CENTRIC Presents The Soul Train Cruise w/ Patti LaBelle, Jody Watley & More

CENTRIC Television (a part of BET Networks, a division of Viacom) joins the incredible array of R&B superstars scheduled to set sail on the first-ever Soul Train Cruise as the network is named an official media partner. Home to the Soul Train Awards and the legendary weekly Soul Train series, CENTRIC will helps steer the iconic show in new and exciting destinations including extensive cruise promotions on the network, onboard events and co-branding opportunities. The love, peace and Soul Train travels from the tracks of your memories to the sea your soul on its maiden voyage from Ft. Lauderdale, FL on February 17th, 2013 with intimate concerts and round-the-clock activities featuring Patti LaBelle, The O’Jays, Kool & the Gang, Jeffrey Osborne, War, the Spinners, Jody Watley, Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes, Russell Thompkins, Jr. & The New Stylistics, Cuba Gooding, Sr. and the Main Ingredient, Gerald Alston of The Manhattans, George Duke, comedian Alonzo Bodden and many more will be onboard. Special early reservation rates are now available through April 30th, 2012.

“CENTRIC is the current home for both Soul Train’s past and present and there is no more perfect partner to help us carry the legacy of this amazing brand forward with the new cruise,” said Michael Mitchell, Vice President of Strategic Marketing, Partnerships, Cruises and Live Entertainment for Time Life. “Both companies have worked with Don Cornelius over the years and share a deep sense of loss and tremendous gratitude for all he has done,” he added. “Soul Train was – and continues to be – a weekly party bringing the best in music and entertainment to American homes,” stated Paxton Baker, CENTRIC’s General Manager and Executive Vice President. “We are honored to be a part of this new venture. It is with heavy hearts that we will make this journey without Don Cornelius, but will uphold his legacy through CENTRIC’s programming and continued support of the Soul Train brand.” Plans are currently underway for a very special event during the voyage to honor Don Cornelius. Further details will be released in the coming weeks.

“Don Cornelius was simply a genius and the contributions he made to music and our culture are second to none,” said Soul Train Cruise performer Patti LaBelle, who was a frequent guest on the television show. “I can think of no better way to honor the memory of Don Cornelius and show the impact of the legacy he leaves behind,” added Eddie Levert, who will be performing with The O’Jays, “and we’re going to do him proud.”

After departing Ft. Lauderdale on February 17th, 2013, the ship will travel to Grand Turk, San Juan, St. Thomas and Half Moon Cay before returning on February 24th. Throughout the journey, guests will be treated to concerts, meet and greets with the performers, parties, special events and games as well as world class dining all on the Holland America’s MS Westerdam, an internationally recognized luxury cruise ship with more than two-thirds of the cabins featuring verandas with breathtaking views.

Reservations for cabins on this cruise may be made now by visiting www.soultraincruise.com (toll free) (855) SOUL TRAIN (855-768-5872). Early Reservation cabin rates start at $1,800 per person and include all meals, concerts, entertainment and onboard activities.