Micha Maass
Germany · Drums
Drummer, blues enthusiast and the person behind the cruise. He brings musicians and audiences together with energy and warmth.
22–30 May 2027 · MS AMADEA
Blues Cruise 2027:
The blues is setting sail again.
International musicians, spontaneous jam sessions and Norway’s fjords – eight nights full of music, connection and unforgettable moments.
8nights
10blues acts
7ports
100%emotion
More than concerts
Blues up close: concerts, sessions & workshops.
From 22 to 30 May 2027, Blues Cruise combines a round-trip cruise from Bremerhaven with live blues aboard MS AMADEA and a scenic route through Norway’s fjords, Skagen and Heligoland.
The musicians are not just performers on a stage – they are part of the journey. Live concerts, ever-changing line-ups, personal workshops and lively jam sessions create the kind of encounters you can’t plan but will never forget.
A concert today. A jam tomorrow.
And life on board in between.
And life on board in between.
Ten acts · eleven musicians
The Blues Cruise 2027 line-up.
International blues and infectious energy. Meet the musicians joining us on board.
The musical force behind the cruise
Micha Maass
From: Germany
“Blues brings people together, on stage and far beyond.”
Drummer, blues enthusiast and the cruise’s initiator, Micha Maass brings musicians and audiences together with passion, energy and an extensive network.
Chicago Blues
Johnny Burgin
From: the USA
“Authentic, full of energy and close to the roots of the genre.”
The American singer and guitarist blends classic electric blues with thrilling guitar playing and infectious energy.
Blues & Soul
Txaco Jones
From: Spain
“A distinctive voice that fills every room with feeling and energy.”
Expressive and passionate, Txaco Jones brings a commanding stage presence and powerful musical moments on board.
Piano & Hammond
Bart Szopiński
From: Poland
“Virtuoso keys meet powerful blues, boogie and rock.”
Bart Szopiński is one of Poland’s leading blues and boogie pianists, known for his distinctive sound.
Bass
Jaska Prepula
From: Finland
“The groove that really gets the blues moving.”
An internationally experienced bassist, he is much in demand across the European blues scene and provides a solid musical foundation.
Blues & Boogie
Little Boogie Boy
From: the Netherlands
“Handmade music that makes it hard to keep your feet still.”
Blues, boogie and infectious energy come together in a compelling, rhythmic guitar sound.
Roots Blues
Bo Weavil
From: France
“Raw, rhythmic and deliberately unpolished.”
Bo Weavil brings French blues with deep American roots on board – no-frills, atmospheric and authentic.
Piano, vocals & harmonica
Roger & Marion Wade
From: Germany & the United Kingdom
“Two voices, piano and harmonica – together, full of blues.”
Roger and Marion Wade combine distinctive harmonica, piano and vocals in a lively blend of traditional blues and boogie.
Blues guitar
Jan Hirte
From: Germany
“Earthy, direct and always finding the right note.”
Guitarist and singer Jan Hirte blends traditional blues with a distinctive style of his own.
Blues harp & Vocals
Steve “West” Weston
From: the United Kingdom
“Expressive blues – personal, immediate and live.”
With harmonica, vocals and a commanding stage presence, Steve “West” Weston completes the international Blues Cruise line-up.
Meet the artists
Johnny Burgin
USA · Guitar & vocals
The American singer and guitarist combines classic Chicago blues with spirited guitar playing.
Txaco Jones
Spain · Vocals
A distinctive voice, a commanding stage presence and powerful moments between blues and soul.
Bart Szopiński
Poland · Piano & Hammond
A celebrated blues and boogie pianist whose virtuosic playing creates an unmistakable sound.
Jaska Prepula
Finland · Bass
A seasoned bassist and a sought-after regular on the European blues scene.
Little Boogie Boy
Netherlands · Guitar & vocals
Blues, boogie and pure joy come together in his irresistible, rhythmic guitar sound.
Bo Weavil
France · Roots blues
French blues with deep American roots – unvarnished, atmospheric and authentic.
Roger & Marion Wade
Germany & UK · Blues harp, piano & vocals
The duo brings together blues harp, piano and vocals in traditional blues and lively boogie.
Jan Hirte
Germany · Guitar & vocals
The guitarist and singer blends traditional blues with a distinctive style of his own.
Steve “West” Weston
United Kingdom · Blues harp & vocals
Expressive blues, distinctive harmonica and a commanding stage presence round off the international line-up.
The cruise at a glance
Blues Cruise 2027: Everything included. Everything up close.
9 days aboard MS AMADEA · 22–30 May 2027 · from and to Bremerhaven · Norway’s fjords, Skagen and Heligoland
9 days / 8 nightsLive blues concertsFull boardJam sessionsHouse wine with main mealsArtist workshops
Everything taken care of
What’s included in Blues Cruise 2027.
From full board to the blues programme: open each section to see what is included.
01Cruise & dining+
- 8 nights aboard ship in your chosen cabin category
- Full board with a choice of menus; special dietary meals available on request
- House wine and juice of the day with main meals
- Early-bird and late-riser breakfast, with coffee, fresh milk, oat milk, soya milk, tea and juices
- Mid-morning bouillon, afternoon tea and coffee with pastries, plus a late-night snack or buffet
- Cabin service with breakfast and light meals
- Welcome from the RIW tour manager and Micha Maass, including a glass of sparkling wine
- Captain’s or gala dinner with a celebratory menu
02Blues & onboard programme+
- Top-class blues programme with live music, concerts, interactive workshops, shows and jam sessions
- Daily activities such as dance and creative classes, port talks, language lessons, stargazing, sports, bingo and communication workshops
- Wellness and sports activities, including exercise classes, aerobics, jogging, yoga, stretching and relaxation
- Use of the golf park
03Comfort & service+
- Water dispensers on several decks
- In-cabin satellite TV
- Use of the gym, sauna, steam rooms, whirlpool, swimming pools and sun loungers on deck
- Bathrobes for use on board and a fruit basket in your cabin on request
- Support from Phoenix Reisen’s experienced tour manager and host team
- Travel bag and a guidebook or country information with your travel documents
- Audio systems for excursions and umbrellas for shore visits
- Embarkation and disembarkation fees and all port taxes
04SILVER & GOLD cabin benefits+
SILVER cabins
- Separate embarkation at German ports
- Welcome gift, fresh flowers and Coppeneur chocolates
- A bottle of sparkling wine and a Nespresso machine in your cabin
- Captain’s reception
GOLD cabins
- Separate embarkation, welcome gift, flowers and chocolates
- A bottle of champagne and priority for shore visits
- Two pairs of high-quality binoculars per cabin for use on board and a toiletries set
- On cruises of 7 days or more: sparkling-wine cabin breakfast, Captain’s reception, and – depending on category – a place at the Captain’s table, a 25-minute massage or beauty treatment, and complimentary laundry service
Inclusions are based on the current cruise description and may be subject to change.
Hear the sound of the Blues Cruise
Our highlights film captures life on board: high-energy live concerts, spontaneous jam sessions and the moments shared by musicians and guests.
A look back
Blues Cruise 2026 in pictures.
Live music, new friendships and shared moments on board – a taste of the atmosphere waiting for you.
Photographs from Blues Cruise 2026.
The itinerary
Norwegian fjords, Skagen & Heligoland.
Between the sessions, the North Sea becomes our stage: historic harbour towns, deep fjords and a taste of Nordic island life.
Today’s port of call
Bremerhaven
Embarkation approx. 3–5pm · departure 6pm
Your blues adventure begins here, with convenient connections from across Germany.
Optional excursions
Embarkation and your first chance to meet fellow guests on board
Excursion examples and guide prices are based on information from Phoenix Reisen. Programme, prices and availability are subject to change.Day at sea
Relaxing at sea
Sunday, 23 May 2027 · at sea all day
Time for music, sea views and life aboard MS AMADEA.
Optional excursions
Day at sea – no shore excursions
Excursion examples and guide prices are based on information from Phoenix Reisen. Programme, prices and availability are subject to change.Today’s port of call
Select “+” to see details. Excursion examples and guide prices are based on information from Phoenix Reisen; programme, prices and availability are subject to change.
Bergen
In port 8am–8pm
Hanseatic heritage, colourful wooden houses and the gateway to Norway’s fjords.
Optional excursions
Historic walking tour including Bryggenapprox. 2 hours · approx. €19+
Follow in the footsteps of the Hanseatic League on a walk through Bergen’s historic centre. Pass Bergenhus Fortress, St Mary’s Church and the former merchants’ meeting rooms before reaching Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The walk ends near the fish market; there are no interior visits. Please note: not suitable for guests with limited mobility; places are limited.
Bergen panoramic tourapprox. 2 hours · approx. €35+
This panoramic drive reveals Bergen’s harbour, natural setting and historic districts. Via Eidsvåg, enjoy views of the surrounding islands on the way back to the centre, passing St Mary’s Church, the Fløibanen funicular station and the fish market. Stop for photos on the Nordnes peninsula, with views of Bryggen, then pass the royal summer residence and historic villa districts.
Panoramic tour and Fantoft Stave Churchapprox. 2.5 hours · approx. €49+
After an introductory drive through Bergen, travel south to Fantoft. A short woodland path leads to the striking stave church, faithfully rebuilt after the 1992 fire using historic plans and photographs. After your visit, the coach returns you to the ship. Please note: not suitable for guests with limited mobility.
Today’s port of call
Select “+” to see details. Excursion examples and guide prices are based on information from Phoenix Reisen; programme, prices and availability are subject to change.
Ulvik
Sailing through the Hardangerfjord and Ulvikfjord · in port 8am–5pm
A fjord panorama comes as standard: deep blue water and steep mountain slopes in the Hardangerfjord.
Optional excursions
Scenic drive to Skjervefossenapprox. 2 hours · approx. €49+
From Ulvik, travel through mountain and fjord scenery to Skjervefossen. There is around half an hour at the waterfall for photographs and enjoying the landscape. Return via Granvin and the approximately 7.5-kilometre Vallavik Tunnel, then follow the Hardangerfjord. Please note: places are limited.
Walk to a Hardanger cider farmapprox. 3.5 hours · approx. €69+
A relaxed walk of around three kilometres takes you to Lekve orchard and its extensive fruit groves. On a guided visit, learn how apple juice, cider and apple brandy are made, then sample five products, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. Walk back through the scenic countryside to the landing stage. Please note: around two hours of walking in total; not suitable for guests with limited mobility; places are limited.
Scenic Hardanger regionapprox. 4.5 hours · approx. €99+
Discover highlights of the Hardanger region on this scenic drive. Cross the impressive Hardanger Bridge and continue via Eidfjord through the Måbø Valley to the mountain plateau. After a stop at Sysen Dam, admire the 183-metre Vøringsfossen from the viewing platform at Fossli Hotel. At the Hardangervidda Nature Centre, an exhibition and panoramic film introduce the local flora and fauna. Please note: places are limited.
Today’s port of call
Select “+” to see details. Excursion examples and guide prices are based on information from Phoenix Reisen; programme, prices and availability are subject to change.
Stavanger
In port 8am–6pm · followed by a cruise through the skerries
White wooden houses, maritime charm and spectacular scenery.
Optional excursions
Walking tour of Stavangerapprox. 2 hours · approx. €29+
Stavanger’s compact centre is ideal to explore on foot. Walk through the old town, with more than 170 white-painted wooden houses, see the medieval cathedral from the outside and continue to Valbergtårnet. Enjoy lovely views over the city and harbour from the tower. Please note: not suitable for guests with limited mobility; places are limited.
Boat trip to Preikestolenapprox. 3 hours · approx. €119+
Cruise through the Lysefjord for around two and a half hours, passing pale cliffs, small islands and waterfalls. See the Vagabond’s Cave, approach the Hengjanefossen waterfall and look up from the fjord to the 604-metre Preikestolen cliff. Please note: a short walk is required between the ship and the boat landing stage; places are limited.
Today’s port of call
Select “+” to see details. Excursion examples and guide prices are based on information from Phoenix Reisen; programme, prices and availability are subject to change.
Arendal
In port noon–8pm
Charming southern Norway, with islands, skerries and lanes lined with wooden houses.
Optional excursions
Arendal on footapprox. 2 hours · approx. €29+
From the pier, walk into the historic Tyholmen district. Its close-set wooden houses escaped many town fires because the neighbourhood was an island until 1933. Along the way, see the old town hall – one of Norway’s most distinctive wooden buildings – and the welcoming marina. Please note: not suitable for guests with limited mobility.
Arendal and the surrounding areaapprox. 2 hours · approx. €55+
This sightseeing drive, with photo stops, introduces Arendal’s islands and skerries. Cross the approximately 400-metre Tromøy Bridge to the large island of Tromøy. Selected viewpoints offer lovely views towards Hisøy and the coastline.
Scenic drive and museum visitapprox. 3 hours · approx. €65+
This tour combines Arendal’s maritime history with the natural beauty of its islands. Pass Tyholmen’s wooden-house lanes and visit Tromøy for a photo stop. An approximately one-hour guided visit to the Aust-Agder Museum offers insight into the region’s history. There is another photo stop on Hisøy on the return journey.
Today’s port of callSelect “+” to see details. Excursion examples and guide prices are based on information from Phoenix Reisen; programme, prices and availability are subject to change.
Skagen
In port 7am–2pm
Where the North and Baltic Seas meet: light, dunes and Danish serenity.
Optional excursions
Walking tour of historic Skagenapprox. 3.5 hours · approx. €53+
After a short shuttle transfer, explore Skagen’s older districts on foot. At Kystmuseet, outdoor exhibits and displays tell the story of life here in the 17th and 18th centuries. After some free time, continue to the sand-covered St Laurence’s Church, Skagen Church, the marina and the Swedish Seamen’s Church. Please note: around three kilometres of walking to and from the sand-covered church, with some sections lacking seating; not suitable for guests with limited mobility; places are limited.
Skagen, free time and Grenenapprox. 3.5 hours · approx. €75+
A panoramic drive takes you through Skagen’s characteristic lanes of yellow houses with red-tiled roofs. On a walk, see the home of painters Anna and Michael Ancher and the historic Brøndums Hotel. Then take the “Sandormen” tractor bus to Grenen, where the Skagerrak and Kattegat meet. Finish with a visit to the surviving tower of the sand-covered St Laurence’s Church. Please note: not suitable for guests with limited mobility; places are limited.
Today’s port of call
Heligoland
In port 1pm–11pm
Germany’s only offshore island makes a striking final stop.
Optional excursions
Explore independently: walks, beach & swimming · no organised excursion price published
Excursion examples and guide prices are based on information from Phoenix Reisen. Programme, prices and availability are subject to change.Today’s port of call
Bremerhaven
Arrival 9am · disembarkation from approx. 9am (allow 2–3 hours)
After many blues-filled moments and fjord views, the cruise comes to an end in Bremerhaven.
Optional excursions
Disembarkation and onward travel
Excursion examples and guide prices are based on information from Phoenix Reisen. Programme, prices and availability are subject to change.All cruise days, ports and times in port
Bremerhaven
Embarkation approx. 3–5pm; departure at 6pm.
Day at sea
A full day at sea, with time for blues, sea views and life on board.
Bergen
8am–8pm. Optional excursions from approx. €19: Bryggen, a panoramic tour and Fantoft Stave Church.
Ulvik
8am–5pm. Hardangerfjord and Ulvikfjord; optional excursions from approx. €49.
Stavanger
8am–6pm, followed by a cruise through the skerries. Optional excursions from approx. €29.
Arendal
Noon–8pm. Walking tours and scenic drives from approx. €29.
Skagen
7am–2pm. Optional excursions to Skagen and Grenen from approx. €53.
Heligoland
1pm–11pm. Time for independent walks and island experiences.
Bremerhaven
Arrival at 9am, followed by disembarkation and onward travel.
Sailing times, excursion examples and guide prices are based on the Phoenix Reisen cruise description. Subject to change and availability; excursion prices are indicative and charged separately.
Ready to join us?
Blues. The sea.
And you, right at the heart of it all.
22–30 May 2027 · MS AMADEA · from and to Bremerhaven
Book Blues Cruise →
Your home at sea
MS AMADEA: the ship, cabins & facilities
When the last note fades, the next experience begins: enjoy a drink in Harry’s Bar, gaze out across the open sea or take a quiet moment in the spa. Elegant MS AMADEA combines classic cruise comfort with a welcoming, personal atmosphere.
- Up to 600 guests
- 2 restaurants
- 100% outside cabins
- Spa & pool on board
Your own private retreat
Cabins aboard MS AMADEA.
From a classic outside cabin to a Royal Suite, explore the categories currently available to choose from. Open a category for more details. Prices and availability are confirmed during booking.
01
Outside cabins
Classic comfort with natural light and sea views.
K2Twin outsideSaturn Deck · 2 guests · approx. 17 m²+
Outside cabin with a fixed window and two lower beds that can be arranged together on request. Facilities include two double wardrobes, a chest of drawers, shower and WC, air conditioning, safe, minibar and satellite TV.
M2Twin outsideOrion Deck · 2 guests · approx. 17 m²+
Comfortable outside cabin with a window and two lower beds that can be arranged together. Includes double wardrobes, a chest of drawers, shower and WC, air conditioning, safe, minibar and satellite TV.
O2Twin outside · promenade viewPromenade Deck · 2 guests · approx. 17 m²+
Mirrored glazing looks out over the outside promenade towards the sea. The cabin has two lower beds that can be arranged together, plenty of storage, shower and WC, air conditioning, safe and minibar.
02
Superior & balcony
Extra space and your own spot in the fresh air.
P2Superior · private balconyLido Deck · 2 guests · approx. 21 m² including balcony+
Superior outside cabin with a private balcony, two chairs and a small table. The two lower beds can be arranged together. Storage, shower and WC, air conditioning, safe and minibar are included.
R3Superior balcony · 1 extra bedJupiter Deck · 2–3 guests · approx. 21 m² including balcony+
Superior cabin with a private balcony and a fold-down upper berth for a third guest. The two lower beds can be arranged together; the balcony has two chairs and a small table.
03
Suites
Spacious suites, balconies and thoughtful extras.
T+4Junior Suite with large balcony · 2 extra bedsLido Deck · 2–4 guests · cabin approx. 25 m², balcony approx. 15 m²+
Junior Suite with two beds that can be joined or separated and a sofa bed for two additional guests. The generous balcony has seating, loungers and a windbreak.
U4Suite with balcony · 2 extra bedsJupiter Deck · 2–4 guests · approx. 33 m² including balcony+
Elegantly furnished suite with a pull-out sofa bed for two, walk-in wardrobe and balcony with seating and a lounger. A coffee machine, a complimentary selection of minibar drinks and 3 GB of internet access are included.
V3Royal Suite with balcony · 1 extra bedJupiter Deck · 2–3 guests · approx. 69 m² including balcony+
The Royal Suite has separate living and sleeping areas, a conservatory and private balcony. The large bathroom features a shower, twin basins and a sea-view bath. A walk-in wardrobe, sofa bed, coffee machine, complimentary minibar and 3 GB of internet access are also included.
Prices are per person. Availability and prices may change at short notice; RIW Touristik’s confirmation is final.
Choose a cabin & book →“
A cruise where you come aboard as a guest and return home as part of one big blues family.Peter
You rarely get this close to the musicians. Every evening had its own special energy.Sabine
Norway’s scenery and this music: a combination that stayed with us long after the cruise.Kerstin & Wolfgang
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Good to know
Frequently asked questions about Blues Cruise 2027.
When does Blues Cruise take place?+
From 22 to 30 May 2027. The cruise includes eight nights aboard MS AMADEA.
Are the blues concerts included in the fare?+
Yes. The special music programme, including concerts, jam sessions and workshops, is part of the cruise.
Which artists are performing in 2027?+
The international line-up features Micha Maass, Johnny Burgin, Txaco Jones, Jaska Prepula, Little Boogie Boy, Bart Szopiński, Bo Weavil, Roger & Marion Wade, Jan Hirte and Steve “West” Weston.
Where does the cruise start and finish?+
Blues Cruise starts and finishes in Bremerhaven. Rail travel to and from the port can be added as an optional extra. In addition, convenient bus transportation with door-to-door service is available for an additional fee.
What else is there to do besides the blues programme?+
You can also enjoy all the usual facilities aboard MS AMADEA and the variety of shore excursions along the route.
How much does Blues Cruise 2027 cost?+
The cruise is currently available from €2,099 per person. Some lower-priced cabin categories are on a binding waiting list. The final prices are those shown in the booking form and confirmed by RIW Touristik.
Are shore excursions included in the fare?+
No. The listed excursions in Bergen, Ulvik, Stavanger, Arendal and Skagen are optional. Prices shown are per-person guide prices and may change.
How do I book the cruise?+
Use “Book your cruise” to choose a cabin, travel arrangements, insurance and travel dates. RIW Touristik will check availability, verify your details and guide you through the booking process.
In planning for 2027
More Blues Cruise
The blues is coming to the river, too.
In 2027, the blues will set sail not only on the open sea but, for the first time, on a river. Look forward to intimate live concerts, personal encounters and the special closeness of a river cruise. The date, route, ship and artists are currently being planned.
Register your interest with no obligation and be among the first to hear the latest news.