
• Sister stations: 102.7 Jack-FM , 93.1 WPOC , Z104.3
• Address: 711 W 40th St, Baltimore, MD 21211
• Phone number: 1-410-366-7600 / 1-844-600-9226

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Reviews (4)

Energetic repetitive more local cuts pls

Best Gospel Radio Station!

Love ❤️ every morning my spiritual morning start long friend of Rev Lee .

Contemporary Gospel all day long. I really enjoy your music. Thank u

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Join the World's Largest Southern Gospel Music Cruise

Our adventure begins in Port Canaveral, Florida where we set sail for the Bahamas on Carnival Cruise Line's ms Liberty. The 110,000 ton Liberty features specialty dining venues including Guy's Burger Joint, the Blue Iguana Cantina, the Seafood Shack*, Mongolian Wok, and Diamonds Steakhouse*. The kids will enjoy mini-golf, a pool and water-slide, and the supervised Camp Ocean activities.

Tuesday morning we arrive at the capital city of Nassau, where you can visit the world famous Straw Market, tour the historic city sites, take a trip to the world's largest saltwater aquarium at the Atlantis Paradise Island Resort, or just kick back on a sun drenched beach.

On Wednesday we call on the tropical island of Princess Cays, where you can enjoy a day at the beach and a tropical lunch, or take advantage of the many activities and shore excursions to include: horseback-riding, deep sea fishing, parasailing, scuba diving, and a stingray adventure. The kids will enjoy the many water activities like snorkeling, water-slides, and jet ski rentals. 

Thursday is a day at sea enjoying the amenities of the ship and a full day of Southern Gospel concerts in 5 different venues, as well as Southern Gospel Karaoke, Name That Gospel Great, a Hymn Sing, Parade of Pianos, and more. You will enjoy 4-days of comedy, preaching, and great Southern Gospel music. This is the perfect vacation for a Christian family.

Join over 25 of your favorite Southern Gospel Music artists on a family-friendly Christian vacation. TEMPLETON TOURS has chartered an entire cruise ship for this Southern Gospel Music Cruise. The bars & casino will be closed and there will be over 75 concerts performed by THE BEST IN SOUTHERN GOSPEL MUSIC along with inspired preaching of the gospel and Christian comedy. Everyone on board will be a part of this Christian cruise vacation.

Call 1-800-334-2630 and ask for more information on how to cruise with the KINGSMEN! Or click the link below to register online!

Register online here

The Rev. Lee Michaels, veteran host on Baltimore's gospel station Heaven 600, retires after 40 years in radio

Dec. 31—By Amanda Yeager — [email protected]

December 31, 2023 at 6:15 a.m.

For the Rev. Lee Michaels, radio has been more than just a career. It's also been a calling.

The longtime host of The Morning Experience on Baltimore's Heaven 600/WCAO Radio signed off for a final time Friday after four decades in the radio industry. Michaels, who is also pastor at Manifest Wonders Christian Center in West Baltimore, has been an enduring voice on Baltimore gospel radio since 1991.

Reached by phone at the studio after his last show, Michaels said he was still wrapping his head around retirement. "I'm just sitting here trying to process everything after 40 years," he said.

Michaels always had a sense he was destined for the airwaves, though it took a while for him to realize radio hosting would be his path. As a kid growing up in Perkins Homes, he dreamed of being a singer, instead.

Some locals called the housing development "The Bottom," a reference to its geography as one of the last landmarks before hitting the Fells Point waterfront, and also to the hardships faced by many of its residents.

"Socioeconomically, it was the bottom because folks were not doing well there," Michaels said.

As a way out, he started a musical group with friends, singing the kind of shoo-bop songs that were popular in the 1960s. He grew frustrated, however, when his peers didn't take the project as seriously as he did. If he couldn't be the one singing on the radio, Michaels thought, maybe he could at least be the DJ spinning the tunes.

"I decided that radio would be the next best thing," Michaels said.

Still, it would take years before he got behind a microphone. As a young adult, Michaels enlisted in the Air Force and studied computer management at Coppin State University for about a year and a half after getting out of the service.

A chance encounter with a producer who needed help changing a tire gave Michaels his first peek into the world of radio. As a show of gratitude for Michaels' assistance, the producer invited him to tour the studio at the former WEBB Radio, where he met station staff.

About a year later, he was sitting in a computer class when he felt compelled to get up and leave. "A premonition voice hit me, saying, 'This is not what you're supposed to be doing,'" Michaels recalled. "I got up in the middle of class and withdrew from Coppin State."

He enrolled, instead, in radio courses at the Broadcasting Institute of Maryland on Harford Road, where he studied for about six months before leaving that program early, too, to accept a job offer at WCEM/WESP-FM in Cambridge, on the Eastern Shore.

Michaels says his career has been marked by several of these pivotal, sometimes inexplicable, moments. A few years later, after taking a job at WEBB in Baltimore, he had another epiphany.

He had found success splitting his time between work at the radio station and a side hustle as a DJ and promoter. But, Michaels realized, he still felt unfulfilled.

One night, home after a weekend of clubbing and promoting and eating a greasy cheesesteak at 3 a.m., he honed in on the words of a television evangelist.

"This voice said: 'You're tired, aren't you? You thought things would be better than this,'" Michaels recalled. "I'm looking at this face and it looks like he's talking directly to me. He said, 'Why don't you call the number on the screen?' When I called, that's when things really took a turn."

On the phone, Michaels confessed his unhappiness. After hanging up, he got to his knees and prayed, asking for a sign from God confirming radio was his path. Then he went to sleep. The next morning at 8 a.m., he got a call from a gospel radio host, the Rev. Naomi Durant, asking if Michaels would like to take the afternoon slot at Baltimore's new all-gospel station, WBGR.

"I went and washed my face. It felt too surreal; I needed to make sure I was awake," Michaels said. "In that moment before I accepted, what came to mind was I believe that God heard me when I prayed and he sent me my answer."

Five years into his career at WBGR, another moment of inspiration hit. Locking up the studio after work one day, he encountered an unhoused man trying to get warm. He couldn't shake the image, and asked his bosses if there was anything they could do to raise awareness about homelessness in the city.

Eventually, he was invited to cover the topic on Durant's morning show. When she left the studio during a commercial break, he suddenly felt compelled to lock the doors and take over the show.

"I said, 'I don't really understand what I'm doing, but I'm doing this, and I'm hoping it will make a difference,'" Michaels said.

Soon, listeners were calling in to ask if they could make a donation. The station redirected their calls to a local nonprofit working with unhoused people.

The response overwhelmed Michaels. "I had over $10,000 within an hour," he said. In all, the effort raised more than $60,000.

It also caught the attention of higher-ups. The station's owner, who initially planned to fire him for locking Durant out of her own show, decided instead to make a donation of his own after seeing how Michaels had inspired listeners.

"It was one of those moments that changed the trajectory of my career," he said.

Michaels started hosting The Morning Experience in 1991. Over the course of 32 years, he's been recognized several times over for his hosting: Notably, he was named "Announcer of the Year" by the Gospel Music Workshop of America in 2001 and was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2005.

He's also branched out into television, hosting the Sunday morning "Grace and Glory" program on WMAR-TV, the local ABC affiliate.

"It's been a robust, very gratifying and personally fulfilling ride," he said Friday of his career.

Now Michaels, who recently turned 70, is ready for a new phase that will include spending more time with family, traveling and pursuing new projects including a line of health and wellness products and a life-coaching business. He'll also be working as a consultant at Heaven 600 to help smooth the transition for his successor, who has not yet been officially named.

"There are some things that still remain unfulfilled," Michaels said. "Things that I feel as though I have the capacity to accomplish."

Craig Collins, a production coordinator at Heaven 600 and a longtime friend and colleague of Michaels, will fill in for him on the air for the next month at least.

Michaels "has the gift of gab," Collins said. "He's really a person who digs and find information to be able to bring to people. His mission was to lift people up and find something good to say."

Friends and listeners returned the favor during his final show Friday, calling in from around the country: Rhode Island, Atlanta, Massachusetts, Jacksonville, Florida and North Carolina.

Laurie DeYoung, a radio host at country music station WPOC, called in to thank Michaels for his work.

"You brought us life and you brought us joy," she said. "You've just been one of those people you can turn to, whether you have something weighing on you or something great happening. You always have the right words at the right time."

Though Michaels is still planning his next chapter, one thing he won't miss is waking up at 4:30 a.m. Monday through Friday. Now, he said, "I can wake up at 6 and feel like I slept too late."

"It's just been a great ride and I'm grateful," he said of the past 40 years. "It was hard to really wrap myself around the idea of it ending, but I just felt like it was time."

"It's a new year, why not a new beginning?"

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Rev. Lee Michaels, renowned radio talk show host, retires from Heaven 600’s ‘The Morning Experience’

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By Gene Lambey, Special to the AFRO

Rev. Lee Michaels has retired after over 40 years as a gospel radio host for “The Morning Experience” on Baltimore’s Heaven 600 radio station. 

Michaels, who officially retired on Dec. 31, 2023, told the AFRO that his time as host of Heaven 600 “The Morning Experience” was “fun and fulfilling.” 

As a retired radio host, Michaels plans to continue his work as a voice for the Baltimore community. He also looks forward to continuing his ministry in the Christian faith at Manifest Wonders Christian Center. And then there are plans on writing a book about his life and his journey. 

Michaels celebrated his retirement at the Empowerment Temple AME Church in Baltimore on Feb. 18. 

The AFRO had the opportunity to speak with Michaels about his journey to becoming one of Baltimore’s most renowned figures on gospel radio. Raised in the Perkins Homes public housing project  in east Baltimore, which at the time was known as “the Bottom,” Michaels knows a thing or two about working his way to the top.

“Geographically, it was called ‘the Bottom’ because it was the lowest point of public housing before you got to the undeveloped area towards the waterfront,” Michaels recalled. Perkins Homes was rough and tumble development where his mother raised him in a single parent household. 

“All of the trappings that come with living in an economically depressed area and the behaviors that go along with that–all of that was what I had to face and I was able to get out,” said Michaels.

He grew up listening to many radio personalities like “Fat Daddy,” Kelson “Chop Chop” Fisher, Sir Johnny O and many other early 70’s Baltimore radio hosts. However, the first radio host that took Michaels “under his wing” was Maurice “Hot Rod” Hulbert.  

“These guys were bigger than life to me. They really inspired me through the years. To finally find myself sitting in that chair that I admired–that was fun,” said Michaels. 

He recalls his time working in the radio industry as fulfilling because of his faith. While there were bumpy periods, he said he ultimately found his “way back to a place of faith” through the experiences bestowed upon him. One such opportunity came on a Sunday evening while eating dinner alone, the words of a radio evangelist encouraged him to combine his skill sets from the Air Force, the Army Reserves, brief studies at Coppin State University and the Broadcasting Institute of Maryland (BIM) to get into broadcast radio. 

His first broadcasting job was with WCEM/WESP-FM Cambridge, Md.  radio station in Maryland’s Eastern Shore. The FM genre was rock. The AM genre was big band. Both arenas featured music formats he “knew nothing about,” he said. 

“I tell everybody to this day that was the best thing that could’ve happened to me,” Michaels told the AFRO . The circumstances of his new opportunity forced him to study and adapt, learning how to present the genres to listeners. 

He organized a handful of disc jockeys who worked at four clubs in Baltimore. Through that group–the Disco Knights–he made contacts with music producers and learned the ins and outs of the broadcast music industry, eventually meeting key players in the upcoming rap music industry. in the early 80’s. Among the new connections was a relationship with New York City record producer who would become the famous business mogul, Russell Simmons. 

Though the thrills of mainstream radio were ever-present, eventually Michaels answered a higher calling and decided to move into gospel radio. He got his start in Christian radio under Pastor Naomi DuRant at WBGR, but it was his time at Heaven 600 that has made Michaels a household name in Christian homes and cars across the area. 

Today, streaming has become the new normal for the radio industry and through it Heaven 600 has forged a global outreach. Michaels said connection with organizations like the Gospel Announcer’s Guild, out of the Gospel Music Workshop of America, allowed him to understand the impact of technology.

“You must always keep in mind that your presentation in radio has to be one dimension better than the accepted practice in radio–which is information and entertainment,” said Michaels. “We understand that people come for those two things.”

Now that his time on air is done, Michaels told the AFRO he looks back with gratitude and can only hope he has been a good example to others.

“Having had this opportunity to live what I call a ‘fulfilling life,’ and a fulfilling career, I would hope that my journey and my story in some way, form or fashion as a source of encouragement and a reminder that God does still honor faithfulness–if you are true to your commitment,” said Michaels. “Live a godly life, God will reward it. I really believe that because that is what I lived.”

Gene Lambey is a resident of Washington D.C. He is writing for the community.

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