Keter Betts was the “Mayor” of The Jazz Cruise, for he presided over all of our “business” and was our worldwide representative and flag bearer. His talent, humanity and kindness set a tone for The Jazz Cruise that lives today and will always be the benchmark for all performers and for all future cruises.

Ray Evans - Songwriter and Elegant Passenger

The Jazz Cruise has been blessed with the company of Ray Evans. Recognized around the world for his enormous contribution to music, it is an honor to have Ray onboard. As each of us continues to experience life, we should look upon Ray’s charm and elegance as the standard for our conduct.

From the onset of The Jazz Cruise, Joe Williams was an inspiration and advisor in every aspect of the cruise. His support helped to establish the cruise as a meaningful venue for other performers and we cherish the many years that his widow, Jillian, has graced our ship with her presence.

Support for The Jazz Cruise comes from various sources, but none more than the support provided by Connie Williams. A tireless worker, who is responsible for more guests being a part of our family than anyone else, Connie is also someone who The Jazz Cruise turns to for advice on new programs and guest relation matters.

If there is one Jazz Artist who symbolizes and epitomizes The Jazz Cruise, it is our great friend Eddie Higgins.

Arguably the most popular musician to perform over the years and a dear friend to The Jazz Cruise.

Besides being a great vocalist and stylist, she has directed and guided the talent line-ups for The Jazz Cruise for all these years.

America’s Greatest Living Jazz Trumpet Player and one of the first supporters of The Jazz Cruise.

As the world ambassador of the Lindy Hop, everyone on The Jazz Cruise knew who he was, but we will never forget the fun and spirit he contributed when he actually led us in dance. He has danced into our hearts and now he will do so into the Hall Of Fame.

A brilliant and talented musician, his wit and charm has always taught us that humor and serious talent can go hand in hand. For making The Jazz Cruise so much fun, we recognize Jay for all that he has done for the cruise.

As the founder of Jazz Times, Ira has been a pioneer of jazz journalism and a torch bearer for “straight ahead” jazz for decades. His legacy will live on not only in the literary world of jazz, but on The Jazz Cruise as well.

Brenda McDowell

To travel as far and as she does each year to join us would be cause enough to honor her, but her grace and elegance has adorned The Jazz Cruise for so many years that we must honor this wonderful woman. We politely bow to all that she has accomplished.