“Make no mistake, this is not one of the cruises where you share the ship with regular cruise guests… and don’t get intimidated by copy-cats! Unlike others we remove the seats in the theater, or do you like seated Heavy Metal shows?”

So says the introduction on this event’s website. The question heavily infers that enjoying a metal show seated is a ridiculous concept and some might say the same for hosting a festival on a cruise.

But with the event entering into it’s fourth year and the similar, but probably lighter testosterone fuelled Weezer Cruise both proving that there is legs – or should we say fins? – in these music themed cruises.

What drives the success to this metal cruise isn’t just its lineup of the world’s best hardcore acts but its ability to foster an environment that promotes the relationship between the fans and their musical heroes.

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It’s no surprise that they proudly label their event as being “like everyone has a backstage pass”. The cruise allows fans to congregate side-by-side with the bands and other like-minded music individuals.

Few other festivals allow you such unrestricted access over four days to the bands on the lineup.

With the cruise running over four days this event is about much more than just the music though.

Departing from Florida a stopover in Mexico provides a cultural component to this music-dominated holiday and perhaps a much-needed breather from the intense partying that each attendee endures.

For the entirety of the festival the ship becomes a haven for metal fans, whose music tastes are frequently shunned in mainstream society.

But what the 70,000 Tons Of Metal event has is something that many other music communities and bands might want to pick up on.

That is, a music experience which celebrates both the craft and those who have supported its creation.

1. Book Ahead Before It’s Too Late

At the time of writing there are limited rooms available to book on board so you’d better get in quick!

The more expensive options in Balcony and Suite are still available, although the former looks set to sell out sooner rather than later. While prices vary depending on how the room you’re booking punters can expect to spend in excess of $1000 for access to the cruise.

Follow this link to book your tickets!

2. Meet The Majesty Of The Seas, Your Home For The Cruise

The Majesty of the Seas is the name of the beast that will hold thousands of metal fans and musicians for the duration of the cruise. It’s 14 storys high, is home to dozens of bars, a casino, fitness centre, day spa, beauty salon, an outdoor swimming pool, a basketball court, rock climbing wall, duty free shops and even a kindergarten if you think taking your kids with you is a suitable idea.

If that’s not enough there are several restaurants to keep you well fed that range from formal dining rooms to endless buffets, 24 hour pizza, a sushi bar and 24 hour room service if you’re too lazy to leave your private cabin.

3. Other Than The Music What Else Can I Do Onboard?

Special onboard events include meet and greets and singings with the bands, artist clinics and the Belly Flop Contest with more times and details expected to be released closer to the departure date.

Other forms of music workshops, fan friendly events, parties and non-music entertainment will be organized and announced closer to the event.

Although you may not want to take part in the non-music entertainment with the metal karaoke running until sunrise.

Another likely highlight is the All-Star Jam where musicians unleash one of hell of a metal fury on their adoring audience.

4. You Can’t Miss The Offshore Excursions

As soon as you can book land and shore excursion can be booked through Royal Caribbean and since you’re going all that way to Mexico you may as well touch land to see all that Costa Maya has to offer.

In Costa Maya you can explore the Mayan ruins at Chacchoben, take a dip at Uvero Beach, dive down to the shipwrecks or spend the day at the eccentric fishing village of Mahahual.

Need more information? Head to the official 70,000 Tons Of Metal website for the answers to all your questions.

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