The electronic music cruise scene is about to lose one of its most beloved experiences. Friendship has unveiled the opening roster of talent for its swan song journey, “The Final Transmission,” setting sail January 18-22, 2026.
A Bittersweet Announcement
For years, the dance music community has cherished Friendship as more than just another festival cruise. It’s been a tight-knit floating sanctuary where electronic music enthusiasts create lasting bonds on the open water. Founded by industry veteran Gary Richards (known to fans as Destructo), the event has carved out its own identity through carefully selected lineups and an emphasis on community over commercialism.
The designation of this upcoming voyage as “The Final Transmission” has struck an emotional chord with the dedicated “Shipfam” who have sailed these waters before. What began as Richards’ answer to Holy Ship! after his departure from HARD Events has evolved into something uniquely special in the festival cruise landscape.
FRIENDSHIP 2025 (Official After Movie) + 2026 Announcement
The Journey Details
Setting sail from Miami aboard the Norwegian Joy, passengers will venture to Great Stirrup Caye in the Bahamas for a four-night experience. The destination offers an exclusive private island setting where the celebration extends beyond the ship’s confines.
Musical Heavyweights On Deck
The initial artist announcement showcases Friendship’s commitment to diverse, quality programming. Leading the charge are electronic music stalwarts including:
Boys Noize and Polo & Pan bring their distinctive European flair, while Bob Moses delivers their signature live electronic experience. House music fans will appreciate Justin Martin’s inclusion, and bass enthusiasts have Stylust to look forward to.
The deeper roster reveals carefully selected talent spanning multiple genres. Doorly, Gaslamp Killer, and Ardalan represent the underground sounds, while Marques Wyatt and Mz Worthy add their own unique flavor. Mary Droppinz, Mikey Lion, Sam Binga, and LYNY round out a lineup that refuses to be pigeonholed into any single style.
Veterans Craze and Mr Koolaid bring decades of experience to the decks. At the center of it all stands Richards himself, who will perform under both his government name and his Destructo moniker—a fitting farewell from the cruise’s architect.
Beyond the Beats
The Friendship experience extends well beyond DJ sets and dance floors. Previous editions have featured artist-hosted activities and distinctive entertainment programming that separates it from typical music cruises. The legendary burlesque performer Dita Von Teese has graced previous sailings with her “Ship Teese” production, and similar special programming is expected for this final journey.
A Poignant Farewell Message (Friendship Cruise Website)
The Friendship team shared their thoughts on this concluding chapter:
“Each voyage has delivered something extraordinary—not merely through the soundtrack, but through the way this community transforms when surrounded by ocean. Year after year, we’ve transformed this vessel into our personal paradise on the waves… a space where time becomes fluid, connections are forged and sometimes broken, and the extraordinary becomes reality each time. The Final Transmission isn’t an ending; it’s a frequency, a rhythm, an opportunity to unite once more before we drift toward the cosmos with our extraterrestrial companions and discover where destiny guides us next.”
Booking Information
Various cabin configurations remain available for those eager to experience Friendship one last time. Interested passengers can visit the official Friendship website for comprehensive information about accommodations, pricing tiers, and booking procedures.
Additional artists and programming details will be announced in the coming weeks as the event draws closer.
