Unleash the Fury
Heavy Metal thrashes through the high seas October 28 - November 1, 2024 aboard Norwegian Gem! Sail with pure American metal legend, Lamb of God, round trip from Miami to Puerta Plata, Dominican Republic. Prepare for a relentless onslaught of heavy riffs, fierce vocals, and unforgettable immersive experiences with your favorite metal artists set against the breathtaking backdrop of the open ocean.
On the beautiful Norwegian Gem, metal meets majesty! Stay fueled with an array of dining options, more than eight bars, a world-class spa, a casino, and a Starbucks. While ported in the Dominican Republic, relish a day away from face-melting performances. Explore the island's rich history, find a secluded beach, or take advantage of the pristine pools, lazy river, and swim-up bars at Taino Bay. Puerta Plata has the perfect formula for every metalhead to make an unforgettable Caribbean memory!
Get your horns up and prepare for the heavy metal voyage of a lifetime!
Beyond The Stage
Aboard the Headbangers Boat, you'll have unique opportunities to participate in immersive experiences with your favorite metal artists and connect with fellow metalheads who share your passion for this moving music. Stay tuned for additional experiences!
A Conversation and Q&A with Randy & Mark
An exclusive Headbangers Boat opportunity to dive into Randy Blythe & Mark Morton's creative universe, as they unmask the inspiration, challenges, and triumphs that have shaped their metal odyssey. These heavy hitting, heavy metal legends will chat with Riki Rachtman and then field YOUR questions. Come prepared!
Both of these experiences are general admission. Snag a seat and enjoy!
Art Cruz DJ Set
Steering the ship's soundwaves through a labyrinth of electrifying beats, Art Cruz will DJ an unforgettable set aboard the Headbangers Boat! Don't just pack your moshing shoes, pack your dancing shoes too. You're bound to break out moves you thought you'd never see on a metal cruise!
The dance floor is waiting for YOU! No need to register.
Poker Tournament Final Game with John Campbell
Ignite the ultimate showdown on the high seas! Raise the stakes with thunderous bluffs and epic hands as you vie for the coveted Headbangers Poker Tournament Champion and take home the final jackpot. Win one of the casino's qualifying poker tournaments, and score a spot at the final table with John Campbell. Talk about EPIC!
Details on qualifying games and buy-ins will be released closer to sailing.
Randy Blythe's Photography Gallery
Embark on a visual pilgrimage through Randy Blythe's exclusive Headbanger's Boat collection. Each photograph is a portal into a moment in Randy's life.
The Photography Gallery will have both viewing and purchasing hours. Those hours will be released closer to sailing.
Drum-Off Hosted by Art Cruz
Release your percussive prowess and face off against fellow drummers in a relentless battle for rhythmic supremacy, in the Headbangers Boat Drum-Off! Art Cruz will host, and a panel of heavy metal greats will select the ultimate champion!
Submissions will close Wednesday, September 18th at 11:59 PM ET.
Coffee with Willie
Willie Adler is sitting down with Riki Rachtman to talk coffee and taste some headbanging brews with a select few Headbangers. Fuel your metal adventure on the high seas with an unforgettable caffeine fix! Participants will be selected by lottery.
Entries will close Wednesday, September 18th at 11:59 PM ET.
The Official Headbangers Boat Pre-Party In Miami
Sunday, October 27
Before we set sail into a sea of metal mayhem, join Jose Mangin and fellow Headbangers in Miami for the Official Headbangers Boat Pre-Party. Don't miss this chance to rev up and connect! Entry is FREE.
WHEN: Sunday, October 27th | Doors at 6PM
WHERE: Magic 13 Brewing Company | 340 NE 61st St, Miami, FL 33137
Please Note: This is a 21+ party.
Battleshots Tournament
An electrifying drinking game meets the strategic thrill of the battleship! In this head-to-head battle, every hit means a shot, and every miss brings you closer to victory. Will you sink or swim in this ocean of chaos?!?! There's space for 16 teams of four.
16 TEAMS HAVE SIGNED UP AND REGISTRATION IS NOW CLOSED
Oftentimes, teams fall short or do not show up. So, once on board, if you are still interested in playing just show up! Check your onboard schedule for tournament time and place.
Halloween Costume Contest
Don your most creative, terrifying, or downright wicked attire and join fellow Headbangers for a night of spine-chilling fun. With wicked prizes and the glory of being crowned the ultimate Hellraiser, will you rise from the depths as the champion?
Submissions will close Wednesday, September 18th at 11:59 PM ET.
Into The Trivia Pit with José Mangin
Sharpen your mind, brace yourself for fierce competition, and get ready to unleash your inner metal scholar. Are you ready to rock the trivia world? Get into the (trivia) pit!
To participate in this activity, simply show-up ready to crush!
Battle Jacket Showdown
Unleash the power of your meticulously crafted vests adorned with metal insignia, each patch a testament to your devotion. As you enter the spotlight, face off against fellow cruisers to see whose jacket commands the most respect. A knowledgeable panel will select a winner! It’s a fashion show… for metalheads!
Submissions will close Wednesday, September 18th at 11:59 PM ET.
BINGO with Riki & Leah
Brace yourself for the rowdiest game of BINGO to ever hit the seven seas! As Riki Rachtman & Leah Vendetta call out the numbers you'll vie for killer prizes and ultimate bragging rights.
You do not need to purchase a Bingo card to watch. You will need to purchase a Bingo card to participate, and those will go on-sale an hour before the game starts.
Screams of Steel Karaoke
Step up to the mic and belt out your favorite metal anthems! Whether you're a seasoned performer or a first-time screamer, this is your chance to bring the house down.
To participate, simply show up, select your song, and wait for your chance to shine!
Guitar Hero Mornings
Grab your axe, and show off your shredding skills as you battle it out on the high seas. Whether you're a seasoned virtuoso or just starting your journey to guitar greatness, this is your chance to rock the boat and prove you're the ultimate Guitar Hero!
This is an open-play experience. Snag some coffee and simply show up to participate!
Face Painting
Whether you're looking to add a splash of color or embrace a whimsical design, our talented on board face artists are here to make your skin a masterpiece! Express yourself and have a blast!
Make appointments on board, in person. Face Painting hours are available on your Headbangers Boat schedule.
Zetro's Toxic Vault
Get ready for an exclusive, high-seas edition of Zetro's Toxic Vault! Join the legendary Steve "Zetro" Souza of Exodus for a live podcast recording that dives deep into the heart of metal. Experience behind-the-scenes stories, unfiltered opinions, and his raw, uncensored take on all things metal.
Zetro's Toxic Vault is general admission. Snag a seat and be a part of the magic!
Liquid Metal LIVE Recording
Join Jose Mangin for a special Headbangers Boat recording of Liquid Metal. He'll be joined by some of your lineup favorites for insightful discussions against the backdrop of crashing waves and roaring guitars. Tune in, turn up the volume, and immerse yourself in the Liquid Metal experience!
This LIVE recording is general admission. Grab a seat! It's about to get metal. Liquid Metal.
Autograph Sessions
Headbangers Boat Autograph Sessions, are your chance to chat with metal legends and get a cherished item from home or a new favorite piece of onboard merch covered with signatures.
Tickets will be passed out one-hour before the session begins, on a first-come, first-served basis. You will be called up in groups according to your ticket number. Participating Artists will be announced on the morning of the session.
Please Note: Lamb of God will not be in attendance. Lines may be closed throughout the session based on capacity and timing. Availability will depend on volume. Autographs from all artists are not guaranteed.
One Foot In The Galley
Riki Rachtman has been a fixture in heavy music for over 4 decades. He created the famed nightclub Cathouse which saw historic unannounced shows from Guns n Roses, Megadeth, Exodus, Pearl Jam, Motorhead, and more. He was the host of MTV’s Headbangers Ball and a Nationally syndicated radio host. For the past 2 years Riki has performed in front of sold-out crowds on Broadway , Hollywood, Australia and 40 more locations with his one-man show One Foot In The Gutter. Riki returns to Headbangers Boat with a special version of his storytelling show which he calls One Foot In The Galley. Hang out with Riki for an hour of unbelievable stories with videos and photos.
Halloween
Thursday, October 31, 2024
Let the shadows come alive as you headbang through the night. Cloak yourself in your most sinister attire and immerse in a night of spine-tingling performances. Prepare for a costume contest that will crown the most diabolical attire and a special DJ set with Lamb of God drummer, Art Cruz.
Battle Jackets
Tuesday, October 29, 2024
Gear up for a night dedicated to the iconic battle jacket! Strut your stuff in a parade of denim and leather, in a Battle Jackets Showdown where the most impressive jacket will take all!
MOSH PIT MAYHEM BOOTCAMP WITH Brandan from Bleeding Through
HEY! Did you know Brandan Schieppati, vocalist for BLEEDING THROUGH, opened his gym RISE ABOVE FITNESS in 2011?!?! YES? NO? Either way, we’re giving you the opportunity to check it out! Rise Above Fitness is notorious for its training, all designed by Brandan! So come on by and check out MOSH PIT MAYHEM BOOTCAMP, a full-body workout that never fails to live up to its name. Although its name can be terrifying, it's 100% more fun than it sounds! All fitness levels are welcome.
No registration is necessary. Just hydrate, and show up ready to sweat!
Again We Rise Yoga
Feel the surge of energy as you glide through dynamic poses, surrounded by the endless horizon. Perfect for all levels, these sessions promise a rejuvenating blend of tranquility and intensity.
No registration is required, simply show, ready to flow!
More Amenities
Along with days and nights filled with musical performances, fun and engaging activities will be a part of the experience, too! Many times you'll be right alongside your favorite artists. In addition to programming that we'll plan especially for this festival, guests can enjoy the following amenities on Norwegian Gem: