THERE are still a few VIP tickets available for a Poole Harbour cruise with a difference.

Dorset Cruises has teamed up with Rick Stein, Pommery Champagne and the oyster farmers of Poole to embark on this one-off journey of discovery.

Guests, welcomed onboard with a glass of champagne, will cruise over the oyster beds of the harbour and discover how the local molluscs go from seed to delicacy.

Champagne host Sara Hicks will inform guests of the methods, rules and rich history involved in creating the world famous bubbly.

Meanwhile, Pete Murt - head chef of Rick Stein Sandbanks - will be on deck cooking up seafood delights including oysters, mussels and clams as you cruise between Poole’s five islands.

Dorset Cruises manager Jon Morgan said: "This cruise is the first time a passenger boat has ever legally crossed over the oyster beds of Poole Harbour, giving our guests the chance to be part of a bit of history in the making during Dorset Queen’s 80th year in service."

Local oyster Farmer Robert Milton will then explain the history of Poole Rock Oysters and the methods he uses to produce one of the most highly sought-after oyster varieties.

The Cruise sets sail from Poole Quay on Sunday, May 20th at 3.30pm and returns to the harbour at 6pm.

VIP tickets can be purchased for £150 from www.dorsetcruises.co.uk