Billed as “expedition cruising” this ship is for the adventurous and free spirited who also enjoy travelling in style. Orion, with its ice-strengthened hull aims to travel to destinations other ships simply won’t reach. A premium, boutique sized ship spread over 7 decks it can carry between 106 and 139 passengers, along with 65 crew. If you hanker after small scale, high-class cruising with informative itineraries and like- minded fellow passengers then this is the cruise for you. In the main you will find mature couples and single travellers seeking to take a closer look at the natural world onboard.
Orion sails into waters off the beaten track, specializing in cruises in the Southern Hemisphere. It offers varied and unusual itineraries not catered for by some of the larger cruise lines. Why not try Kimberley or Arnhem Lands in Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Tasmania or Melanesia. Or for the ultimate adventure pack your thermals and head for the Antarctic.
Built in Germany, this ship began its seagoing adventures in 2003. Weighing 4k tons, it measures 102m in length and is 14m wide. The CDC hygiene rating is 88. Due to the adventurous destinations on offer the ship also has bow and stern thrusters, an ice-strengthened hull and stabilizers. In trying to combine expedition travel and luxury cruising, facilities onboard reflect the merging of the two. Luxury fixtures and fittings throughout provide a cosy, intimate atmosphere with a good selection of public rooms to relax in. The focal point of these public areas being a glass walled atrium and lift. The onboard currency is the Australian dollar.
All 53 cabins have an outside view, with no interior cabins onboard. All are finished to a high standard, the smallest measuring 53 sq.m, the largest 105sq.m. There are 6 individual price categories, depending on size and location of cabins. All come equipped with Internet connection, TV, DVD/CD player, mini-fridge, complimentary bottled water, hairdryer, generous wardrobe space and a personal safe in the wardrobe. Each cabin has twin beds, however these are easily converted to a queen sized bed for couples sharing.
There are no single occupancy cabins or any with wheelchair access; there is also only one lift onboard.
| What are the cuisine/dining options? |
The Constellations Restaurant is the main venue for dining onboard, offering breakfast, lunch and dinner. The open seating policy contributes to the relaxed atmosphere in which to enjoy a high standard of cuisine. (Including special signature menus)
Other options include:
Delphinus Outdoor Café: Buffet breakfast and lunch. If weather permits passengers
are also allowed to book a table for dinner receiving restaurant service al fresco.
Galaxy Observation Lounge: Early Continental breakfast from 6.30 a.m. and Afternoon Tea.
Outdoor Barbecue is also available.
24-hour room service.
Just like the unusual nature of Orion’s destinations, onboard entertainment is far from traditional. In light of this there is no formal entertainment schedule, onboard casino, slot machines, swimming pool or cinema.
Instead, Orion offers a multitude of alternatives such as informative, interesting and in-depth talks on Australasia, along with a programme of themed presentation and guest speakers. There is also a library and shop aboard. The Leda Lounge and Cocktail bar acts as a focal point being centrally located on Deck 4. With the capacity to take all passengers it provides a convivial place to enjoy a drink or two and listen to live music. (Smaller outdoor bar on Deck 6)
For the more active traveller why not take advantage of all facilities in the gymnasium. Enjoy breath-taking ocean views while working up a sweat on a treadmill, step machine, cross trainers or free weights. Stay afloat on an inflatable 2- man kayak or make use of the goggles, snorkels and flippers (all available free of charge). After all that excitement relax in the Whirlpool, Jacuzzi or Veda Health Spa, then pamper yourself in the beauty and hair salon.
Your cruise fare will include all normal onboard services and facilities. This covers all cruise transport and meals, ship to shore transfers (via Zodiac*) along with government fees, taxes and port handling charges. Some shoreside expeditions may be included in some fares (check on booking). The official line on gratuities states that it is “not required”, tipping of staff is left to the discretion of the passengers.
The cruise fare does not include telephone and internet charges, laundry and pressing services, hairdressing and beauty treatments, gift shop purchases, medical treatment and travel and medical insurance cover. (Please note that voyages to the Antarctic requires medical and evacuation insurance cover; all documentation must be produced prior to sailing. You will also be asked to provide evidence of a medical evaluation on fitness levels due to the expeditionary nature of the cruise.)
No guests are allowed onboard and passengers are asked not to bring their own supply of alcohol onto the ship. Smoking is only allowed on Deck 4 and 6, smoking is not allowed in staterooms or interior public spaces. Special dietary requirements are catered for, however you need to inform the line prior to sailing. 2 laptops are available on loan free of charge. Internet cards can be purchased at either £15 per 60 minutes or £25 per 125 minutes. At an additional cost canapés or hor d’oeuvres can be served in your cabin for special celebrations.
* Orion (via Zodiac) uses motorised, inflatable landing crafts to shuttle passengers from ship to shore. They sometimes operate a “wet landing” which entails landing on a beach. Passengers then have to wade through shallow water to reach the shore.
