A small family-run Tasmanian tourism operator has thrust the state’s remote south-west into the global spotlight, securing a place on TIME Magazine’s esteemed “World’s Greatest Places” list for 2026. The Port Davey Highlights cruise, operated by Hobart-based On Board, has been recognized among the world’s most exceptional destinations, showcasing the raw beauty of Tasmania’s far south-west to an international audience.
The two-night cruise offers visitors an immersive journey through Tasmania’s remote Southwest National Park. TIME Magazine lauded Port Davey as one of the “most remote and protected destinations on the planet,” highlighting its pure air, dramatic headlands, and pristine waterways, all in a location devoid of roads, towns, or hotels.
Family Legacy and Passion for Wilderness
Pieter van der Woude, founder and skipper, established On Board’s wilderness expeditions to share Tasmania’s far-flung coastal corners with those who appreciate natural and wild places. His daughter Alice has been an integral part of the business since its first expedition cruise to the south-west in 2016. The recognition from TIME Magazine has been a thrilling milestone for the family.
“We’re a family-run operation operating off an island on the edge of the world,” Alice van der Woude expressed to Pulse. “To be picked up in TIME, which is celebrated as a great international magazine … makes us feel very proud. It feels like we’re doing things right.”
Impact of Global Recognition
The business, which has been operating expeditions for a decade, launched its current vessel four years ago. The Port Davey experience runs seasonally from December to May, with the company also offering east coast cruises and private charters. Following the announcement, On Board has already witnessed a surge in inquiries and bookings.
“[It] just shows the strength of accolades in magazines like that,” Pieter van der Woude noted.
Tourism Tasmania CEO Sarah Kingston Clark praised the recognition as a significant boost for the entire state’s tourism industry. “Travellers are coming to Tasmania seeking authentic experiences they can’t find anywhere else,” Kingston Clark told Pulse. “What Pieter and his daughter Alice have built with On Board’s Port Davey Highlights experience is exactly that.”
Broader Implications for Australian Tourism
On Board’s Port Davey Highlights expedition was one of only four Australian inclusions on the list. The others were the Sea Sea Hotel at Crescent Head in NSW, the Murujuga Cultural Landscape in WA’s Pilbara, and the Sydney Fish Markets. This recognition underscores a growing trend in tourism, where travelers are increasingly seeking out unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences.
The announcement comes as global tourism continues to recover and evolve post-pandemic, with a heightened emphasis on sustainable and authentic travel experiences. The success of On Board not only highlights the allure of Tasmania’s untouched landscapes but also sets a precedent for other small operators aiming to capture the imagination of international visitors.
Looking Ahead
As the world takes notice of Tasmania’s hidden gems, the state’s tourism sector is poised for growth. The van der Woude family’s dedication to preserving and sharing the natural beauty of Port Davey serves as a testament to the power of passion-driven ventures. Moving forward, the challenge will be to maintain the delicate balance between welcoming more visitors and preserving the pristine environment that makes Port Davey so special.
For now, the recognition by TIME Magazine is a moment of celebration for the van der Woude family and a promising sign for Tasmania’s tourism future.
