A popular, annual cruise and concert outgrew the boat this year.
Sunday’s seventh annual Cruise and Concert with Craig Cardiff on the Island Princess sold out, so organizers made a last-minute plan for fans of the prolific singer-songwriter.
Not long after Cardiff got off the boat, he was back at the mic at the Hog N’ Penny.
There was talk about taking a break from the cruise for a year, but when people started asking early about tickets, the show was back on and, eventually, the additional gig was arranged.
“I feel really lucky when this happens — to be able to play for more people,” Cardiff said before starting his set at the downtown pub.
He plays various venues, but “boat cruises are unique,” he said.
“I love the tour that the captain gives, and the whole team is so professional and welcoming.”
So was the audience, said Cardiff, who was inspired by a 94-year-old passenger who danced throughout his set on the boat and got others to join in.
“It was pretty lovely,” he said.
He didn’t perform the same set at the pub. Those who attended that show got to hear a lot of new material.
“The summer’s been mainly about writing,” Cardiff said, “and it’s great to be able to play the songs for people.”
Every two weeks, starting Sept. 20, he will release new singles from different projects he’s working on. Keep up with Cardiff by visiting his website.
Derick Lehmann, who organizes the concert and cruise every year, said 150 people boarded the Island Princess for Sunday’s event.
It was the first time a second performance was added.
“We threw that together for those who couldn’t get on the ship to see him,” he said. “It’s great because we have a crowd that follows Craig.”
Asked why he felt the annual event is such a success, Lehmann said, “Music on a ship is just awesome.”
“The ship itself is a great tourist attraction, but once you add music, people just love it.”
