Photo Credit: Hana Gustafson

Yesterday evening, Feb. 6, Jam Cruise disembarked from Miami, Fla. The 19th iteration of the beloved floating festival got underway just as the sun dipped below the city’s skyline, naturally signally the start of the night’s festivities. After welcoming attendees with a proper toast, George Porter Jr. & Runnin’ Pardners began their set on the Pool Deck with “Happy Song.” 

Porter jammed through his frame of music, which included renditions of Jerry Garcia’s “They Love Each Other” and a fiery “Turn On Your Lovelight.” At the same time, Jason Crosby arrived at the piano platform in the Atrium, indulging fans in a 45-minute set.  

Elsewhere on the boat, The Fearless Flyers co-opted their distinct groove at the Pantheon Theater. Dressed in matching jumpsuits and adorned in dark shades, the ensemble stylishly delivered takes on a number of fan favorites. 

Dogs in a Pile took to the Black & White Lounge, where the unit of musicians–Jimmy Law, Sam Lucid, Jeremy Kaplan and Joe Babick–delivered numbers from their archive. Included was a special sit-in with Crosby, who joined Kaplan on keys and assisted during the band’s final number of the night. 

While Dogs in a Pile lit up the lounge, Lettuce dipped into a funky display on the Pool Deck as elated guests grooved to the beat in sparkly attire–a nod to Monday night’s costume theme. As the evening went on, The New Deal took over Lettuce’s position on the Pool Deck. 

Moments prior to The New Deal, Neighbor arrived for their set in the Black & White Lounge. As Monday night stretched into the early hours of Tuesday morning, The Word’s highly anticipated set commenced. During the show, the ensemble worked through a number of classics. 

For those committed to keeping the music on high and the party alive, Cool Cool Cool illuminated the lounge, which pivoted to the Jam Room at 2 a.m. E.T. Simultaneously, DJ Brownie dipped into his galaxy disco-inspired set, which extended till 5 a.m. E.T., when the first official day of Jam Cruise wrapped. 

Jam Cruise continues today, Tuesday, Feb. 7, with the first set of music expected to commence at 12:30 p.m. E.T. View the schedule for the second day of Jam Cruise here.