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Discover Tasmania’s wild east coast from the comfort of boutique expedition vessel Odalisque, where floating luxury meets untamed coastal wilderness. This intimate journey cruises azure waters, secluded beaches and dramatic sea cliffs, calling into national parks, historic sites and remote peninsulas accessible only by sea. Each day brings guided walks and shore excursions in small groups — from encountering wombats on Maria Island and exploring the World-Heritage-listed Port Arthur convict site, to climbing the granite-capped peaks of Freycinet National Park and wandering the sands of Wineglass Bay. Led by local experts, the experience blends immersive wilderness exploration with the refined comforts of a floating luxury lodge, returning each evening to expansive decks, elegant lounges and ever-changing Tasmanian vistas.
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Day 1
Commence your East Coast exploration
This journey includes a one-way cruise aboard Odalisque between Hobart and the Freycinet Peninsula, with a return land transfer to Hobart (or the reverse, depending on departure). Boarding in Hobart Guests meet at Elizabeth Street Pier, with boarding commencing at 10:00 am. Please arrive between 9:30 and 9:45 am for check-in and welcome aboard. Boarding on the Freycinet Peninsula Guests meet at Coles Bay Jetty, adjacent to the Wineglass Bay Cruises office. Boarding commences at 2:00 pm, with arrival requested between 1:30 and 1:45 pm. A transfer from Hobart CBD accommodation can be arranged, or guests may make their own way to the meeting point. Our itineraries are shaped by the wind, tide and weather of this wild coastline, allowing each journey to unfold organically. Your experienced crew will design daily activities around current conditions and guest interests — from guided walks, beachcombing and wildlife spotting to photography, history and simply soaking up the scenery from the decks of Odalisque. Whether you prefer active exploration or a more relaxed pace, this voyage is tailored to you. The following itinerary highlights offer a guide to the experiences you may enjoy along Tasmania’s east coast. Upon booking, we invite you to share your interests and preferred activity level so we can personalise your journey.
Meals: L,D
Day 2
Coastal wilderness walks + explore isolated islands
Today offers a choice of guided walks and shore excursions, tailored to conditions and guest interests. More challenging options may include the Fortescue Bay to Cape Hauy clifftop walk (approximately 4 hours return) or the ascent to Wineglass Bay Lookout (around 1 hour to the summit), both rewarding hikers with sweeping coastal views. These walks pass through forests and heathland alive with birdlife and wildlife, with ever-changing sea and sky as a backdrop. For those preferring a gentler pace, there are relaxed coastal walks along deserted beaches, across tessellated pavements and through historic sites, offering equally rich scenery without the climbs. All excursions are led by expert local guides who bring the landscape to life, sharing insight into Tasmania’s flora, fauna, geology and history — along with the occasional well-timed quip. Depending on weather and timing, step ashore on Maria Island, a protected marine reserve and national park, to explore the Darlington convict settlement and walk to the Painted Cliffs, or beachcomb the island’s long sandy isthmus. Alternatively, anchor off Schouten Island to swim in crystal-clear waters and explore secluded bays within Freycinet National Park, or cruise past Tasman Island and the towering dolerite cliffs of Cape Pillar, marking the dramatic turning point of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race.
Meals: B,L,D
Day 3
Explore secluded beaches & bays while meeting the local wildlife
Today unfolds at an unhurried pace along Tasmania’s east coast, blending relaxed coastal exploration with active options on land and water. Stroll along white-sand beaches lapped by turquoise waters, pausing for a refreshing swim or a gourmet picnic, and discover both iconic and lesser-known coves around Wineglass Bay. Sheltered anchorages are plentiful here, from the deep-blue harbour of Fortescue Bay to the sweeping sands of Chinamans Bay, allowing the crew to select the most comfortable and scenic haven for the day. For those keen to explore by water, a guided kayaking excursion of up to 3 hours reveals Freycinet’s hidden bays and orange lichen-cloaked granite boulders, launching from Coles Bay into the clear waters bordering the national park. Wildlife encounters are a highlight throughout the day, with humpback and southern right whales often sighted during their migration from June to October, alongside seals fishing off rocky outcrops and pods of bottlenose dolphins riding the bow wave. Depending on conditions, spend time ashore on Maria Island National Park, a renowned wildlife sanctuary home to wombats, wallabies and kangaroos, and an important refuge for Tasmanian devils. The island is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, hosting nearly all of Tasmania’s endemic bird species, including the endangered forty-spotted pardalote, with white-bellied sea eagles and albatross frequently seen overhead.
Day 4
Enjoy fine dining in the wilderness while learning about the history of the area
The final day blends Tasmania’s layered history with one last taste of coastal indulgence. Step ashore at the Port Arthur Historic Site, one of the world’s most significant convict-era settlements and the best-preserved in Australia, before further exploring Tasmania’s penal past at the historic buildings of the Darlington settlement on Maria Island. Along this dramatic shoreline, stories of shipwrecks, explorers and lightkeepers abound, brought to life by your knowledgeable guides — whose tales range from master mariners and escaped convicts to modern-day big-wave surfers. Cruising toward Hobart, pass a coastline defined by lighthouses and legend. At the mouth of the River Derwent, glide past the Iron Pot, Australia’s oldest remaining operational lighthouse, before passing beneath the isolated tower on Tasman Island, the highest operating lighthouse in the country. Time and conditions permitting, enjoy a final shore experience — perhaps a beachside oyster shucking masterclass, savouring freshly harvested Tasmanian oysters paired with sparkling wine. As the journey draws to a close, reflect on days filled with wild landscapes, rich history and meaningful encounters, finishing with gourmet Tasmanian fare enjoyed either ashore in a remote setting or aboard Odalisque — quite possibly Tasmania’s most scenic and secluded restaurant.
Day 5
Return to Hobart
Depending on where your voyage started you with either conclude your journey at Coles Bay Jetty where a land transfer will be waiting to take you back to Hobart or we will dock at Elizabeth Street Pier in Central Hobart. Return times to Hobart are generally between 3 and 6 pm.
Meals: B,L
What's included
What's not included
Our voyages are designed for curious travellers — not just passengers. While our itineraries offer a range of activities, from gentle zodiac cruises to more challenging hikes and paddles, it’s important to understand the nature of this experience before you join us. These expeditions are suitable for most travellers with an adventurous spirit, good health, and the ability to move confidently around a vessel — especially in variable weather and sea conditions. Some shore landings and excursions may involve uneven terrain, wet landings, or light scrambling. Boarding zodiacs and navigating the boat may require balance and agility, though our experienced team is always on hand to assist. Each trip may include a variety of optional activities, most of which require no prior experience. Of course, all activities are optional — you’re always welcome to stay aboard and enjoy the vessel at your own pace. Not sure if this trip is right for you?
Get in touch with our team — we’re here to help you choose the experience that best suits your interests, comfort, and curiosity.
Step aboard Odalisque III, a purpose-built expedition catamaran designed for refined adventure in Tasmania’s most remote and awe-inspiring waters. Unmatched in design and intent, this boutique vessel introduces a new level of exclusive luxury cruising, offering intimate access to some of the wildest World-Heritage landscapes in the state. On board, Odalisque III features seven beautifully appointed cabins, each with a queen-sized bed and private ensuite, along with two generous indoor lounges and three expansive outdoor viewing decks. Throughout the vessel — including every cabin — floor-to-ceiling windows frame ever-changing panoramas, ensuring guests quite literally wake to a new Tasmanian vista each morning. The interior design subtly shifts from space to space, drawing inspiration from the dramatic tones of the southwest wilderness and the soft, sandy hues of the east coast. Odalisque III serves as a luxurious base for exploring southwest Tasmania and Freycinet, with guided walks, tender excursions and immersive shore experiences. Here, guests are invited to venture deep into the wild — without ever leaving comfort behind — enjoying meaningful exploration by day and exceptional boutique accommodation by night.
Coastal Cabins - Main Deck
The relaxed yet considered cabins of the main deck have a coastal-chic feel, emulating the soft, sandy colours of the east coast. These stylish rooms include a comfortable queen bed, a private ensuite with toilet and shower, and wide wilderness views through large windows. A twin bed option is available in this cabin type only. These cabins are 7.5 metres squared, including the ensuite.
Southwest Suites - Upper Deck
The carefully curated suites of the upper deck exude sophistication, reflecting the moody colours of the south west. At 10 metres squared, these refined staterooms are a little more spacious than their main deck counterparts and have larger private ensuites. Each Southwest Suite features a comfortable queen bed, expansive ocean views and direct access to the open bridge and wheelhouse lounge.
Per Person, Twin Share
We are happy to cater to dietary requirements, please just let us know at the time of booking. We’re also happy to be advised of major dislikes so that our chef can design a menu accordingly.
We support multi-generational travel and welcomes guests of all ages aboard Odalisque. Guests wishing to indicate their preferences concerning travelling with children are encouraged to advise us when making a booking
Power is available onboard to charge up any devices, including cameras. Odalisque is equipped with 240v household power points and USB charging stations in the cabins and lounge areas.
Tasmania has four distinct seasons. The warmest months are December, January, February and March. Autumn has still, sunny days and particularly beautiful sunsets and sunrises. Winter runs from June through August, a time particularly delightful in the mild year-round climate of Tasmania’s east coast. As Tasmania sits beside the Southern Ocean, exposed to the wild winds of the Roaring Forties, the climate can vary greatly - on any given day.
The average maximum daily summer temperatures sit between 17 and 23°C and winter daily temperatures between 3 and 11°C.
Rainfall varies dramatically across the island. Hobart, with an average of 626 mm is Australia's second-driest capital city (after Adelaide), while the southwest coast’s annual average of 2,100 mm ensures the rainforest and buttongrass thrive.
We provide an all-inclusive experience. The only additional fees are purchases from our top-shelf drinks list, which is an optional addition to our splendid selection of cool climate wines, crisp craft beers, slow-sipping spirits and non-alcoholic beverages.
Our expedition cruises don’t run to a set itinerary. Rather, we tailor each experience to suit guests’ interests, guided by the weather. The experience can be as active or as relaxing as you like – there are plenty of opportunities to go ashore for walking, beachcombing and birdwatching, or you may prefer to choose a soft lounge aboard the Odalisque, sip a boutique Tasmanian beer and take in the wilderness scenery from a soft lounge aboard Odalisque.
The expert wilderness guide, who knows everything there is to know about the history, plants and wildlife of the area, will plan your daily tender and shore excursions. The next day’s adventures are often the topic of conversation around the dinner table the night before.
Solo travellers are welcome aboard Odalisque. We provide the following three options.
Single occupancy fares are available for a private cabin and guaranteed departure on a particular expedition. Single occupancy fares are available less 25% of the twin-share rate.
Standby Singles is available to guests who are flexible with their travel times. Guests are placed on a standby list for their preferred expedition and will be contacted 30 days prior to departure should there be availability. Alternatively, you can view expeditions departing in the next 30 days here and contact us to book if you see availability. Standby Singles will only be charged at the twin-share rate per person (no single supplement).
Single Guest Match is suitable for guests who are flexible in their departure dates and willing to share a cabin with another guest of the same gender. Like the Standby Singles, they will be placed on a standby list and will be notified as soon as a match becomes available. Once confirmed, they will only be charged at the per person rate (no supplement charged). Unlike the Standby Singles, it is possible to obtain confirmation well ahead of departure if we can match you with another solo traveller of the same gender happy to share a cabin.
We tailors activities to suit guests of all abilities and interests. Walking is a popular activity in our itineraries, and with options ranging from 15 minutes to 6 hours, there’s always something for everyone. Your crew will advise guests of the difficulty level of any walks prior to departure. If a certain activity is not for you, we will provide an alternate activity. For all excursions, our crew are always on hand for guidance and assistance.
Should you have any physical limitations or mobility issues, please notify our reservations team prior to your departure.
If you have any questions about the activities or are concerned about whether our cruise expeditions can cater to your fitness level, please get in touch.
Absolutely nothing! Our guides will carry anything that you might need on any day walks. Of course, you are welcome to carry your own day pack. In fact, some guests prefer to carry their camera, water bottle and a warm layer.
You’ll need to bring comfortable activewear suitable for a range of activities – from hiking to cruising in the tender – appropriate for the range of weather conditions we’ll be exposed to – from hot, sunny and still to cold, windy and wet. Guests may like to change out of the day’s expedition attire into something fresh for dinner, but we like to keep it casual and relaxed onboard. There is no dress code for dining. For more information, please take a look at our pre-departure information sheet
We recommend taking a pair of lightweight and sturdy hiking boots, as some of the walking tracks can be muddy, rutted or overgrown.
You’ll also need to take a second pair of shoes for wearing when on the vessel. Trust us, you’ll be wanting something dry and clean to put on. We recommend a shoe that’s comfortable and easy to get on and off eg. Sneakers or ‘boat shoes’.
A full list of what to pack can be found in the pre-departure gear list.
There is limited phone reception in Tasmania’s coastal waters, with reception patchy at best.
We see this as 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.
When packing for your expedition we recommend that all guests pack lightly. For convenience and protection against the elements, we provides a waterproof expedition bag made of soft, weatherproof canvas for guest use. The bag is approximately 48cm long with a diameter of 34cm and a capacity of 45l. Guests may also like to bring a small bag or backpack.
For convenience and protection against the elements on all expeditions, we provide a waterproof expedition bag made of soft, weatherproof canvas for guest use on all expeditions. The bag is approximately 48cm long with a diameter of 34cm and a capacity of 45l.
The waters that Odalisque cruises in are generally quite calm, as they’re mostly protected from the swells of the Southern Ocean. This is particularly the case on the Port Davey Escape and Southwest Immersion expedition cruises, which operate within the safe harbour of Port Davey.
Only a short period of any expedition will be in open sea, therefore for the majority of the experiences guests will find the conditions generally fine. We also design itineraries and routes with the comfort of guests in mind. We do recommend that passengers who have a history of travel sickness or are concerned to bring their own sea sickness medication as a precaution.
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
Explore places the big ships can’t with the widest selection of genuine small-ship, activity-first cruising. On Water Expeditions offers exceptional value, quality services, no hidden costs, and plenty of inclusions.
Don't watch the action sail past your window, dive into it! Designed for active travellers, these itineraries give you more time to adventure off the boat.
Activity is built into every journey. From paddling to hiking, enjoy a basecamp-style experience that injects fun, meaningful connections and thrilling adventure into it.
Each voyage is thoughtfully selected for low-impact exploration, supporting genuine conservation and sustainability while respecting local communities and environments.
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