Caribbean Cruise

Gaither Homecoming Farewell Caribbean Cruise

DAYS

7

EXPERIENCE

Cruise Icon Cruise Icon

DATES

Mar 30 - Apr 6, 2025

STARTING AT

$1,948

PER TRAVELER

SPECIAL GUESTS

OR BOOK BY PHONE

855 442 1525
Travelers standing together overlooking St Thomas

OR BOOK BY PHONE

855 442 1525
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Wooden path leading to the beach

Join this unforgettable Christian cruise to the Caribbean with Bill & Gloria Gaither and Friends

A Note From Bill & Gloria Gaither

We are looking forward to an amazing week. There’s just something special about being out on the water. Maybe it’s the deep blue of the ocean, the empty expanse of the horizon or the bright sun shining outside the ship.

In Isaiah 48, the Lord tells Israel, “If only you had paid attention to my commands, your peace would have been like a river, your well-being like the waves of the sea.” (Isaiah 48:18). Peace. Well-being. We pray that these two things will be available to you in abundance as we travel “the waves of the sea.” Our hope is that this luxurious ship will become a floating spiritual retreat for you—an opportunity to get away from the demands of life, to worship in an intimate and beautiful setting, to experience deep fellowship and to be inspired by soul-stirring music. Most importantly, we pray that the awe-inspiring scenery outside the ship will guide you into the presence of God.

If your trip is like so many others, you will experience a moment during this cruise that will draw you nearer to God than you’ve ever been. It may be early one morning while gazing upon the water during a devotional time. It may be during an excursion at one of our ports. It may occur in the evening while your heart is lifted high in worship or while your mind reflects on something you’ve been taught. It may even happen during a meal with friends. Whatever the moment, we hope it recharges your faith. We hope you find time to relax, quiet your spirit and listen to God’s voice.

Bill & Gloria Gaither

Featuring

The World’s Best Beaches

On a Caribbean cruise, lush landscapes rise from turquoise waters and palm trees sway in tropical breezes. Amid shimmering seas, your Christian travel experience combines uplifting music, biblical teaching and spiritual inspiration with the world’s most spectacular vistas. Explore the color and culture of the world’s best beaches each day. After relaxing in a tropical oasis, your evenings will overflow with Christian fellowship and worship.

Travelers sitting together at a table eating
Share Memorable Meals

Savor every moment of our group dining experience, where exquisite cuisine meets lively conversations and laughter. Your new friends are waiting!

Smiling woman holding up a white t-shirt with numerous signatures on it
Meet & Greets

Share personal moments with your favorite Christian artists. Snap photos, participate in Q&A sessions and hear behind-the-scenes stories.

Man lifting his arm during a concert
Powerful Gospel Music Concerts

Come on a musical journey like no other and enjoy live music! Experience exclusive concerts and worship-filled moments with your favorite Homecoming artists.

Taylor Mason
Laugh-Out-Loud Moments with Taylor Mason

Laugh till it hurts with a dynamic comedian! Share hilarious moments, heartfelt stories and spiritual insight with other believers.

Incredible Experiences

Come to where green islands rise out of turquoise waters and palm trees sway in tropical breezes. Make unforgettable memories as you draw closer to God in this bucket list destination.

7 - DAY ITINERARY

DEPARTS

CONCLUDES

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Holland America's Nieuw Amsterdam

Timeless elegance is everywhere: understated, refined, welcoming and warm in the fresh floral arrangements, fine furnishings, impressive sculptures and the gracious hospitality that is Holland America’s hallmark.

With a multimillion-dollar art collection as the backdrop, your universe revolves around a myriad of activities, plush staterooms, soaring spaces and attention to every detail. Holland America Line serves incomparable cuisine in a variety of wonderful ways—from beautifully served dinners in the main dining room and bountiful feasts on deck to refined luxury dining. The food is everything you expect and more. The gracious crew members are dedicated to your satisfaction and are known for impeccable five-star service.

Holland America offers everything you could want in this world-class floating resort.

Ship's Registry: Netherlands

DECK PLANS

  • Deck 1 - Main
  • Deck 2 - Lower Promenade
  • Deck 3 - Promenade
  • Deck 4 - Upper Promenade
  • Deck 5 - Verandah
  • Deck 6 - Upper Verandah
  • Deck 7 - Rotterdam
  • Deck 8 - Navigator
  • Deck 9 - Lido
  • Deck 10 - Panorama
  • Deck 11 - Observation

Deck 1 - Main

  • The Atrium is a three-deck-high, open-floor-designed midship area that features a magnificent glass sculpture hanging from the ceiling.
  • Less ocean movement and proximity to Lower Promenade dining and entertainment.
  • Head to Guest Services if you have any questions or concerns.
  • World Stage features innovative cruise ship shows and a two-story LED screen that creates a vivid wraparound display.
  • Experience smoother seas on this deck.

Deck 2 - Lower Promenade

  • The Dining Room is the flagship dining experience and is a welcoming and sophisticated setting for an exquisite breakfast, lunch or superb multicourse dinner.
  • Visit the Art Gallery, an expansive onboard gallery space exhibiting works by emerging artists curated from the destinations visited by the ships.
  • Pinnacle Grill is the ultimate steakhouse at sea, with an exceptional menu of prime steaks, seafood and wine.
  • World Stage features innovative cruise ship shows and a two-story LED screen that creates a vivid wraparound display.
  • Sing along, test your music trivia knowledge or sit back and enjoy as chart-topping hits fill the Billboard Onboard Room each night.

Deck 3 - Promenade

  • The Dining Room is the flagship dining experience and is a welcoming and sophisticated setting for an exquisite breakfast, lunch or superb multicourse dinner.
  • Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping onboard at The Shops.
  • World Stage features innovative cruise ship shows and a two-story LED screen that creates a vivid wraparound display.

Deck 4 - Upper Promenade

  • Ideal for entertainment lovers, the Tasman Room and The Dining Room await one deck down.
  • Conveniently close to music venues.
  • Get easy access to restaurants.

Deck 5 - Verandah

  • Reach the whole ship easily from this peaceful middle deck.
  • A variety of cabins are available on this deck plan; see accommodation descriptions for details.
  • There are no amenities or public spaces on this deck.

Deck 6 - Upper Verandah

  • Reach the whole ship easily from this peaceful middle deck.
  • A variety of cabins are available on this deck plan; see accommodation descriptions for details.
  • There are no amenities or public spaces on this deck.

Deck 7 - Rotterdam

  • Get easy access to the Lido Market, Sea View Pool and Greenhouse Spa & Salon located two decks up.
  • Exclusive to suite guests, Neptune Lounge is a private place to relax, socialize and enjoy personalized concierge service. Enjoy complimentary refreshments, a relaxing seating area and access to Wi-Fi for a small charge.
  • Conveniently close to the Lido deck.

Deck 8 - Navigator

  • You’re never far from R&R on this deck. Lido deck pools, the Fitness Center and Greenhouse Spa & Salon await above.
  • The Bridge (command center) navigates the waters from here.

Deck 9 - Lido

  • Sea View Pool is an adults-only pool with the perfect spot to get some sun and watch the world sail by.
  • Lido Market is a casual modern marketplace that offers the widest range of food options onboard for breakfast, lunch, dinner or a late-night snack.
  • Take a class in our professionally staffed Fitness Center.
  • Greenhouse Spa & Salon is a heavenly retreat that nurtures every aspect of your well-being with renowned spa rituals and healing touches. In the spa, pamper your skin with facial treatments featuring premium, naturally sourced ingredients. Nurture your body, too, with massage treatments employing time-honored, hands-on massage techniques gleaned from around the world.

Deck 10 - Panorama

  • Tamarind and Nami Sushi restaurants are one deck up when you're hungry.
  • Club HAL's Kids Club offers an array of entertaining events for kids and teens ages 3-17, supervised by full-time, professionally trained staff.
  • "Nothing but net" at our Sports Courts just one deck above.
  • Sliding Dome Cover over the Lido deck pool is a fully retractable roof that can open or close to suit all climates.

Deck 11 - Observation

  • Explore traditional cuisines of Southeast Asia, China and Japan at Tamarind.
  • Explorations Central is exclusive destination programming designed to deepen your understanding of the places you visit. Sip elegantly prepared espresso drinks and nosh on fresh pastries from Explorations Café as you take in fantastic views.
  • Enjoy complimentary lessons, tournaments and courts with amazing top-deck views at the Sports Courts.
  • Take in the spectacular sites and capture the best photos from this deck.
  • Nami Sushi offers a tempting array of sushi rolls with an homage to the ocean views you'll enjoy, created by master sushi chef Andy Matsuda.
  • Enjoy cocktails and sunsets with panoramic views at Crow's Nest.

ROOM OPTIONS

Nieuw Amsterdam
Rotterdam-Interior
Nieuw Amsterdam
Nieuw Amsterdam
Nieuw Amsterdam
Nieuw Amsterdam
Nieuw Amsterdam
Nieuw Amsterdam
Rotterdam-Neptune
Rotterdam Pinnacle

What’s included in your cruise

Gaither Vocal Band singing on stage to an auditorium full of people
Enjoy these exclusive amenities included on this amazing cruise
  • Hear your favorite gospel music songs in fresh ways as award-winning artists collaborate in an incredible setting.
  • Refresh your spirit with times in the Word—led by your Homecoming favorites; laugh and learn with other believers as you connect with God.
  • Island-hop through the gorgeous Caribbean islands of Turks and Caicos and the Bahamas as you praise God for the handiwork of His creation.
  • Bask in the luxury of a first-rate travel experience, complete with elegant, delicious cuisine.
  • Entry to the Inspiration conference programming ($148) plus government taxes & fees ($240).

Signature Service Option

Signature Service
Signature Service

Travel in an exclusive class of luxury. Enjoy an exceptional experience with our Signature Service option of unique privileges and amenities. Curate your perfect Christian cruise by adding services that suit your travel style. A simple click ensures your comfort so you can completely relax while enjoying these first-class benefits.

  • Personal Transfer to and from Airport or Hotel to Pier- Your driver meets you curbside at the airport, or at your hotel, for your personal luxury sedan transfer to the pier.
  • Cruise Embarkation Assistance - An Inspiration travel coordinator greets you at the pier, arranges for stevedore (porter) assistance and guides you through the entire embarkation process.
  • Expedited Luggage Service - Your luggage is marked for special delivery and is among the first bags on the ship.

Inspiration Branded Travel Gifts

  • Exclusive Luggage Tag
  • Tote Bag
  • Beach Towel

Business Class Air

We can assist you in researching flight options and purchasing a business class air ticket from your home city to the port of embarkation.

 

STARTING AT

$828

PER TRAVELER

Book with Confidence

Our attention to detail and dedication to excellence have set us apart as the foremost Christian travel management company since 1981.

As Christians we care that your travels are spiritually significant.

Top-ranked service with leading industry awards and accolades.

Over 1,500+ ministries have trusted us to manage their group events.

Every detail is triple checked so you can enjoy every moment abroad.

Caribbean Cruise FAQs

Please carefully review the details of the Cancellation Policy below, as well as the full Terms & Conditions prior to booking your travel event.

All prices, penalties and change fees are quoted per passenger based on selected occupancy.

Payments

$600 deposit with reservation Credit card, personal check, cashiers check, or money order. Must be in U.S. funds.
Dec 20, 2024 Final Payment due
On or after Dec 20, 2024 Full Payment required

Reservation Change Fees

Today – Jan 29, 2025 $100
On or after Jan 30, 2025 No Changes Allowed
Additional fees may be assessed by suppliers for connections booked from your home city, as well as forced single occupancy due to roommate cancellation. Those fees charged will be passed to the passenger. 

Cancellation Fees

Today – Dec 19, 2024 $100 administration fee
Dec 20 – 30, 2024 Deposit amount
Dec 31, 2024 – Feb 7, 2025 50% of the total package
On or after Feb 8, 2025 No Refunds
Cancellations must be confirmed in the Inspiration office during regular business hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Pacific Time)
Cancellation fees apply regardless of the reason for cancellation, including medical and family matters.
It is the personal responsibility of each passenger to fully comply with all Immigration and documentation requirements.

 

The conference programming cost, included in the retail price for each event, reflects the value of the unique onboard events curated specifically for our travelers by our event partners. This specialized content sets our cruise events apart, enhancing your travel experience with Inspiration and your favorite Christian teachers, artists, speakers and musicians. Note that this programming is exclusive and available only to those who book through Inspiration. Our events tend to sell out, so make sure to book early through Inspiration to ensure you get the best conference rate and can enjoy the life-changing programming.

You are responsible for bringing the correct travel documents to your event. For international cruises, every person in your reservation (including children) must have a valid passport that won't expire until six months after the completion of your trip. For domestic cruises, we highly recommend every person in your reservation (including children) travel with a valid passport that won't expire until six months after the completion of your trip.

For non-US citizens, we advise consulting with your country’s embassy for specific entry requirements into every country on your itinerary.

For more detailed information, please read our Travel Documentation page.

When traveling to the Caribbean, expect a warm tropical climate with plenty of sunshine and occasional rain, especially during the wet season from June to November. Pack light, breathable clothing and a rain jacket to stay comfortable and be prepared for weather changes.

Below is a checklist to help you pack for your exceptional travel experience. Remember that your luggage will be delivered to your cabin at an unspecified time on the day of departure. We suggest packing a change of clothes, toiletries and any medications you need in your carry-on bag.

 

Packing Checklist

  • Casual clothes including pants, jeans, shorts, T-shirts, collared shirts or blouses
  • Lightweight sweater or jacket
  • Semiformal clothes or dress clothes for one to two evenings, depending on the length of your cruise
  • Bathing suit and a cover-up or wrap
  • Raincoat or compact umbrella
  • Comfortable walking shoes or sandals with rubber soles
  • Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Toiletries in a sealed, clear bag inside your luggage
  • Minor first-aid care items such as Band-Aids, aspirin, hand sanitizer, etc.
  • Medications in their original containers
  • Hair care appliances (see information in the next FAQ section)
  • Small bag or backpack for port days that is large enough to carry your camera and other personal items
  • Passport with separate photocopy (see below for more information)

 

Dining Dress Code

On a typical seven-day cruise, you’ll have two nights of dressing up for dinner or other special events. We suggest a semiformal skirt and blouse or dress for women and a suit for men. The remaining dinners on the cruise are informal—blouse and pants for women and collared shirts and trousers for men. Remember that T-shirts, shorts and tank tops are prohibited in the dining room.

 

Packing Tips

Make certain your suitcase closes and fastens securely. Mark your luggage and carry-on bag with your name and address so you can distinguish them easily. We also recommend you put identification information—name, address and phone number—INSIDE your luggage in case the luggage tags are lost in transit.

Do not pack your passport or travel documents in your luggage. In case your passport is lost, we suggest keeping a color copy of the information page inside your luggage.

For more information, please call one of our Reservation Coordinators at 800 247 1899, Monday through Friday between 8:30am – 5:30pm, Pacific Time.

We know how nice it is to have the convenience of home when traveling on a cruise. Bringing your electronics and hair appliances can enhance your overall travel experience. Every cruise ship has plugs that accept U.S. and continental European devices, and you do not need to bring plug adaptors. Here are some things to know about your electronics before you pack them.

 

Phones, Laptops, Cameras & Video Cameras

Most small digital devices have chargers that will fit in the plugs on a cruise ship. Because there are limited plugs in each cabin, you may want to bring a multiplug extension cord.

 

Blow-Dryers, Curling Irons & Straighteners

Each stateroom has a hair dryer for your personal convenience. If you prefer your own hair appliances, you may want to consider purchasing or borrowing compact and travel-friendly appliances.

For more information, please call one of our Reservation Coordinators at 800 247 1899, Monday through Friday between 8:30am – 5:00pm, Pacific Time.

Today’s technology allows you to stay connected while traveling—ensuring you get that memorable photo or message from your loved ones. On most ships, you should be able to use your cell phone or smartphone to do everything you’re used to doing at home. In addition, mobile phones provide convenient access for emergencies and confirming travel plans. Some basic guidelines and tips will help you save money, keep your phone working effectively and stay in touch.

 

Before You Leave

Contacting your cell phone carrier before your trip will help ensure you can call friends and family back home and eliminate any surprises on your phone bill when you return. Let your phone carrier know your travel plans including how you plan to use your phone on your cruise. You’ll want to make sure you understand all the potential charges. Contact your carrier for specific information.

 

Check with Your Carrier for International Dialing Access

You will want to ensure international and cruise package dialing is active on your mobile phone plan so you can use it in Caribbean ports. Remember that international and maritime roaming rates will apply to calls placed on the ship and charges will appear on your phone bill. Because roaming rates can be high on cruises, checking with your carrier for specific cost details before you leave is a good idea.

 

Aboard Your Flight and Cruise

Your cell phone’s battery life is the key to keeping you connected. Below are some tips for staying powered up on your trip:

  • Remember to set your phone to airplane mode when you board your flight. You can also do this aboard the cruise when sailing to avoid roaming charges unless you have purchased the cruise ship package with your carrier. This suspends all calling and texting functions but allows you to play games, use your camera, listen to music, etc.
  • On the cruise, you’ll want to charge your phone every night to ensure enough battery life for the next day.
  • Try to turn off your phone when you’re not using it. Leaving your phone on all day drains the battery, so it’s a good idea to turn it off while you’re attending a shore excursion, dining or reading.

 

Time

To ensure your phone clock is always set at the correct time, set your time and date settings to manual and choose the departure port city. You will want to do this before setting sail. The cruise director will let all passengers know when the time changes during the cruise; at that point, you will need to select the next port city to change the time. If you leave the time and date on the automatic setting, you will notice the time will change randomly, which might not align with the time aboard your ship.

 

Smartphone Tips

As one of the most popular communication devices today, smartphones have revolutionized how we connect with the world. We know leaving your smartphone behind for an hour, much less multiple days, is difficult. The following tips will help you save your phone’s battery life and get the most out of your smartphone while on the cruise:

  • Before your cruise, disable any applications that give you regular updates, such as sports reports and weather updates.
  • Disable the Data Enabled or Data Roaming option on your phone and keep it off until you reach your destination.
  • Turn off the function for automatic email checking and change the email settings to manual to reduce data roaming charges. During your trip, you can check for email messages when connected to a free, wireless internet connection, such as in a hotel lobby or internet cafe while in port.

 

In-Room Phones and Phone Cards

If you choose not to bring your mobile phone, you can stay in touch with others using your hotel’s in-room phone. Be sure to understand all the associated charges before you place a call, as the rates can be expensive.

You may also wish to purchase a phone card or download a free messaging app, such as WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger, to stay in touch with friends and family. When purchasing a phone card, make sure the card specifically indicates that calls can be made from an international location. If unspecified, international phone cards only enable you to call international locations from your home country.

For more information, please call one of our Reservation Coordinators at 800 247 1899, Monday through Friday between 8:30am – 5:00pm, Pacific Time.

Because shore excursions have limited capacity and fill up quickly, we recommend booking early for the best selection on your cruise. Once you’ve booked your Inspiration cruise, check out the customized cruise line excursion list based on your itinerary. Using your cruise booking number on your invoice under passenger details, you can easily book shore excursions online as early as six months before your trip and up to three days before departure, depending on the cruise line.

Visit the cruise line’s website to find information on specific excursions:

You may also register for your shore excursions once onboard the ship. All shore excursion requests are processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Waitlisted requests for sold-out shore excursions will be processed before requests are made onboard.

For more information please call one of our Reservation Coordinators at 800 247 1899, Monday through Friday between 8:30am – 5:00pm, Pacific Time.

Transfers

We want to help make your trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible. We can book motorcoach transfers from the airport to your cruise departure port and on your return trip.

 

Hotel Stays

Remember that you always have the option of arriving earlier or staying later. Hotel reservations may be available if you want to arrive a few days early before boarding your cruise or stay a few days after the cruise returns.

For more information please call one of our Reservation Coordinators at 800 247 1899, Monday through Friday between 8:30am – 5:00pm, Pacific Time.

As you plan for your upcoming Christian cruise with Inspiration, you may wonder about using money and credit cards during your travels. We’ve made the following recommendations to help you save money and avoid unnecessary fees so you can focus on an exceptional travel experience.

  • Consider leaving all unnecessary credit cards at home.
  • Once you determine which cards you’ll bring, remember to notify each credit card company of your intended travel dates and locations to ensure fraud alerts and holds are not placed on your accounts.
  • For each card, you should store the bank’s contact information in a separate, secure location in the unlikely event your wallet or purse is lost or stolen.

Almost all Caribbean destinations accept U.S. credit or debit cards. If you plan to use your credit cards, you’ll want to check with each credit card company to determine the international exchange fee for each card. Because the difference of a few percentage points could cost you more (depending on your purchases), we recommend using cards with lower international exchange fees. Using your credit card for large purchases gives you more protection for the items you buy on your trip, and you can review your credit card statement to verify all your purchases.

While the official currency varies by island, U.S. dollars are widely accepted throughout the region. When paying in U.S. dollars, expect to receive change in the local currency, so bringing small bills is helpful. While most cruise lines offer money exchange services onboard, please note that NCL does not. We recommend checking the exchange rate before traveling to a foreign country.

For more information please call one of our Reservation Coordinators at 800 247 1899, Monday through Friday between 8:30am – 5:00pm, Pacific Time.

Your cruise vacation allows you to explore multiple locations without the hassle of checking in and out of hotels, packing and unpacking, and spending valuable time trying to find quality restaurants—all with excellent service dedicated to enhancing your exceptional travel experience.

Each cruise line makes rewarding the excellent service you’ll receive onboard easy. A gratuity of $16-$25 per day (depending on the cruise line and cabin category), per guest for dining and stateroom services will be automatically added daily to your shipboard account. In addition, the cruise line will automatically add an 18%-20% service charge for beverages and spa and salon services purchased through your onboard account. Before the end of the cruise, the cruise director will address more specific questions regarding tipping procedures.

If you take a taxi to the pier, it’s common to round up to the next dollar when paying your tab. The cab drivers appreciate this, as it is considered part of their income.

When you arrive at the ship on embarkation day, we suggest tipping the porters at the pier $1.25 per bag when they take your luggage to place it on the ship.

When visiting restaurants off the ship and during shore excursions, a 20% tip for restaurant service workers is appreciated.

For more information please call one of our Reservation Coordinators at 800 247 1899, Monday through Friday between 8:30am – 5:00pm, Pacific Time.

Depending on your itinerary, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore the cities, beaches and attractions of each island on your route. Most ports will have shopping districts within an easily walkable distance from the cruise ship.

You’ll also want to spend time in the sun since the Caribbean is home to some of the best beaches in the world. Other adventurous activities, from snorkeling to rainforest zip lining, are available at many ports. Here are a few articles with the top experiences we recommend:

For more information please call one of our Reservation Coordinators at 800 247 1899, Monday through Friday between 8:30am – 5:00pm, Pacific Time.

Articles on how to pack and prepare for your cruise:

 

Articles with cruising advice:

We hope these suggestions and tips help answer your questions! If you have any other inquiries, please don’t hesitate to call our Reservation Coordinators at 800 247 1899 Monday through Friday, 8:30am – 5:00pm Pacific Time.

WE CREATE EXCEPTIONAL TRAVEL EXPERIENCES

 
CALL US to book your trip of a lifetime!

 

855 442 1525

Guest Reviews

“This was one of the greatest times I had, cruising this beautiful region on a cruise with like-minded people.”

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Billy C.

Detroit, MI

“We've been on many cruises, but this one was by far the best ever. It was the music that drew us. And you could feel the Spirit when they were up on stage. An exceptional time!”

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Gloria & Hubert N.

Tampa, FL

“If I had a chance to do this cruise all over again, I MOST definitely would. Inspiration, you did a wonderful job coordinating this event.”

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Jody W.

Chicago, IL

Traveler Experiences