Singer Whitney Houston was forced to ditch the trappings of stardom in favour of a car ferry across the Irish Sea to perform in Dublin.
The 46-year-old star, who is in the middle of her Nothing But Love world tour, said she opted for the boat yesterday after no-fly orders shut down airports across Ireland and the UK.
She was due to play the first of three nights at The O2 in Dublin tomorrow night.
"When Whitney was made aware of the airport closures due to the volcanic ash, she made the decision to drive from Birmingham to Dublin via the ferry so that she would not disappoint her Irish fans," promoters said. "She is delighted to be in Ireland and is very much looking forward to performing."
Ferry firm Stenaline said it received a booking for Houston's entourage on the Nordica superferry into Dublin Port.
A Stena spokeswoman said she was unaware of any special treatment for the star but added that she had the option of upgrading to the Plus lounge or visiting the relaxation area, observation deck, cinema, restaurant or enjoy onboard shopping.
It is understood Houston left Birmingham, where the European leg of the tour began this week, travelling by car to Holyhead in North Wales.
The singer, who is playing Dublin tomorrow, Sunday and Tuesday, urged her record company to publicise her travel arrangements to ease concerns among fans the shows may be cancelled.
She was forced to postpone three concerts at the start of the tour's UK leg after being diagnosed with an upper respiratory infection by doctors in Paris last week.
Meanwhile, London rap star Dizzee Rascal and WWE wrestlers were booked on other ferry services to honour engagements in Dublin and Belfast.
Irish Ferries had attempted a similar gig rescue yesterday when they reserved a seat on a sailing for tenor Russell Watson.
Despite securing one of the last tickets on a sold-out ferry to Dublin, the singer did not take up the offer as he would only have had just 20 minutes to prepare for the performance with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra. The show has been rescheduled.