Picnic Island is thrilled to unveil the newest addition to its team: a bespoke luxury vessel designed specifically for the exclusive private island retreat.
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.
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.
One of Picnic Island’s new co-owners Mark Israel said of this new addition to the attraction’s amenities: "The journey to Picnic Island has always been part of the experience, but now it becomes a memorable moment itself. This vessel embodies our philosophy of quiet luxury: sophisticated engineering and thoughtful design that speaks quietly, but leaves a lasting impression."
Co-owner Elisa Yu added: "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. From the moment guests step aboard, this vessel delivers exclusive access to Tasmania's marine environment on every excursion."
Luxe by design
Developed in partnership with Tasmania-based VanDiemen Luxury Craft, the vessel represents a significant investment in guest experience and operational excellence.
The 7.5-meter convertible superyacht accommodates up to ten passengers, along with two crew members.
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.
The custom specifications address Picnic Island's unique requirements: 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.
On the other hand, 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.
