Since our launch in 2004, Orion Expedition Cruises has become the leading expedition cruise operator in Asia Pacific. The introduction of Orion II in June 2011 doubles our capacity and doubles our opportunity to introduce our guests to new, and in many cases unique experiences in amazing destinations. All the while enjoying the comfort and safety of our 100 guest ships and five star onboard service. We venture into locations where larger ships can not access, nor could they bring their guests ashore.
Our destinations include the Russian Far East; the culturally rich Inland Sea of Japan; the energetic and charismatic Vietnam, Thailand and Cambodia; the incredibly rich diversity of Borneo; New Zealand and sub-Antarctic islands that so few can visit; Papua New Guinea's ancient and primitive cultures; the grand frontier of Australia's Kimberley region and the Antarctic Continent.
Honouring our history… protecting our future…
Sustainability has become the benchmark by which we will all be measured.
For Orion, sustainability is more than a fashion, a trend or a compelling need. Sustainability is a core component of our company’s originating vision and values. To explore “a path less travelled” requires a gentle step. To work with the challenges and opportunities these environments offer is the starting point of every journey.
A small ship – featuring the latest German designed environmental management technology. This purpose built design extends from the energy efficient engine, to the collecting of air conditioning condensation and recycling of grey water onboard. A ship designed to be fully self contained for up to 22 days at sea. A ship with environmental credentials designed to meet the strictest requirements for marine management established by the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators. Credentials that set the standard for best practice in all environments we operate in.
Orion is a purpose built vessel designed to access the inaccessible, all in 5-star luxury. The ship combines the best and the latest in design with maritime and environmental technology, comfort and casual elegance. From the ice-strengthened hull to the chilled champagne and superb cuisine, this is expedition cruising at its finest.
Described as the latest in the quest to build the perfect expedition vessel *, all Orion’s staterooms feature ocean views and offer internet access, flat-screen TV, DVD/CD, a choice of twin and queen sized beds, a sitting area and marble bathrooms. Other on board amenities include a health spa with gymnasium, sauna, sun deck Jacuzzi and a stern marina platform.
Orion offers a range of included and optional Shoreside Expeditions designed to enhance the destination exploration for our guests. From Camel Safaris in Broome to snorkelling over pristine coral formations, there are many unique opportunities for guests to visit areas of Australia that even most Australians don’t get to see. As part of our commitment to offering guests an enriching experience, on board speakers have been selected for their knowledge and expertise on the regions they visit. Guests are invited to attend presentations in the 90 seat Lecture Theatre.
Our innovative expeditions are year-round and vary with the seasons:
- Summer (December to February) Antarctica and New Zealand and sub-Antarctic Islands.
- Autumn (March, April) in remote and unspoilt parts of Papua New Guinea and Melanesia.
- Winter (April to September) in the Kimberley and Arnhem Land.
- Spring (October, November) we return to PNG and explore Australia's East & South Coast.
Following the company credo “a path less travelled”, the addition of the 100 guest Orion II to the fleet in 2011 doubles capacity and allows expeditions to a wider range of rarely visited destinations; all enjoyed in a casual ambience, with 5 star facilities and attentive service onboard either Orion or Orion II.
Orion II’s inaugural voyages in 2011 include the Russian Far East, also known as the ‘land of ice and fire’; a circumnavigation of Borneo, the home to the orangutan; fascinating Vietnam, Thailand and Cambodia (including a visit to Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument), and the tranquil Inland Sea of Japan.
We would be delighted to have you join us on a voyage to some of the most wonderful but rarely seen places on earth.
* Berlitz Guide to Ocean Cruising and Cruise Ships
CLICK HERE FOR 2011 ORION E BROCHURE
CLICK HERE FOR 2012 ORION E BROCHURE
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