Caribbean Beach Boat Party

Caribbean Soul are taking over the MV Calmer on Saturday 19 September for a four-hour boat party on Newcastle Harbour. It's a daytime session, running from 12:00pm to 4:00pm, with check-in starting at 11:30am. The band is the main draw, and guest DJs fill the gaps in between.

Caribbean Soul is a five-piece led by Errol H Renaud, a musician born in Trinidad and Tobago who's played across the Caribbean, Australia, Europe, North America, the Middle East, Asia and the Pacific. The set brings together reggae, soca, steelpan-inspired sounds, funk and tropical grooves. It's billed as a sun-soaked island party on the water, and with the boat leaving from the harbour, the setting does a fair bit of the heavy lifting.

There are a few practical things to keep in mind before you book. It's an 18+ event on a licensed venue, and there's no BYO food or drinks. Seating is limited and unreserved, so if you're keen to sit, it's worth getting on board early. There's also a heels policy that advises against tall or pointy heels — probably a good call for a boat deck. The cruise doesn't cater for people with access needs.

Tickets are A$38.25 for the early bird special, A$50.50 for general admission, and A$63.75 for the final release. The MV Calmer departs from Queens Wharf Ferry Terminal, Wharf Rd, Newcastle NSW 2300.