Orion Expedition Cruises

The only world class expedition cruise line operating from Australia

Orion Expedition Cruises is the leading operator of five-star expedition cruising, operating two 106 passenger expedition vessels Orion and Orion II in Antarctica to the Russian Far East including Borneo, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, the Inland Sea of Japan, Korea, China and Micronesia.

Designed for travellers who seek intellectual and physical stimulation, while enjoying the company of like-minded adventurous spirits, Orion’s ecologically sensitive expeditions provide authentic experiences in remote and seldom visited destinations, allowing time to relax and absorb the surroundings and cultures.

Orion II of Orion Expedition Cruises
Orion II Orion II’s sailings feature the islands of Micronesia and Japan

Discover worlds unknown to mainstream tourism. Explore hidden rivers, coves and fjords, photograph crocodiles, brown bears, Komodo dragons, penguins and humpback whales, visit ancient temples, stand inside Mawson’s hut, dive on World War II wrecks, snorkel untouched coral reefs, learn about ancient and mysterious cultures and visit traditional tribal villages.

Onboard, biologists, ornithologists, marine biologists and historians - members of the dedicated Expedition Team - and specialist guest lecturers reveal secrets of destinations visited, sharing their knowledge and insight to enhance the travel experience and satisfy the curious.

Founded in early 2004, Orion is now recognised worldwide for its new and diverse itineraries designed to fulfil the desire of the sophisticated traveller for experience driven, cultural and nature based tourism that allow for a more informed and in-depth interpretation of, and interaction with, destinations and their people.

Providing the comfort and luxuries that today’s travellers expect in a specially designed vessels that provide access to areas otherwise largely unreachable through conventional means, Orion truly provides a path less travelled.

And the long term charter of a second purpose built ship is a further step to fulfilling the company’s original vision to have Orion Expedition Cruises regarded as the operator of choice in the Asia Pacific.

Orion II will be based in South East Asia offering a wide range of expeditions that will include Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, the Indonesian archipelago, Japan and Borneo.

Orion is a purpose built vessel designed to access the inaccessible, all in 5-star luxury. The ship combines the best and the latest in design with maritime and environmental technology, comfort and casual elegance. From the ice-strengthened hull to the chilled champagne and superb cuisine, this is expedition cruising at its finest.

Described as the latest in the quest to build the perfect expedition vessel *, all Orion’s staterooms feature ocean views and offer internet access, flat-screen TV, DVD/CD, a choice of twin and queen sized beds, a sitting area and marble bathrooms. Other on board amenities include a health spa with gymnasium, sauna, sun deck Jacuzzi and a stern marina platform.

Orion offers a range of included and optional Shoreside Expeditions designed to enhance the destination exploration for our guests. From Camel Safaris in Broome to snorkelling over pristine coral formations, there are many unique opportunities for guests to visit areas of Australia that even most Australians don’t get to see.

At a Glance