Explore the remote corners of Tasmania’s World Heritage-listed wilderness on an intimate, exclusive expedition cruise. Odalisque III is a purpose-built boutique vessel for a maximum of 12 guests in seven cabins.
On Board’s stylish 24-metrer three-deck catamaran, Odalisque III, houses two spacious lounges, three outdoor viewing decks and seven cabins with private en-suites, housing a maximum of 12 guests at any one time.
The new vessel has allowed the On Board team great opportunity to bring their operational sustainability to the highest standard. Through considered design, the experience has a low environmental impact. When guests are on land, sensitivity toward flora and fauna is top of mind – guides hold an encyclopedic knowledge of this fragile setting and explain how to tread lightly, fostering environmental ambassadors in the process. (luxlodges)
With space for just twelve guests across seven cabins, you can expect every onboard experience to be intimate and personal, and every activity to be considered and tailored to guest preferences.
There are two cabin classes onboard. The Southwest Suites of the upper deck exude sophistication and reflect the moody tones of Southwest Tasmania. The relaxed and thoughtful Coastal Cabins of the main deck, which are a little more compact than their upper deck counterparts, have a coastal-chic feel, reminiscent of the soft, sandy colors of Tasmania’s East Coast.
Guests rest their heads on bed linen featuring local Tasmanian botanical prints including kelp and a rare flowering holly only found in the southwest, Lomatia tasmanica, created by local artist Deborah Wace. Each morning a new wilderness scene plays out through enormous bedside windows that invite the natural world in.
The boat operaties 4-6 night expeditions year-round.
From December to May, the On Board Port Davey Escape and South Coast Cruise expeditions explore the remote Port Davey region of Southwest Tasmania. Part of the UNESCO Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, it is one of the most breathtaking landscapes on the planet, with wild rivers, quartzite peaks and extensive waterways. Itinerary highlights include an adventure boat excursion through the narrow winding waterways lined with Huon pine, hikes to mountain-top vantage points, and picnics on remote beaches.
Tasmania’s East Coast expedition operates from June to November and provides an exclusive sea-level perspective on three of Tasmania’s most dazzling national parks. Discover the pristine white beaches, turquoise waters, and pink granite peaks of the Freycinet Peninsula and Wineglass Bay, the beaches and clifftops of World Heritage-listed Maria Island and cruise under the 300m dolerite towers of Cape Pillar, the tallest sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere.
All of On Board’s multi-day expedition cruises start and end in Tasmania’s capital city, Hobart. Depending on the expedition type and departure date, the experience may begin with a land transfer, seaplane transfer or voyage on Odalisque III, all of which are provided by On Board.
On their signature Port Davey Escape expedition, air transfers from Hobart to the vessel in Southwest Tasmania are provided. The scenic wilderness flight via seaplane takes approximately 40-50 minutes, departing from Hobart’s waterfront.