Nothing can fully prepare you for the dramatic contrasts of Australia’s north-west, rich in Aboriginal culture and galleries of ancient artwork. Towards the west, in the historic pearling town of Broome, the colours of nature are vibrant and intense: rich red earth, azure blue seas and brilliant white sand beaches. North of Broome lies the ragged Kimberley coast, a place you can only comprehend from the sea. Rugged gorges, inlets, waterfalls plunging 100 metres all combine for an awe-inspiring experience you simply can't have by travelling overland.

Kimberley Expedition 
2012 Departures - May 23, June 2, 12, 22, July 2, 12, 22, August 1, 11, 21 31, September 10
2013 Departures - April 18, 28, May 8, 18 28, June 7, 17, 27, July 7, 17, 27, August 6, 16^, 26, September 5
Orion’s Expedition Team will lead your exploration of secluded beaches and river inlets – waters famous for an abundance of wildlife. From spectacular waterfalls and awe inspiring gorges, to ancient cultural history and indigenous rock art, the only way you can access the best of the Kimberley is from the sea onboard Orion.

This itinerary has been enhanced to include complimentary flight seeing over the famous Bungle Bungle ranges. Please note these voyages are made up of two international sailings and will be ticketed as such. One way pricing to/from Com is also available.
^ Please note 16 August 2013 is only available for patrons of the Art Gallery of NSW.

Art of Arnhem Land
2012 Departure - September 20
Orion’s exploration of the remote art communities of Arnhem Land tracks the evolution of indigenous culture along Australia’s Arnhem Land coastline. This will be a truly enriching journey for all the senses. In the Pirlangimpi art community in the Tiwi Islands view Tiwi ceramics and carved totemic Pukumani funeral poles.

Art lovers and collectors will be drawn to the Munupi Art Centre and their contemporary collection of paintings, pottery and carvings celebrating Tiwi cultural heritage and the natural environment. Maningrida is one of the powerhouse art centres of central Arnhem Land, home of distinctive bark painting, pandanus, weaving and wood carvings. And the Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Art Centre in Yirrkala is one of the leading galleries of Northern Australia, along with the adjoining museum which houses the iconic “Church Panels”. We will be introduced to Yolngu art and its guiding presence of the spirit that represents the past, present and future, and excursions will take us to the fascinating rock art in the caves around Jensen Bay on Marchinbar Island.

The perfect trip for those wishing to learn more about one of the world’s most ancient and artistically rich cultures. Please note these voyages are made up of two international sailings and will be ticketed as such. One way pricing to/from Merauke is also available.

Kimberley with Spice
2013 Departure - September 15
This unique Orion expedition combines the spectacular Kimberley region with the remote Spice Islands of the Indonesian archipelago. We sail from Broome with its long and colourful pearl-fishing history through the pristine waters of the Kimberley. The Kimberley has a rich diversity of wildlife and September is the prime time to see the world’s largest numbers of migrating Humpback whales as they head north from the Antarctic to rest and calve. With spectacular excursions and forays up waterways, explore the best of the Kimberley including the famous King George Falls. As we arrive here late in the dry season, our Zodiacs can venture even closer to the river falls. Our expedition team will take you back in time exploring for ancient art galleries of indigenous rock art.

The uninhabited island of Satonda, and the tiny fishing village of Kenanga on nearby Sumbawa present fascinating contrasts. Discover the culture and art of these remote islands with fascinating welcoming ceremonies and traditions like the Pasola horseback fighting of Kodi. With the dramatic prehistoric dragons and gorgeous pink sands of Komodo and the ancient culture of Sumba that pre-dates the prominent Hindu and Christian religions of the area, this is a brilliant combination of Kimberley and the Spice Islands.