Michael W. Smith and Friends

Every so often, companies charter a cruise ship for a week. These companies buy out the entire ship and often provide most of their own activities and entertainment, then they market and sell the cruise. In July the Maasdam was chartered by Inspiration Charters, a company which organizes Christian cruises, for the "Michael W. Smith and Friends." The week was basically a music festival at sea headlined by Michael W. Smith, a well known Christian singer/songwriter.

Throughout the week, I had the opportunity to attend some of the events: speakers, comedians, concerts, etc. I was able to see Michael W. Smith, Sean Hannity of talk radio (I didn’t stick around for long so I don’t know if he got into politics, I just heard him talking about his faith), Scott McIntyre of American Idol fame, and a Cajun band called L’Angelus, among others. All of the performers, along with their “people” (managers, etc) were really friendly and kind. A group of us were talking to Michael W. Smith’s, Chad (I think, but the name isn’t really relevant) manager when my friend Rebecca mentioned that her contract was ending and she was heading home to Salt Lake City for a month. Chaz mentioned that MWS had a show scheduled in Salt Lake while she was home. Rebecca said, “Oh, my sister loves his music. As soon as I get home I’ll have to see if we can get tickets.” Without hesitation, Chad wrote his email address on a slip of a paper and told her not to be silly, that he would be more than happy to have some tickets waiting for her if she would just send him an email to remind him. I was impressed; he didn’t have to do that.

As a special thank-you to all the crew, MSW held a CD signing/ Meet & Greet for crew only. Of course my camera died the meant my friend went to snap a picture of me, so she took the picture on her camera and I still need to get it from her so I will post it later.

On the last night, I was hanging out with several crew members on an inconspicuous back deck when some of the performers happened upon us and ended up hanging out with us for the remainder of the evening. Scott McIntyre and his wife were very sweet people and Johnny, from L’Angelus, kept us laughing (again, pictures to when I get my memory card back from my roommate).

Not everyone enjoys working charters and, although it was a great cruise, I can understand how some charters might be a bit difficult. I can’t speak for every charter company, but I would be more than happy to work another Inspiration cruise.