FAQ

On Board’s all-inclusive expedition cruise fares include the following:

• Tailored itinerary with daily activities including guided walks, shore excursions and wilderness cruises by tender
• Return scenic seaplane flights from Hobart to the southwest (Port Davey expeditions only) or return land transfer between Hobart and the east coast (East Coast Expedition only)
• Accommodation on expedition vessel Odalisque III
• All meals featuring gourmet Tasmanian produce prepared by an onboard chef
• A generous selection of fine Tasmanian wine and local boutique beer
• National park entrance fees
• Use of weatherproof rain poncho and expedition bag

In Tasmania, expect a mix of wind, rain and sunshine at any time of year. Weather conditions can change quickly; locals claim it often feels like ‘four seasons in one day’. The dynamic and notoriously wild weather of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area in Southwest Tasmania is part of what makes this remote corner so special. Exposed to the strong westerly winds of the Roaring Forties, it’s a place of raw, untamed beauty. During summer, daily temperatures generally range from 15 to 25°C, with overnight minimums averaging between 9 and 11°C. It can be moderately cool when windy.

Tasmania’s East Coast has a temperate maritime climate. From June to November, mean temperatures range between 6°C and 19°C. It can be moderately cool when windy. Whatever the weather, Odalisque III offers a welcoming and sheltered home in the wilderness.

• Pause to feel the tranquillity of true wilderness. Port Davey is a natural outpost on the outer rim of Australia. Next stop Antarctica. There are no roads, no towns, no phone reception, and most of the time, no humans. 
• Spy critically endangered orange-bellied parrots during the breeding season from December to March. Fewer than 100 adult birds remain in the wild. 
• Take an exhilarating ride on the vessel’s tender through the Breaksea Islands’ kelp-lined sea caves with On Board skipper and founder, Tasmanian mariner Pieter van der Woude. 

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.

Yes.

There is limited phone reception in Tasmania’s coastal waters, with reception patchy at best. In the Port Davey region, there is no mobile phone reception at all – an opportunity for total escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. There is however a satellite phone which guests can be reached on, should any friends or family need to make urgent contact. WiFi access is available.

Yes. On Board supports multi-generational travel and welcomes guests of all ages on exclusive charters aboard Odalisque III. Guests seven years and older are welcomed on scheduled overnight expedition cruises. Please be advised that there are no dedicated child-minding facilities onboard nor are crew available to engage in child minding. Children seven years and older must occupy a normal passenger berth and full cruise fare applies. Guests wishing to indicate their preferences concerning travelling with children are encouraged to advise On Board when making a booking.

On Board supports multi-generational travel and welcomes guests of all ages on exclusive charters aboard Odalisque III. Guests seven years and older are welcomed on scheduled overnight expedition cruises. Please be advised that there are no dedicated child-minding facilities onboard nor are crew available to engage in child minding. Children seven years and older must occupy a normal passenger berth and full cruise fare applies. Guests wishing to indicate their preferences concerning travelling with children are encouraged to advise On Board when making a booking.