loading flash..
Voyage Summary
You are about to be exposed to a range of experiences where the outcome could be overwhelming. How could these cultures have overcome so much adversity, unleashed over thousands of years and still be the epitome of optimism. Feel the energy of ancient empires and sophisticated cultures. Walk in palaces of kings who have over a hundred wives. You will see the architecture that reflects the influences of Chinese Dynasties and France’s expansionist era, side by side. You will feel at first hand the events that made both sides of the Vietnam conflict heroes of adversity and survivors of tragic politics. You will reflect and ponder the Cambodian madness and then be uplifted by a people who believe in a great future.


Click here to view our map featuring our Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia itineraries.

Thailand, Temples & the Mekong
2012 Departure - March 5
Sailing between Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City,you will visit  the World Heritage Listed temples of Angkor Wat. Our overnight package will include flights to Siem Reap and accommodation and the chance to explore the ancient temples. Options to explore Ton Le Sap, the inland sea of the Mekong will also be available. A venture into the Mekong Delta where guests will experience the famous floating markets of the Mekong is sure to be a highlight.

Gulf of Siam Explorer
2012 Departure - February 27 
Enjoy a 7 night exploration of the coastlines and islands of Malaysia and Thailand. In addition to visiting some of Asia’s major centres, Orion’s expeditions provide the opportunity to experience both traditional and modern Asia from a different perspective, often far away from the crowds. There is a balance of history, culture and relaxation on sublime islands and beaches, among the finest in South-East Asia.

Vietnam Explorer
2012 Departures - March 12 & 21 
Vietnam is intoxicating. It has an energy and charm of equal proportions, and a regal history of passion, war and conquests to rival any European history. Vietnamese society has undergone a profound transition in the past decade. There is an extraordinary vitality in the cities, where dynamic new businesses and stylish resorts blend with elegant French colonial history. In the countryside, picturesque rice paddies, serene river villages and patient water buffalo contrast with the jungles and mountainous highlands and their enormously diverse wildlife. From the extraordinary history and relics of the Vietnam War to exploring the street markets and restaurants to sampling the delicacies of a cuisine that is renowned for its originality, delicate flavours and creativity. Exploring Vietnam aboard Orion II has the advantage of the ability to sail the secluded backwaters of beautiful bays and rivers. We will visit four World Heritage sites and take a step back in time in the ancient capital of Hue, walk the narrow streets of Hoi An, cruise the stunning jade waters of Ha Long Bay and see the exquisite spiritual architecture of My Son in the mountains of the long lost kingdom of Champa. Enjoy every step of the way to Hanoi where the medieval and modern co-exist.

Vietnam Explorer Photography Expedition
2012 Departure - March 30
Join Nick Rains onboard Orion’s photography expedition to explore the energy and charm of Vietnam. Departing on the 30th March 2012 for 9 nights you’ll have the amazing opportunity to get right up close and personal with your camera in one of the world’s most photo opportunistic locations with a renowned photographer. Exploring Vietnam aboard Orion II gives you  the ability to sail the secluded backwaters of beautiful bays and rivers, and the  opportunity to visit four World Heritage sites. Take a step back in time in the ancient capital of Hue, walk the narrow streets of  Hoi An, cruise the stunning jade waters of Ha Long Bay and see the exquisite spiritual
architecture of My Son.
 
Learn new skills from Nick Rains - a professional photographer for the past 28 years who’s work has been published all around the world. He has authored six books including - A Photographer’s Eye. Nick will be holding pre-shoot workshops onboard which will cover a wide range of subjects including camera operation, travel photography tips, printing, post processing methods and file management. Onshore there will be plenty of excellent photographic opportunities and Nick will be on hand to share his experience and help you get the best images. You’ll capture unique compositions from dawn to dusk.