As a travel writer for Dunhill Vacations, I get to write about some real far out places. As exciting as some exotic escape to Asia or a brand new all inclusive resort in the Dominican Republic, my favorite type of travel has always been cruising. I enjoy the thought of being on a small city in the middle of the ocean. I enjoy the sounds of the surf and the smell of the warm salty air.

I was introduced to the wonderful world of jazz a little over 4 years ago on holiday up in St. Augustine, FL I stumbled upon a winery overlooking the oldest city in the US, listening to some Jazz. That moment has never left me and neither has my love of Jazz.

As a huge fan of Dave Koz, you can imagine my excitement when I found out about the 4th annual Dave Koz and Friends At Sea cruise. I completely dropped the ball about reporting this last year, but I'm back on the good foot. Dave Koz has been the first acts that I have ever seen perform live; and it was worth it. The way he manipulates the sax into 'saying' exactly what he wants it to say is mind blowing! I spoke via the internet with a fellow fan that had gone two years ago on Dave's cruise and he said that it was fabulous.

Some of Dave's friends will include Eric Benet, George Duke, Najee (another one of my personal favorites), Brian Simpson and other Grammy Award winning artists. They will be getting the party started while making stops in Grand Turk, St. Thomas, St. Barth's and Half Moon Cay.

If you can't make this one, there is also the great Marcus Miller hosting the first ever Playboy Jazz Cruise. From the early days of the groundbreaking “Playboy After Dark” television show to the annual jazz poll in the magazine to the now 30 year old Playboy Jazz Festival, no one has done jazz better than Playboy. Join host Marcus Miller and our very special artists for the inaugural sailing of the Playboy Jazz Cruise filled with some of the best contemporary jazz musicians. The line up for this cruise is every bit a whose who is the world of jazz. Herbie Hancock, Dianne Reeves, Keb' Mo' are just a small few of the talent boarding this ship. This Playboy Jazz Cruise will be the first of many festivals at sea. Ports of call for the Playboy Jazz Cruise include San Juan, Nevis, St. Barths and Hal Moon Cay.

Both cruises will be aboard Holland America. Cruise with award winning, record breaking jazz musicians in the world today, and don't forget to bring you favorite wine glass.

Now, if you read this and can't make these cruises, I recommend surfing www.dunhillvacations.com for tons of travel deals. It is the independent portal I work for where we search for best deals available every week, post them and write about them.