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MV Bhitarkanika

A contemporary custom-built catamaran pioneering exploration of Odisha's Bhitarkanika National Park.

Overview

Launching in 2024, the luxurious MV Bhitarkanika, is a custom built two-suite catamaran meticulously designed to provide immersive journeys through the enchanting river systems of Odisha’s Bhitarkanika National Park. For those seeking upscale Bhitarkanika accommodation, the vessel’s harmonious blend of modern luxury and eco-friendly design provides discerning travelers with a comfortable and elegant retreat while cruising through the pristine wilderness of one of India’s most remarkable biodiversity hotspots.

Life On Board

MV Bhitarkanika boasts just two spacious suites designed to host up to four guests in supreme comfort, ensuring a restful night’s sleep in the heart of the forest. Contemporary furnishings, original artworks on palm leaves, handloom textiles, and luxury linens create a tranquil haven. From honeycomb spa robes and slippers to spa-quality bath amenities, every detail is designed for indulgence.

The catamaran also features a panoramic sun deck for wildlife viewing, a lounge-cum-dining area for intimate meals and educational wildlife talks, and a scratch kitchen where a private chef crafts delightful local delicacies. Welcome drinks, cooking classes, and shore programs with cold towel services post-excursion enhance your overall experience.

Wild Exploration

Embark on a unique adventure deep into the Brahmani-Baitarani-Mahanadi network of rivers. Two distinct itineraries, the three-night “Cruising in Bhitarkanika” and the four-night “Amazon of the East,” offer a deep exploration of Bhitarkanika National Park at a leisurely pace, allowing guests to savor the rich biodiversity of the region.

Often referred to as the mini-Amazon, the park is the second-largest mangrove ecosystem in India, lying on the coast of the Bay of Bengal. The name “Bhitarkanika” signifies outstanding beauty within, and these cruises take guests to the heart of this exceptional region, a Ramsar Site famed for its rich biodiversity, being home to endangered saltwater crocodiles, the largest colony of Olive Ridley Sea Turtles, some 320 bird species, as well as numerous reptiles, vertebrates, and mammals, including wild boar, rhesus monkeys, otters, sambar deer, wolves, and fishing cats.

But Bhitarkanika also has a rich historical and cultural past, having been the hunting grounds of the erstwhile King of Kanika. Many of his hunting towers and artificial watering holes can be seen dotted throughout the sanctuary, as well as several medieval Hindu temples, yet the major attraction remains the wildlife.

A Bhitarkanika National Park tour on board the luxurious MV Bhitarkanika boat promises guests a cultural and natural immersion never before seen in this remarkable region of India, and is sure to soon put Odisha on the world tourist map where it belongs.

Please note: Itineraries may be adjusted due to tidal conditions, local holidays, and days of the week to avoid closure of monuments, sites, and museums. The crew may announce these changes at short notice, and will advise of the exact time for each activity on a daily basis.

Itineraries & Prices

All itineraries are subject to change due to seasonal weather conditions (and resultant variations in river and tributary water levels) affecting accessibility to locations. Thus navigation routes, times and excursions may need to be modified at the cruise captain’s or your guide's discretion.

1 / 2
4-Day A
4-Day B

4 Day - Cruising in Bhitarkanika

itinerary map

Embarkation

PM: Arrive at the village of Gupti, which is approx. 3.5 hours drive from Bhubaneswar and a short distance from the nearby town of Rajnagar.

You are welcomed on board with a refreshing beverage followed by a safety briefing. Enjoy sundowner as you gently traverse the Pathsala River enjoying a curated Hi-Tea. The sight of distant Bay of Bengal has breathtaking views. A multi course traditional meal awaits you in the evening giving you the flavours of the region.

Overnight onboard Catamaran.

Catamaran - Cruising in Bhitarkanika - Day 1
Location
Gupti
Day
1 / 4

Exploring Bhitarkanika

AM: Today sail into the rich and unique mangrove ecosystem with creeks, mudflats and estuaries to arrive in Dangamal. Disembark and visit the Orientation Centre. Then you also explore the park on foot to observe and learn about the mangrove forest on trails. Bhitarkanika was declared a sanctuary in 1975, in order to protect the estuarine crocodile and the turtles in their rare mangrove habitat. Other residents of the sanctuary include water monitor lizards, king cobras, and migrating birds. About 62 different kinds of mangroves are found here. The virgin stretched beaches, meandering water courses, and tranquil surroundings intercepted by the chirping of birds, will surely enchant you.

PM: Enjoy a sundowner from the top deck of your cruise ship while cruising back to Gupti where the views of the forest and the setting sun are simply mesmerizing. Dinner at leisure followed by a relaxed evening.

Overnight onboard Catamaran.

Catamaran - Cruising in Bhitarkanika - Day 2
Location
Gupti
Day
2 / 4

Gupti – Dangamal

AM: After breakfast, set sail again to Dangamal. Ride the country boat in the narrow channel to Khola for birdwatching and viewing other animals along the river.

PM: Return to the Catamaran for lunch. Thereafter explore the park on foot on a different trail to observe and learn about the forest with birding watching opportunities. Cruise back to Gupti Jetty.

Overnight onboard Catamaran.

Catamaran - Cruising in Bhitarkanika - Day 3
Location
Dangamal
Day
3 / 4

Disembarkation

AM: Enjoy the sunrise and feel the fresh clear crisp air that is so invigorating. Relish the landscapes and beauty of the river and the life alongside. Disembark cruise at Gupti Jetty early morning post breakfast.

Catamaran - Cruising in Bhitarkanika - Day 4
Location
Gupti
Day
4 / 4
1 / 4

4 Day - Amazon of the East

itinerary map

Embarkation

PM: Arrive at the village of Gupti, which is approx. 3.5 hours drive from Bhubaneswar and a short distance from the nearby town of Rajnagar.

You are welcomed on board with a refreshing beverage followed by a safety briefing. Enjoy sundowner as you gently traverse the Pathsala River enjoying a curated Hi-Tea. The sight of distant Bay of Bengal has breathtaking views. A multi course traditional meal awaits you in the evening giving you the flavours of the region.

Overnight onboard Catamaran.

Catamaran - Amazon of the East - Day 1
Location
Gupti
Day
1 / 4

Gupti – Dangamal

AM: Today sail into the rich and unique mangrove ecosystem with creeks, mudflats and estuaries to arrive in Dangamal. Disembark and visit the Orientation Centre. Then you also explore the park on foot to observe and learn about the mangrove forest on trails. Bhitarkanika was declared a sanctuary in 1975, in order to protect the estuarine crocodile and the turtles in their rare mangrove habitat. Other residents of the sanctuary include water monitor lizards, king cobras, and migrating birds. About 62 different kinds of mangroves are found here. The virgin stretched beaches, meandering water courses, and tranquil surroundings intercepted by the chirping of birds, will surely enchant you.

PM: Enjoy a sundowner from the top deck of your cruise ship while cruising back to Gupti where the views of the forest and the setting sun are simply mesmerizing. Dinner at leisure followed by a relaxed evening.

Overnight onboard Catamaran.

Catamaran - Amazon of the East - Day 2
Location
Gupti
Day
2 / 4

Exploring Bhitarkanika

AM: After breakfast, set sail again to Dangamal. Ride the country boat in the narrow channel to Khola for birdwatching and viewing other animals along the river. Post lunch explore the park on foot on a different trail to observe and learn about the forest with birding watching opportunities. Cruise back to Gupti Jetty. Or visit Habali Kathi (subject to permission from the forest department)

After breakfast, set sail to the Habali Kathi mangrove forest (subject to permission) for birdwatching and seeing other animals along the Maipura River. Halt en route at Ekakula depending on the tidal conditions.

PM: Enjoy a walk along the beach and through the mangrove forests and indulge in a picnic lunch. Cruise back to Gupti jetty.

Dinner & overnight onboard Catamaran.

Catamaran - Amazon of the East - Day 3
Location
Dangamal
Day
3 / 4

Disembarkation

AM: Enjoy the sunrise and feel the fresh clear crisp air that is so invigorating. Relish the landscapes and beauty of the river and the life alongside. Disembark cruise at Gupti Jetty early morning post breakfast.

Catamaran - Amazon of the East - Day 4
Location
Gupti
Day
4 / 4
1 / 4

Accommodations

Social Areas

Sundeck
Relaxing
Wheelhouse
Livingroom
Breakfast
Dining Table

Suites & Cabins

Catamaran Bhitarkanika - Premium Suite Catamaran Bhitarkanika - Premium Suite
2 Cabins

Premium Suite

Guests
2
Size
11.85m² / 1227.5 ft²
Beds
Queen/Twin

Premium suite designed with fresh contemporary furniture, original works of art on palm leaves, handloom textiles and luxe linen. Equipped with modern amenities for a comfortable stay and cruising in the wilderness. Everything is set for a beautiful night’s rest in the heart of the forest.

Technical Information

Deck Plan

Features

  • Air conditioning
  • WIFI available
  • Kosher Meals
  • Hot showers
  • All inclusive
  • Charging areas for electronic equipment
** Use of certain equipment at additional cost, ask for details
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