Throughout lockdown I have missed going to the cinema. Outdoor cinema is the new THING and now even the UK’s first cinematic experience by boat. There are only a few days left to enjoy this, though. The Openaire Float-In Cinema sponsored by luxury ice cream brand Häagen-Dazs is opened to the public until Sunday 27th September. It follows the pioneering global first ‘cinema on water’ concept by Häagen-Dazs in partnership with the City of Paris and MK2 earlier this summer, which received widespread global acclaim.
Photo credit: David Parry/PA Wire
This venture is a partnership between Openaire and GoBoat sponsored by Häagen-Dazs involving a fleet of sixteen eco-boats that provide seating for up to 128 people at this outdoors cinematic experience on Regent’s Canal.
Upon arrival, guests can captain their self-drive vessel around Little Venice before mooring at Merchant Square to watch a feature film. A giant 6x3m Hi-res LED video screen facing the water is showing blockbuster hits such as Titanic and A Star Is Born. High quality audio is supplied via sanitised wireless headphones to ensure an uninterrupted experience with some of the most popular flavours of Häagen-Dazs ice cream to provide a touch of extraordinary indulgence. If guests haven’t found their sea legs yet fear not, there will also be dozens of socially spaced deckchairs along the towpath.
Photo credit: David Parry/PA Wire
The line-up for the Openaire Float-in Cinema includes afternoon showings of family favourites such as Toy Story and The Lion Kings, plus special sing-along showings in the evening of Grease, Rocketman, and The Greatest Showman.
Popcorn and snacks will be available for punters to order via a dedicated app and delivered straight to their boat or deckchair, perfectly accompanied by Häagen-Dazs minicups with ‘Don’t Hold Back’ flavour specials every week and daily ice cream prizes.
Photo credit: David Parry/PA Wire
To tie in with the Little Venice theme, award-winning artisan pasta chef RaviOllie has set up a pop-up kitchen on the water’s edge to offer delicious freshly cooked Italian food paired with Häagen-Dazs. Audiences can order without leaving their boat via the app and waiting staff will bring it to them – the perfect addition to any movie!
Boat tickets are £200 for up to 6 people, £225 for 7 people and £250 for 8 people. Deck chairs are £15.00 each.
Tickets and film listing is at https://www.openaire.co.uk/.
Photo credit: David Parry/PA Wire
Due to Government guidelines the organisers are currently accepting the following bookings:
o Two households/bubbles per boat (maximum capacity 8 people)
o Four individuals from different households per boat, maintaining 1m social distance whilst on board.
