Whet Travel’s flagship event, Groove Cruise, set sail from Miami on Thursday, January 23, launching a 96-hour, 15-stage marathon of non-stop music and unforgettable memories. More than just a festival, Groove Cruise is a transformational experience, bringing together like-minded souls who leave their worries behind to embrace adventure, self-expression, and unparalleled musical moments.
A Recap of the Voyage
Thursday, January 23
(Day Theme: Represent / Night Theme: Nauti Sleepover)
Following a seamless boarding process at PortMiami, Captains (Groove Cruise attendees) stepped aboard Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas into a festive and welcoming atmosphere. The crew built 13 onboard stages on the first day alone, with two additional stages constructed on Royal Caribbean’s private island in Labadee, Haiti.
The music kicked off with a breathtaking sunset set from Eric Prydz at the Aquatheater, set against the stunning Miami skyline. A mesmerizing 400-drone show dazzled the crowd before an electrifying James Hype B2B MEDUZA set took over. Meanwhile, Markus Schulz delivered an 11 PM – 5 AM marathon set at the Amber Theater, while Studio B’s unique 360-degree setup played host to Tita Lau, James Hype, and more. The Solarium transformed from downtempo deep house to an after-hours techno haven with MEDUZA, Roger Sanchez, Layton Giordani, and Ranger Trucco, keeping the music pumping until noon.
Friday, January 24
(Day Theme: 50 Shades of Candyland / Night Theme: Stars on Deck)
Daytime activities were in full swing, starting with a neon 80s-style Crusher Camp workout led by Keith Christopher, reminiscent of an Eric Prydz music video come to life. For a more introspective experience, When The Music Stops hosted The Power of Music Artist Panel, exploring how music has transformed artists’ lives. Neon Owl presented insightful industry panels, including Behind the Artist and a Demo Listening Party.
The day also featured the heartfelt Celebration of Life Ceremony at the Amber Theater, where attendees honored lost loved ones with a biodegradable wreath ceremony at sea. Evening highlights included a surprise appearance from Gabriel & Dresden, a Blastoyz B2B Markus Schulz set, and an epic 5-hour sunrise set from Anthony Attalla, which seamlessly transitioned into an early morning groove with Gene Farris.
Saturday, January 25
(Day Theme: Tropic Like It’s Hot / Night Theme: Only Farms)
After an all-night dance marathon, Captains enjoyed a much-needed beach day on the breathtaking shores of Labadee, Haiti. Whether zip-lining over the crowd, grooving to Anabel Englund, Bunt, and Nilsix in an overwater cabana, or relaxing at the shore, it was a day of pure bliss.
Back on the ship, the planets aligned—literally—for the first time in billions of years, making for an extraordinary night of music. The Aquatheater saw jaw-dropping performances from Seven Lions and Blastoyz, followed by a Seven Lions and Dimibio’s Abraxis reunion, sending the crowd into a frenzy. Elsewhere, surprise elevator parties and high-energy sets from Pretty Pink, Jeremy Olander, Yotto, Layton Giordani, and Nicole Moudaber fueled another night of euphoria.
Sunday, January 26
(Day Theme: Neon Splash / Night Theme: Realm of Enchantment)
The final full day of Groove Cruise brought a mix of relaxation and high-energy fun. Artist-led activities included blackjack tournaments, blindfolded yoga with Yotto, and mini-golf with Nilsix.
The night’s music programming was a B2B lover’s dream, featuring Anthony Attalla B2B Gene Farris, Layton Giordani B2B Nicole Moudaber, and a show-stopping Roger Sanchez B2B Nicole Moudaber B2B Kristen Knight set at the Aquatheater. Meanwhile, Ophelia Records took over the Amber Theater, closing out the night with performances from Mitis, Seven Lions, and a family set featuring all seven Ophelia artists.
Monday, January 27
Though the ship was set to dock, the party wasn’t over. At 3 AM, an impromptu suite party on the 17th floor saw Deeper Purpose and Joshwa throw down a B2B set, while Roger Sanchez delivered an emotional classics set, bringing the journey to a close.
Groove Cruise’s Philanthropic Impact
Groove Cruise Miami 2025 achieved its greatest philanthropic impact yet through the Whet Foundation’s Destination Donation Initiative. Aid was provided to communities affected by hurricanes on the East Coast, wildfires in California, and malnourished children and mothers in Haiti. Donations included hundreds of mattresses, bedding, clothing, medical supplies, and technology to support Haiti’s newest maternity center.
Jason Beukema, CEO and Founder of Whet Travel/Groove Cruise, reflected on this year’s success:
“When I started Groove Cruise 21 years ago on credit card debt, I never imagined the transformational impact it would have on so many lives. With the planets aligning, this was the deepest and most impactful experience yet. From the music and production, including an insane drone show, to the overwhelming love and joy shared by attendees—it was a floating utopia. I am beyond grateful to our team, artists, and Royal Caribbean. It took two years to create this GC, and in 2026, we’ll level up once again on the even bigger and more luxurious Wonder of the Seas. That’s the Groove Effect—it all starts with a ripple created by the Captains who sail on Groove Cruise.”
Groove Cruise 2026: The Next Level
Groove Cruise 2026 is 91% sold out, sailing from January 22-26, 2026, aboard the colossal Wonder of the Seas—the largest cruise ship in the world. The festival will feature 96 hours of non-stop music across 15 stages, 100+ world-class DJs, and a variety of unique experiences.
The ship offers eight distinct neighborhoods, including the brand-new Suite Neighborhood, home to the Celestial Suite—a luxurious private oasis for up to 10 Captains, featuring a plunge pool, a fully stocked bar, and butler service. Attendees can also enjoy The Mason Jar’s Southern comfort cuisine, the FlowRider surf simulator, The Ultimate Abyss slide, rock climbing walls, high-speed waterslides, a 10-story zip line, and the lush Central Park neighborhood.
With only a few spots remaining, secure your place now at GrooveCruise.com.
*All Image Credit: Abraxis photo – @RUDGRCOM*