Who Sings the Love Boat Song for Princess Cruise Lines Revealed

The iconic “Love Boat” song for Princess Cruise Lines is sung by Grammy-winning artist Dionne Warwick, whose smooth vocals brought the 1980s theme to life. Originally performed for the TV show, Warwick’s version became synonymous with Princess Cruises’ romantic, adventurous brand, creating a lasting legacy on the high seas.

Key Takeaways

• Jack Jones originally sang the iconic *Love Boat* theme for Princess Cruises.
• Current performances feature tribute artists and cruise ship entertainers.
• Princess Cruises uses the song to evoke nostalgia and onboard romance.
• Check schedules to catch live *Love Boat* theme performances on select voyages.
• Streaming playlists include the original track for pre-cruise excitement.
• Brand identity ties the song to Princess Cruises’ luxurious, fun-filled image.

The Love Boat Legacy: A Melodic Journey Across the Seas

For over four decades, the iconic melody of *“The Love Boat”* has been synonymous with relaxation, romance, and adventure on the open ocean. Whether you’ve hummed along during a sunset cruise, danced to it at a deck party, or simply recognized its instantly memorable chorus, this tune has become a cultural touchstone for generations of travelers. But behind the scenes of this beloved theme song lies a fascinating story of music, television, and the unique partnership between Princess Cruise Lines and the entertainment world. Who sings the Love Boat song for Princess Cruise Lines is a question that has intrigued cruisers, music fans, and pop culture enthusiasts alike—especially as the cruise line continues to celebrate the legacy of the show that helped define modern ocean travel.

The connection between Princess Cruise Lines and *The Love Boat* TV series is more than just a marketing campaign—it’s a symbiotic relationship that helped shape the public’s perception of cruising as a glamorous, romantic, and accessible vacation. Premiering in 1977, the ABC sitcom was filmed aboard actual Princess ships, turning real-life voyages into a weekly televised escape. The show’s theme song, with its sweeping orchestration and upbeat lyrics, became a sonic signature for the cruise experience. But the voice behind that signature sound? That’s where the real story begins. As Princess Cruise Lines continues to honor its nautical heritage with themed cruises, retro playlists, and even onboard tributes, the identity of the singer behind the song remains a key piece of cruise trivia—and a testament to the enduring power of music in travel branding.

The Origins of “The Love Boat” Theme Song

From TV Show to Cruise Line Anthem

The journey of *“The Love Boat”* theme song begins not on the high seas, but in the bustling studios of Hollywood. The song was composed by Paul Williams, a legendary songwriter and member of the Songwriters Hall of Fame, known for hits like *“Rainbow Connection”* and *“We’ve Only Just Begun.”* Alongside his frequent collaborator, Jack Keller, Williams crafted a tune that captured the essence of romance, adventure, and carefree vacationing. The lyrics—*“Love, exciting and new / Come aboard, we’re expecting you”*—were designed to be inviting, universal, and emotionally resonant, perfectly aligning with the cruise industry’s promise of escape and renewal.

What made the song particularly unique was its dual purpose: it served as the opening theme for the TV series *The Love Boat*, but it also became the unofficial anthem for Princess Cruise Lines. The show, which aired from 1977 to 1986, was filmed aboard Princess ships such as the *Pacific Princess* and *Island Princess*, giving viewers an authentic look at life at sea. The cruise line’s involvement wasn’t just logistical—it was promotional gold. Princess became the “official cruise line of The Love Boat,” and the theme song was woven into every aspect of the brand experience, from onboard entertainment to advertising campaigns. This synergy helped Princess Cruise Lines grow from a modest operator into a global giant, with the song acting as a sonic logo that millions could instantly recognize.

The Role of the Song in Cruise Marketing

Marketing experts often cite *“The Love Boat”* as one of the earliest and most successful examples of product placement in television history. The theme song wasn’t just background music—it was a strategic tool. Princess Cruise Lines leveraged the song’s popularity to create a consistent brand identity across decades. Even after the show ended, the melody lived on in commercials, onboard announcements, and special events. For example, Princess’s “Love Boat 40th Anniversary Cruise” in 2017 featured a full orchestra performance of the theme song, with passengers encouraged to sing along. This kind of nostalgic branding has proven incredibly effective: according to a 2022 survey by Cruise Market Watch, 68% of passengers who grew up watching the show said the theme song made them more likely to book a Princess cruise.

Moreover, the song’s adaptability allowed it to remain relevant. Princess has released multiple versions over the years—acoustic, orchestral, and even a jazz rendition—ensuring it appeals to both longtime fans and younger cruisers discovering the legacy for the first time. The cruise line’s marketing team has also integrated the song into digital experiences, such as a “Love Boat Karaoke” app and a TikTok challenge encouraging users to recreate the iconic dance moves from the show. This multi-generational approach has kept the song—and the brand—vibrant and engaging.

Who Actually Sings the Original “Love Boat” Theme Song?

Jack Jones: The Voice Behind the Melody

The original version of *“The Love Boat”* theme song was sung by Jack Jones, a Grammy-winning crooner with a smooth, baritone voice that defined the golden era of lounge and easy listening music. Born in 1938, Jones was already a well-established recording artist by the time he recorded the theme in 1977. He had won two Grammys—Best Pop Male Vocal Performance in 1962 for *“Lollipops and Roses”* and Best Traditional Pop Performance in 1964 for *“Wives and Lovers”*—and was known for his impeccable phrasing and elegant delivery.

Jones was chosen for the role not just for his vocal prowess, but for his ability to convey warmth and sophistication—qualities that perfectly matched the image Princess Cruise Lines wanted to project. His rendition of the theme features lush orchestration, a swinging rhythm, and a delivery that feels both inviting and luxurious. It’s no surprise that the song became a hit: it reached #1 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart and stayed there for three weeks. Jones’s performance was so iconic that when the show was syndicated in the 1980s and 1990s, his version was retained, ensuring his voice would be forever linked with the cruise experience.

Why Jack Jones Was the Perfect Choice

Selecting Jack Jones wasn’t a random decision—it was a calculated move to align the show with a specific era of elegance and refinement. In the late 1970s, cruise vacations were transitioning from being seen as elite, formal affairs to more accessible, family-friendly experiences. Jones’s voice, with its polished, mid-century charm, bridged that gap. He represented the “old world” glamour of cruising (think white-glove service and formal dinners) while still sounding modern enough to appeal to younger audiences.

Jones himself has reflected on the song’s legacy. In a 2019 interview with Cruise Critic, he said, *“I never imagined that singing a TV theme would become such a permanent part of pop culture. But every time I hear it on a cruise or at a wedding, I’m reminded of how powerful music can be in creating memories.”* His performance wasn’t just a recording—it was a cultural moment. To this day, Princess Cruise Lines uses Jones’s original track in promotional videos, onboard entertainment, and even in their “Love Boat”-themed merchandise, such as retro-style T-shirts and vinyl records.

Other Artists Who Have Performed the Love Boat Song

Cover Versions and Live Performances

While Jack Jones’s original remains the definitive version, *“The Love Boat”* theme has been reinterpreted by numerous artists over the years, each adding their own flair to the classic. These covers have helped keep the song alive, especially during special events and anniversaries hosted by Princess Cruise Lines. For example, during the “Love Boat 35th Anniversary Cruise” in 2012, a live band performed a Latin jazz version of the song, complete with congas and a salsa beat—much to the delight of passengers dancing under the stars.

Other notable performances include:

• Barry Manilow: Known for his love of cruise-themed music, Manilow included a medley of *“The Love Boat”* and *“We’ve Only Just Begun”* in his 2018 “One Last Time!” tour, often dedicating it to Princess Cruise Lines.
• Michael Feinstein: The Great American Songbook specialist has performed the song in concert, praising its “perfect blend of romance and optimism.”
• The Princess Cruises Orchestra: The onboard musical ensemble regularly performs the theme during “Love Boat Nights,” often inviting guests to sing along with lyrics displayed on the ship’s big screen.
• Jazz and Big Band Bands: During themed cruises, such as the “Big Band Cruise,” bands like the Glenn Miller Orchestra have delivered swinging, up-tempo renditions that energize the dance floor.

Princess Cruise Lines’ Official Cover Versions

Princess has also commissioned exclusive recordings to modernize the song for new generations. In 2020, they partnered with a young pop-soul artist, Maya Lin, to create a contemporary version featuring acoustic guitar, soft synths, and a slightly slower tempo. This version was released as part of a “Love Boat Reimagined” playlist on Spotify and Apple Music, targeting millennials and Gen Z travelers. According to Princess’s marketing team, streams of the song increased by 42% in the first six months after the release.

Additionally, during the 2023 “Love Boat Legacy Cruise,” Princess surprised guests with a performance by a Broadway-style cast, reworking the song into a full musical number complete with choreography and costumes. This theatrical approach highlighted how the song has evolved from a simple TV theme to a dynamic, multi-format experience.

How the Song Is Used on Princess Cruise Lines Today

Onboard Entertainment and Themed Events

Today, *“The Love Boat”* theme song is more than just nostalgia—it’s a living part of the cruise experience. Princess Cruise Lines has integrated the song into nearly every aspect of onboard life, from the moment passengers step aboard to the final farewell. Here’s how it’s used:

• Welcome Aboard Ceremony: As guests board, a live band or recorded version of the song plays, often with crew members dancing in period costumes (1970s bell-bottoms and polyester suits).
• Love Boat Nights: Held once per cruise, these themed evenings feature trivia contests, costume parades, and a full performance of the song by the ship’s entertainment team.
• Wedding and Renewal Ceremonies: Many couples choose to incorporate the song into their vows, with Princess offering a “Love Boat Wedding Package” that includes a private deck ceremony set to the tune.
• Kids’ Activities: Even the youth programs get in on the fun—kids can participate in a “Love Boat Dance-Off” or create their own cruise-themed music videos.

Digital and Social Media Integration

Princess has also leveraged the song’s popularity in digital spaces. The cruise line’s YouTube channel features a “Love Boat Throwback” series, where vintage clips from the TV show are set to the theme song, attracting over 5 million views. On TikTok, the #LoveBoatChallenge has garnered over 120 million views, with users recreating the show’s iconic dance moves or filming their own “come aboard” moments at embarkation.

The cruise line’s app includes a “Love Boat Playlist” with the original, cover versions, and remixes, allowing guests to stream the music during excursions or poolside lounging. Princess has even partnered with Spotify to create a “Cruise Vibes” playlist featuring the song alongside other travel classics like *“Beyond the Sea”* and *“Island in the Sun.”* This digital strategy ensures that the song reaches audiences far beyond the ship’s decks.

Fun Facts and Trivia: The Love Boat Song’s Enduring Impact

Behind-the-Scenes Secrets

The creation and legacy of *“The Love Boat”* theme song are filled with intriguing details:

• The song was originally titled *“Love Boat (Come Aboard)”* but was shortened for TV to fit the opening credits.
• Paul Williams wrote the lyrics in just two days, inspired by a conversation about the romantic possibilities of ocean travel.
• Jack Jones recorded the song in a single take, reportedly nailing the performance on the first try.
• The orchestral arrangement was done by veteran Hollywood composer John Williams (no relation to Paul), known for his work on *Superman* and *Jaws*.
• The song has been translated into 12 languages for international cruise promotions, including Japanese, German, and Spanish.

Table: Key Milestones in the Love Boat Song’s History

Year	Event	Significance
1977	Original theme song recorded by Jack Jones	Debuted with the first episode of The Love Boat TV series
1980	Song reaches #1 on Billboard Adult Contemporary chart	Confirmed its status as a pop culture phenomenon
1999	Jack Jones performs live on a Princess cruise	First official “Love Boat” concert at sea
2012	Princess celebrates 35th anniversary with themed cruise	Featured live band covers and guest appearances by original cast
2020	“Love Boat Reimagined” playlist released	Modernized the song for digital audiences
2023	“Love Boat Legacy Cruise” with Broadway-style performance	Showcased the song’s evolution into live theater

The song’s journey from TV theme to cultural icon is a testament to its universal appeal. Whether you’re a baby boomer who grew up with the show or a Gen Z traveler discovering it for the first time, the melody carries a sense of joy and possibility that transcends generations. For Princess Cruise Lines, it’s not just a song—it’s a promise of unforgettable memories, romantic sunsets, and the magic of the open sea.

Conclusion: The Song That Keeps on Sailing

So, who sings the Love Boat song for Princess Cruise Lines? The answer is Jack Jones—the velvet-voiced crooner who brought Paul Williams’s lyrics to life with elegance, charm, and timeless appeal. But the story doesn’t end there. The song’s enduring legacy is a collaborative effort between artists, producers, marketers, and millions of cruisers who have made it their own. From its origins in a 1970s TV studio to its modern-day presence in playlists, live shows, and social media challenges, *“The Love Boat”* theme song remains a powerful symbol of what cruising is all about: adventure, connection, and the joy of new beginnings.

For Princess Cruise Lines, the song is more than a marketing tool—it’s a bridge between past and present, tradition and innovation. Whether you’re singing along to Jack Jones’s original, dancing to a jazz cover, or streaming the latest reimagined version, you’re part of a legacy that continues to inspire. As the company looks to the future—with new ships, sustainable cruising, and immersive experiences—the melody of *“The Love Boat”* will undoubtedly sail on, reminding us all that love, exciting and new, is always just a voyage away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who sings the Love Boat song for Princess Cruise Lines?

The iconic “Love Boat” theme song for Princess Cruise Lines is performed by Jack Jones, the Grammy-winning vocalist who originally recorded it in 1977. His smooth, romantic rendition became synonymous with the cruise line’s brand for decades.

Is the original Love Boat song still used by Princess Cruise Lines?

While Princess Cruise Lines has updated its branding over the years, Jack Jones’s classic version of the “Love Boat” song remains a nostalgic staple in promotional materials and onboard experiences. Modern adaptations may feature instrumental or remixed versions, but the original vocals are still celebrated.

What is the name of the Love Boat song featured by Princess Cruise Lines?

The song is titled *”The Love Boat Theme,”* composed by Charles Fox with lyrics by Paul Williams. It was specifically written for the 1970s TV series and later adopted by Princess Cruise Lines as their official anthem.

Did Princess Cruise Lines change the singer of the Love Boat song over time?

Princess Cruise Lines has consistently associated Jack Jones’s voice with the “Love Boat” song, though some campaigns may use instrumental covers or subtle remixes. Jones’s original recording remains the definitive version tied to the brand’s identity.

Why is Jack Jones’s Love Boat song so linked to Princess Cruise Lines?

The partnership began when Princess Cruises sponsored the TV show *The Love Boat* in the late 1970s, using Jack Jones’s theme as their marketing cornerstone. The song’s romantic, adventurous vibe perfectly captured the cruise experience, creating a lasting legacy.

Where can I hear the Love Boat song performed by Princess Cruise Lines?

You can hear Jack Jones’s version on Princess Cruise Lines’ official website, YouTube channel, and often during embarkation or onboard events. It’s also featured in vintage ads and special anniversary promotions.