Unveiling Picnic Island’s Custom Luxury Vessel
We are thrilled to unveil the newest addition to our Picnic Island team: a bespoke luxury vessel designed specifically for our guests.
The custom-built boat will serve as the primary transport between the mainland and the island, as well as a gateway to exclusive marine experiences. From intimate wildlife encounters in surrounding waters to private excursions to nearby attractions, the vessel elevates every moment on the water while ensuring guests’ comfort and safety.
Developed in partnership with Tasmania-based VanDiemen Luxury Craft, the vessel represents our commitment to excellence in every element of our operations and guest experience. The 7.5-meter convertible superyacht accommodates up to ten passengers, along with two crew members.
“The journey to Picnic Island has always been part of the experience, but now it becomes a memorable moment itself,” said Mark Israel, new co-owner of Picnic Island.
“This vessel embodies our philosophy of quiet luxury—sophisticated engineering and thoughtful design that speaks quietly, but leaves a lasting impression.”
Thanks to its innovative convertible design, the vessel can adapt to Tasmania’s changeable weather conditions. In its enclosed limousine configuration, guests enjoy panoramic views through floor-to-ceiling windows while remaining protected from wind and spray. The sports configuration provides an open-air experience perfect for wildlife viewing and photography.
“We wanted our guests’ first impression of Picnic Island to reflect the same values they’ll encounter throughout their stay—authentic luxury, nature connection, and genuine care for their comfort,” said co-owner Elisa Yu.
“From the moment guests step aboard, this vessel delivers exclusive access to Tasmania’s marine environment in every excursion.”
The custom specifications address our unique requirements on Picnic Island. The shallow 500mm draft allows access to the island’s jetty in various tide conditions, while the electric bow thruster provides precise maneuvering in the confined spaces around the island. Twin Volvo Penta D4-260 engines deliver reliable performance while maintaining fuel efficiency.
Safety features include active trim tabs for enhanced stability in rough seas, comprehensive navigation equipment, and emergency protocols specifically developed for the remote island location. The vessel’s design prioritizes passenger comfort with cushioned seating, climate protection, and easy boarding access for guests of varying mobility levels.
Local construction of the vessel by VanDiemen Luxury Craft reinforces Picnic Island’s commitment to supporting Tasmanian businesses and showcasing their advanced manufacturing capabilities.
The vessel will enter service alongside the island’s reopening in January 2026, providing guests with transportation and excursions that match the sophistication and attention to detail they’ll experience throughout their island stay.
About Picnic Island Tasmania
Picnic Island is a private island retreat located 800 meters offshore from Coles Bay, Tasmania. The island accommodates up to eight guests in three luxuriously appointed bedrooms and a primary suite. As a protected seabird sanctuary, the island offers unprecedented access to wildlife, including resident Little Penguin and Shearwater colonies and occasional visits from whales, dolphins and seals, all while providing sophisticated luxury and exceptional service.
Reach out to [email protected] to enquire about your travel dates and create your dream visit with our concierge team.
