70000 Tons of Metal, billed as "The Original, The World's Biggest Heavy Metal Cruise," has officially unveiled the first 14 bands confirmed for its 2027 edition while also announcing a special appearance by legendary guitarist Uli Jon Roth, who will perform a tribute celebrating two landmark Scorpions albums.
The first wave of confirmed artists includes:
- Æther Realm
- Arch Enemy
- Brainstorm
- Die Apokalyptischen Reiter
- Enforcer
- Evergrey
- Equilibrium
- Melechesh
- Moonspell
- Mors Principium Est
- Dark
- Thulcandra
- Uli Jon Roth
- Warbringer
Organizers also confirmed that 46 additional bands will be announced in the coming weeks, completing the cruise's traditional lineup of 60 metal acts from around the world.
One of the highlights of the announcement is the participation of Uli Jon Roth, whose five-decade career includes his pioneering years with Scorpions and his influential role in shaping the neoclassical metal genre.
During his two exclusive performances aboard the ship, Roth will celebrate the 50th anniversaries of two iconic Scorpions releases. His first set will feature Virgin Killer (1976) performed in its entirety, while the second will focus primarily on In Trance (1975).
Andy Piller, CEO, founder, and "Skipper" of 70000 Tons of Metal, said:
"As part of his two sets on 70000TONS OF METAL, Uli will be paying tribute to two iconic SCORPIONS albums, both celebrating their 50th anniversary. In his first set, Uli will perform 'Virgin Killer' in its entirety. In his second performance, he'll heavily focus on 'In Trance'. We're delighted he's joining the party next year!"
Beyond his work with Scorpions, Uli Jon Roth is widely recognized for revolutionizing guitar playing by combining blues-based rock with European classical influences. He also founded Sky Academy, an educational initiative offering immersive masterclasses designed to help musicians develop their creative potential.
70000 Tons of Metal 2027 will sail from Miami, Florida, to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, and back aboard Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas from January 14–18, 2027.
As in previous editions, guests will enjoy 24-hour live music, artist-hosted activities, exclusive meet-and-greets, and performances across four stages, including the famous Pool Deck Stage, promoted as the world's largest open-air stage structure ever to sail the seas.
Only 3,000 tickets will be available, continuing the event's tradition of bringing together metal fans from around the globe in what organizers proudly call the "United Nations of Heavy Metal at Sea."
Additional lineup announcements and special event details for 70000 Tons of Metal 2027 will be revealed in the coming weeks.
