MV Bhitarkanika Catamaran
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Private Charter

MV Bhitarkanika, MV Mahanadi, MV Baitarani, & MV Brahmani

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

Overview

The sister vessels MV Bhitarkanika, MV Mahanadi, MV Baitarani, and MV Brahmani, are custom built two-suite catamarans meticulously designed to provide immersive journeys through the enchanting river systems of Odisha’s Bhitarkanika National Park, and can cruise individually or together to cater to groups of varying sizes. For those seeking upscale Bhitarkanika accommodation, the vessels’ 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

Each catamaran 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 catamarans 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 shorter itineraries, the three-night “Cruising in Bhitarkanika” and the two-night “Amazon of the East,” and a longer eight-day itinerary—including two pre-nights in Bhubaneswar and its temple-rich surrounds before a six-day cruise—each offer in-depth explorations 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 MV Bhitarkanika or one of her sister catamarans 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 / 3
3-Day A
4-Day B
8-Day C

3 Day - Creeks & Crocodiles

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

Gupti – Dangamal - Exploring Bhitarkanika

AM: After breakfast, full day sailing into the rich and unique mangrove ecosystem with creeks, mudflats, and estuaries to arrive in Dangamal, en route looking for Estuarian Crocodile, Spotted Deer, Monitor Lizard, Wild Boar, Indian Python, Rhesus Macaque and variety of birds. Time permitting, visit the Orientation Centre.

PM: Later sail back to Gupti, where the view of the forest and the setting sun are simply mesmerizing. Dinner followed by a relaxed evening. Dinner & overnight onboard Catamaran at Gupti.

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

Disembarkation

AM: Following breakfast disembark the catamaran and proceed for your onward journey.

Important note: Final operational program will be as per the local tide timings and as such subject to change.

Catamaran - Amazon of the East - Day 3
Location
Gupti
Day
3

4 Day - Mangrove Majesty

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

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

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

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

8 Day - Exploring Odisha: From Ancient Temples to Bhitarkanika's Wild Mangroves

itinerary map

Arrival

PM: Arrive Bhubaneswar after midday. 

Afternoon, a sightseeing tour of Bhubaneswar, visiting the Rajarani, Lingaraj, and Mukteshwara temples. 

Rajarani Temple (c. 11th century AD) is a serene 11th-century sandstone masterpiece, known for its sculpted towers, graceful figures, and beautifully landscaped setting. With no presiding deity, the temple stands as a pure celebration of Odisha’s architectural artistry and offers a quiet, contemplative experience amid its golden hues.

Mukteshwara Temple (c. 10th century AD) is often called the 'Gem of Orissa architecture'. With its ornate carvings and renditions of stories from the Panchatantra tales, it shows an excellent combination of Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain features. 

Lingaraj Temple (c. 11th century AD) is the biggest of all the temples in Bhubaneswar, celebrated for its soaring spire and grand Kalinga architecture. It represents Orissa temple architecture at its most mature and fully developed stage. The entry is restricted only to Hindus, but guests can appreciate its scale, carvings, and ritual atmosphere from the dedicated viewing platform outside the complex.

Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

Catamaran Bhitarkanika, Mahanadi, Baitarani, & Brahmani - Exploring Odisha: From Ancient Temples to Bhitarkanika's Wild Mangroves - Day 1
Location
Bhitarkanika
Day
1

Bhubaneswar

AM: After breakfast, drive from Bhubaneswar to Konark (approx. 75 km, 1.5 hours). 

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sun Temple, a 13th-century masterpiece conceived as a monumental stone chariot of the Sun God, adorned with intricate sculptures, narrative panels, and striking wheels carved from chlorite stone. Spend time walking through its interpretive spaces and the expansive temple forecourt.

Continue to Puri (approx. 35 km 01 hour), one of India’s most sacred pilgrimage towns. Visit the surroundings of the famous Jagannath Temple (non-Hindus are not permitted inside, but the temple’s precinct, rituals, and marketplace life offer a vivid cultural experience). Enjoy a short drive along Puri Beach, known for its coastal temples, fishermen settlements, and wide sandy stretch.

PM: Later, proceed to Pipli (approx. 40 km 01 hour), the celebrated appliqué craft village where artisans create vibrant textiles, lanterns, canopies, and traditional motifs using hand-cut fabrics. It’s an excellent place to witness Odisha’s living craft tradition and pick up curated pieces.

Return to Bhubaneswar (approx. 25 km 45 mins) by evening.

Breakfast, Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

Catamaran Bhitarkanika, Mahanadi, Baitarani, & Brahmani - Exploring Odisha: From Ancient Temples to Bhitarkanika's Wild Mangroves - Day 2
Location
Gupti
Day
2

Embarkation

AM: Morning drive to Gupti Jetty (approx. 3.5-4 hrs drive). En route, visit the Lalitgiri Buddhist Monastery.

Lalitgiri a major Buddhist complex in Odisha. It is home to stupas, ‘esoteric’ Buddha images, and monasteries (viharas), which are the oldest sites in the region. Significant finds at this complex include Buddha’s relics. Tantric Buddhism was practiced at this site.

PM: Continue driving to arrive at the village of Gupti and embark on the Catamaran. Familiarize yourself with the Catamaran vessel. Enjoy a traditional meal awaits you in the evening, giving you Flavors of the region. 

Lunch, Dinner, and overnight onboard the Catamaran.

Catamaran Bhitarkanika, Mahanadi, Baitarani, & Brahmani - Exploring Odisha: From Ancient Temples to Bhitarkanika's Wild Mangroves - Day 3
Location
Bhitarkanika
Day
3

Exploring Bhitarkanika

AM: After breakfast, take a guided walk through a nearby riverside village, offering an authentic glimpse into everyday life in the Bhitarkanika region. Stroll past traditional homes built with local materials, observe village courtyards, gardens, and simple household architecture, and meet residents engaged in their daily routines. 

PM: Later return to the catamaran and sail into the rich and unique mangrove ecosystem with creeks, mudflats, and estuaries to arrive in Dangamal, en route looking for Estuarian Crocodile, Spotted Deer, Monitor Lizard, Wild Boar, Indian Python, Rhesus Macaque, and variety of birds. Time permitting, visit the Orientation Centre. Later, sail back to Gupti, where the view of the forest and the setting sun are simply mesmerizing. 

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and overnight onboard the Catamaran.

Catamaran Bhitarkanika, Mahanadi, Baitarani, & Brahmani - Exploring Odisha: From Ancient Temples to Bhitarkanika's Wild Mangroves - Day 4
Location
Bhitarkanika
Day
4

Dangamal - Habalikathi

AM & PM: Enjoy the sail from Dangamal to Habalikathi, a beautiful and remote coastal destination known for its quiet beach atmosphere and natural surroundings. The day’s cruise brings changing views of mangroves, waterways, and open coastal landscapes.

On arrival, relax and enjoy the serene environment away from the bustle of daily life.

 Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and overnight onboard the Catamaran inside the park.

Catamaran Bhitarkanika, Mahanadi, Baitarani, & Brahmani - Exploring Odisha: From Ancient Temples to Bhitarkanika's Wild Mangroves - Day 5
Location
Dangamal
Day
5

Habalikathi - Chandbali

AM: Morning sail to Chandbali, passing en route clusters of colourful fishing boats with fishermen readying their nets and gear for their journey toward the Bay of Bengal — a vivid glimpse into the region’s coastal life.

PM: En route, stop to visit the vibrant Maa Dhamarai Temple, an important riverside shrine known for its bright colours and strong local devotion. Continue sailing to Chandbali and arrive by late afternoon.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and overnight onboard the Catamaran.

Catamaran Bhitarkanika, Mahanadi, Baitarani, & Brahmani - Exploring Odisha: From Ancient Temples to Bhitarkanika's Wild Mangroves - Day 6
Location
Gupti
Day
6

Chandbali – Aradi

AM & PM: After breakfast, sail towards Aradi to visit the revered Akhandalamani Temple, an important riverside shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Explore the temple complex and take in the quiet rural setting that surrounds this centuries-old place of worship before continuing your journey.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and overnight onboard the Catamaran.

Catamaran Bhitarkanika, Mahanadi, Baitarani, & Brahmani - Exploring Odisha: From Ancient Temples to Bhitarkanika's Wild Mangroves: Day 7
Location
Gupti
Day
7

Disembarkation

AM: Following breakfast, disembark the catamaran and drive to Bhubaneswar (3-4 hours). Upon arrival, transfer to the airport and fly to your onward destination.

Catamaran Bhitarkanika, Mahanadi, Baitarani, & Brahmani - Exploring Odisha: From Ancient Temples to Bhitarkanika's Wild Mangroves - Day 8
Location
Bhubaneswar
Day
8

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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