Kiddies Boat Cruise: where soca, culture & carnival meet the next generation

By Twylan Best

Ahoy, kiddies! Get those costumes and neon colours ready because Uncle Eman’s Kiddies Boat Cruise is setting sail on Saturday, September 5, 2026, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. aboard Enterprise 2000, bringing an afternoon of soca, culture, pan and family fun to the water.

For many, Eman is known as the energetic MC, but the idea for his kiddies cruise actually began at home many years ago. His kids, who were young at the time, wanted to attend events with their dad — especially boat cruises — and that simple request planted the seed for what would become an annual tradition.

The first cruise debuted in 2019. Originally, only one cruise was advertised, but when tickets sold out within three days and a lengthy waitlist followed, Eman decided to add a second sailing. That year featured both a morning and afternoon cruise on the same day.

When COVID-19 hit in 2020 and 2021, Eman kept the tradition alive virtually, featuring live DJs, guest performers and Socasize instructors. The 2020 edition even had a fun “PJ” theme.

The event returned to the water in 2022, with 2023 marking the final year of the dual-cruise format. In 2024, a single afternoon cruise was introduced, and the event has continued sailing year after year.

What makes the cruise truly unique is that it offers an interactive and fully immersive cultural experience designed specifically for children and families. This kiddies cruise is a first of its kind outside of Disney. It gives families the opportunity to experience the excitement of a cultural celebration — music, pan, costumes and all — together during an afternoon at sea.

Now in its seventh year, the “Neon Edition” will bring another afternoon of family-friendly fun. Kiddies can look forward to cotton candy, popcorn, snow cones, goodie bags, a performance by JFIYRE, steel pan and an opportunity to create a carnival-inspired keepsake.

Keeping the vibes going will be DJ Jay, DJ Shy, AYE B and DJ Ryan, with Uncle Eman himself serving as MC.

Eman, also known as Earl La Pierre Jr. and “PanManOnDuty,” has long advocated for soca, Caribbean culture and pan. Through the cruise, he is creating an opportunity for children and parents to experience that culture together.

After all, why should adults have all the fun?

Children are encouraged to wear a carnival costume or piece of costume and get one last opportunity to “jump up” before school starts. Those without costumes can come dressed in bright colours to match the neon theme. Parents, guardians and caregivers are asked to dress appropriately and respectfully, keeping in mind that this is a kiddies event.

Photos provided by Teeography and Uncle Eman.

For tickets, birthday packages and booth information, visit emanevents.com or call/text (416) 953-0905.

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