5 days, 4 crazy nights and 3 stages later, 2,500 revellers return to shore with fists still pumping, spirits still raised, reeling from days of infectious beats dropped by world class DJs such as Dash Berlin, Aly & Fila, Basement Jaxx, Lil Jon, Sasha Grey, SBCR along with many other international and regional acts.
Held aboard the Voyager of The Seas of the Royal Caribbean fleet, “IT’S THE SHIP” proved itself to be more than just a party ship; it brought together music lovers and adventure seekers alike on one of the largest cruise liners in the world, and was action-packed with fun-filled activities such as rock climbing, flowriding, and even cooking experiences and gym sessions with the performing DJs.
Besides providing guests with the opportunity to dance to some of the biggest names in music, the concept of “IT’S THE SHIP” also meant that fans were able to mingle and get close to their favourite acts. Seeing the likes of Dash Berlin, Chvrches or even the legendary Felix Buxton of Basement Jaxx sitting in the dining lounge for lunch with the masses was refreshing and was truly a money can’t buy experience that no other festival can provide.
Each day’s line up was fully loaded with DJs on the decks from 2pm till the wee hours of the morning at different venues across the impressive cruise liner. Be they at the multi-purpose Studio B on the lower deck where the stage floor could be transformed into an ice-skating rink or basketball ground, the main pool deck with indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs, or in the ultra-private Viking Crown lounge on the topmost deck, the party crowd relished it all.
The first night saw EDM veteran Felix Buxton of Basement Jaxx kick the party off on the main pool deck under the blanket of a starlit sky to throngs of happy revellers. His rhythmic dance beats were thoroughly appreciated by the full house of music lovers while a few lucky fans even managed to sneak in a few selfies to boot. Just when revellers thought the music couldn’t get any better, Dash Berlin pulled out unexpected stops during his set and unleashed a selection of yet to be released tracks.
With William Grant & Sons on board as official spirits partner, party-goers got to enjoy an array of spirits including Grant’s single malt Scotch whisky, Hendrick’s Gin, Reyka Vodka, Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum, Milagro Tequila and Monkey Shoulder triple malt blended Scotch whisky. As leading spirit partner, Grant’s hosted numerous fun engagements to further spice up fans’ experiences on the ship. Activities ranged from challenging guests to getting the most outrageous air brushed tattoo to swapping tops with someone of the opposite sex. Grant’s even hosted a bidding contest for one lucky contestant to win an exclusive after-party with 10 of his friends and the ever-seductive Sasha Grey.
As expected, Sasha Grey’s turn on the central stage was one of the main highlights of the festival, as fans danced hard to her up tempo club music and energised beats.
Not satisfied to just be coined a party boat, the Voyager of The Seas docked in Langkawi for a day for a private beach soiree hosted by the festival’s headliner, Lil Jon, who did not disappoint and spared no expense in revving up the crowd with compulsory party anthems such as “Turbulence” and “Turn Down For What”. In fine form, the artist even graced the crowd with a well-received champagne shower.
As the vessel steered made its way towards Singapore’s shores, the last night saw a lavish gala at which guests were pampered with fine dining luxury at the opulent Sapphire dining hall complete with “Psy-style” entertainment. Ensuring the trip ended with a bang, the evening saw a themed private party helmed by none other than Sasha Grey.
Beyond the fancy lights and impressive stages, “IT’S THE SHIP” gave everyone who came on board an experience to remember and most of all, anticipation for a bigger and better festival next year.
On the back of a successful maiden journey, organisers at Livescape Asia announced on the last night of the festival that Future Music Festival Asia 2015 is calling Singapore home on 13th – 14th March and early bird ticket prices are already up on sale until 1st Dec 2014.
For more information, visit Livescape Asia’s Facebook page.
