A gin, some jazz, and Poole Harbour
The perfect Sunday escape
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There are plenty of ways to spend a Sunday afternoon. A walk along the beach, a leisurely lunch with friends or perhaps a few hours in the garden. But if you’re looking for something a little more memorable this September, Dorset Cruises has just the ticket.
In September, the final Gin & Jazz Cruise of the year sets sail from Poole Quay, inviting guests aboard the historic Dorset Queen for an afternoon of live music, local gin and spectacular harbour views.
Built in 1938, Dorset Queen has lived many lives. From wartime service to decades carrying passengers along the South Coast, she now sails proudly around Poole Harbour as one of Dorset’s most distinctive and characterful vessels. Lovingly restored and full of charm, she offers something increasingly rare: the opportunity to slow down and enjoy time on the water.
As the boat glides through Europe’s largest natural harbour, guests can settle back to the sound of live jazz while taking in views of Brownsea Island, Sandbanks and the beautiful Dorset coastline. The fully licensed bar serves a selection of drinks, including locally produced gins, making it easy to sip, relax and simply enjoy the journey.
What makes the Gin & Jazz Cruise so appealing is its simplicity. There is no schedule to follow, no queues and no rush. Just two hours to spend with friends, family or a partner while experiencing Dorset from a completely different perspective.
September is often one of the county’s best-kept secrets. The summer crowds begin to thin, the light softens across the water and Poole Harbour takes on a calm, unhurried atmosphere that feels worlds away from everyday life.
Whether you’re marking a special occasion, catching up with friends or looking for a unique date idea, the Gin & Jazz Cruise offers a wonderful excuse to leave dry land behind for an afternoon.
Beyond its public cruises, Dorset Queen has also become a popular setting for private celebrations. From birthdays and anniversaries to weddings, family gatherings and business events, more people are choosing experiences over traditional venues, creating lasting memories against the backdrop of Poole Harbour and the Jurassic Coast.
Increasingly, Dorset Queen is also welcoming businesses on board. Local companies are choosing private charters for client entertaining, networking events, team celebrations and strategy days, recognising that memorable experiences often create stronger connections than traditional meeting rooms ever could. With Poole Harbour as the backdrop, guests can relax, talk and build relationships in a setting that feels both professional and refreshingly different.
Perhaps that’s the real appeal of Dorset Cruises. In a world that often feels busy and hurried, stepping aboard offers a chance to pause, reconnect and appreciate one of Dorset’s greatest natural assets from the best seat in the house – the water.
From intimate celebrations and weddings to client hospitality and corporate gatherings, Dorset Cruises offers a flexible and unique venue on the water, with experiences tailored to suit each occasion.
The Gin & Jazz Cruise takes place on Sunday 6th September. Tickets are available now from Dorset Cruises.
CONTACT
Tel. 01202 844 199
Email. info@dorsetcruises.co.uk
