Brand Backstory
On Board Expeditions is a family-run luxury boutique cruise company, operating since 1998 on Australia’s wild island of Tasmania. Founder and original skipper Pieter van der Woude has more than 50 years of experience in Tassie’s waters, first as a search and rescue diver with the police force, and then as an abalone diver for 25 years. His time spent in the remote corners of the island sparked a desire to share the beauty of Tasmania’s east, west, and southern coasts.
Along with his daughter Alice, who serves as the Director of Marketing and Experience, and their experienced team, guests are treated to a trip of a lifetime. The On Board fleet, in total, has included 3 custom-built catamarans that are so thoughtfully designed and comfortable, they might as well be referred to as floating boutique hotels. In 2023, On Board was only the second expedition cruise operator to become a member of the renowned Luxury Lodges of Australia collection.
On their trips to Port Davey, the South Coast, and East Coast, passengers get an intimate and immersive experience aboard a vessel specifically crafted to navigate and explore World Heritage Wilderness in a sustainable fashion.
Ship Snapshot
These days, two vessels host On Board’s expedition itineraries: the 24m Odalisque III for multi-day trips, and the smaller, but still luxurious Odalisque II for private charters and floating events in the capital city of Hobart. Odalisque III launched in January of 2023, and has 7 cabins with ensuite bathrooms, 2 lounges, and 3 outdoor viewing decks. It’s designed to handle the rugged waters of Tasmania, especially in the southwest region, where adventures abound.
I joined a 4-night Port Davey sailing aboard the Odalisque III, where we ventured to places few have been. With the number of guests capped at 12, I found it to be very spacious and comfortable, even in the cabins. With no roads into Tasmania’s Southwest National Park, we boarded a seaplane from Hobart for the transfer to the vessel waiting for us in Bathurst Harbour.
The round-trip flight was an incredible way to kick off and wrap up the sailing, with stunning views from above. After arriving and settling in, the catamaran sailed to various locations in the area and embarked on adventures such as hiking to the top of Mount Beattie, cruising past sea caves, beachcombing, and even jumping in the water for a very cold water plunge. To see the landscape here is to witness one of the last truly untouched wilderness areas in the world.
Built in 2014, Odalisque II houses 6 guests throughout 3 cabins, typically for private charters. When booked for events, up to 40 attendees can comfortably come aboard. It has one common lounge and dining space and 3 outside viewing decks. On Board is committed to sustainability, building the vessels using local materials, with a low-impact, eco-friendly design that aligns with all standards.
East Coast Expedition sailings run from June through November. The Port Davey sailings run from December to May. The Coast-to-Coast Expedition is bookable on a case-by-case basis. Once a season, On Board runs specialized itineraries. A photography expedition and a Wild Walks expedition for hiking enthusiasts, both in Port Davey/SW National Park.
Onboard Amenities
Everything was geared to making passengers comfortable and immersed in Tasmania’s world-class nature. From the spacious outdoor sightseeing decks, perfect for photography, morning coffee, and wildlife spotting, to the maximized window space, with knee-to-ceiling windows all around the catamaran, the opportunity to be captivated by our surroundings was constant.
The lounge areas housed borrowed items such as books, games, and binoculars, 24/7 coffee, tea, and cookies, and communal tables. The bridge was open to all, where we were welcomed to join Pieter as he expertly navigated the waters, explaining the routes and points of interest, with the occasional stories woven in from past endeavors. Wifi was available; however, it was asked that guests try to use it in the privacy of their cabins instead of in the common areas. I found the connection to be fairly reliable, with just a few spotty patches. Seeing as there was no cell service, it was pretty impressive.
There were two “tinnies” (aluminum tenders) for excursions to hiking trailheads, coastal caves, and historical attractions. All guests also got a weatherproof poncho and expedition bag in case of rain, wind, and generally unsavory weather. While all of the amenities kept us comfortable, the real luxury came from having knowledgeable local guides on board to share history, culture, insight, and storytelling. Every evening, over appetizers and happy hour drinks, our guide went over the day’s exploits, giving more context and historical perspective to what we had seen and done.
Staterooms
There are two cabin types aboard Odalisque III: the Southwest Suites on the upper deck and Coastal Cabins on the main deck. I found my suite spacious and comfortable, with a queen bed, a closet, luggage storage, and a bathroom. The color palette of moody blues and golden sand helped to bring the natural setting indoors. I loved the expansive windows most of all, so I was never missing out on the views.
Coastal cabins have the same setup, but are slightly smaller than the suites. Striking artwork by local Tasmanian artists hung above the bed, as it did throughout the entire vessel. Furniture onboard and in the staterooms is almost exclusively crafted by local artisans as well. You’ll need the appropriate Australian plug adapter for charging your devices.
What’s Included
This trip is all-inclusive, and rates are per person. The Port Davey Escape starts at $5,800 (AUD) up to $17,600, depending on whether you choose the 2, 4, or 6-night itinerary and which cabin type you book. The East Coast Expeditions run for 4 nights and start at $10,300. The South Coast Cruise runs for 4 nights and starts at $11,600. The Coast-to-Coast-Luxury Expedition is the most indulgent, with a total of 6 nights, 3 of which are spent at the high-end Saffire Freycinet resort in Freycinet National Park. This is $27,000 per couple.
All food and beverage, National Park entrance fees, transfers from Hobart via Cessna seaplane or vehicle (depending on which itinerary), and guided excursions are all built into the overall cost. Because of the seaplane ride and weight restrictions, each guest is limited to 45L of luggage, and it must be in a soft bag. OnBoard will provide a duffel for you if requested. The rest of your luggage can be left at their office in Hobart.
Food & Drink
I loved everything about this cruise, but the meals were really special. The communal dining table was filled with laughs and lively conversation from day one. Then there was the food and beverage: a culinary journey through Tasmania, and a feast for all senses. Drinks flowed easily; crisp craft beers, cider, cool-climate Tasmanian wines, and spirits were available day and night. We were well-fed too; everything from freshly plucked and shucked oysters and Tasmanian cheeses to Cape Grim hanger steak, fire-roasted crayfish and wallaby wings.
Fast Facts
Location: Tasmania, Australia
Vibe: Relaxed luxury and outdoor adventure.
Rating: Five-star
Starting Rate: $5,800 per person (in Australian Dollars) 2026 prices
Room Count: 7
Our Favorite Thing About the Ship: the staff and outdoor viewing decks.
Dining: Onboard chef creates incredible meals with fresh, local products, paired with your Tasmanian beverage of choice.
Amenities: small library, unlimited drinks, use of poncho and waterproof bag, use of binoculars, and wifi.
Closest Airport: Hobart International Airport
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