ALL aboard! Attention all gin lovers - there are special cruises set to start from Poole Quay catering entirely for your tastes.

From cocktails, a masterclass and spectacular views of the Purbecks, it is hoped the new venture could become a major attraction for Poole this spring.

The first event - an Artisan Gin Cruise - will take place on Friday April 7 on a 1938 vintage motor yacht, the Dorset Queen.

Nearly 80 years old, she has been completely refurbished to her former glory.

And there will also be an exclusive cruise with Conker Dorset Gin, the county's first gin distillery, as well.

With the Artisan Gin Cruises, there will be 10 gin sponsors and Double Dutch mixers will also be on board.

The Artisan Gin Cruise will offer a range of different gins and handcrafted cocktails, with the Conker Gin event on Tuesday April 11 or Tuesday April 25, giving guests the chance to meet the owners of the label and enjoy a three course meal at a harbourside restaurant.

The Artisan events will take place on Friday April 7 and Friday April 21 from 7pm until 10pm.

As well as two different types of tickets, canapes will also be served while the boat cruises by Brownsea Castle, 'Millionaires' Row' at Sandbanks and the islands of Poole Harbour.

The Conker Gin cruises on Tuesday April 11 or April 25 from 6.30pm until 10.30pm will see guests cruise around Poole Harbour with a masterclass from the founders of Dorset's Conker Gin and a selection of three unique cocktails.

Guests will then be taken for a meal at a harbourside restaurant - either the Priory at Wareham, The Haven Hotel or Shell Bay - before sailing back to Poole, cocktail in hand.

For details of ticket prices and more go to dorsetcruises.co.uk.