BY MARY ANDONIAN
Under clear skies and with great excitement, the Armenian Heritage Cruise set sail, departing from Miami aboard the magnificent MSC World America for a memorable seven-day Caribbean voyage on January 10. Armenians from across the United States and around the world came together once again to celebrate culture, heritage and community at sea.
From the moment guests arrived, the AHC committee warmly welcomed participants, ensuring a smooth embarkation and setting the tone for a meaningful and well-organized week. The sense of unity and anticipation was felt immediately as familiar faces reunited and new friendships were formed.
As the ship sailed through the Caribbean, guests enjoyed an enriching cruise experience paired with world-class amenities aboard MSC’s newest flagship. The itinerary featured exciting ports of call, including Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, MSC Cruises’ breathtaking private island in the Bahamas.
The festivities began with a lively welcome event, where guests gathered alongside committee members and the week’s energetic and outstanding performers to officially launch another unforgettable Armenian Heritage Cruise. The atmosphere was electric as everyone anticipated the night’s entertainment and caught up with old and new friends.
The evening opened with a touching and meaningful moment as Nairi Kaprielian began the night with beautiful Armenian hymns and a heartfelt song dedicated to Artsakh, performed with Eminence Archbishop Anoushavan Tanielian, who offered prayers and warm wishes for a safe and memorable voyage for all on board.
The AHC chairman Steve Mesrobian then warmly welcomed everyone and shared highlights of the exciting activities and cultural programs planned throughout the week.
This year’s outstanding entertainment lineup featured the talented Andre Hovnanyan, Gohar Hovanesyan and Hagop Ghassabian, along with New Jersey’s vibrant Hamazkayin Nayiri Dance Ensemble and our fabulous house band Hye Kami.
These artists gave beautiful musical performances accompanied by the band, creating a warm and joyful ambiance. Before long, guests were drawn to the dance floor, and the celebration came alive as music, laughter and dancing filled the room — an energetic beginning to an extraordinary week at sea.
The first day at sea began with a morning prayer service led by Archbishop Anoushavan, offering a meaningful and spiritual start to the day for guests on board.
At the same time, the open deck was filled with energy as participants joined a Hye Fitness class led by Maria Derian, enjoying exercise and fresh ocean air.
As midday approached, guests had the privilege of attending the screening of the restored silent film “The Melody of Armenia,” presented by the Armenian Cultural Association of America and introduced by Ani Tchaghlasian. The film, discovered by director of the ARF Archives George Aghjayan, who spearheaded the restoration process, was warmly received by the audience. discussed the film’s importance and the creation of its incredible soundtrack with his friend, composer Martin Ulikhanyan.
In the afternoon, activities continued with lively dance lessons led by Margo Kaftanjian. For the first time, Barkev Sanoyan joined the program, helping guests learn traditional steps from the repertoire of the Hamazkayin Nayiri Dance Ensemble production, much to the delight of participants.
After dinner, the evening continued with “Dancing Under the Stars,” where guests enjoyed lively music and dancing with Hagop Ghassabian under the beautiful Caribbean sky.
Our first port of call was Puerto Plata, where guests gathered for a wonderful beach party featuring music by DJ Barkev Sanoyan. Dancing, delicious local food and the warm Caribbean sun created a festive island atmosphere. Several of the resort staff eagerly joined in to dance on the beach with AHC guests.
Later that evening, Andre Hovnanyan took the stage at the World Theater, capntivating the audience with his magnificent voice and memorable performance.
The next port of call was San Juan, where guests enjoyed a full day exploring the historic city and experiencing the warm hospitality of the Puerto Rican people.
That evening’s program featured the musical stylings of Gohar Hovanesyan accompanied by the lively Hye Kami musicians. Guests danced the night away, celebrating together with family, longtime friends and many new friendships formed during the cruise.
We were joined on this year’s AHC Cruise by acclaimed filmmaker Jivan Avetisyan. His award winning film Gate to Heaven was screened for our AHC guests, and Avetisyan graciously spoke with and answered questions from attendees, all of whom were eager to meet the filmmaker.
In the afternoon while at sea, activities continued with lively belote and tavlou (backgammon) tournaments, along with dance lessons for guests eager to learn new steps.
Others took the opportunity to enjoy the magnificent ship relaxing on the sun deck, visiting the spa or simply gathering with friends and making new memories together.
One of the highlights of the 2026 cruise was the inclusion of the Hamazakyin New Jersey Nayiri dance ensemble which provided a burst of youthful energy to every part of the festivities. Their performance Wednesday evening was so well received, and especially poignant were their dances accompanied by Andre Hovnanyan.
The AHC host committee was delighted to host its annual Armenian Relief Society luncheon meet and greet which had almost 200 attendees!
We are hard at work on the 2027 AHC Cruise which will be hosted once again on the MSC World America from January 16 to 23, leaving Miami, Florida with stops in Roatan, Costa Maya, Cozumel, Ocean Cay Bahamas.
Please visit the AHC website and join our mailing list, or visit our Facebook page or Instagram where you will find more information and see some of the fun from previous AHC trips.
The AHC committee looks forward to seeing all of you next year!
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