Newcastle Singles Cruise on the Harbour

The Newcastle Singles Cruise on the Harbour returns to Newcastle Harbour on Friday 23 October, a follow-up to a successful first edition. It's billed as the city's biggest singles cruise, and the whole thing is pitched as an alternative to dating apps: local singles meeting on the water in a relaxed, social atmosphere rather than through a screen. The boat is the MV Calmer, operated by All Event Cruises, which carries up to 500 guests around the harbour.

On board, there are dedicated singles dance floors for the 25+ and 45+ age groups, so you'll be dancing with people in your own bracket. DJs play crowd favourites and dance floor hits throughout the night, and there are icebreaker games to help get conversations started. Reception drinks and canapés are available on board, and since it's a licensed venue, you can buy drinks and food as you go. It's an 18+ event, and there's no BYO, so whatever you want to drink will be available to purchase on the boat.

Logistically, it's a straightforward night. Check-in opens from 7:00pm at the Queens Wharf Ferry Terminal on Wharf Road, Newcastle, with the boat departing at 7:30pm and returning by 9:30pm, making it a cruise of about two hours. Tickets range from A$20 to A$38.