Alcohol

Onboard we offer a wide variety of attractively priced Beer, Wine and Spirits. We regret we are unable to permit guests to bring personal stocks of alcohol onboard.

Baggage/Luggage

You will receive two baggage labels per person with your cruise ticket. Whilst there are no specific limitations on the number of bags you may bring with you, most guests will be asked to observe restrictions imposed by the airlines. Please note all bags will be security screened during embarkation. Suitcases up to 26cm high (when laid flat) can be stored underneath your bed onboard Orion.
 

Bathrobes

You will find bathrobes in your stateroom or suite for your use during the voyage.

Beach Towels

When using the Jacuzzi on deck 6 you will find blue beach towels available for your use. On days when there are swimming opportunities ashore beach towels will be provided for you.

Booking Conditions

Your cruise booking is secured by lodging a 25% deposit within 7 days of placing a reservation.

Final payments are due 90 days prior to cruise departure.
Cancellation Charges:

121 days and over - Antarctic cruises     AU$1000pp (US$850 for 2012 sailings and US$1000 for 2013 sailings)
                             - All other cruises           No penalty
120-91 days prior to sailing                      Loss of deposit
90 days or less                                           100% of fare
No show                                                       100% of fare

The Orion Expedition Cruises Cancellation Protection Plan is available in conjunction with most reservations for a per person fee of AU$250 which must be lodged with cruise deposit). Should a penalty apply to a cancelled reservation, participation in the plan permits 80% of the penalty to be converted into a credit. The credit is to be applied against a future cruise reservation and is valid for one year from the original date of embarkation. All bookings are subject to the Terms and Conditions of the Orion Expedition Cruises Passage Contract.

Boutique

Open daily when the ship is at sea, the Boutique offers a wide range of gifts ranging from signature clothing to the most beautiful pearls in the world from Paspaley. A limited supply of sundry items is available.

Communications

You may telephone Orion's Reception Desk by dialing +61 2 8014 9347 (this is the best number to call from within Australia) or +1 954 499 5166 Facsimile +1 954 499 5167. You may email guests aboard Orion using the following address (please be sure to insert the guest name and stateroom number in the subject line): reception.orion@orionexpeditions.com.

Credit Cards

You may settle your onboard expenses using American Express, Diners Club International, MasterCard and VISA. Should you not wish to use one of the above, you may use Travellers' Cheques or Australian currency. We regret we are unable to accept personal cheques.

Cruise Fare Inclusions

Accommodations as booked, cruise transportation, all meals on board, 24-hour room service, entertainment and educational programmes, use of the ship's sporting equipment and facilities, port & handling charges, Zodiac transfers, access to the ship's library of DVDs, Government fees and taxes. Fares also include the services of an experienced cruise staff. Fares do not include items of a personal nature including, but not limited to, travel & medical insurance, laundry/pressing charges, shopping onboard, bar expenses, hairdressing and massage treatments, optional shoreside expeditions, medical treatments, telephone and internet charges.

Customs, Duty Free and Quarantine

Duty Free purchases can be made through your local duty free store and declared upon embarkation. Duty free allowances (aged 18 years and over) re-entering Australia are: AUD 900 worth of goods including gifts, souveniers, cameras, electronic equipment, leather goods, perfume and jewellery. Alcohol - 2.25 litres of alcoholic beverages. Tobacco - 250 cigarettes or 250gms of cigars or tobacco products. Applicable voyage destinations are: Papua New Guinea, World Heritage Reef (cruises that include Willis Islet only). Antarctica Australian Quarantine strictly controls the types of goods you are able to bring into the country. Please consult their website for full details: www.aqis.gov.au

Daily Programme

Each evening the Daily Programme will be delivered to your stateroom providing useful information for the following day.

Diets

If you have not already done so please ensure your travel agent advises Orion Expedition Cruises of any special dietary requirements prior to your departure.

Dining Options

Dining aboard Orion is intended to be a leisurely, sociable experience, without fixed table assignments allowing you to dine with new found friends. For early risers Continental Breakfast is served from 6:30am in the Galaxy Observation Lounge. A buffet breakfast will be served in the Delphinus Outdoor Café (weather permitting) and in the Constellation Restaurant. Each day a buffet lunch will be served in the Delphinus Outdoor Café (weather permitting) and in the Constellation Restaurant. In addition to the buffet selection, an outdoor bbq and a la carte menu selections will be offered.

Dinner menus aboard Orion feature signature dishes crafted by Sydney's Serge Dansereau of 'The Bathers' Pavilion' fame, each designed to complement our other alternatives. On balmy evenings consider dining under the stars by reserving a table for dinner outdoors. 24 hour room service is available in your stateroom at no charge.

Disembarkation

Prior to disembarkation you will need to settle your on board account. A preliminary statement will be delivered to your stateroom for review 24 hours earlier. Should everything be in order, and you have already registered your credit card with the Reception Desk, you need take no further action. All baggage except hand luggage and fragile items will be taken ashore for you prior to disembarkation commencing. Please place bags outside your stateroom door before you retire.

Dress Code

Dress onboard is smart casual. During the day, comfortable resort wear is perfect though we do ask that a cover be worn over swimwear indoors. In the evening, gentlemen prefer long trousers and a collared sports shirt. Jackets are not required. For ladies, perhaps the best description is "elegantly relaxed". You might like to bring something a little smarter for your second night aboard when the Captain's Cocktail party will be held in the Lounge prior to dinner.

DVD/CD

Your stateroom or suite is equipped with a DVD/CD player. A range of DVDs is available on loan from the library. This machine can play music CDs so you may wish to bring your favourites with you. All staterooms and suites onboard Orion are fitted with new iHome Dual Alarm iPhone/iPod Stereos. The iP90 is a dual alarm clock stereo for iPhone and iPod that lets you charge your iPhone or iPod and lets you wake and sleep to either one, to a custom playlist. The iP90 also has EQ controls and 3D sound and Reson8® sound technology for an exceptional audio experience.

• Wake or sleep to iPhone, iPod, custom playlist, radio (when available)
  Start or end your day just the way you want it to sound
• Universal dock with adjusting dial to charge and play iPhone or iPod while docked
  Enjoy your music while keeping your iPhone or iPod fully charged
• Dual Alarm
  2 independent alarms let you wake to any combination of iPhone, iPod, MW/FM radio (when available) or buzzer
• Reson8® speaker chambers
  Specially designed high-end drivers deliver astounding clarity, depth and power
• Adjustable EQ
  Bass, treble, 3D and balance controls let you customize your sound
• Programmable snooze time
  Lets you sleep in a little or a lot with snooze time between 1 and 60 minutes
• Adjustable dial dock makes inserts unnecessary
  Adjusts to fit iPhone and docking iPod models
• Gradual Wake and Gradual Sleep
  Gently increased/decreased alarm/sleep volume eases waking and sleep

Electricity/Voltage

Orion's electrical system operates on 220 volts 50/60 hertz. All rooms have 2-prong European outlets and adaptors accommodating Australian 3-prong flat plugs are provided.

Embarkation

The ship's personnel will identify all guests and crew embarking and disembarking the ship at all times. During embarkation guests will need to present and identify themselves at the Orion check-in desk at the pier. All guests embarking Orion must provide their passenger ticket and passport/photo identification prior to receiving their Guest Identification card.

Entertainment

After dinner you will find our duo in the Lounge playing a selection of music ideally suited to conversation over a cognac, or dancing should the mood take you.

Gratuities

Gratuities are the traditional way to say "thank you" for exceptional service. Tipping is not required onboard however should you wish to recognize outstanding service from an individual staff member you are welcome to do so at your discretion.

Guest Evaluation Form

It is our aim to provide guests with a 5-star expedition surpassing their expectations. A guest evaluation form will be placed in your stateroom prior to disembarkation. We would greatly appreciate your taking a few moments to complete as your feedback is valuable.

Guest Identification Card

Upon embarkation you will receive a Guest Identification Card. This card serves three main functions. It allows you to make purchases onboard, it is your stateroom door key and it is your security card allowing you to board the ship.

Gymnasium

The ocean view gymnasium offers the following LifeFitness equipment: a step machine, a treadmill, a cross trainer, 2 bicyles, free weights and exercise mats.

Hair & Beauty

Our hair stylist is available by appointment, offering a range of services from a simple shampoo and blow dry to a complete make-over including manicure and pedicure.

Hairdryers

Each stateroom and suite is equipped with a personal hairdryer.

Housekeeping

Your stateroom/suite stewardess will introduce herself at the beginning of your voyage and will ensure your stateroom/suite is maintained to your liking.

Insurance

We strongly recommend you take out comprehensive International Travel Insurance to cover any eventuality, including medical evacuation and other charges that may arise whilst you are away. It is important to note that the Australian Medicare system does not extend to Orion. All guests reserving Antarctic voyages will be required to supply evidence that adequate medical and evacuation insurance is held.

Internet Costs for Cards

A laptop is available in the Library with internet connection. Internet access is also available in your stateroom using your own laptop. If your laptop is wireless enabled you may use it anywhere in the Galaxy Observation Lounge or the Leda Lounge. Two laptops are available for loan from the Reception Desk. Internet access cards can be purchased for A$30.00 (60 minutes) or A$50.00 (125 minutes).

Laundry/Pressing

Laundry and Pressing services are available on board Orion for a nominal charge. We regret dry cleaning facilities are not available and for safety reasons we are unable to provide ironing facilities in staterooms/suites.

Lectures

Our state-of-the-art lecture theatre with surround-sound is the scene for themed presentations by our Expedition team and Guest Speakers onboard Orion. All guests are comfortably accommodated in arm-chair style seating.

Library

Our library is well-stocked with a wide variety of informative books and journals on our destinations, and both novels and games are also available. You'll also find a laptop here onboard Orion for internet access.

Massage

We offer a range of massage options including aromatherapy. Spa treatments are designed to revitalize both body and mind. Appointments are limited and are on a first-come, first-served basis.

Medical Conditions

Any medical condition, advanced pregnancy or disability, must be advised to Orion Expedition Cruises when a request for accommodation is made. A very limited range of basic pharmaceuticals is maintained on board so please be sure to pack sufficient quantities of medicines for the journey in your hand luggage.

Medical Facilities

Orion has a doctor on board at all times and consultations should be arranged through the Reception Desk. Please note the Australian Medicare system does not extend to Orion and consultation fees will be charged to your stateroom account.

Money Matters

All prices onboard are quoted in Australian dollars. At the start of your voyage you will be asked to complete a form selecting your preferred method for settling your on board account. You may do so either by registering a major credit (or charge) card with us, or nominating payment by cash or Travellers' Cheques. We accept American Express, Diners Club International, MasterCard and VISA. Guests should note Australian currency regulations permit each adult to take a maximum of AU$10,000 cash out of Australia. Orion does not offer any automatic teller facilities or personal expenses cash facilities.

Packing and What to Bring with You

Dress onboard is smart casual. During the day, comfortable resort wear is perfect though we do ask that a cover be worn over swimwear indoors. In the evening, gentlemen prefer long trousers and a collared sports shirt. Jackets are not required. For ladies, perhaps the best description is "elegantly relaxed". You might like to bring something a little smarter for your second night aboard when the Captain's Cocktail party will be held in the Lounge prior to dinner. When venturing ashore we recommend you select clothing appropriate to both the climate and culture of your destination. Practical clothing and footwear is important (sturdy sandals or reef shoes for a wet beach landing, shoes suited to walking on uneven surfaces) and a lightweight spray jacket may be useful. In warmer climates beach towels are supplied ashore and be sure to pack sun screen, a broad-brimmed hat and insect repellant.

Passports & Visas

For sailings to the Kimberley, Papua New Guinea, Micronesia, South-East Asia, New Zealand, Sub-Antarctic, Antarctica and Borneo guests will be required to present at embarkation a current passport valid for at least 6 months from the sailing date. For other itineraries you will be required to present photo identification such as a current Drivers License or Passport at embarkation. For all foreign ports of call Australian passport holders will be covered by the ship's visa unless specific advice is given. Non Australian Passport Holders: Please check with your travel agent or Australian Consulate to determine your entry and visa requirements well in advance of your arrival in Australia. It is important to note that travel in Orion does not revalidate an Australian re-entry visa.

Pharmaceuticals

A very limited range of basic pharmaceuticals is maintained on board so please be sure to pack sufficient quantities of medicines for the journey in your hand luggage.

Physical Considerations

On every voyage extensive use of the ship's fleet of Zodiacs (motorised rubber boats) will be made transporting guests between ship and shore. In many instances you will be landed ashore on a beach. In these circumstances it will be necessary to step into shallow water and wade ashore. This is known as a wet landing. It is anticipated travel by Zodiac may be physically demanding from time to time. In order for Orion Expedition Cruises to determine if safe passage aboard  can be offered guests may be asked to provide additional information such as a medical assessment of their fitness for expeditionary travel. All guests reserving Antarctic voyages will be required to supply information regarding fitness for travel to Antarctica and evidence that adequate medical and evacuation insurance is held. Each shower recess aboard Orion is equipped with grab handles, however due to the expeditionary nature of our voyages none of the bathrooms onboard provide wheelchair access.

If you will require regular assistance or care, you must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion. Wheelchair users must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion to assist them at all times. Due to the nature of expedition ships, wheelchair access is limited. Access to the vessel is via a stepped gangway, entrances to the vessel have raised coamings and all staterooms have a step from bedroom to bathroom. Please note that bedroom door openings are 59cm wide onboard Orion, and guests should check that their own chair is of a suitable width. Although an elevator links the decks, the marina deck and side gate is not accessible to wheelchairs. The Captain will always have the final decision whether to take a guest ashore by Zodiac or Tender. If the Captain believes that it is beyond the guest’s capabilities, might affect the enjoyment of fellow guests, and/or compromise the health and safety of crew members, transportation may be denied.

Private Parties

If you are planning to celebrate a special event during your stay onboard (for example a birthday or anniversary) or simply wish to entertain other guests in your stateroom a selection of canapés and hors d'oeuvres are available at an additional cost. Arrangements may be made onboard.

Safety and Security

A full safety briefing will be conducted shortly after embarkation. Every stateroom is equipped with two types of lifejackets. The orange lifejackets are for use in an emergency situation. The smaller, blue lifevests must be worn when aboard a Zodiac. In 2004 a number of new security procedures were introduced to enhance security both on board passenger vessels and in ports around the world. Security practices on board Orion adhere to these standards.

Shoreside Expeditions

Shoreside Expeditions have been designed to allow guests to experience each destination. In some instances an excursion by Zodiac will be included in your fare. You will also find a range of optional Shoreside Expeditions is offered on every voyage. Full details can be found under the Destination & Shorex tab in each destination section of this site. Confirmations (first come, first served) and billing will occur onboard.

Smoking Policy

Orion's No Smoking policy adheres to all staterooms and the interior public spaces of the ship. Smoking is permitted in the designated areas outdoors on portside Deck 6. Please use the receptacles provided.

Do not discard cigarette butts over the side of the ship as they harm the environment and represent a fire hazard as they may be drawn into the ventilation system.

Spa (Jacuzzi)

A Jacuzzi spa is located on the Sun Deck, Deck 6. In warmer climes you'll find the spa affords a cool dip, doubling as a plunge pool.

Spa Treatments

A range of Spa treatments is offered, each designed to revitalize both body and mind. Appointments are limited and are on a first-come, first-served basis.

Television

Your stateroom television offers a number of channels including CNN, ABC Asia Pacific, BBC World, CNBC, ESPN Sports and Discovery Travel & Adventure. A range of DVDs is available on loan from the Library.

Toiletries

Your stateroom/suite is stocked with a selection of premium toiletries. The Boutique stocks a limited range of sundry items.

Vaccinations & Innoculations

We strongly suggest you seek advice from either your doctor or an approved public health travel advisory service to identify any specific vaccinations or health precautions required for each port of call. Eg. World Health Organisation (www.who.int.ith) or the Australian Commonwealth Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (www.dfat.gov.au)

For our South-East Asia itineraries we recommend you contact your health professional for any specific medical advice relating to travel in this region, including advice on Malaria prevention and Typhoid vaccine, well in advance of travelling.

Valuables (in-room safe)

A personal safe is located in your stateroom wardrobe. Instructions for use are displayed on top.

Visitors & Guests

Consistent with cruise line security procedures around the world no visitors are allowed on board when you embark or at any port of call during your voyage.

Water Sports

Orion is equipped with a fleet of 10 inflatable 2-man kayaks and when in warmer waters you are welcome to borrow goggles, snorkels and fins for the duration of your stay with us.

Zodiacs and Wet Landings

On every voyage extensive use of the ship's fleet of Zodiacs (motorised rubber boats) will be made transporting guests between ship and shore. Prior to going ashore, a Zodiac safety briefing will be held on board. In many instances you will be landed ashore on a beach. In these circumstances it will be necessary to step into shallow water and wade ashore. This is known as a wet landing and suitable footwear such as reef shoes or sturdy sandals is recommended.