The iconography and beauty of the Black Dog tall ships Shenandoah and Alabama might be familiar sights in the Vineyard Haven Harbor. Alabama’s sunset cruises, a recent addition to the boat’s busy summer calendar, however, is not. The Alabama boasts a rich history, deep Island roots, and distinguished sails that dazzle the surrounding sea.
For four nights this weekend, the ship will also host a series of concerts with Grammy-award winning singer John Cruz. For three hours, guests are invited and encouraged to bring food and wine while enjoying a sail around the harbor to the tunes of John Cruz’s soulful voice. The Hawaiian singer/song-writer is internationally recognized for his bluesy style, a consummate match with the evening’s sail. The concerts continue this year for the second time, after their successful debut last season.
“The concert cruises that began last year were really the highlight of all the day sails,” says Alabama’s captain Morgan Douglas, adding that they have since become a standard facet of the summer.
The four-night John Cruz concert series begins Thursday, August 5, from 5 to 8 pm. Tickets are $100 and can be purchased by contacting the Black Dog.
The concert series will continue on Sundays for the rest of the year, featuring artists such as Mike Benjamin, Johnny Hoy and the Bluefish, and Christopher Robin.
