If you viewed this site you'd likely think it was a an internet joke - a Caribbean cruise ship, 2,000 patrons and 40 metal bands. The marriage of dark heavy metal and sunning yourself on the deck of a boat seem like decidedly polar opposites. However, it's not a joke and actually seems to be a growing trend as a viable festival setting. Crazy.

Hollis Bennett was fortunate enough to attend the '70,000 Tons of Metal' cruise and document the event. The results are a bizarre mix but, ultimately, fascinating. Never judge a book by its cover.. just because you're covered in tattoos, wear head to toe black and frequently rage through the power of thrash metal does not mean you don't also enjoy a Mai Tai consumed through a ram's horn.