sea cruise weymouth

Weymouth & Portland Boat Trips

07899 725107 Ferry Steps, Weymouth Harbour Weymouth DT4 8EA

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Sea cruises out of Weymouth’s historic harbour, skippered by knowledgeable, local seafarers, taking in Portland Harbour and surroundings.

Approximately 1-hour sea cruise from Weymouth harbour through Weymouth Bay and Portland Harbour. 

Taking in views of the Forts and Castles, Jurassic coast, visiting Shipping and Local Wildlife. 

Children (12 under) £10. Babies Under 1/Dogs Free’

Text or phone 07899 725107  for more info or to book. More information and latest updates can also be found on our Facebook page and website

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Weymouth & Portland Boat Trips

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• 07749 732428
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• Coastline Cruises Kiosk, Trinity Road, Weymouth , DT4 8TJ

Weymouth & Jurassic Odyssey Cruise: A Journey Through Time and Nature

Book your weymouth & jurassic odyssey cruise today.

Join us on the Weymouth & Jurassic Odyssey Cruise and step into a world where history and natural beauty converge. Perfect for those seeking a blend of educational exploration and scenic relaxation. Book now for an unforgettable experience!

Jurassic coastline

Experience the breathtaking Jurassic Coast from the best vantage point - the sea. As our vessel glides along the waters, you'll be treated to unparalleled views of this World Heritage Site, where each cliff and cove tells a story millions of years old. This cruise offers a unique perspective of the Jurassic Coast, allowing you to fully appreciate the natural artistry and historical significance of this stunning geological wonder. It's not just a journey; it's a voyage through time, revealing the Earth's ancient past in a way only the sea can unveil.

Melcombe Regis

Step into the historical heart of Weymouth in Melcombe Regis. Once a significant seaport in the 13th century, this area offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the development and heritage of Weymouth's maritime history.

Brewers Quay

Explore Brewers Quay, a Victorian-era marvel. This converted brewery near the Old Harbour is a testament to Dorset's architectural and industrial past. The intricate design and history of the brewery, dating back to 1903, provide a unique backdrop for your journey.

Nothe Fort, Weymouth’s premier museum and heritage attraction, invites you to delve into its rich military past. Discover underground tunnels, Victorian gun decks, WW2 artillery, and a secret nuclear bunker. The fort also offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, adding to its appeal.

Lifting Bridge

Witness the engineering spectacle of Weymouth’s Town Bridge. Resembling London's Tower Bridge, this bascule bridge is not just a functional structure but a piece of art. Learn about its fascinating history, dating back to 1930, and watch it in action – a sight that continues to captivate locals and visitors alike.

The River Wey, with its modest length but significant impact, has been the lifeblood of the Wey Valley and Weymouth Harbour. A chalk river unique to Southern England, it offers both scenic beauty and a historical narrative of the area's development and trade. Its serene waters and lush surroundings provide a tranquil escape from the bustle of the town.

More information about our cruises?

• Weymouth & Jurassic Odyssey Cruise
• Isle of Portland Discovery Cruise
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Weymouth on the water; boat trips

Hit the waves and experience our dramatic coast by boat. You'll be spoilt for choice from Weymouth Harbour; with 1 hour trips around Portland Harbour, ferry services offering trips between Weymouth and Portland, further afield along the Jurassic Coast or simply a day out mackerel fishing.

Coastline cruises.

weymouth mackerel trips

Weymouth & portland boat trips.

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BOAT TRIPS DEPART FROM 1ST APRIL WEATHER PERMITTING FOR INFORMATION AND TIMES VISIT OUR BOARD ON THE HARBOUR

Weymouth and Portland Boat Trips

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Jurassic Trips

HISTORICAL GEORGIAN SEA FRONT WITH VIEWS OF THE JURASSIC COAST LINE

JURASSIC COAST BOAT TRIPS

In addition to our standard Weymouth Bay and Portland Harbour cruises, we offer private 1-hour Jurassic Coastline boat trips for £150 for up to 12 passengers. Our Jurassic Coastline Boat trip takes in Weymouth Georgian Seafront, Bowleaze Cove, Osmington, Ringstead Bay, Red Cliff Point and distance views of Durdle Door

(Please note we do not cruise as far as Durdle Door due to the distance and timings from Weymouth Harbour)

Please contact us to arrange a private booking.

Private trips are booked during July and August at 10am or 4pm.

Contact outside of these dates and we will do our best to accommodate you.

BOWLEAZE COVE 

Embark on your journey in Weymouth, as we make our along the historic Jurassic Coastline

Views of Osmington at the water edge, and the White Horse on Osmington hill.

Although we can't guarantee the local wildlife will be on the show we do regularly see Dolphins, Seals, and an array of birds and fish. 

REDCLIFF POINT

So called do to the red colouring of the rock, and many fossils have been found in the upper oxford clay in this area!

RINGSTEAD BAY

Jurassic Coast Boat Trips from Weymouth Harbour

WHITE NOTHE & BATS HEAD

The Jurassic coast, and UNESCO world heritage landscape

DURDLE DOOR 

See views of durdle door.

Sadly within the hour we don't quite make it that far. but you can see from afar...

WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS SAY

“Awesome as usual, was hoping to show my partner the sea-breakers and Portland harbour, but luckily the sea was choppy there, so done a different route, which turned out better, went out to the old cruiser off Bowleaze cove, and even saw some dolphins, so we went around the cruise ship twice, which made her very happy, so win-win. Everyone on the boat enjoyed it.”

Jamie  /   Warminster

•  Custom House Quay, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8BG
•   07833492948
•   [email protected]

Snapper Charters

Weymouth Fishing and Sightseeing Boat Trips

Durdle Door, Ships & Wildlife Boat Trip

Our Durdle Door, Wildlife and Ship boat trip is one of the most popular sightseeing trips we offer aboard Snapper Charters. Get out on the water during your holiday in Weymouth and take in the stunning sights along the Jurassic Coast.

During this leisurely cruise we steam around ships anchored in Weymouth Bay, before making our way to Durdle Door . We’ll stop for an up-close look at this iconic landmark from a completely unique perspective. On the way back we'll pop into Portland Harbour where you'll see abandoned sea forts and big ships! Along the way we’ll keep our eyes peeled for wildlife. Sometimes we’re lucky enough to see dolphins and seabirds.

This is a relaxed sightseeing tour without a commentary. Advanced booking essential.

Duration : 2 hours

Price: £30 per person

Maximum capacity: 12 passengers + crew

See full trip description and FAQ's below

What does the Durdle Door boat trip involve?

Meet us on our mooring outside the E-bike Cafe. Once everyone’s on board we’ll make our way down the historic harbour at a leisurely place, allowing you to take in the bustling quayside, pretty cottages and Nothe Fort. Younger members of the family will enjoy waving at the people we pass. The challenge is to get as many people as you can to wave back!

Up close look at ships in Weymouth Bay

As we round the pier you can look back at Weymouth seafront and across the bay to Bowleze , Ringstead and Osmington in one direction and Portland break water in the other. We’ll then pick up speed and head to any ships anchored in the bay so you can appreciate their size and scale. The ships will vary every trip and can include tall ships, cargo ships, navy ships and cruise ships.

Please note: we cannot control what ships are in the bay. If there are no ships we will continue to Durdle Door.

Enjoy Durdle door from the sea

Next, we’ll head a bit closer to the shore so you can admire the world-famous Jurassic Coastline . You’ll be treated to views of White Nothe Cliffs and secluded secret beaches that are inaccessible by foot. We’ll slow down as we approach Durdle Door and nudge the boat as close possible. Unfortunately, we’re too big to sail through the door!

We’ll stop and turn the boat so you can take some family photos or a selfie or two! We’ll then make our way to the back of the door so you can look at it from a completely different perspective. Passengers are always surprised by the sheer scale of Durdle Door when viewed from the sea.

Chance of marine life including dolphins and seabirds

After everyone’s had the chance to take some photo’s we’ll make a detour to Portland Harbour before heading back to Weymouth. In Portland Harbour you'll see abandoned sea forts and big maritime ships.

Make sure you keep a look out for marine life along the way. Sometimes we’re lucky enough to see dolphins and seabirds , though please note the sea is not a zoo and this cannot be guaranteed. If we do encounter any wildlife, we’ll slow the boat so everyone can see.

"Not to be missed"

" We took our friends for a wonderful early evening trip to Durdle Door along the Jurassic coastline. Because it was high water we went right into the bay so we got some memorable snaps of us in front of the arch. Then we got to go behind the arch to see it from behind. A different view you don’t get from the land. The crew are friendly and chatty but relaxed. All in all a great experience. Looking forward to doing it again next year.".

Hayley - Tripadvisor

Below you will find a list of frequently asked questions about our Durdle Door, Ships & Wildlife boat trips aboard Snapper. If you have any further questions ahead of your trip please get in touch . 

Will the trip still go ahead in the rain?

Yes, we still operate our trips in the rain. We only cancel if the winds get too high.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, you are more than welcome to bring your dog on our sightseeing trips. Please note we also run fishing trips so there may be remnants of hooks and bait on board. Also, it can be noisy and it does get hot in the summer.

Is there a commentary/guided tour?

There is not a formal commentary or PA system on board. This is a relaxed sightseeing trip with passengers invited to relax and take in the scenery. That being said, the skipper and crew will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have.

Can I book the whole boat?

Yes, you can book the whole boat for private charter. Simply book all 12 spaces available on our booking site. If there are less than 12 spaces available, it means another family is already booked on the trip.

Is there a toilet on board?

Yes, there is a toilet on board.

What should I wear?

Please dress appropriately for the weather. It can get chilly at sea even in the summer. We recommend wearing a hat and sun cream. Make sure you bring a jumper!

Is the trip cheaper for children?

Unfortunately, we do not offer cheaper tickets for children – tickets are based on a per person price. All passengers including children must have a valid ticket including babies.

Can I bring food and drink?

Yes, you are more than welcome to bring your own food and drink to enjoy during the trip.

What is your cancellation policy?

If Luke, the Owner/Skipper of Snapper Charters deems the weather unsuitable for a Durdle Door, Wildlife & Ship Boat Trip or the minimum passenger number has not been met the trip will be cancelled with as much prior notice as possible. You will usually be contacted the evening before when we have access to the latest weather report. You will be contacted on the phone number/email address provided at the time of booking to try and arrange alternate dates. If we are unable to agree upon a mutually suitable date and transfer your booking, you will receive a cancellation email (please keep an eye on your junk mail folder) and full refund of any money paid. If you (the customer) would like to cancel a Durdle Door, Wildlife & Ship Boat Trip a full refund will be given up until 72 hours prior to the trip commencing. To cancel please click the 'view booking' button in your confirmation email and follow the instructions. It is also possible to transfer your booking to another date up until 72 hours before your trip. No refund will be given for cancellations that occur less than 72 hours before your trip.

Where do we meet you for the trip?

Advance booking is essential. Meet us on the pontoon beneath the e-bike cafe - look for our flag. Arrive 15 minutes prior to departure. We kindly ask you to wait on the harbour wall until we've finished cleaning the boat/unloading passengers, then walk down the ramp towards the left hand side of the boat. Please leave plenty of time for parking as it can get busy, especially in the summer. We cannot wait for late passengers and NO refund will be given if you miss your trip. If you cannot see the boat when you arrive it is likely that we are returning from another trip. Please wait for us to arrive. Address: Custom House Quay Weymouth Dorset DT4 8BG Owner/skipper Luke: 07833492948

What happens if we're running late?

Please make every effort to arrive 15 minutes early and ensure you are in the right place and ready to go. We run all of our trips back to back, so it's essential that we leave on time. If you arrive more than 5 minutes late, we are afraid the boat will depart without you and NO refund will be given. We do not want to cut the trip short for the people who have made it there on time. If we're not there when you arrive, we will be on our way back from our previous trip. Please wait for us to return.

About Snapper Charters

Snapper is a spacious power catamaran with outdoor seating. It is wide and stable making for a comfortable ride. You are more than welcome to get up and walk around during your trip.

We specialise in small group boat trips so there will be a maximum of 12 passengers on board plus crew. We are family friendly , though please note children must be accompanied by an adult. There is a toilet and board.

THE 10 BEST Weymouth Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in weymouth.

• Stand-Up Paddleboarding
• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• Speed Boats Tours
• Water Sports
• River Rafting & Tubing
• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Waterskiing & Jetskiing
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Kids
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Good for Big Groups
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Weymouth Bay Rib Charter

2. Adventure 4 All

3. Sirius Charters

4. Jurassic Jet Ski Tours

5. Snapper Charters

6. The Fleet Explorer

7. Weymouth Outdoor Education Centre and Paddlesports Academy

9. Coastline Cruises

10. Nauti Yacht Charters

11. M V Freedom - a Charity giving access to the sea for people living with disability

12. Old Harbour Dive Center

13. Boats 247 - Jurassic Coast Boat Tours, RIB Charter & Powerboat Training

14. Thunderbolt

15. Weymouth Paddleboard and Kayak

16. Weymouth White Water

17. Weymouth Watersports & Fitness Club

18. Breakwater Coaching

19. coastal explorer rib.

20. Dorset Sup Coaching and Guiding

21. weymouth beach pedalos & kayaks.

22. Weymouth Shellfish Charters Ltd

What travellers are saying.

• Weymouth Bay Rib Charter
• Sirius Charters
• Adventure 4 All
• Jurassic Jet Ski Tours
• The Fleet Explorer
• Coastline Cruises
• Weymouth Outdoor Education Centre and Paddlesports Academy
• Nauti Yacht Charters

From the FERRY STEPS

excellent boat trips around Weymouth Bay, Portland Harbour and Tour the 2012 Olympic Sailing venues sailing frequently from the Ferry step at Weymouth pavilion ( no bookings taken )

Trips around the cruise ships in Weymouth harbour see the ships close up contact for details and booking Tel: 0783963785

excellent boat trips around Weymouth Bay, Portland Harbour and Views of the renowned World Heritage Coast. Tour the 2012 Olympic Sailing venues

Aproximate 1 Hour Sea Cruise

Aproximate 1 Hour Sea Cruise into Weymouth Bay with its Georgian seafront taking in views of the Nothe fort from sea Portland harbour Sandsfoot castle and Chesil beach No booking Required sailing daily Adults £15. Children £10

Weymouth To Portland

Approximate 1 Hour Sea Cruise into Weymouth Bay and Portland harbour No booking Required sailing hourly, Adults £15. Children £10.

Cruise ships

Trips around the cruise ships in Weymouth harbour Please phone Tel: 0783963785 to book and for sailing times £25

Hen Parties

We also can take hen parties trips out and around Weymouth and Portland harbour

Scattering Ashes

Ashes at Sea For those with a special affinity with the sea,

from the harbour steps

Weymouth Pavilion

Sailing daily from 10pm

Weather permitting

No Booking Required

07833963785

Sea Fishing in Weymouth on The Amarisa

Fishing Trips from Weymouth Harbour, Dorset

Weymouth Bay Cruise Ships and Sightseeing Boat Tours on Amarisa

Cruise Ships and Sightseeing Tours

Book your Cruise Ships and Sightseeing Tours on Amarisa

Cruise Ships, have we had enough of them, we think not. This Easter is possibly your last chance to see these gigantic vessels up close.

Throughout the Easter Holidays, you can take an hour and a half cruise around these boats. All while experiencing the Jurassic coast from a different perspective. On top of this, there is always a good chance of seeing some of the resident dolphins.

Due to Government restrictions we are only allowing up to 6 people per trip. If you are 2 households you may contact us for a possible 8 maximum.

We are following COVID-19 guidelines to make this trip safe for you and your friends.

2 Ways to Book

Choose either a private event by ticking the box while booking. This is a set price of £110 for your own private group of up to 6. We wont put anyone else on the boat with you and you will have saved £10 on the normal 6 person price.

Or join others at just £20 per person, just select the number of you in the box provided. We will require a minimum of 4 people booking a time slot to go. If this does not happen we may need to adjust your time slot with you in advance. Or you can find a few more friends to join you and book a guaranteed private event, subject to weather conditions of course.

These tours last for 1 hour and 30 minutes. During which time we will leave Weymouth harbour head over to and around the Cruise Ships. We will stop for photos and hopefully catch a glimpse of a dolphin or two before finally returning to harbour.

All you have to do now is click the button below. Choose a date and time for your Cruise Ship Tour and confirm with an online payment. If you need to vary the time you can contact us to see what we can do. Please also read the important information below.

Get in contact with us if you have any other specific requests. Maybe a longer trip to Durdle door, Lulworth cove or even Mupe Rocks and Worbarrow Bay. For this please use the Contact Us page.

Book a Cruise Ship Tour

Important Information

Please try and arrive 10 minutes before your departure time to help us keep to our schedule.

See the Find Us page for our location. We are near the Sailors Return pub on Custom House Quay. Amarisa is a blue boat with a white cabin. If she is not on the pontoon she will be returning from a previous trip, so just be patient when you arrive.

To get onboard you will need to step over the side of the boat, so regrettably Amarisa isn’t the easiest boat to board for the less able customer. Please contact us if you are concerned about this. There is access to the boat by a pontoon with a ramp, please don’t try and use the ladders to climb down.

Bring warm clothing, it can be colder than you think at sea. You are also welcome to bring food and drinks to enjoy during your trip.

Cancellations

If you need to cancel a tour for any reason we do require 48 hours notice from departure date. Cancellations within 48 hours can not be refunded or rearranged.

Weather conditions can mean your trip gets cancelled. This is mostly wind related although lots of rain may put everyone off. This decision is usually made on the day, if not the night before. So it is important when booking to give a mobile number that we will be able to contact you on.

Also take a look at our 4-hour fishing trips if you would like to have a go at fishing

Head on over to our booking page to see availability

Bowleaze 01305 833103

Chesil 01305 773233

Tregoad 01503 262718

Osmington 01305 837010

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Home » News » Five fantastic boat trips from Weymouth

Five fantastic boat trips from Weymouth

03 / may / 2023.

Weymouth is well known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and scenic harbour. As such, there are plenty of family-friendly attractions to explore on land, but if you want to experience a different side of Weymouth, one of the best ways to do so is by boat.

Here are five different boat trips from Weymouth that will inspire curiosity within you.

Jurassic coast tour

With Coastline Cruises you can take a cruise along the dramatic Jurassic Coast, a World Heritage Site boasting fascinating geology. Cruise past the charming Georgian Weymouth seafront, and out into Weymouth Bay. On this boat trip from Weymouth, you’ll pass the secluded Redcliffe Point and the rocky headland known as Whitenothe – the white nose. Lasting 1.5 hours, it costs £16.50 per person.

Speedy adventure tour

If you’re looking for more of an adrenaline-fuelled boat trip from Weymouth, look no further than Weymouth Bay Rib Charter . In this exciting jaunt suitable for seafarers of five years and upwards, you’ll speed past the town’s harbour, hitting up to 40 miles per hour! Trips cost £16.50 for adults and £11 for children.

Weymouth to Portland tour

This one-hour dog-friendly cruise run by Weymouth Portland Trips departs from Weymouth Harbour and takes you through Weymouth Bay to Portland Harbour. On the way, you’ll be able to appreciate views of the area’s historic Forts and Castles, and parts of the Jurassic coast. You may even spot some wildlife. Prices: Adults £15, Children (12 under) £10. Babies Under 1 and dogs ride for free.

Fishing tour

Want to try your hand at fishing? Visiting Weymouth you’re in luck. The sea surrounding is home to the likes of Rays, Dogfish, Wrasse and Bream to name a few. Join Snapper Charters for a half-day fishing trip departing from Weymouth on a charter boat and you’ll be on the hunt for all of these and more.

Trips take place in Weymouth Bay with views of the Jurassic Coastline adding to the magic of the trip. Suitable for complete beginners or experienced anglers, the tours last 4 hours and cost £40 per person.

Wildlife tour

With Dorset Wildlife Trust’s Fleet Explorer , you can learn about iconic Chesil Beach and the wildlife of the Fleet Lagoon, one of the UK’s most important marine protected areas. These hourly trips tour the mouth of the Fleet and Portland Harbour, giving you plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife including an array of birds in a shallow draft boat specially designed to explore the lagoon.

Booking a £10 tour here (£8 for children) also means you’re helping the organisers conserve the area, as any extra profit made goes towards conservation work.

Where to stay in Weymouth

We have three award-winning holiday parks within easy reach of Weymouth. Book your next last-minute getaway with us to enjoy the area by land and sea!

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Cruise Ship Visit To Weymouth Dorset UK…A Guide

• 11th August 2022

Geoff Moore

• Blog , Discover Dorset , Featured Slider , Latest News , Travel Videos

Cruise ship passengers heading to Portland and then to Weymouth are in for a treat.

The fishing port and seaside holiday resort of Weymouth comes complete with a pretty harbour and a palm fringed sandy beach.

Palm trees and King George III on cruise ship visit to Weymouth UK.

Sporting some of the finest sand in the world according to US coastal scientist, ‘Dr Beach’ !

It is a very safe beach gently shelving into the sea making it perfect for families and several water sports plus fun on the sand itself.

Black Death Arrived In Weymouth In The 14th Century

Historically, the town of Weymouth was the place that the ‘Black Death’ arrived at in England during the 14th century. There is a small plaque on the north side.

The Black Death sign at Weymouth. Not the best of advertising for any holiday resort?

Bombarded with cannon fire in the English civil war. There is a wall in the town that still has a cannon ball impaled in it! It’s above what is now a public toilet.

In the Second World War it was a key embarkation point for many thousands of the US Rangers still remembered today with a memorial on the esplanade dedicated to the D Day action that started on 6th June 1944.

Mayor at the US Memorial on the esplanade to the US Rangers and Operation Tiger.

Today the town is a key fishing port with dozens of colourful boats coming and going to the fishing grounds in the English Channel. Known also for wonderful crab and lobster.

Stephanie Taylor enjoying champagne and lobster on the harbour in Weymouth.

More Like Food Yards Rather Than Food Miles

In terms of its tourism it is very popular throughout the spring, summer and autumn attracting families and couples who enjoy the cracking seafood. Food miles or rather food yards seem to apply here!

‘Piscine to plate’ is almost the mantra spoken in the restaurants found around the harbour or in the town itself.

Sampling food on the harbour in Weymouth.

With quaint shops and fish and chip outlets dotted around the town ‘day visitors’ still have a chance to sample that local seafood. Or try out an English pub there is no shortage of them.

Grab some crab from Weyfish.

You can sample a ride on the sea whilst here and get to see the port from the water.

Places like the Victorian Nothe Fort are worth checking out from land or sea. This fort has won several awards for its work in the tourism sector.

A Grand Day Out On A Cruise Ship Visit To Weymouth

The Regency seafront arks around the bay and this classic architecture can be best appreciated from a boat.

One way is on the Weymouth to Portland ferry on ‘My Girl’ leaving from outside the Old Rooms pub.

A Cruise Guide To Portland In Dorset For Passengers

Certainly try out the Portland Harbour tours that leave from the Ferry Steps on the north side of the harbour. They will whisk you around this, the largest ‘man made’ harbour in the world and back again in around an hour.

Row boat across the harbour.

Or save your legs and be rowed over to the other side of the harbour! And explore the fort and Stone Pier.

Faster ways to get on the sea can be sampled on jet skis or a rib ride. Also a classic wooden speedboat too.  These depart from the southern side of the harbour near the Kings Arms pub.

Fortunately the town is generally mostly flat and level. Therefore, making it ideal for walking and exploring on foot, wheel chair or on an assistance scooter.

Cosy harbour in Weymouth.

Each side of the colourful harbour are lined with dozens of cafes, coffee shops or public houses.

Plenty of places to sit and admire the comings and going’s of yachts, motor cruisers or fishing boats. Crabbing can be fun as a harbourside activity for the youngsters.

Unique Lifting Bridge Stops The Traffic

Try not to miss the unique lifting bridge that allows larger boats or tall masted sailing craft to access the inner harbour or backwater.

Specically  this can be seen on the even hours during the day at 8,10,12, 2,4 and 6 o’clock.

With traffic held up with lights and barriers the  bridge slowly lifts to allow the shipping to move in or out of the inner harbour.

The Town Bridge a lifting bridge that stops the traffic every two hours.

 Normally an operation of around 10 minutes.  Although, sometimes at peak times in the summer it can be up to 20 minutes!

With a crisscross pattern of mainly narrow streets making up most of the town centre.  Therefore, its easy to explore, well most of it on a any visit of a few hours.

Sunshine loving palms are normally happy in Spain or North Africa.

For example lined with palm trees the esplanade is unexpected sight for many visitors. As if there are plenty on the harbour, there are more cafes and catering outlets to stop at for a coffee break,  cold drink or tea of course!

Right Royal Connections To Weymouth

Continuing along the front an Italian ice cream parlour called Rossi’s can be found opposite the Jubilee Clock half way along the town’s seafront.

Indeed look out for the statue of George III where there is a reconstruction of a Georgian bathing machine.  As it was here that King George started to craze of sea bathing in the 18th century. Located in prime position the Royal Hotel was named because of that close connection over many years.

Royalty in the town again.

As a result of the town being selected to host the sailing events for the London 2012 Olympic games that generated a visit by the HM Queen. Meanwhile she toured the beach and town area meeting local people, sailors and visitors.

Follow The Famous On A Cruise Ship Visit The Weymouth

During Covid-19 pandemic Weymouth Bay also hosted as many as ten cruise ships at a time. They were anchored all around the bay.

Especially now and thankfully the cruise ships are able to get their passengers ashore and enjoy a visit to this Regency town.

In days gone by it has hosted people like Winston Churchill, General De Gaulle and Victor Hugo.

View over Portland  Port Dorset.

Hospitality for visitors continues.  With 65 cruise ship visits planned for 2022.  More are planned for 2023?

Speaking to one couple visiting from Canada they were impressed by the free bus transfer from Portland Port to Weymouth paid for by the port.

The couple had only good things to say about this their very last port of call on their round UK cruise with the Princess Cruise Line.

Award winning blogger and travel writer/photographer, I have travelled the world in one way or another for 30 years. I am a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers for over 13 years. In the ever-changing world of publishing and online media it now requires that I have media skills across all areas. That now also includes video production. My travel images appear in magazines, newspapers and publications all over the world I am now blogging about all aspects of travel.

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Weymouth Bay Rib Charters

Experience weymouth’s award winning rib charter ride, experience our exhilarating bay ride, 20 minutes of pure family fun nothing else comes close in dorset.

For those wanting a more serene trip, we can offer our multi-award winning Durdle Door Cruise, and new for this season, our incredible Lulworth Special! We take you further, we show you more!

NOTE: Note: All trips require a minimum of 6 passengers (or the cost cover of 6) to run. In quieter times of the season, try to join a part-filled trip to help ensure you get to sea. In the event of us not reaching our minimum number, we will offer you either a rebooking or a full refund.

Absolutely fantastic experience! Boat is comfortable and you have lots of space. It goes pretty fast which I loved as I like the sea spray 😁 they look for dolphins and I was over the moon to find them. They stop the boat for you so you can stand up and watch them. Amazing experience and worth every penny! (In my opinion it’s really good value and I would pay more!) thanks crew!

Amanda Holly

We had a fabulous trip out this evening for a birthday treat! Crew were friendly and it was a great experience for all the family. Would definitely recommend to others! Go enjoy the dolphins 🐬 and admire the size of the 🚢 whilst they’re here in Weymouth!

Anabel Legg

Absolutely amazing cruise ship and wildlife tour. The rib “Buck” is so comfy and has the added bonus of an amazing sound system. We got to see the cruise ships up close and we’re lucky to see both dolphins. As soon as the engine stopped we knew they were close, and there they were! it was just perfect. Thank you to Ben, Laura, Storm and all the team. Best day. Highly recommend

Nic Howlett

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Weymouth SEA LIFE Adventure Park

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Weymouth SEA LIFE Adventure Park - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Sun - Sat 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• (0.09 mi) Premier Inn Weymouth Seafront
• (0.12 mi) WEYMOUTH BAY APARTMENT C, Second floor, Sea views, parking, close to town
• (0.43 mi) Ashmira Guest House
• (0.53 mi) St. Johns Guest House
• (0.57 mi) The View on the terrace
• (0.09 mi) Top Cat Cafe
• (0.07 mi) Lodmoor Brewers Fayre
• (0.22 mi) Jurassic Rock's Cafe
• (0.32 mi) The Avenue Restaurant
• (0.59 mi) Hamiltons

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Sea cruises out of Weymouths historic harbour, skippered by knowledgeable, local seafarers, taking in Portland Harbour and surroundings and maybe spotting dolphins along the way

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Exclusive: Mom speaks out after Air Force rescued son from cruise ship

The ship was more than 350 nautical miles off the coast of North Carolina.

A mother from Massachusetts spoke exclusively to ABC News after her 12-year-old son was part of a high-stakes cruise ship rescue by the Air Force, hundreds of miles off shore.

Angela Bridges was aboard the Carnival Venezia cruise ship with her family, including son Aiden, en route to New York City from the Caribbean when he fell seriously ill, concerning the medical team on board.

In an exclusive interview with ABC News, Bridges recalled the moment health professionals said, "'We're going to do an x-ray,'" and told her, "'it looks as though he has a perforation in his bowel -- the next thing that we need to do immediately is get him off the ship."

At the time of the critical medical incident, the ship was outside of North Carolina and more than 350 nautical miles off the coast.

The 920th Rescue Wing of the Air Force, consisting of two HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopters, two HC-130J Combat King II aircraft and two teams of combat rescue officers and pararescuemen, flew to the ship’s position to safely extract the patient for transport to the nearest capable medical center.

"We were standing there watching the whole time, and I, just, you know, screaming and crying over the helicopter blades," Bridges recalled. "It was very scary."

"The amazing thing about this rescue is is actually how smooth it went. We went from zero notification to having aircraft ready to having aircraft in the air. And the young man in the hospital in in just a manner of hours," Lt. Col. Dave Underwood told ABC News.

Other cruise-goers watched on as the rescue workers lowered down, and grabbed the boy in critical condition, followed by his mom.

"After that the whole ship like cheered and was screaming and yelling 'yay'," passenger Katie Reed who took video of the moment, told ABC News. "It was really cool to witness and see like you know that this kid got a better chance at life because of like that team was phenomenal."

Aiden is currently recovering at a North Carolina hospital.

"I feel so much gratitude, gratefulness toward all the people who have been integral to my son's recovery," Bridges said. "It's not just the Coast Guard or the Air Force, or the doctors or the nurses. It's all of those people."

"Carnival Venezia's team worked with United States Coast Guard and Air Force officials to adjust its course Saturday so a medical helicopter could rendezvous with the ship when a guest on board needed treatment ashore. The ship then resumed its route to New York, arriving as scheduled Monday morning," Carnival said in a statement to ABC News.

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Princess is launching an all-inclusive, 4-month, around-the-world cruise for $20,000— see what it'll be like

• Princess Cruises announced a 114-day  world cruise to 52 destinations in 2026, starting at $20,000 per person. 
• Guests who book early would get a free, all-inclusive package, a first for Princess' global itineraries.
• Extended and all-inclusive cruises have emerged as big trends in the vacation industry.

Princess Cruise's new around-the-world voyage will hit two vacation trends in one itinerary.

In January 2026, the company says its Coral Princess will embark on a 114-day cruise to 52 ports in 28 countries and six continents — more destinations than any of its previous global sailings .

It's the Carnival Corp brand's latest appeal to the extended cruising trend . But it's not the only fad this four-month vacation is targeting.

The sailing, which starts at $20,000 per person, also marks the first time Princess is offering a complimentary all-inclusive package as a way to entice early bookings.

Ultra-long and all-inclusive cruises have emerged as big trends in the industry.

Regent Seven Seas, Azamara, and Oceania's 2024 around-the-world cruises all sold out before departing in January. The former was fully booked within three hours, while every cabin on the latter was called for in 30 minutes.

Besides being high-end, these three companies share one commonality: some level of all-inclusiveness , as is common with premium cruise lines.

Mass-market cruise companies rarely go the all-inclusive route.

Princess, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian are generally beloved for their affordability.

But if you want to experience all their ships have to offer, be prepared to face a list of up-charged amenities like pay-to-play rides and specialty restaurants . After all, there's a reason their base fares are much cheaper than their increasingly popular ultra-luxury, all-inclusive counterparts.

But Princess has been increasingly vying for a slice of the luxury cruiser pie.

The cruise line says guests who book its 2026 world cruise early (that is, by the end of October) will receive its most inclusive Princess Premier package for free. The perk — launched two years ago — covers amenities that typically have a fee, like WiFi, premium drinks, some specialty restaurants, and workout classes.

Travelers who reserve one of the ship's high-end cabins by the same deadline would also receive complimentary airport transfers and airfare, services normally exclusively offered by luxury cruise lines .

The itinerary would have two roundtrip embarkation options: Fort. Lauderdale, Florida, on January 5, 2026, or Los Angeles 16 days later.

From there, the 2,000-guest Coral Princess would sail more than 35,000 nautical miles to ports in North America, the Pacific Islands, New Zealand and Australia, Asia, the Mediterranean, Europe, and Central and South America.

It wouldn't be Princess' longest voyage — that title goes to its 116-day world cruise in 2025 — but it would be one of its most destination-heavy.

While two days longer, next year's around-the-world cruise would hit six fewer ports and four fewer countries than its 2026 counterpart.

According to the itinerary, about half of the 2026 voyage consists of sea days.

That's a lot of time on the water with no land in sight. Luckily, travelers can keep themselves entertained by attending lectures and programs related to the destinations, leisuring around the adult-only lounge, or taking a dip in Coral Princess' four pools.

The 21-year-old ship also has 10 places to grab a bite, although the Italian and steakhouse restaurants are considered specialty. Premier is the cruise line's most inclusive package, but it only includes 16 free dinners at these upcharge restaurants, paced once a week.

Princess is still a mass-market cruise line, after all.

The company has been increasingly dangling its inclusive package as a big perk.

The company says its two-month-old Sun Princess will debut in the US in October with its first-ever Sanctuary Collection . Travelers who splurge on these expensive and luxurious accommodations would be rewarded with two major benefits: a private lounge and Princess Premier.

• Main content

Nude cruise and a Taylor Swift cruise: 8 themed ships leaving Florida ports in 2024 and 2025

From swinging to Swifties, there's truly a themed cruise for everything nowadays.

Seasoned cruisers know you can take your travel up a level by boarding a themed cruise, exploring the seas with those with the same passions and interests as you.

Whether you adore the cheesy Christmas movies that come out every year or you're a hip-hop fanatic, here are some of the top-themed cruises sailing out of Florida over the next year.

Big Nude Boat

The " Big Nude Boat " cruise is an 11-day adventure set for 2025 on the Norwegian Pearl, departing from the Port of Miami on Feb. 3 and returns to the same port on Feb. 14 (just in time for Valentine's Day).

"Bare Necessities’ newest nude cruise is a private island double-dip with a brand new travel partner," the company wrote on its website .

The itinerary includes stops at the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, St. Maarten, Dominica, Martinique and St. Lucia. Rates for an inside cabin start at $2,000 per person and go to up to $33,000 for a top room.

Guests are encouraged to park their bare behinds on towels provided on board in areas including the pool deck and the buffet area, according to the website.

"Passengers can easily follow our rule on nudist etiquette by always placing a towel down before sitting," it reads. "Remember to pack a swimsuit; not all excursions are clothing optional."

In My Cruise Era

The “ In My Cruise Era … ” is a  Taylor Swift-themed cruise  that is set to launch from Port of Miami on Oct. 21,

The cruise, on a Royal Caribbean ship, leaves for the Bahamas the day after Swift's final show of her three-day stop in Miami. According to the website, the cruise fare includes stateroom accommodations, dinner in the main dining room nightly as well as additional buffet and a la carte options around the ship. It also includes entertainment.

All aboard the Taylor Swift ship! Popstar-themed cruise sets sail in Florida next year

"This cruise is for all fans, so bring your besties, your moms and dads, your baby fans, and if you need someone to room with, post on our page and ask," the organizers wrote on the  website .

The itinerary, though not finalized and "subject to change," includes:

• " We can’t make any promises now can we babe, but you can make me a drink " Welcome Cocktail Party
• " Make the friendship bracelets, take the moment and taste it " Friendship Bracelet Swapping
• " I don't wanna dance if I'm not dancing with you " ThemedDance Party
• " Heartbreak is the national anthem, we sing it proudly " Themed Karaoke
• " Can I ask you a question? " Taylor Trivia
• "Lately she’s been dressing for revenge " Nightly eras outfit themes

Halloween on the High Seas on the Disney Cruise Line

Looking for a more family-friendly option? The Disney Cruise line has you covered.

The Disney Cruise Line will offer its " Halloween on the High Seas " cruises in September and October. Patrons can choose from sailings ranging from 3-7 days, most of which travel to the Bahamas or the Caribbean islands. The Halloween-themed cruise is offered on four of the Disney cruise ships, including the Disney Magic, Disney Wish, Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.

While on board the Halloween on the High Seas cruise, AAA writes guests will enjoy magical, spooktacular entertainment every day, such as:

• Meet and greets with your favorite Disney characters, all decked out in their own Halloween costumes.
• Halloween parties with Mickey, Minnie and the whole gang.
• Ghoulish menus at every meal.

Hallmark Christmas Cruise

In case Halloween isn't your preferred holiday to spend on the seas, why not pretend you're in your own made-for-TV Christmas movie?

The Hallmark Channel, holiday season film factory, will host a Christmas Cruise that will embark on a four-night sailing on Nov. 5 from Miami. According to USA Today, passengers will be able to experience holiday cheer on the high seas, complete with cookie making, “carol-oke,” photo ops with network stars, and an exclusive movie premiere of one of the famed Countdown to Christmas films.

The Christmas cruise will take place aboard the Norwegian Gem Cruise Ship, a 965-foot Jewel-class ship.

The company announced that the cruise has already sold out, sharing to USA TODAY via email last year: "Christmas cheer filled every tier, and now the first ever Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise is SOLD OUT."

Rock the Bells Cruise

Hip Hop Hooray! The Rock the Bells Cruise: A Hip-Hop Experience is a four-day jam session founded by LL Cool J back in 2023. After seeing major success last year, the cruise is returning for 2024.

MCs, DJs, and producers will lead nonstop parties and live performances on the Norwegian Gem from Nov. 13 through 17. The cruise leaves from Miami to Great Stirrup Cay and Nassau.

Some of the acts lined up for the cruise include Busta Rhymes, DJ Jazzy Jeff, Method Man & Redman, Scarface, Kid Capri and more.

Comic-Con: The Cruise

Get ready to join the CCU (Cruise Cinematic Universe). San Diego Comic-Con and Entertainment Cruise Productions have team up for Comic-Con: The Cruise . It will run from Feb. 5 through 9 of 2025.

Sailing on Royal Caribbean's  Serenade of the Seas  from Tampa to Cozumel, participants will interact with Comic-Con icons and attend nonstop activities on board, such as cosplay events, trivia, parties and more

Some of the stars who are slated to be on board include:

• George Takei
• Robb Pearlman
• Mary McDonnell

Star Trek - The Cruise

Live long and prosper! Trekkies can geek out with one another on best cruise experience in the galaxy, according to U.S. News .

Sailing on Royal Caribbean International's Explorer of the Seas, the Star Trek cruise will sail from Miami on Feb. 23-through March 2 of 2025. Passengers will head to Costa Maya, Cozumel and Belize.

"Each night of the cruise celebrates a different dimension of the Star Trek experience and, since the cruise's debut in 2017, guests have knocked it out of the park with show-stopping costumes," U.S. News writes.

Norwegian: Ultimate Disco Cruise

Dig out those old bell-bottom pants and practice your dance moves while you have time!

Norwegian Cruise Line Ultimate Disco Cruise leaves from Miami on Feb. 19 through 24, 2025. During this groovy cruise, you will travel aboard the Norwegian Pearl to ports of call such as Cozumel and Costa Maya. Awhile attending the hottest disco parties along the high seas.

AAA notes these are some of the performers and guests that are going to be on board alongside you:

• Kool & The Gang
• Original Stone City Band
• The Spinners
• Shalamar featuring Howard Hewett, Carolyn Griffey and Jeffrey Daniel

When is the best time to cruise?

Here are AAA’s trend forecasts for the best times to cruise in 2024, according to the kind of cruise you choose:

• The Caribbean  is popular year-round, but spring and summer are the most popular sailing times. 
• Alaska cruise  season runs from May to September. Because this is an abbreviated period, there’s more competition for availability.  
• Weekend cruises  have gained popularity in recent years. Weekend warriors have realized the value an all-inclusive cruise compared to a weekend getaway in a big city resort. Cruise lines have recognized this growing trend and are making weekend cruises more of a priority in 2024, by mobilizing some of their newest ships to accessible ports for weekend excursions. 
• European river cruising  is now operational year-round. Because European travel is most popular during the summer, travelers can avoid the crowds and find lower priced cruises and airfares in the early and later parts of the year.

Watch CBS News

Cruise worker accused of stabbing woman and 2 security guards with scissors on ship headed to Alaska

Updated on: May 8, 2024 / 6:27 AM EDT / CBS/AP

A cruise ship worker from South Africa was arrested Tuesday in Alaska's capital city, accused of attacking a woman and two security guards with scissors on board the vessel, according to authorities.

The U.S. attorney's office says the man, identified as 35-year-old Ntando Sogoni,  is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon within maritime and territorial jurisdiction. Online court records do not show an attorney for the 35-year-old man.

According to an affidavit from FBI Special Agent Matthew Judy, the man was recently hired by a cruise line and joined the ship, the Norwegian Encore, in Seattle on Sunday. The ship set off that day for a weeklong trip with scheduled stops in Alaska ports, including the capital of Juneau, and British Columbia.

The alleged incident happened west of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, as the ship was sailing to Alaska. According to the affidavit, during the late evening on Sunday, ship personnel saw the man trying to deploy a lifeboat, and he was taken by security to a medical center for an evaluation.

While there, he "became irrational and attempted to leave," and "physically attacked" a guard and a nurse, the affidavit states. He ran into another room, where he grabbed a pair of scissors and stabbed a woman who was being examined, as well as two guards who tried to intervene before being subdued and held in a "shipboard jail," the affidavit says. None of the injuries were considered life-threatening.

The ship arrived in Juneau on Tuesday, when he was arrested by the FBI, the U.S. attorney's office says.

If convicted, Sogoni faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each count. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence.

• Cruise Ship

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Endangered dead whale found caught in bow of cruise ship towed to N.J.

• Updated: May. 09, 2024, 8:54 a.m. |
• Published: May. 09, 2024, 8:53 a.m.

A dead whale found caught in the bow of a cruise ship at Port of Brooklyn on Saturday was towed to Sandy Hook. NOAA

• Jeff Goldman | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

A dead whale discovered caught in the bow of a cruise ship last weekend in New York City has been towed to New Jersey to allow experts to examine the remains.

The 44-foot sei whale was found in the Port of Brooklyn on Saturday, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said. The cruise ship wasn’t identified by the NOAA Fisheries of New England and the Mid-Atlantic.

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44-Foot Whale Found Dead on Bow of Cruise Ship Coming Into New York

The endangered sei whale, usually found in deep waters, was discovered on the bow of a cruise ship as it arrived at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, marine authorities said.

By Livia Albeck-Ripka

As the cruise ship approached New York on Saturday, it was found to be carrying a grim, and unexpected, catch: The carcass of a 44-foot-long endangered whale, draped across its bow.

The whale, which marine authorities described as a sei whale, is known for its rapid swimming and preference for deep waters, far from the coast. Its body was discovered as the ship neared the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, and the authorities were “immediately notified,” said MSC Cruises, which owns the ship.

A spokeswoman for the company said in an email that it had “comprehensive measures” in place to avoid such collisions, including training deck officers and altering itineraries in certain areas to avoid them. “We will continue to evaluate and update our procedures with our partners and the authorities,” she said.

Marine authorities said that they had towed the animal, estimated to weigh some 50,000 pounds, from the bow, and transferred it by boat to a beach in Sandy Hook, N.J., where they conducted a necropsy on Tuesday.

The investigation is continuing, but preliminary results — broken bones in the whale’s right flipper; tissue trauma along its right shoulder blade; a full stomach and decent layer of blubber — all pointed toward the animal having been in otherwise good health when it was likely struck and killed by the ship, said Robert A. DiGiovanni, the chief scientist of the Atlantic Marine Conservation Society, which is leading the investigation .

The whale was already “pretty decomposed” by the time scientists began the necropsy, he added, so they worked quickly to collect samples that could be tested for contaminants and other biotoxins that would indicate any other relevant health issues. “It looks like the animal was alive and it was hit by a vessel,” he said, noting that investigators had not ruled out other factors.

Mr. DiGiovanni said that his conservation group, which is federally authorized to respond to marine mammal strandings in New York, had dealt with more than 100 whales over the past several years, many of which had been entangled in nets or struck by vessels. Most of those whales were humpback and North Atlantic right whales, he added, noting that it was more uncommon to come across a sei whale.

Sei whales usually live in subtropical, temperate and subpolar waters and are named after the Norwegian word for pollock, “seje,” because the mammals are often found together with the fish. Their long, sleek bodies are usually dark blue or black with a cream-colored underside, and are often scarred by shark and lamprey bites.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, the whales were commercially hunted for their meat and oil, decimating their population, which is now designated as depleted under the Marine Mammal Protection Act .

Mr. DiGiovanni said that the death was a reminder that humans shared the open water with many other mammals. “When you’re out there, these animals might be there,” he said. “We need to make people more aware about how to operate around these animals.”

A spokeswoman for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said by email that mariners along the East Coast were encouraged to slow down their vessels, stay alert, and report any sightings of dead, injured or entangled whales to the authorities.

Livia Albeck-Ripka is a Times reporter based in Los Angeles, covering breaking news, California and other subjects. More about Livia Albeck-Ripka

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With Arms Wide Open

How did creed, the most hated band of the 1990s, become so beloved—and even cool i sailed the seas with thousands of fellow lunatics to find out..

It’s high noon on a blazing April day, which is the ideal time to be sitting in an Irish pub aboard a cruise ship the size of a small asteroid. The bar is called O’Sheehan’s—yes, pronounced “oceans”—and it’s located deep within the belly of the boat, just above the teppanyaki joint, the sake bar, and the lustrous duty-free shops. This consciousness-altering diorama of infinite seas and cloying Guinness-themed paraphernalia is where I meet Colleen Sullivan, a 46-year-old woman with a beehive of curly red hair and arms encased by plastic wristbands. She wants to tell me how Creed changed her life.

A few moments earlier, Sullivan dropped one of those wristbands on my table—an invitation to talk. It’s lime-green and emblazoned with pink lettering that reads “Rock the Boat With Creed.” I slip it past my hand and sidle up to her booth. Sullivan uses one nuclear-yellow-painted fingernail to hook back the wristbands on her right arm. Underneath is the pinched autograph of Scott Stapp, the band’s mercurial lead singer, enshrined in tattoo ink. This, it seems, is not her first rodeo.

We are both here for “Summer of ’99,” a weekendlong cruise and concert festival for which Creed—as in the Christian-lite rock band that sold more than 28 million albums in the U.S. alone and yet may be the most widely disdained group in modern times—is reuniting for the first time in 12 years. Roughly 2,400 other Creed fans are along for the round-trip ride from Miami to the Bahamas, and the rest of the bill is occupied by the dregs of turn-of-the-millennium alt-rock stardom. Buckcherry is here. So are Vertical Horizon, Fuel, and 3 Doors Down, the latter of whom hasn’t released an album since 2016.

To celebrate, Sixthman, the booking agency responsible for this and many other cruises, has thoroughly Creed-ified every element of the ship. The band’s logo is printed on the napkins and scripted across the blackjack felt. The TV screens at the bar are tuned to a near-constant loop of Creed’s performance at Woodstock ’99. The onboard library has been converted to a merch store selling Creed hoodies and shot glasses. The stock music piped into the corridors has been swapped out for Hinder’s “Lips of an Angel,” Lit’s “My Own Worst Enemy,” and 3 Doors Down’s “Kryptonite.” When I turn on the closed-circuit television in my cabin, a channel called New Movies plays Scream 3 and Can’t Hardly Wait . And four elevator doors in the boat’s central plaza are plastered with the words “Can You Take Me Higher or Lower?” Sixthman pulled similar stunts with 311’s “ Caribbean Cruise ,” Train’s “ Sail Across the Sun ” cruise, and Kid Rock’s notoriously debauched “ Chillin’ the Most ” cruise—the Kid Rock cruise also took place on the vessel I’m on, the Norwegian Pearl . The idea is to teleport a captive audience back into the dirtbags they once embodied and to a simpler time, when Scott Stapp controlled the universe.

Sullivan tells me that her relationship with Creed overlaps with her sobriety story. She first became a fan of the band in the late 1990s, when “Higher” and “With Arms Wide Open” were soaring up the Billboard charts. Then, Sullivan started using, and her appreciation for the divine proportions of those songs faded in service of more corporeal needs. Years later, after Creed broke up and Sullivan got clean, she returned to the music and discovered a dogma of her own: Maybe she had been put on earth to love Stapp—and Creed—harder, and with more urgency, than anyone else in the world.

“He helped me grow with those old Creed songs,” she tells me. “When I saw Scott for the first time live, he had just gotten clean too. I’d go to the shows and there would be tears streaming down my face.” Her left arm contains another Stapp tattoo, with the words “His Love Was Thunder in the Sky” scrawled up to her elbow, surrounded by a constellation of quarter notes. It’s a lyric taken from a 2013 Stapp solo song called “Jesus Was a Rockstar.” The singer Sharpie’d it onto her body himself.

“Summer of ’99” is Creed’s second attempt to reunite, after it disbanded in both 2004 and 2012 amid clashing egos and substance issues. The band couldn’t have picked a better time to get back together. If you haven’t noticed, we’re in the midst of an extremely unlikely Creed renaissance, redeeming the most reviled—and, perhaps more damningly, most uncool —band in the world. For much of the past 20 years, hating Creed has been a natural extension of being a music fan: In 2013 Rolling Stone readers voted the group “the worst band of the 1990s,” beating out a murderers’ row of Hootie and the Blowfish, Nickelback, and Hanson. Entertainment Weekly, reviewing Human Clay , the band’s bestselling album and one of the highest-selling albums of all time, bemoaned the record’s “lunkheaded kegger rock” and “quasi-spiritual lyrics that have all the resonance of a self-help manual.” Meanwhile, Robert Christgau, the self-appointed dean of American rock critics, wrote Creed off as “God-fearing grunge babies,” comparing the group unfavorably with Limp Bizkit.

The disrespect was reflected more sharply by Stapp’s own contemporaries. In the early 2000s, Dexter Holland, the frontman of the Offspring, played shows wearing a T-shirt that read “Even Jesus Hates Creed.” After leaked images of a sex tape filmed in 1999 featuring Stapp and Kid Rock and a room full of groupies made it onto the internet, Kid Rock retorted by saying that his fans didn’t care about the pornography but were appalled that he was hanging out with someone like Stapp. The comedian David Cross, who embodies the archetype of the exact sort of coastal hipsters who became the band’s loudest hecklers, dedicated swaths of his stand-up material to bird-dogging the singer. (One choice punchline: “That guy hangs out outside a junior high school girls locker room and writes down poetry he overhears.”) Then, in 2002, after a disastrous show in Chicago at which a belligerently drunk Stapp forgot the words to his songs and stumbled off the stage for 10 minutes, four attendees unsuccessfully sued the band for $2 million. Holland’s shirt didn’t go far enough—at the group’s lowest, even Creed fans hated Creed.

All this acrimony plunged Stapp into several episodes of psychic distress. His dependence on alcohol and painkillers was well documented during the band’s initial brush with success, but after Creed’s short-lived reconciliation, Stapp spiraled into a truly cavernous nadir. In 2014 the singer started posting unsettling videos to Facebook, asserting that he had been victimized by a cascading financial scam and was living in a Holiday Inn. That same year, TMZ released 911 calls made by Stapp’s wife Jaclyn claiming that he had printed out reams of CIA documents and was threatening to kill Barack Obama. But these days, Stapp—who announced a bipolar diagnosis in 2015—appears to be on much firmer ground, and the band has reportedly patched up some of those long-gestating interpersonal wounds.

But with time comes wisdom, and in 2024 neither the critical slander nor the troubling reports about Stapp’s mental state are anywhere to be found. It is a truth universally acknowledged that Creed is good, a shift that, as Stapp told Esquire , “just started happening” around 2021. The new paradigm likely solidified the next year, when Creed’s mythically patriotic post-9/11 halftime show, played on Thanksgiving in 2001, began to accrue latter-day meme status. The set was ridiculous and immaculately lip-synced by Stapp and company. Yoked, shirtless angels spin through the air, and cheerleaders pump out pompom routines synchronized with “My Sacrifice,” all while the live broadcast is interspersed with grim footage from ground zero. It’s garishly, unapologetically American, issued just before the unsavory decline of the Bush administration clicked into place. Today both of those relics—Creed and the unified national optimism—are worth getting wistful about. “This is where we peaked as a nation,” wrote football commentator Mike Golic Jr., linking to the video.

Creed nostalgia has only proliferated further since the resurrection of that halftime show. The band’s guitarist, Mark Tremonti, told the hard-rock site Blabbermouth that he’d recently noticed athletes bumping Creed as their “ go-to battle music ,” and in November, an entire stadium of Texas Rangers fans belted out “Higher” to commemorate their team’s World Series victory . Earlier this year, a viral remix of “ One Last Breath ” even began pulsing through some of the hottest parties in New York. The band has clearly crossed some sort of inscrutable cultural Rubicon and thrown reality into flux—up is down, black is white, and, due to a sublime confluence of biting irony and prostrating sincerity, Creed fucking rocks .

All this means that the inaugural edition of the “Summer of ’99” cruise is buoyed by very high stakes. It has been 12 long years since Creed last played a show, and the cruise is intended to be the dry run for a mammoth comeback tour that is scheduled for 60 dates, through summer and autumn, in basketball arenas and hockey stadiums across North America. The only remaining question is whether the band can keep it together. I’m there in a commemorative Creed Super Bowl halftime T-shirt to find out.

Several flights of stairs above O’Sheehan’s, the day before I meet Sullivan, I find Sean Patrick, a giddily beer-buzzed 34-year-old from Nashville who is standing in awe of a Coachella-sized stage that looks downright sinister on the pool deck. Creed is playing two shows this weekend, and the first is set for the very minute the boat leaves port and escapes Miami for the horizon. This means that everyone who purchased a ticket to “Summer of ’99”—which ranges from $895 for a windowless hovel to $6,381 for a stateroom with a balcony—has ascended to the top of the ship, preparing for Creed’s rebirth in a wash of Coors Light tallboys.

As of two days ago, Patrick was unaware he would be attending this cruise. Everything changed when a friend, who was on the waitlist, received a call from Norwegian Cruise Line informing him that a cabin with his name on it had miraculously become available. Patrick was suddenly presented with the opportunity to spend a tremendous amount of cash, on very short notice, to witness this reunion amid the die-hards.

Unlike Sullivan, Patrick doesn’t possess one of those highly intimate histories with the band, flecked with tales of trauma and perseverance. Still, he fell in love with Creed—even if it was only by accident.

“I think it started as a joke. The songs were good, but there was definitely a feeling of, like, Yeah, Creed! ” he tells me. “But then, next thing you know, you find yourself in your car, alone, deciding to put on Creed.”

The majority of the passengers on the Pearl have never been burdened with Patrick’s hesitance. Their relationship with Creed is genuine and free—cleansed of even the faintest whiff of irony—and, unlike Patrick, they tend to be in their late 40s and early 50s. The woman standing ankle-deep in the wading pool with a Stewie Griffin tattoo on her shin unambiguously loves Creed, and the same is probably true of whoever was lounging on a deck chair with a book, written by Fox News pundit Jesse Watters, titled Get It Together: Troubling Tales From the Liberal Fringe . Two brothers from Kentucky who work in steel mills, but not the same steel mill, tell me that loving Creed is practically a family tradition: Their eldest brother, not present on the boat, initially showed them the band’s records. Tina Smith, a 48-year-old home-care aide from Texas, crowned with a black tennis visor adorned with golden letters spelling out the name of her favorite band, loves Creed so much that she embarked on this trip all by herself. “This is my first cruise and my first vacation,” she says, proudly. (Smith is already planning her next vacation. It will coincide with another Creed show.)

Passengers I encounter that are a generation younger are clearly acquainted more with Creed the meme than Creed the band. These are the people who vibe with statements like “Born too late to own property, born just in time to be a crusader in the ‘Creed Isn’t Bad’ fight”—especially when they’re arranged as deep-fried blocks of text superimposed over the face of Keanu Reeves as Neo. If the establishment brokers of culture once settled on the position that Creed sucks, then it has been met with a youth-led insurgency that seems dead-set on shifting the consensus—if for no other reason than to savor the nectar of pure, uncut taboo.

Many members of this insurgency are aboard the Pearl , and they’re caked in emblems of internet miscellany that scream out to anyone in the know. Consider the young man, traveling with his father, who is draped in a T-shirt bearing the Creed logo below a beatific image of Nicolas Cage circa Con Air , or the many fans who wander around the innards of the Pearl in matching Scott Stapp–branded Dallas Cowboys jerseys, a reference to that halftime show. In fact, the best representatives of sardonic Creed-fandom colonists might be the youngest collection of friends that I’ve met on board. They are all in their 20s, most of them work in Boston’s medicine and science sectors, and each is dressed in a custom-ordered tropical button-down dotted with the angelic face of Scott Stapp in places where you’d expect to find coconuts and banana bunches. A week before “Summer of ’99” was announced, the four of them made a pact, via group text, that if Creed were ever to reunite, they would make it out to see the band play, no matter the cost. Their fate was sealed.

“I hated Creed. I thought they were terrible,” says Mike Hobey, who, at 28, is the oldest of the posse and therefore the one who possesses the clearest recollection of Creed’s long, strange journey toward absolution. “But then I started listening to them ironically. And I was like, Oh, shit, I like them now .”

His point is indicative of a strange tension in this new age of Creed: If “the worst band of the 1990s” is suddenly good, does that mean all music is good now? Is nothing tacky? Have the digitized music discovery apparatuses—the melting-pot TikTok algorithm, the self-replicating profusion of Spotify playlists—blurred the boundaries of good and bad taste? Am I, like Hobey, incapable of being a hater anymore?

This is what I found myself thinking about when Creed took the stage, right as the Miami skies began to mellow into a late-afternoon smolder, and put on what was, without a doubt, one of the best rock shows I’ve ever seen. The scalloped penthouses of Miami’s gleaming hotel district passed overhead as the Pearl ’s rudder kicked into gear, and Scott Stapp—looking jacked and gorgeous, chain on neck and chain on belt, flexing toward God in a tight black shirt—launched into “Are You Ready?,” the first song of the afternoon, his baritone sounding, somehow, exactly like it did in 1999. “Who would’ve thought, after our last show in 2012, our next show would be 12 years later, on a boat?” Stapp said. He is risen, indeed.

I later hear from Creed’s PR agent that Tremonti, the guitarist, was more anxious than he was excited to get this first show in the books. I also gather, from Stapp’s representative, that photographers are mandated to shoot the lead singer during only the first two songs of the set, before he begins to “glisten” (her word) with sweat. But if nerves were fraying, Creed conquered them with ease. The members of the band were enveloped by an audience that had paid a lot of money to see them, and in that atmosphere, they could do no wrong. They blitzed through a variety of album cuts before arriving at the brawny triptych of “Higher,” “One Last Breath,” and “With Arms Wide Open,” pausing briefly to wish Tremonti, who was turning 50, a happy birthday. (Stapp wiped away tears afterward, a genuinely touching moment, considering that during their first breakup, Tremonti had compared his years collaborating with Stapp—who was then in the throes of addiction— with surviving Vietnam .) Given Creed’s historic proximity to the Kid Rock brand of red-state overindulgence, I half expected the concert to detonate with violent pits and acrobatic beer stunts, but nothing remotely close to mayhem occurred. This crowd was downright polite—chaste, even—as if it had been stunned by the grandeur of Creed.

“He tried to dance pogo ,” says a disappointed German woman, basking in the pool after the show, gesturing toward her husband. Both of them explain to me that pogoing is the German word for “moshing” and that, even more astonishingly, Creed is huge in their native hamlet, just outside Düsseldorf.

“It’s a reunion after 12 years!” says her husband. “Everyone should be dancing pogo .”

Nothing about Creed’s music has changed in the past decade, which is to say that many of the quirks that people like Hobey once used to mock the band for were on brilliant display during its first show back. But the truth is that little of the smug hatred for the group has ever had much to do with the music itself. Creed’s first record, 1997’s My Own Prison , was nearly identical to the down-tuned angst of Soundgarden or Alice in Chains, drawn well inside the lines of alt-rock radio. (It earned a tasteful 4/5 rating from the longtime consumer guide AllMusic.)

The problems arose only after the band started writing the celestial hooks of Human Clay , solidifying its superstar association with other groups chasing the same crunchy highs with machine-learning efficiency: Nickelback, Staind, Shinedown, and so on. Post-grunge was the term music journalists eventually bestowed on this generation, and in retrospect, that was the kiss of death. Creed was suddenly positioned as the inheritor of the legacy of Kurt Cobain, the godfather of grunge, who bristled at all associations with the mainstream music industry and hired the notoriously bellicose Steve Albini to make Nirvana’s third album as sour and uncommercial as possible. Stapp, meanwhile, has long called Bono—he of the flowing locks, billionaire best friends , and residencies in extravagant Las Vegas monoliths —his “ rock god .” Creed’s sole aspiration was to become the biggest rock band in the world, and for a few years there, the group actually pulled it off. Cobain’s grave got a little colder.

Post-grunge steamrolled the rock business, reducing its sonic palette to an all-consuming minor-chord dirge. Nickelback’s “How You Remind Me” went quadruple platinum in 2001, eventually sparking a furious period of retaliation from the underground. (You could make the argument that the rise of the Strokes or the White Stripes or the indie-rock boom writ large is directly tied to the vise grip Creed once held on the genre.) Before long, music aesthetes adopted a new term, rather than post-grunge , to refer to the Creed phenotype: butt rock . In fact, by the late-2000s, the hatred of Creed had been so canonized that when Slate published a rebuttal —in which critic Jonah Weiner asserted that the band was “seriously underrated”—the essay was considered so “ridiculous” and contrarian as to single-handedly inspire the viral and enduring #slatepitches hashtag, instantly prompting parodies such as “ Star Wars I, II, & III, better than Star Wars IV, V, & VI .”

But, frankly, when I revisit Weiner’s piece, many of his arguments sound remarkably cogent to modern orthodoxies. “Creed seemed to irritate people precisely because its music was so unabashedly calibrated towards pleasure: Every surging riff, skyscraping chorus, and cathartic chord progression telegraphed the band’s intention to rock us, wow us, move us,” he writes. Yes, these easy gratifications might have been unpardonable sins in the summer of 1999, capping off a decade obsessively preoccupied with anxiety about all things commercial and phony. But now even LCD Soundsystem—once the standard-bearer of a certain kind of countercultural fashionability—is booking residencies sponsored by American Express. We have all become hedonists and proud sellouts, and with Creed back in vogue, it seems as if the band’s monumental intemperance has become a feature rather than a bug.

That does not mean Stapp no longer takes himself, or his art, seriously. The singer’s earnestness—some might say humorlessness—has always been a cornerstone of Creed’s brand, and there are millions of fans who will continue to meet him at his word. They brandish personal biographies that intersect with Creed’s records; they finds lines about places with “golden streets” “where blind men see” more inspiring than corny, and many of them are etched with the tattoos to prove it. But in the band’s contemporary afterlife, when all its old context evaporates, Stapp has also attracted a community eager to treat Creed like the party band it never aspired to be—the group of licentious pleasure seekers Weiner wrote about. They’re all here, sprinkled throughout the boat, ready to drink a couple of Coronas and shred their lungs to “My Sacrifice.”

After wrapping up the first night of the cruise, Creed, along with the rest of the bands on the bill, was scheduled to administer a few glad-handing sessions on the weekend itinerary. On Saturday, Tremonti chaperoned a low-key painting session while the Pearl floated into the Bahamas at a dock already crammed with other day-trippers. (Our boat was parked next to a Disney cruise, and when we disembarked, in direct earshot of all the young families, the PA blasted Puddle of Mudd’s “She Fucking Hates Me.”) Tremonti keeps busy: The previous evening, he had judged a karaoke tournament—on the main stage—alongside 3 Doors Down lead singer Brad Arnold. Toward the end of the competition, Tremonti grabbed the microphone for a rousing cover of Frank Sinatra’s “My Way,” which I’d like to think served as a tribute to Creed’s own tenaciousness.

Stapp, on the other hand, is slated for exactly one appointment mingling with the masses: He’ll be shooting hoops with some of the more athletically oriented Creed adherents on a helipad that doubles as a basketball court near the rear of the boat. Stapp is, by far, the most famous person on board, evidenced by the security detail that stands guard on the concrete. So I take my seat on the bleachers and watch him casually drain 10 free throws in a row in mesh shorts under the piercing Atlantic sun with the distinct tang of contractually obligated restraint. Afterward, Stapp slips back into the mysterious alcoves of the ship, while an awed buzz of fans—hoping for a selfie, an autograph, or a split second of euphoric surrender—tail him until they are sealed off for good. It is the one and only time I see him cameoing anywhere but the stage, drawing a stark contrast to the other musicians on board, who flit between the casinos, restaurants, and watering holes in the guts of the Pearl .

This makes some sort of cosmic sense. Stapp, to both his detriment and credit, has never embraced the flippancy that so many other people wanted to impose on Creed. “Sometimes I wish we weren’t so damn serious,” he said in a memorable Spin cover story from 2000, at the height of his mystique. “My agenda from the beginning was to write music that had meaning and was from the heart. You can’t force the hand of the muse.” If you’ll excuse the ostentation of the sentiment, you can maybe understand how someone like Stapp might not be able to feel like himself when he’s orchestrating photo-ops around a free-throw line with that same young man dressed in his Nic Cage–themed parody Creed shirt. He seems to find nothing trivial about Creed’s music. The threat of irrelevance shall never tame him. You cannot force the hand of the muse.

Unfortunately, Stapp’s remoteness is also why Kelly Risch, a 58-year-old from Wisconsin with streaks of ringed, white-blond hair and glam-metal eye shadow, is currently fighting back tears in the Atrium, the ship’s lobby and central bar. Risch is sipping mimosas with her sister Shannon Crass, and, like so many of the others I have spoken to on this cruise, they each have matching Creed tattoos memorializing a personal catastrophe. Twenty years ago, Risch suffered a massive blood clot in her leg and almost died. Crass printed out the lyrics to the latter-day Creed ballad “Don’t Stop Dancing”—a song about finding dignity in the chaos of life—and pinned them in Crass’ intensive care unit during her recovery. Today the chorus is painted on their wrists, right above Scott Stapp’s initials.

The sisters were two of the first 500 customers to buy tickets to “Summer of ’99,” which guaranteed them a photo with the band at its cabin. This is why Risch is crying. The photo shoot came with strict rules, all of which she respected: no Sharpies, no hugs, and no cellphones. She’d hoped for a moment, though—after spending $5,000 and traveling all the way from the upper Midwest, after clinging to life with the help of Creed, and after waiting 12 long years to have the band back—to thank the singer for his comfort. But Stapp, even indoors, was wearing dark, face-obscuring sunglasses. She didn’t even get to make eye contact.

“He’s so great with the crowd. He’s so engaging onstage,” says Crass. “I think that’s why this is disappointing.”

The two sisters are determined to make the most of the rest of their vacation. The Pearl will be pulling into Miami tomorrow at 7 a.m., and there are plenty more mimosas left to drink. I tell them I’m going to speak with Stapp, and the rest of Creed, in an hour. Do they have anything they’d like me to ask?

“Tell him not to wear sunglasses during the photos,” they say.

Creed is finishing up the meet-and-greet obligations in a chilly rococo ballroom, paneled—somewhat inexplicably—with portraits of Russian royalty. The band members have been at this all morning, after a late night finishing off the second performance of their two comeback sets. A molasses churn of Creed fans, all sea-weathered and scalded with maroon sunburns, weaves through a bulwark of chairs and tables toward the pinned black curtains at the rear.

Creed has this down to an art. The band is capable of generating a photo every 30 seconds, and afterward, the fans exit back down the aisle, with beaming smiles, their brush with stardom consummated. Stapp chugs a bottle of Fiji water and holds out his hand for a fist bump after the last of those passengers disappear. A crucifix dangles above his navel, and an American flag is stitched to his T-shirt. He’s still wearing those sunglasses.

I am given just 15 minutes to ask questions, in a makeshift interview setup against the portside windows, under the watchful surveillance of the entire Creed apparatus—both PR reps, a few scurrying Sixthman operators, the photographer, and so on. I ask what their day-to-day life is like aboard the “Summer of ’99,” in this highly concentrated environment of super fans, with no obvious escape routes. Stapp says that he has spent most of the time on the cruise “resting and exercising,” while Brian Marshall, the band’s bassist, told me he executes his privilege of being one of the band’s secondary members by frequenting the sauna and steam room. Throughout the weekend, Marshall is hardly recognized.

Scott Phillips, Creed’s drummer, confirms my suspicions about the cruise’s demographics. The ticket data reveals that a good number of the passengers aboard are under 35 years old. I’m curious to know how the band members are adjusting to this new paradigm shift, and if they wish to settle common ground between the post-ironic millennials and the much more zealous Gen Xers, who bear Creed insignias on their calves and forearms.

“People are drawn to our music for different reasons,” Stapp says. “That’s probably why you have the guys you were talking about, who want to chill and drink light beer and scream ‘Creed rocks!’ and the others, who have a much deeper, emotional impact.”

“And maybe, at some point, with the light-beer guys, it does connect with them,” Phillips adds. Stapp agrees.

But, really, the reason I’m here is because I want to ask Stapp a question I’ve been curious about for the entirety of Creed’s career. The band’s bizarre odyssey, from its warm reception among youth groups across America to the bloodthirsty backlash that met its success to this current psychedelic revival, has all orbited around a single lasting question: Why is Scott Stapp so serious? Could he ever mellow out? Does he want to? Surely now is the time. If Stapp allocated some levity for himself, then so many of the bad things people have said about him would be easier to process. Who knows? Maybe he’d have an easier time getting his arms around the current state of Creed, a group that is now, without a doubt, simultaneously the coolest and lamest band in the world. Why must he make being in Creed so difficult?

“It’s just who I am,” he says. “It’s what inspires me. It’s where I come from. And it’s tough, because you have to live it. That’s the conundrum of it all. That’s the double-edged sword. If I started writing [lighter material], there would be a dramatic shift in my existence.”

There’s a break in the conversation, then Stapp asks me to identify the name of the new Taylor Swift album. The songwriter’s 11 th record has dropped like a nuclear bomb while we’ve all been out to sea, but data restrictions mean that nobody on board can access Spotify or any other streaming service. The Norwegian Pearl serves as a butt-rock pocket dimension: The biggest story in pop music simply can’t penetrate our airtight seal of Hinder, Staind, and so much Creed. “It’s called The Tortured Poets Department ,” I reply. Outside of my fiancée, he is the only person on the entire cruise I will speak to about Taylor Swift.

“That’s what I feel,” he says, without a shred of artifice. “I connect with that title.”

Later that evening, I climb to the top of the Pearl for a final round of karaoke, where fans keep the spirit of 1999 alive for a few more hours. The bar is more hectic than it’s been all trip—everyone is willing to risk a hangover now that Monday is all that looms on the horizon. The host asks a guest if they intended to sing “Torn” by Creed or “Torn” by Natalie Imbruglia. “I assume Creed, but Natalie would be a fun surprise.”

The playlist is more diverse than I expected. We are treated to both Jay-Z’s “Big Pimpin’ ” and Shania Twain’s “Any Man of Mine.” Brandon Smith, one of the very few people of color aboard the cruise, crushes Maroon 5’s “She Will Be Loved.” A lanky kid from St. Louis unleashes a Slipknot death-growl into the microphone. A queer couple quietly slow-dances on the otherwise empty dance floor. And a 16-year-old, teeth tightened by braces, orders his last Sprite of the night. “Rockers are the most awesome people!” shouts one transcendently inebriated guest over the clamor of his Rolling Stones cover. “Creed is awesome!” On this one thing, at least, we can all agree.