THE Jamaica Association Bermuda will be taking to the high seas aboard The Bermudian for their annual Independence Cruise.

Unlike cruises that are for sheer entertainment value, the cruise - which takes place tomorrow night - will give locals an insight into the struggle Jamaican nationals had endured to gain their Independence from England some 41 years ago.

"The purpose of this cruise is to celebrate our heritage and to give thanks to those who have fought for our Independence", said Ralston Wright, the Association's president.

Over the years, the Association has seen a large increase in the number of supporters who turn out for this annual celebration.This year's theme is "Respecting Our Heritage" and Ralston as well as Apache of Wild Apache Productions - which is helping to coordinate the Independence Cruise - noted a few of the cultural heroes who paved the way for modern day Jamaica.

There was Paul Bogle, a deacon of the native Baptist Church in Stony Gut, St. Thomas. His belief in the Biblical teachings inspired him to become involved in the people's struggles for justice. Bogle is credited for initiation of the so-called Morant Bay Rebellion in 1865. The Governor of Jamaica placed a two thousand pound reward for the capture of Bogle for his alleged role in the unrest.

Nanny of the Moroons was one who stood out in Apache's favourite historical figures. Nanny stands out as the only female among Jamaica's national heroes. Described as a fearless Asante warrior, she used militaristic techniques to outwit and beguile the English. Like many of the famed Jamaican heroes she met her unfortunate death at the instigation of the English around 1734. Samuel Sharpe was another notable that came to the pair's mind. His resistance against slavery at the age of 31 stood out as the most outstanding Slave Rebellion in Jamaica. Other heroes they mentioned included Marcus Garvey, Norman Manley and Sir Alexander Bustamante.

Ralston added: "Of course what would a cruise be without music? Even in terms of music, the past directs the future. We have invited Magnum from Magnum Force and After Dark to provide the musical entertainment.

"Since the '70s Magnum has been a stalwart in the local music industry. He will fit in nicely with our theme. He will be providing revellers with a Jamaican musical time-line; so we will be taking our supporters on a musical and cultural journey during the cruise. If more communities were socially strong, the situations that they face could have been easily resolved. A tree with good roots can survive any storm!"

Renowned for their culinary delights, both diehard supporters and first timers will be able to sample Jamaica cuisine during the cruise.

As a charitable body, the Association has identified with certain organisations in need of assistance and part proceeds for the cruise will be donated to a local charity. Also the Association donates to certain charities in Jamaica and has set up an education fund to help kids at the Bermuda College.

Heineken and C Travel sponsor the event, with the latter donating a ticket to Jamaica that will be raffled off. Tickets for tomorrow's event are $40 and are available at In Between Boutique, Jamaican Grill and from Association Members. The boat leaves Dockyard at 8:30 p.m. and from Albuoy's Point at 9 p.m. sharp.