Antara River Cruises launches sustainably built catamarans to traverse the Bhitarkanika mangrove wetland in Odisha

Following the 2023 epic launch of the longest river cruise in the world aboard the MV Ganga Vilas, Antara River Cruises is thrilled to announce their newest floats: Antara Catamarans. These two-suite, state-of-the-art, sustainably built vessels – MV Mahanadi and MV Bhitarkanika – are  designed to explore the Bhitarkanika mangrove wetland in Odisha, covering an area of 672 sq km in the estuarine region of the Brahmani – Baitarani River systems and their tributaries.

Get ready for an extraordinary cruise 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. Cruising through this wildlife sanctuary at a slow pace allows you to see the abundant flora and fauna all around you, such as the saltwater crocodile and over 320 species of birds.

The MV Mahanadi and MV Bhitarkanika offer 3 night/4 day itineraries – Amazon of the East sails every Friday and Cruising in Bhitarkanika every Monday. Embarking at Gupti, just over a 3 hour drive from Bhubaneswar airport, you cruise through Dangamal exploring Bhitarkanika and then returning to Gupti. The cruise is priced at INR 25000/- per person per night on twin sharing/double occupancy.

“A cruise on a catamaran provides a more intimate setting, often just 4 people who can explore the area exclusively with personalised service and flexibility. It’s a quiet, simple though rich journey through the wetlands, mangroves and dense forests of the Bhitarkanika National Park along with visits to local villages and temples known for their historical and cultural significance and beaches dotting the coast,” says Raj Singh, Chairman, Exotic Heritage Group, promoters of Antara River Cruises.

“However, dipping into these intricate ecosystems comes with the responsibility of protecting them and as you are aware, 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,” added Singh.

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 spacious interiors with panoramic views. Featuring two identical cabins, each with sweeping windows, private 3-fixture bathrooms and wardrobes with common spaces to lounge and dine and an airy sundeck. The suites are designed with fresh contemporary furniture, original works of art on palm leaves, handloom textiles and luxe linen ensuring a beautiful night’s rest in the heart of the forest. Fully air conditioned with luxurious amenities, the Antara catamarans redefine cruising in Odisha offering a tranquil home as you cruise through the wetlands.

Scenic Routes: Glide through the rich and unique mangrove ecosystem with creeks, mudflats, and estuaries of the park, presided over by the majestic Sundari tree, immersing yourself in the unparalleled beauty of dense mangroves, vibrant landscapes, and rich biodiversity that the ‘mini Amazon’ is renowned for.  As you lounge on the sun deck or in the comfort of your room, marvel at the flora and fauna enlivening the banks and the constantly changing view along the crisscrossing rivers of the park. Let your camera capture the majestic saltwater crocodiles or the many varieties of kingfishers caught in the act of snapping up their breakfast fish or and even a  foraging water monitor lizard 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 yourself in the thrilling stillness of unspoiled nature.

Culinary Delights: Indulge your palate with a curated selection of local and international cuisines. Our onboard chefs ensure a gastronomic experience that complements the breathtaking surroundings. Wake up to a breakfast with a view or enjoy a sundowner as you gently traverse the Pathsala River or indulge in a curated high tea as the sight of the distant Bay of Bengal mesmerises you. Multi-course traditional fare awaits you at meal times giving you the flavours of the region.

Guided Excursions: Join our 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.

Sustainability  on board the Antara Catamaran

Antara River Cruises have made great strides in sustainability:

• The catamarans present the first hybrid solar electric + fuel powered cruise in India
• Avoid single use plastic
• Bio-chemical toilets and water purifying plants on board
• Source all ingredients from local markets
• Follow strict animal welfare guidelines
• Encourage local Odia artisans and crafts for décor and retail

Bhitarkanika: the hidden treasure of history and biodiversity:  Bhitarkanika is a 672 sq km large, ecologically significant and protected sanctuary. It was birthed when the king of the ancient kingdom of Kanika meticulously carved a labyrinth of creeks, not only as a defence against sea pirates, and safeguarding his kingdom’s flourishing commerce, but also as a secret spot for his hunting escapades. These wild, intricately designed waterways, complex to outsiders, are entered through the Khola gate. Khola means to ‘dig the earth’, signifying the land’s excavation. See the mangroves, creeks and mudflats and their salt-tolerant species and the ubiquitous Sundari tree. This thriving mangrove ecosystem protects the coastline from erosion and is a nurturing ground for an array of marine and land species, including the formidable saltwater crocodile, graceful Indian pythons, elusive king cobras, a plethora of avian species, including migratory birds from Central Asia and Siberia, elegant spotted deer, and robust wild boars.

The Antara Story: Antara believes the best way to see South Asia is from the river. What began in 2003 as a dream for travel industry pioneer and naturalist Raj Singh has today turned into Antara’s thoughtfully designed, well-appointed fleet of nine ships that sail South Asia’s most iconic rivers. Antara offers its guests beautiful perches on moving water from which to enjoy vibrant and meditative landscapes, people, crafts and wildlife. Our philosophy is to bring the region’s indigenous environments and cultures to the world, sustainably, and with its renowned hospitality, in ships that are designed with thought, luxury and care. Antara cruises encompass the Ganga, the Padma and the Brahmaputra River systems to make the world’s longest river cruise. In 2024, Antara commenced sailing the four rivers that inundate Bhitarkanika National Park, India’s second largest mangrove forest.