Antara River Cruises has recently launched two cabin catamarans in Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha that offer an offbeat two/three-night vacation traversing the estuarine region of the Brahmani - Baitarani River systems and their tributaries. These sustainably built vessels - MV Mahanadi and MV Bhitarkanika - are designed to explore the Bhitarkanika mangrove wetland covering an area of 672 sq km.
Crisscrossed by four rivers: Brahmani, Baitarani, Dhamra and Patasala, the Bhitarkanika National Park has the single largest population of estuarial crocodiles in the world, eight species of kingfishers and over 300 varieties of birds. The landscape comprising the delta and mangrove clusters is complex and beautiful, a real draw for nature and wildlife lovers.
Travellers can get ready for an extraordinary cruising expedition as the catamarans navigate through India’s second largest mangrove in India after Sundarbans in the Bay of Bengal and unveil the hidden treasures of this enchanting and undiscovered region.
Starting 1 August, 2024, the MV Mahanadi and MV Bhitarkanika will offer 2 night/3 day itinerary - Amazon of the East sails every Thursday and Saturday and 3 night/4 day itinerary- Cruising in Bhitarkanika every Monday. Embarking at Gupti, just over a three-hour drive from Bhubaneswar airport, you cruise through Dangamal exploring Bhitarkanika and then returning to Gupti. The cruise is priced at Rs 29,500 [plus 5% GST] per person per night on twin-sharing/double occupancy.
Travellers can join Antara’s expert guides on immersive excursions, be it bird watching, nature walks, or exploring hidden villages. Every moment promises discovery and awe-inspiring encounters with the natural wonders of Odisha in India.
The highlights of the sustainable nature safari include - crocodile watch, birding, nature photography, star gazing, a visit to the Dangamal Wildlife Museum, animal sightings, boating and forest trekking.
“The rivers in Bhitarkanika National Park form a rich and diverse ecosystem, supporting an abundance of flora and fauna. From dense mangroves and meandering rivers to exotic wildlife and serene landscapes, every corner of this park tells a story of nature’s wonder. However, dipping into these intricate ecosystems comes with the responsibility of protecting them and Antara River Cruises is both community-inclusive and sensitive to the planet’s challenges. Our catamarans present the first hybrid solar electric and fuel-powered cruise in India,” said Raj Singh, Chairman, Exotic Heritage Group, promoters of Antara River Cruises.
Small pleasures on the Antara catamarans:
Comfort and Elegance: The catamarans, 17 metres long and 6 metres wide, travelling at 5 knots per hour, boast a perfect blend of comfort and elegance offering panoramic views. Featuring two identical cabins, each with, private 3-fixture bathrooms and wardrobes with common spaces to lounge and dine and an airy sundeck. The Antara catamarans redefine expedition cruising in Odisha offering a tranquil home as travellers cruise through the wetlands.
Culinary Delights: Travellers can indulge their palate with a selection of local and international cuisines that complement the surroundings. One can wake up to a breakfast with a view or enjoy a sundowner as one gently traverses the Pathsala River or indulge in a high tea as the sight of the distant Bay of Bengal mesmerises them. Traditional fare awaits travellers at meal times giving them the flavours of the region.
Scenic Routes: Travellers can glide through the rich and unique mangrove ecosystem with creeks, mudflats, and estuaries of Odisha presided over by the majestic Sundari tree, immersing themselves in the unparalleled beauty of dense mangroves, vibrant landscapes, and rich biodiversity that the ‘mini Amazon’ is renowned for. As they lounge on the sun deck or in the comfort of their room, marvel at the flora and fauna enlivening the banks and the constantly changing view along the crisscrossing rivers of the park. Travellers can let their camera capture the many varieties of kingfishers caught in the act of snapping up their breakfast fish or a bask of crocodiles having a lazy morning. Ride a small boat through a tangle of breathing roots with a naturalist, perhaps spotting a fishing cat’s luminous eyes amidst the gloom, and immerse themselves in the thrilling stillness of unspoiled nature.
Sustainability on board the Antara Catamaran
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