Mark Sherry (All Boat Long)

There is something undeniably visceral about the intersection of high-octane trance and the vast, dark expanse of Lake Ontario. After a hiatus that felt far too long for the city’s dedicated electronic music community, the Waves of Trance series is finally making its return. For this revival, they aren’t cutting any corners; they’ve secured Mark Sherry for an 'All Boat Long' open-to-close set, a format that allows the Scottish maestro to take the crowd on a sonic journey that few other DJs can curate with such precision.

The Sound of Mark Sherry If you have spent any time in Toronto’s club scene—whether at the now-revered haunts of the past or the current underground circuit—you know that Mark Sherry is not just another name on a lineup. He is a titan of the tech-trance and uplifting sound. Known for his 'Outburst' label and his ability to blend driving, industrial-tinged percussion with euphoric, sweeping melodies, Sherry’s sets are relentless. An open-to-close set is the ultimate test for a DJ, and it is where Sherry truly shines. Without the constraints of a standard festival slot, he has the freedom to build the tension slowly, starting with deeper, groovier cuts as the sun dips below the horizon, before inevitably escalating into the high-BPM, spine-tingling anthems that have defined his career.

A Venue Like No Other The Empire Sandy is not your typical party boat. As Canada’s largest tall ship, this three-masted schooner offers a rugged, authentic maritime aesthetic that stands in stark contrast to the sleek, modern condos of the Harbourfront. There is a certain magic in being out on the water, watching the CN Tower and the city lights shimmer against the dark lake, all while the bass vibrates through the wooden deck of a ship that feels like it belongs to another century. It is an immersive experience that turns a standard concert into a proper expedition.

Making a Night of It The Harbourfront is a bustling hub, and you should definitely plan to arrive early. Since you need to be at the dock at 437 Queens Quay West by 7:00 PM for wristband pickup, you have the perfect excuse to explore the area. If you’re looking for a pre-show bite, head a few blocks north into the Entertainment District or stay local along the water. The Amsterdam Brewhouse is just a stone’s throw away and offers a massive patio if you want to grab a pint before boarding. Alternatively, if you want something a bit more refined, the restaurants lining the Queens Quay provide excellent views of the harbour to get you in the right headspace before the boat departs.

Good to Know - **The Departure is Absolute:** The organizers are not kidding about the 8:00 PM departure. The Empire Sandy is a large vessel, and once it leaves the dock, it is gone. If you miss the boat, you miss the show. Plan your transit accordingly—traffic on Queens Quay can be unpredictable, especially on a summer Friday. - **Dress for the Lake:** Even on a hot August day, the temperature drops significantly once you are out on the open water at night. Bring a light jacket or a hoodie; you’ll thank yourself when the wind picks up around midnight. - **Ticket Logistics:** Keep an eye on your inbox. Since tickets are delivered via email a few days prior, ensure your contact information is up to date and check your spam folder regularly as the event approaches. - **Getting There:** If you are taking the TTC, the 509 Harbourfront streetcar is your best friend. It drops you right in the heart of the action, saving you the headache of trying to find parking in an area that is notoriously difficult for drivers.