Port AdVenture Cruises' Rhythmboat Celebrates 10 Years of River Magic
- Yann Tyng Kooi
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
✦ All aboard for a celebration! 🎉 Port AdVenture Cruises' beloved vessel the Rhythmboat is turning 10—and what a journey it's been! From the iconic Rhythmboat to becoming a beloved part of the Port Macquarie community, discover how this local gem has made waves over the past decade. 🚢💙
Ten years ago, the tranquil waters of the Hastings River welcomed a new sighting - the Rhythmboat. Since then, Port AdVenture Cruises has been offering unforgettable experiences that blend the natural beauty of Port Macquarie with entertainment, community, and a touch of magic.
A decade later, the Rhythmboat has become a cherished part of the local tapestry, inviting both residents and visitors to see the river through a lens of wonder.
Meet the Rhythmboat: The Heart of the Cruise
If you’ve been on board the Rhythmboat, you’ll know it’s no ordinary boat. This vibrant catamaran has become a local legend—a floating venue for parties, music, comedy, and everything in between. Whether it’s an Elvis tribute night, a relaxing sunset cruise, or a private event, the Rhythmboat always delivers with style, lights, and a whole lot of FUN!
Those who know David Lazarus will know as the born entertainer, he is always ready to give everyone a great time on board!
Originally operating on Sydney Harbour, the Rhythmboat found a new home in Port Macquarie in 2021—a bold move made right in the middle of the pandemic. It was a risk, but one that paid off. Locals embraced it, tourists loved it, and suddenly, the Hastings River had a new rhythm. Even the local dolphins started looking forward to the Rhythmboat's regular cruises!

The Rhythmboat's Early Days
The Rhythmboat's journey began in 1980, constructed in a shipyard in Woodburn, NSW, and originally named the Richmond Showboat. Its initial voyages were from Lismore, offering scenic cruises that delighted passengers with the beauty of the Northern Rivers region.
A Star on Sydney Harbour
Later, the vessel found a new home on Sydney Harbour, where it was rebranded as the Rocks Rhythmboat. Here, it transformed into a floating entertainment venue, hosting a variety of themed shows and live music events.
Notably, the Rhythmboat became the resident venue for Australia's number one ABBA tribute show, Ma Ma Mia, performing an average of 80 shows per year for over 12 years!
The Rhythmboat also featured performances by renowned entertainers like Bob Downe, whose one-man comedy, song, and dance show added to the vessel's vibrant reputation.
David and Elsa's Vision
Under David and Elsa's stewardship, the Rhythmboat continued to thrive on Sydney Harbour, hosting a range of events from ABBA tribute dinners to comedy cruises, and even performances by international acts like Damian Brantley (Michael Jackson) and Jackie Wiatrowski (Lady Gaga).
Not Always Smooth Sailing, But Always Resilient
Of course, the journey hasn’t been all calm waters. Like many small businesses, Port AdVenture Cruises weathered storms—including nearly two years of shutdowns during the pandemic. But through it all, they held on with determination, creativity, and a whole lot of community support.
It’s this resilience—and their unwavering passion for creating memorable experiences—that has helped them grow and thrive in Port Macquarie.
Celebrating 10 Years of River Magic!
A Much-Loved Part of the Community
Over the years, Port AdVenture Cruises has become more than just a business—it’s become a part of the Port Macquarie lifestyle. Locals come back again and again, whether it’s for a birthday celebration, a family day out, or just a relaxing cruise on a sunny Sunday afternoon.
They’re also proud supporters of the local community—hosting fundraisers, showcasing local entertainers, and giving back wherever they can.
Looking Ahead to the Next 10 Years
So what’s next? The crew is already planning new themed cruises, more entertainment, and exciting surprises to keep things fresh and fabulous. If the first ten years were all about building something special, the next ten are about making it even better.
Whether you’ve cruised with them once or a dozen times, or you're planning your very first voyage, now’s the perfect time to hop on board and celebrate with them.
🎉 Here’s to 10 years of Remarkable Memories with the Rhythmboat! 🎉
📅 Book upcoming cruises and special events here.
⚓ Follow @portadventurecruises for behind-the-scenes fun and cruise updates ❋

Contact:
David Lazarus & Elsa Barbosa
77 Clarence St, Port Macquarie, NSW 2444, Australia
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cruiseportmac/
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