Reflections on a Wild and Wonderful 25/26 Port Davey Season

As we ease into Tasmania’s quieter, more contemplative months, the On Board team is taking a well-earned break before our next Port Davey season begins on 1 December. Piet is currently deep in the African savannah, spotting elephants instead of sea eagles, and Jess will be trading her trusty Tassie fleece for a yoga mat with a trip to Indonesia in July. A little stillness before the southwest wilderness calls us back.

Reflecting on the season just passed, we want to thank you for joining us. This was our busiest since launching our purpose-built expedition vessel, Odalisque III, and it’s not lost on us what a privilege it is to share this part of the world with people like you. We set out to create experiences that spark wonder, but the truth is, the connection goes both ways. Every expedition leaves us a little more inspired — by your curiosity, your stories, and the way you engage with this wild Tasmanian place.

There were so many memorable moments:
A pod of dolphins trailing the tenders at sunrise, folks lining the deck to catch shafts of golden light, and the hush that falls as you captured the mirror-like reflections along the Davey River. While Sea Eagles soared overhead, we were treated to the raw drama of the Breaksea swell crashing against the cliffs, with cameras clicking furiously (and safely from afar!). There was a particularly magical encounter with the elusive Azure Kingfisher on the still waters of the Davey Gorge. And it was a New Year's Eve to remember, with the new year brought in the green hues of nature's own dazzling light show, an Aurora Australis.

To relive some of these highlights, we’ve gathered a few favourite shots from the crew into a small photo gallery here.