CHANGES are coming for the second voyage of the Love and Harmony Cruise, which is set to sail next year.

The organisers are busy with plans for the five-night reggae and dancehall music party on the high seas, which will take place from March 24-29. The cruise — which commences in Fort Lauderdale — will consist of 10 parties, four concerts and a comedy show, along with international DJs to keep passengers entertained all day.

Popular New York-based radio personality Steven “DJ Jabba” Beckford, who is an integral part of the organising team, told the Jamaica Observer that the changes have come about based on the feedback and observations following the maiden voyage in February of this year

“This year we are going for a different ship… it’s a bigger ship — The Celebrity X Summit. Another major change is that we will be making two stops this year in Montego Bay, Jamaica, and Georgetown, Grand Cayman. And we have a different line-up of artistes with a few who are returning by popular demand — Elephant Man, LUST, Majah Hype. Last year we learnt that the patrons loved the idea of playing dominoes and we didn’t have enough dominoes. Therefore, this year we will have enough dominoes and will have the first official domino tournament, hosted by Beres Hammond, and a winner will be declared,” said DJ Jabba.

The organisers have also released the final line-up of acts who will be on board this year. The list is headed by perennial favourite, Beres Hammond. Other confirmed acts are Marcia Griffiths, Sanchez, Beenie Man, Vegas, Chaka Demus and Pliers, Patrice Roberts, Kerwin Dubois, Kevin Little, Rupee, and the comedic duo Ity and Fancy Cat. DJ Jabba also noted that it has become easier to book acts for the the cruise.

“Some artistes were a little hesitant when they hear at sea for more than 24 hours, but like Beres Hammond and Elephant Man, they realise it’s not bad at all and it was definitely easier to get them back on this year,” he said.

“With the selection of artistes and comedians, what we are catering for is a family-oriented atmosphere. We want people to plan each year to come aboard Love and Harmony with your mom, dad, children grandchildren and have a great time. It’s not just about the performances as we have a Caribbean comedy show starring some of the funniest comedians. Huge selection of some of the finest DJs from around the world, The Captain’s Dinner. The domino tournament, as well as many amenities for the kids,” DJ Jabba continued.

With the February 15 cut-off date for booking cabins, the event’s publicist, Ronnie Tomlinson said sales have definitely been picking up in recent weeks.

“What we have noticed is that word of mouth have impacted our sales. So people are recruiting their friends and family to come and be a part of the ultimate Caribbean experience aboard the Love and Harmony Cruise and sales are doing much better than around this time last year,” said Tomlinson.