For over a decade, hard rock superstars Kiss have set sail aboard the Kiss Kruise ship, bringing live performances to a boat full of fans. In 2022, they’re back with another addition, this time taking off from Los Angeles and sailing into Los Cabos. Kiss Kruise XI will kick off with week one on October 24th and end week two on November the 3rd. Fans can choose to attend week one, two, or both weekends, enjoying a different lineup each time.
Week one will feature Dokken, Warrant, and L.A. Guns, among the 9 groups in total that will perform. Week two also has 9 groups line up to perform, of which Black Label Society, Buckcherry, and Sebastian Bach will be a part of. Kiss will perform at least one show each week and will participate in activities with fans at least one out of the six days.
This year’s Kiss Kruise is extra special, as the official website announced this year’s event would be Kiss’ last performance out at sea. Though they announced plans to retire the costumes back in 2021, this is said to be their last soiree before the iconic cruise comes to an end. They have a masked show on the pool deck of the cruise ship planned for the Kiss Navy and a masked electric show in the ship’s theatre, the Stardust.
Following tradition, a few nights will feature a costume theme, allowing guests to bring out their inner Kiss, pirate, or sailor. Week two will be on the sea on Halloween and launch the Kiss Kruise Ultimate Costume Party. In addition, guests can participate in events like beer pong, painting with the artists, autograph sessions, and meet & greets, as well as access to rare memorabilia. They’ll also have an on-ship tattoo parlor and a huge swimming pool with poolside bar not too far from the stage.
The Kiss Kruise will take place on the Norwegian Jewel, the lead vessel of Norwegian Cruise Line ship. It’s been in service since 2005 and features 2,376 guest capacity along its span of 965 feet. Accommodation includes a Penthouse Suite with ocean view and an Owner’s Suite with separate bedrooms for guests travelling in groups. Each of these more luxurious options includes butler and concierge service.
Weeks one and two feature the same at sea itinerary, departing from Los Angeles and spending a day at sea before arriving in Los Cabos. The ship will then take off for another sea day and stop in Ensenada Mexico before making its way back to LA. Even though the itinerary is the same, the crown, the performers, and the experiences change from week one to week two.
From 11:00am to 7:30 pm on Wednesday October the 26th and Monday October 31st, guests can enjoy Cabo San Lucas, exploring the beaches, dining and shopping experiences, as well as the booming tourism. October is not considered high season and may a more intimate experience. Friday October 28th and Wednesday November 2nd from 8:00am to 4:30pm the ship will dock in Ensenada, where guests can disembark and explore.
The cruise has a rocking reputation, with shows typically selling out long before the event. As of now, week 2 is sold out, requiring fans to sign up on the waiting list just in case other guests cancel. Accommodation is also filling up fast, which travelers should consider before waiting too long to get their tickets. Ticket sales will start up again on June 9th following the Sixthman office’s closure for their company Advance.