Orion
Technically and aesthetically, Orion is arguably the most sophisticated vessel in its class. Constructed by the world-leading Cassens Shipyard in Emden, and launched in November 2003, she boasts a host of advanced design features including technology that sets new standards in sustainable marine environmental practices. Although custom-made for expedition cruising, Orion is the epitome of elegance. No expense has been spared when it comes to the quality of fittings and furnishings, and the range and calibre of onboard recreational facilities are nothing short of five-star. Orion's luxurious appointments means she is more mega-yacht than cruise ship and her guests are few; around just 100 guests, all cared for in 5-star comfort by a crew of 75.
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SPECIFICATIONS
Length: 103 metres
Beam: 14.25 metres
Draft: 3.82 metres
Hull: Ice-reinforced for voyages in the Arctic and Antarctic
Gross Tonnage: 4,000
Engine: Mak; 8M25; 3,265HP
Speed: 15 knots. Cruise speed: 13 knots.
Stabilisers: Blohm & Voss, retractable fin stabilisers
Manoeuvrability: Bow and stern thrusters
Built: 2003
Delivery Date: November 2003
Builder: Cassens Shipyard-Emden, Germany
Staterooms and Suites: 53
Guest Capacity: 106 (twin occupancy)
Crew: 75
Elevator: Yes
Classification: Lloyds Register 
100 A5 E3 Passenger Ship 
MC E3 AUT
Regulations: Orion is built according to the latest international safety regulations, including those of the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Public Health, and those governing shipping to the Antarctic and Arctic regions. Orion fully meets the stringent regulations required to operate in Australia and New Zealand coastal waters.
Additional Craft: 10 Zodiac Heavy Duty MK5, 10 Kayaks, 2x12 passenger tenders
Communications:Direct-dial satellite telephones; fax; e-mail; Internet access; internal telephone system.
Registry: Bahamas
life onboard
Expedition Cruising is different and you will find Orion is unlike any other ship you may have sailed in before. Her appointments are luxurious, yet life aboard has a distinctly relaxed, Australian flavour with the international-standard service being warm and unobtrusive. The ambiance is intimate and subtly elegant.
You will be travelling with like-minded people, and they'll be Travellers not Tourists. Most of our guests can best be described as inquisitive, adventurous in spirit and young of mind. 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 onboard when the Captain's Cocktail party will be held in the Leda Lounge prior to dinner.
Days at sea aboard Orion are less structured than a typical cruise ship. Rise at your leisure and select from a variety of breakfast options. Late morning consider joining a presentation in the Lecture Theatre by one of our Expedition Staff or a Guest Speaker. Luncheon is served both indoors and out and the timeless tradition of afternoon tea is observed at 4:00pm.
Begin your evening by joining your fellow travellers in the Leda Lounge for a pre-dinner drink and a briefing on tomorrow's destination and Shoreside Expedition options by one of our Expedition Team. Some are included in your fare, others offer a range of differing experiences to suit a variety of interests.
The Restaurant opens at 7:00pm, though there is no rush, allowing you to dine when and with whom you choose. In warmer climes it is possible to reserve a table for dinner under the stars with full table service, be it a romantic table for 2 or a celebration for 20. After dinner you will find our duo in the Leda Lounge playing a selection of music ideally suited to conversation over a cognac, or dancing should the mood take you.
In virtually every place we visit Orion will drop anchor and you will be landed ashore in one of our fleet of 10 Zodiacs (inflatable rubber boats). 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 be sure to bring water ashore with you, along with sun screen, a broad-brimmed hat and insect repellant.
In some locations, such as King George River in the Kimberley, special seats are fitted to the Zodiacs for longer excursions permitting forward-facing views and greater comfort.
ROOM SERVICE
TRAVELLERS NOT TOURISTS
5-STAR COMFORT
FLEXIBLE DINING
SMART CASUAL DRESS
ZODIAC EXCURSIONS
accommodation
Every room offers you ocean views, room to relax during the day and a choice of either queen or twin bed sleeping arrangements. All of the staterooms and suites have the same high standard of amenity. The marble bathrooms are well appointed, with Grohe tapware, fluffy towels and robes. All rooms offer conveniences such as ample storage space, complimentary room service, a flat screen TV, DVD/CD player, internet connectivity, a personal safe, hairdryer and a mini-refrigerator continuously stocked with complimentary bottled water.
Owners Suite
avg area 345sq ft or 32.1sq m
Orion's four Owner's Suites are located on Deck 5 with three unique configurations. They contain a beautifully appointed bedroom and separate living room (except 502 pictured). Enjoy your private French Balcony and small outside area (except 509).
Balcony Suite
avg area 230sq ft or 21.4sq m
The six luxurious Balcony Suites are also on Deck 5, they have an open living room with a total average area of 230 sq ft*. The Suite affords floor to ceiling sliding glass doors opening onto a private French Balcony allowing you to take in the sea breeze.
Deluxe Suite
avg area 230sq ft or 21.4sq m
The two Deluxe Oceanview Suites occupy up to 230 sq ft* in area on Deck 5. An open living room with a two-seater sofa and large rectangular window lets you relax and enjoy the beautiful ocean view after a day of exploration.
Junior Suite
avg area 218sq ft or 20.3sq m
On decks 4 and 5 there are nineteen Junior Suites. These generously sized 218 sq ft* Suites offer lots of storage space and most feature a comfortable two-seater sofa in the sitting area. They also contain a large rectangular window (except JS418 & JS419 which have large oval windows, please note JS512 is a twin bed configuration only).
Category A Stateroom
avg area 180sq ft or 16.7sq m
These nicely appointed Oceanview Staterooms are situated on deck 3. The average room size is 180 sq ft*, all with large oval windows and a comfortable sitting area with tub chair.
Category B Stateroom
avg area 175sq ft or 16.3sq m
The Oceanview Staterooms are located on Deck 3. Relax in your sitting area with tub chair in a 175sq ft* room with a large oval window (except staterooms B322 & B323 which have twin portholes).
Category B Stateroom Solo
avg area 175sq ft or 16.3sq m
The Oceanview Staterooms are located on Deck 3. Relax in your sitting area with tub chair in a 175sq ft* room with a large oval window (except staterooms B322 & B323 which have twin portholes).
Junior Suite Solo
avg area 218sq ft or 20.3sq m
On decks 4 and 5 there are nineteen Junior Suites. These generously sized 218 sq ft* Suites offer lots of storage space and most feature a comfortable two-seater sofa in the sitting area. They also contain a large rectangular window (except JS418 & JS419 which have large oval windows, please note JS512 is a twin bed configuration only).
Owners Suites & French Balcony Suites
- Suites OS and BS have a French balcony (except suite OS509 which has two large rectangular windows). The French balcony features floor to ceiling sliding glass doors and a small outside area for viewing.
- OwnersSuite 502 has the living room space incorporated into the bedroom.
- Please note - bath facilities in Owners Suites may present some difficulties for less mobile guests as the shower is over the half tub (excluding 502 which has separate bath and shower facilities).
Deluxe Suites & Junior Suites
- Suites DS and JS feature large rectangular windows (except JS418 and JS419 which have large oval windows).
- Junior Suite 512 has two single beds.
Category A & B Staterooms
- Staterooms B and A have large oval windows (except staterooms B322 & B323 which have twin portholes) and sitting area with tub chair.
- Stateroom 301 has a double bed.
food & wine
In contrast to the wilds of Antarctica or rugged adventures in the Kimberley, the onboard cuisine is distinctly civilised. Award winning Sydney chef Serge Dansereau of 'The Bathers' Pavilion' fame has created signature menus inspired by local culinary traditions featuring produce and flavours reflecting the regions you are visiting. Each dish has been designed to complement our other alternatives allowing you to sample from each menu at your whim.
Orion's adventurous spirit is also reflected in our selection of Australian, New Zealand and European wines: vintages from exceptional lesser-known wineries complement our range of familiar labels.
Dining at any time is an unhurried experience with a single sitting free of fixed table assignments. Dine with friends you made on yesterday's exploration ashore or the couple you were chatting to on deck earlier...it is up to you. Dinner is always served in the Constellation Restaurant, or if the mood takes you, dine al fresco under the stars.
During the day if the scenery is too spectacular to simply let pass by, take a seat for a buffet breakfast or lunch at our Outdoor Cafe.
The prices shown in the sample menus and lists are an indication only. For the most up-to-date prices
SIGNATURE MENUS
SPECIAL DEGUSTATION MENUS
OUTDOOR & INDOOR DINING
ROOM SERVICE
EXTENSIVE WINE LIST
SERGE DANSEREAU
deck plan
Owners Suiteavg area 345sq ft or 32.1sq m
Balcony Suiteavg area 230sq ft or 21.4sq m
Deluxe Suiteavg area 230sq ft or 21.4sq m
Junior Suiteavg area 218sq ft or 20.3sq m
Category A Stateroomavg area 180sq ft or 16.7sq m
Category B Stateroomavg area 175sq ft or 16.3sq m
Category B Stateroom Soloavg area 175sq ft or 16.3sq m
Junior Suite Soloavg area 218sq ft or 20.3sq m
- 1Elevator
- 2Galaxy Observation Lounge
- 3Health Spa
- 4Cosmos Lecture Theatre
- 5Sun Deck with Jacuzzi
- 6Bridge
- 7Hairdresser
- 8Boutique
- 9Reception
- 10Library
- 11Leda Lounge
- 12Outdoor Cafe
- 13Constellation Restaurant
- 14Stern Zodiac Embarkation Platform
- 15Medical Centre
- 16Mud Room
- 17Side Zodiac Embarkation Platform
facilities
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.
Elevator
Orion has a glass elevator, centrally located in the atrium for ease of access. It services all stateroom decks and Deck 6, where you will find the Galaxy Observation Lounge and Cosmos Lecture Theatre.
Gymnasium
Located on Deck 6 with sweeping ocean views, the gymnasium is equipped with the following LifeFitness equipment: a step machine, a treadmill, a cross trainer, 2 bicycles, free weights and exercise mats.
Hair and Beauty Salon
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.
Health Spa
The Health Spa offers a uni-sex dry sauna, the gymnasium is equipped with cardio vascular exercise machines and a range of massage/spa treatments are available.
Internet
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). Communications at sea are subject to satellite connections.
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.
Lecture Theatre
Our state-of-the-art lecture theatre with surround-sound is the scene for themed presentations by our Expedition team and Guest Speakers. All guests are comfortably accommodated in arm-chair style seating.
Leda Lounge and Cocktail Bar
Centrally located on Deck 4, the Leda Lounge and Cocktail Bar is the hub of social life aboard Orion, comfortably seating all guests at once. Tour briefings are held here before dinner and a duo plays for your entertainment later in the evening.
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 for internet access.
Marina Platforms
You'll embark the Zodiacs from either the Stern Marina Platform (accessed by the rear stairs from the Outdoor Cafe) or the Portside Embarkation Platform (accessed via the Mud Room on Deck 2). Cruise staff will direct you to the platform in use each day.
Medical Centre
Orion has a doctor on board at all times and consultations should be arranged through the Reception Desk. A very limited range of pharmaceuticals is maintained on board so please be sure to pack sufficient quantities of medicines for your journey. Please note the Australian Medicare system does not extend to Orion and consultation fees will be charged to your stateroom account.
Mud Room
Located on Deck 2, this is a 'wet area' allowing you to wash down boots after returning to the ship, thereby minimising the risk of cross-contamination between pristine locations ashore, such as those found in Antarctica. You may also use this room to store your snorkel and flippers in designated lockers.
Observation Lounge
Located high atop Orion on Deck 6, the intimate Galaxy Observation Lounge affords stunning 270
bridge camera
Live via satellite, this image from Orion will automatically update once a minute. Hit F5 on your keyboard to load the image manually. Please note that satellite transmissions may be unavailable in some areas of the world, and during those times this image will not be updated.
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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.
Our partner, Ship to Shore Traveler, has been outfitting travellers since 1984. As former expedition staff and experienced outdoor enthusiasts, they are the outfitting experts.
You don't need a lot of gear, just the right gear. Ship to Shore Traveler has put together a packing list for your Orion expedition. Please visit ShipToShoreTraveler.com/OrionGearShop
PASPALEY PEARLS
ORION BAGS
EXPEDITION SHIRTS
ORION CAPS
Spa
Anti-Stress Facial
Restore a natural radiance to the face and ease the tension in the neck and shoulders with this combination of revitalising products and soothing facial massage.
Duration: 30
Price: $73.00
Aromatherapy Facial
Using aromatherapy preparations, this facial provides holistic benefits essential for radiant, healthy skin. The cleansing and relaxing oils are personalised to suit your skin's individual rebalancing needs.
Duration: 60
Price: $115.00
Venus Face and Body Experience
Can't decide between a massage or facial? Experience both with a relaxing 30 minute massage using your choice of exquisite aromatherapy oils followed by a 30 minute Anti-Stress Facial. This indulgence will leave you totally relaxed and refreshed.
Duration: 60
Price: $120.00
Antioxidant Body Buff
A thorough body exfoliation will polish your skin velvety soft. A massage with hydrating Jurlique luxurious oils will then leave you feeling energised and your skin glowing.
Duration: 60
Price: $128.00
Total Body Travel Treatment
The ultimate re-energising body experience, great to help you recover from travelling. The body is invigorated and exfoliated with dry brushing to aid your lymphatic system and then followed by a relaxing body massage. A nurturing facial, purifies the skin and completes the treatment.
Duration: 90
Price: $170.00
Moor Mud Body Wrap
Experience the benefits found in our deep cleansing mud mixture combined with essential oils to assist in detoxifying and toning the body while stimulating the lymphatic system. This treatment is specifically designed according to your needs. Choose from: Balancing/Relaxing, or Revitalising. Combined with a hydrating mini-facial and relaxing scalp massage to complete the indulgence.
Duration: 90
Price: $178.00
Orions Ultimate Top to Toe
This complete body experience, pays attention to the entire body. Firstly a dry body brush will prepare and invigorate your skin, followed by a full body massage using Jurlique's finest oils, paying special attention to your feet and hands. Total relaxation is assured while you also enjoy a mini-facial, eye treatment and scalp massage.
Duration: 120
Price: $220.00
MASSAGE
Relaxing and Therapeutic Aromatherapy massage with individually selected essential oils especially for you.
30 minutes is perfect to start relaxation
Price: $80.00
60 minutes is blissful for your mind, body, skin and spirit
Price: $120.00
Remedial and deep muscle work will suit those who prefer their massage to be firm.
30 minutes may quickly fix an aching area
Price: $85.00
60 minutes is effective for pain management and deep relaxation
Duration:
Price: $128.00
PAMPERING FACIAL
RELAXING MASSAGE
BEAUTY OR BODY TREATMENT
HAIR STYLING
SPA TREATMENTS
Serge Dansereau is a chef and restaurateur who respects the service tradition and regards quality produce as the optimum ingredient in his cooking. In a country with a world-wide reputation for restaurant excellence he continues at the forefront. He is considered one of the trendsetters and leading chefs of Australia.