The 2026 edition of 70000 Tons of Metal, the world’s largest heavy metal cruise, will sail from Miami, Florida, to Nassau, Bahamas, from January 29 to February 2, 2026, aboard Royal Caribbean’s Freedom of the Seas. Originally set to return to Labadee, Haiti, the organizers, led by festival founder Andy Piller, rerouted the journey due to ongoing safety concerns in Haiti, including political instability and gang violence following the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse. Piller emphasized, “Ensuring the safety and comfort of our Survivors is non-negotiable. With that in mind, we’ve made the proactive decision to change course for 2026.”
Nassau offers a vibrant alternative with Bahamian culture, historic charm, and ties to metal history—Iron Maiden recorded albums like Piece of Mind and Powerslave at Compass Point Studios. The cruise retains its signature experience: four days, 60 bands, four stages (including the iconic Pool Deck Stage), artist-hosted activities, the All-Star Jam, and unparalleled fan access. Booking for Silver Survivors begins July 14, 2025, at 12:00 PM EDT via 70000tons.com.
The initial lineup includes 28 of 60 bands: Amorphis, Beast in Black, Dark Tranquillity, Dødheimsgard, Eluveitie, Ereb Altor, Firewind, Gama Bomb, Groza, Haggard, Harakiri for the Sky, Heathen, Hiraes, Hirax, Hour of Penance, Insomnium, Kamelot, Orden Ogan, Persefone, Rhapsody of Fire, Satan, Saturnus, Seven Spires, Skeletal Remains, Týr, Vio-Lence, Wind Rose, and Xandria.