ABOUT US
About Us
Founded in early 2004, Orion Expedition Cruises is internationally recognised for a wide range of voyages, each designed to encourage guests to intimately connect with the region they are exploring. Expeditions that appeal to travellers who prefer to participate rather than spectate; those who seek the mental stimulation of new experiences, places and discovery, whilst enjoying the extensive facilities of their floating base camp, Orion.
Orion is a purpose-built expedition vessel designed to access the inaccessible, equally capable and at home whether it be voyaging in equatorial climes or polar ice cap. Technically and aesthetically, Orion is arguably the most sophisticated vessel in its class. Constructed by the world-leading Cassens Shipyard in Emden, Germany, and launched in November 2003, she boasts a host of advanced design features including technology that sets the standard in sustainable marine environmental practices.
Expedition Cruising is different to 'deckchair' cruising. Life onboard and ashore is inclusive, not exclusive, involving a regular interchange of information, thoughts and ideas between guests and expedition team. As befits an expedition, experiences are occasionally mentally and, optionally, physically challenging. Cultural experiences and interaction invariably uplifting, sometimes confronting. Always stimulating.
Onboard Orion the ambiance is intimate and subtly elegant and the international-standard of service warm and unobtrusive. Unlike typical mainstream cruise ships, Orion's guests are few, merely 100, cared for by an attentive crew of 75, including an expedition team who will inform, assist and guide you through these adventures.
As part of our commitment to offering guests an enriching experience, specialist onboard lecturers have been selected to join us on each voyage to share their knowledge and expertise on the regions we visit. Varying by voyage these may include marine biologists, naturalists, diplomats, artists, historians, photographers, explorers and scientists.
Our expeditions explore some of the most pristine and sensitive wilderness areas on the planet. More often than not, places that offer little or no infrastructure to support visits by a hundred people at one time (let alone greater numbers). In March 2013 Lindblad Expeditions, the U.S.-based small ship expedition company which partners with the National Geographic Society for expedition cruising, announced that Orion Expedition Cruises will become part of Lindblad's existing fleet starting with March 2014 itineraries, offering Orion past and future guests access to expeditions around the globe.
"We are extremely excited about the opportunity to offer global expedition cruising to Australians and we intend to bring the full weight of our experience and that of National Geographic to the Orion organization and the ship", said Sven Lindblad, President and Founder of Lindblad Expeditions.
Lindblad Expeditions owns five ships: the National Geographic Explorer, the National Geographic Endeavour, the National Geographic Sea Bird, the National Geographic Sea Lion and the National Geographic Islander. In addition, Lindblad other vessels for seasonal expeditions. Destinations include Arctic Svalbard, Antarctica, Alaska, Baja California, Central America, Galapagos, the Amazon, New Zealand, Africa, British Isles, Egypt, Europe, the Mediterranean, the Pacific Northwest and South America.
Like Orion, Lindblad Expeditions has a strong affinity with the environment with the belief that a traveller's own, individual experience can be life-changing - leading to greater understanding, appreciation and stewardship of a place on earth.
Plans are underway for the number of specialist expedition team members to be increased; scuba facilities will be added for specific 2014 voyages and a remote underwater camera will provide ship board guests with a better idea of what the underwater world looks like beneath the ship. All enhancements that reflect Lindblad's worldwide reputation as the most respected expedition cruise company in the world - now Orion's world as well.
We would be delighted to have you join us on a voyage to some of the most wonderful but rarely seen places on earth.
THE ORION DIFFERENCE
It seems that every day we read of another new mega liner being launched, each attempting to outdo the other with added theme park attractions. We are pleased to say that our approach is the opposite. For us instead of a theatre with wide screen movies we offer the real thing. 3D outdoor 360 degree panoramas to far horizons, with surround sound emanating from cascading waterfalls or the rhythmic beat of drums. Our rock climbing takes place up real cliffs. Our version of an 'adventure club' includes exploration in Zodiacs up rivers, looking for crocodiles or exploring World War II sites, and our thousands of kilometres of Aquarium features some of the best expanses of coral and marine-life epicentres on this planet. With us your senses are stimulated by the warmth of sun on your neck, the hint of eucalyptus on the breeze, looking deep into the eyes of an orangutan or sharing a smile with a shy child in a remote village surrounded by dense jungle.
Unique Expedition Experience
- Our ship was purpose built which means we can venture into locations where larger ships can not access, nor could they bring their guests ashore.
- Ability to visit small communities without overwhelming them and explore sensitive environments like Antarctica without overloading them.
- Zodiacs, an integral feature of expedition cruising are the ideal crafts for shore landings.
- Onboard and onshore experiences are enhanced by our qualified expert expedition team and specialist guest speakers.
- Perfectly proportioned, Orion is small enough to be intimate and large enough to be safe. She can reach smaller ports and inlets but brave against the greatest sea.
Comfort, Luxury and Style
- Highest staff-to-guest ratio with 75 crew servicing 106 guests (based on twin share).
- High standard of accommodation across all staterooms and suites.
- 5-star service.
- Unexpected and unmatched range of onboard facilities including spa, sauna, hairdresser, massage and gym.
- Award winning cuisine with menus designed by one of the world's most accomplished chefs, Serge Dansereau.
- Highest guest-to-public space ratio of any ship based in Australian waters.
Second visit
Jean Thorpe
Tasmanian Wilderness on 1 December, 2010
Sarina Bratton - you have shown a woman can do anything with vision and determination. From the Norwegian Star - though short lived in Australia, The Orion, and now Orion II.
I thoroughly enjoyed my return to The Orion, and with 47 cruises now to my credit, I feel I am able to judge the experience and would give it 10/10. Thank you for the log of the journey, so handy to show to friends who ask many questions."
EXPEDITION EXPERIENCE
It is in our nature to explore
As soon as you are onboard, you will realise that expedition cruising with Orion is going to be a unique experience on a ship whose beauty is more than skin deep. The ice strengthened double skin hull, shallow draft, Zodiac gantries and expedition crew indicate this will not be a cruise but a true expedition.
We focus on your access to places and events that would otherwise be close to impossible. Many of our destinations are virtually inaccessible for cultural, environmental or logistical reasons. Our quest is to reveal authentic experiences in unique destinations. Voyages to stimulate all five senses. This is why we describe our expedition cruises as following 'a path less travelled'. Experience places and cultures informally and, most importantly, participate at a level that suits you, at an energy level that suits you. Our expedition team has created experiences to suit all adventurers. No token national costumes here or flocks of package tour tourists.
Experiences range from climbing active volcanoes in Melanesia to viewing prehistory rock art in the Kimberley of North West Australia or an introduction to the ancient cultures of Papua New Guinea. Encounter extensive wildlife in its natural habitat - crocodiles in the Kimberley, dragons in Komodo, rare birdlife in the sub-Antarctic Islands and endangered species of primate in Borneo. Far removed from mainstream tourism we offer a more intimate experience far from the madding crowd.
- The unique construction of Orion allows her to go virtually anywhere, offering locations and experiences that big cruise ships simply cannot contemplate.
- Zodiacs offer an intimate cruising experience and are ideal for shore landings.
- Your experience is enhanced because of our ability to visit small communities without overwhelming them and explore sensitive environments without overloading them.
- Expedition cruising with Orion combines the presentation skills of recognised experts in all the disciplines of history, botany, marine biology, geology and wildlife with the very real experience of being there.
Trip of the senses
Carol and Geoff Page
Russian Far East on 4 July, 2011
Thank you to all the crew on this great cruise, from Captain Mike to the Zodiac Crews who ensured we arrived at amazing stops safely and the rest of the crew who helped make our trip fun and memorable.
The final stop at Tyuleny Island where all the senses were working overtime, was exciting and amazing. The large Steller Sea Lions, the thousands of Northern Fur Seals and the multitude of birdlife on this tiny Island was an unforgettable sight to all, including the expedition team.
Fantastic cruise again."
Trip of a lifetime
Reed Southerton
Antarctica on 26 January, 2011
I sailed on the Orion to the Ross Sea region of Antarctica, the most unforgettable 3 weeks of my life!
I loved every minute of it, from boarding in Hobart - Australia, first sight of the Antarctic continent and stepping off the ship in Christchurch - New Zealand.
Some of my many highlights were enjoying 5 star meals breakfast, lunch and dinner every day, actually seeing an Emperor Penguin face to face and feeling the raw power of the Southern Ocean from the comfort of the Orion."
ONBOARD EXPERIENCE
Wake each morning to another day of adventure, and then return to Orion - a world of comfort and attentive service. No matter what the days adventures entail, you know that you will always return to the comfort of Orion with 75 dedicated crew. Have a massage to unwind, a sauna for sore muscles, or refreshment brought to you, spa side.
As we travel between our shore explorations, sit back, relax, chat with newfound friends, read, enjoy a spa treatment, attend a lecture, the day is yours to do as you wish. The feeling is like staying in a very special, small luxury hotel.
- Our spacious staterooms and suites surprise even the most experienced of travellers. Some suites have extra rooms and balconies. All suites have ocean views and natural light, internet connectivity, satellite TV's, DVD players, bar fridges and room to stretch out and relax. Our generous space to guest ratio provides plenty of room, private marble bathrooms and ample storage. From fine linens to bathrobes and generous towels, your comfort is paramount.
- Unexpectedly, for expedition ships, Orion offers many amenities you would only expect to find on larger vessels - restaurants, lounges, bars, salons, boutique, internal lift, gymnasium and library.
- Onboard facilities include a comfortable theatrette or presentation facilities for our guests - onboard lectures and presentations can also be viewed in your suite live. WhileOrion is regarded as among the best expedition ships in the world, our aim is to deliver the best possible experience of "quality, safety and service".
Click here to learn more about our ship and onboard experience.
Cruising the Ring of Fire
Ruth and Gordon Phillips
Inaugural Cruise on 10 June, 2011
A HUGE thank you to Sarina, Captain Mike, the Expedition Team (led by Alastair)and the entire crew for an amazing Inaugural cruise on Orion II.
What a fabulous journey of discovery with like-minded, adventurous, fun people! We certainly "warmed up" the ship for it's new life with Orion. We can definitely call Orion II "home" now too."
Beyond our Expectations
Carolyn Hamilton
Kimberley East & West 18 August, 2008
We thoroughly enjoyed our trip on the Orion, we could not fault the service and friendliness, it was 110% from the time we arrived at the port in Darwin until we departed at Broome. Each day seemed to get better and better. This was a long awaited trip after just retiring and we could not have wished for a better experience. We have been singing the praises of the Orion to everyone we meet and keep vewing our photo's to remind us of the fabulous time we had."
BEFORE YOU DECIDE
Is expedition cruising right for you?
There are a number of considerations to be taken into account when deciding if an expedition cruise is right for you. To help you identify and go through the main issues about adventure cruising and the alternatives, we've prepared a very helpful check list.
Your Checklist
Do you:
Want to focus on the destination?
Have a spirit of adventure and inquisitive mind?
Not necessarily classify yourself as a 'cruiser'?
Enjoy your creature comforts?
Recognise the value in unique and intimate itineraries?
Want the company of around 100 other like-minded travellers?
Wonderful Service & Staff
Anne Symons
Camp Leakey - Faces in the Forest on 2 October 2012
The places we see and visit are amazing in their diversity and always great local guides. The Expedition team are so wonderfully enthusiastic all the time. The thought and planning that goes into all Orion does for us passengers. Here is just a small instance that must have taken a good deal of planning by so many. After our wonderful day at Camp Leaky we were on a Klotok with 4 other Australians & 2 Canadian ladies. We had seen so much, even a family of proboscis swimming across the river; it was nearly dark and one of the Canadians sitting back with her feet on the rail of our craft remarked "All we need is a Gin & Tonic and the day would be perfect". Right on cue around the bend came Clinton in his white uniform with a helper and a Zodiac full of G & T and plenty more plus mountains of goodies to eat. Truly amazing, we still had the fire flies
My Tasmania Home,
David Beechey
National Parks of Tasmania on 24 November, 2010
I could not think of a better way to go home to Tasmania but on Orion. It was wonderful to see Tasmania from the sea in all Tasmanian Beauty! Orion you did it again!"
SUSTAINABILITY
Honouring our history and 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 companys 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 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.
Community partnership is the basis for all expedition itinerary design. We start first with an approach to the traditional owners, chiefs or heads of the communities, tribes or villages we hope to visit. We start a dialogue about their lives, their needs, and the opportunity of shared experience. A key ingredient in this discussion is authenticity. In most instances we are working with communities without tourism experience and it is important to us that our interaction with them is positive in ways that the communities feel are fair and beneficial to their needs and interests. They see the potential benefit to their people, but need investment, commitment and support to see this through. Our role is to nurture the partnership, ensuring both parties work together to protect their natural resources, sustain their well being and support cultural heritage.
Orion - purpose built for Antarctica
Orion boasts a host of advanced design features including technology that sets new standards in sustainable marine environmental practices. She is designed to be fully self contained for up to 22 days at sea. Orion also has environmental credentials designed to meet the strictest requirements for marine management established by the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators.
Our environmental efforts have been recognised internationally through Green Globe EC3 accreditation, and we are proud to be named Best Responsible Cruise Operator at the internationally acclaimed 2010 Responsible Tourism Awards which took place as part of World Travel Market in London.
EarthCheck
EarthCheck is a worldwide Benchmarking, Certification and Performance Improvement system which assists international tourism organisations attain sustainability goals. The certification system responds directly to the major environmental problems facing the planet including climate change, waste reduction and non-renewable resource management.
Orion's EarthCheck Sustainability Award
In 2011 we plan to renew our commitment to sustainability and our operational performance has once again been acknowledged by the worldwide benchmarking authority EarthCheck. Awarded EarthCheck Bronze status under their globally recognised environmental programme, the award recognises Orion Expedition Cruises as operating to the worlds highest environmental standards, benchmarking energy and water consumption, total waste production and community commitment.
Orion was the first ship in its class to undergo the benchmarking programme, effectively necessitating the creation of new benchmark standards. Orion achieved Best Practice results in six areas - Water Saving, Waste Recycling, Community Commitment, Community Contributions, Cleaning Products, and Pesticide Products.
Orion was highly commended for the results by Stewart Moore, CEO of EC3 Global (Management Company of EarthCheck) who remarked: I am delighted that Orion Expedition Cruises has achieved Benchmarked Bronze status. Orion Expedition Cruises is a prime example of an organisation committed to environmentally sustainable tourism. They have demonstrated through a variety of initiatives that their business and its employees can make a difference by reducing their environmental impact. The commitment they have shown by participating in the EarthCheck programme and the achievements they have made within the programme set an example for other businesses to follow.
"Every traveller can be a part of the solution to help protect the natural and cultural heritage of our planet while they have the vacation of a lifetime."
Costas Christ, Global Travel Editor, National Geographic Adventure
Testimonials
Testimonials
Trip of the senses
Carol and Geoff Page
Russian Far East on 4 July, 2011
Thank you to all the crew on this great cruise, from Captain Mike to the Zodiac Crews who ensured we arrived at amazing stops safely and the rest of the crew who helped make our trip fun and memorable.
The final stop at Tyuleny Island where all the senses were working overtime, was exciting and amazing. The large Steller Sea Lions, the thousands of Northern Fur Seals and the multitude of birdlife on this tiny Island was an unforgettable sight to all, including the expedition team.
Fantastic cruise again."
Trip of a lifetime
Reed Southerton
Antarctica on 26 January, 2011
I sailed on the Orion to the Ross Sea region of Antarctica, the most unforgettable 3 weeks of my life!
I loved every minute of it, from boarding in Hobart - Australia, first sight of the Antarctic continent and stepping off the ship in Christchurch - New Zealand.
Some of my many highlights were enjoying 5 star meals breakfast, lunch and dinner every day, actually seeing an Emperor Penguin face to face and feeling the raw power of the Southern Ocean from the comfort of the Orion."
Kimberley Cruise
Alan Smethurst
Kimberley Expedition on 1 August, 2012