Choose Your Cruise, Australia’s leading floating festival company, is proud to unveil their highly anticipated return of Rock the Boat in 2025. Set aboard the luxurious Carnival Luminosa, this 7-night celebration of Australian rock icons will embark from Sydney 19th-26th October 2025 on a round trip to the enchanting South Pacific, featuring captivating ports of call including Noumea and Mare (New Caledonia).
Rock the Boat 2025 is not just a festival; it’s a complete immersion into the world of music, entertainment, and adventure. As passengers cruise through crystal-clear waters and tropical paradise, they’ll be treated to an unparalleled lineup of legendary artists and bands, promising an experience like no other.
The festival’s stellar lineup includes Australian acts that have left an indelible mark on the music scene. Headlining the event will be the iconic Jimmy Barnes delivering his raw energy on stage. James Reyne, with his distinctive voice and chart-topping hits, will be another highlight of the cruise. Both acts will bring their signature style to the festival stage.

Among the headliners performing on Rock the Boat 2025 are some of Australia’s most iconic musicians including Ian Moss, revered for his virtuoso guitar skills, who promises an unforgettable show. Timeless rock anthems of The Angels, and the chart-topping hits of Daryl Braithwaite alongside the soulful melodies of Mahalia Barnes, every performance is set to ignite the stage and captivate audiences.
In addition, Russell Morris, a true legend of Australian music, will showcase his talent along with Glenn Shorrock & Brian Cadd, Chocolate Starfish, Southern Sons, Thirsty Merc, Sarah McLeod, Lennon: Give Peace a Chance featuring Steve Balbi, and Don’t Change – Ultimate INXS, ensuring that every moment on board ticks all the boxes for a music lovers bucket list holiday.
But the excitement doesn’t end there! Rock the Boat 2025 boasts an impressive roster of over 30 performers, ensuring non-stop entertainment throughout the voyage.

Attendees will be treated to a diverse range of musical genres and talents, including Steve Balbi, Bourbon Street, Haxan (UK), Dirty Deeds, Yacht Rock Revival, The Hype Boys, The 80’s Rock Show, Baggy Trousers, AJ & The Wildhearts, AJ & Wayne Electric Duo, Great Creedence Revival, The Buddy Holly Show, The Little Steely Brothers, Dave Leslie, Dai Pritchard, James Van Cooper, Woodstok, Buddy Goode, The Fox and The Hound, Mick Buckley, and Lachlan Edwards.

In addition to the incredible musical lineup, Rock the Boat 2025 offers a plethora of amenities and activities onboard the Carnival Luminosa. Passengers can indulge in gourmet dining experiences, relax by the poolside with panoramic ocean views, unwind at the luxurious Cloud 9 Spa, or partake in exciting onboard activities and workshops. Whether it’s dancing under the stars to live music or exploring the vibrant ports of call, every moment promises adventure and entertainment. The ship offers a range of entertainment venues including the main stage, located on Luminosa’s Pool Deck ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy.  Guests will experience the headliners on our all-weather pool deck stage. This innovative venue features a retractable roof that can be open to the warm South Pacific summer air or closed (weather depending).

The pool deck provides general admission standing areas, a dance floor and a mezzanine level for better viewing and caters to accessible needs, ensuring an optimal concert at sea experience for all attendees. And don’t worry, there are plenty of bars to take advantage of Carnival’s Cheers! Drink packages are available on board.
In addition to the incredible entertainment and ship, Rock the Boat 2025’s ports of call on this extraordinary journey to New Caledonia include:

• Noumea: Discover the French-influenced charm of Noumea, where white sandy beaches beckon and vibrant markets offer a taste of local culture.
• Mare: Step into paradise on Mare, known for its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and opportunities for snorkelling and water sports in the crystal-clear waters.

“We’re thrilled to present Rock the Boat 2025, an experience that combines world-class music with the allure of a luxury cruise,” said Mick Manov, CEO of Choose Your Cruise. “With an incredible lineup of artists celebrating what makes Rock the Boat so special, alongside stunning destinations, and a host of onboard entertainment and activities curated by CYC, this is truly a festival like no other. We invite music lovers and adventure seekers to join us for an unforgettable 7-night festival at sea.”
Marius Els, joint CEO added: “We have created another amazing lineup of Australian Rock artists for this cruise. The entertainment will be centred around the Pool Deck with concert staging and world-class production. It will be wonderful to have Jimmy Barnes back on our ships sharing the stage with James Reyne, Ian Moss, The Angels, and some of the biggest names in this country.”

About Rock the Boat: Rock the Boat has established itself as Australia’s premier floating festival since its first instalment in 2011, combining the thrill of a luxury cruise with the excitement of live music from some of the biggest names in the industry. With a history of delivering unforgettable experiences at sea, Choose Your Cruise continues to raise the bar with each edition of Rock the Boat. From intimate performances to epic concerts under the stars, Rock the Boat creates a unique atmosphere that you can’t find on land where fans can connect with their favourite artists in a breathtaking setting. It’s not just a festival; it’s a journey that celebrates the power of music and the magic of exploration.