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| Deck | Cabin Type | Cabin Code | Save up to | Single Cabin  | Twin Cabin | Triple Cabin | Quad Cabin | |||||
| Deck 3 view | Oceanview Stateroom A view | A | 25% | $15670enquire now | $7835enquire now | N/A | N/A | |||||
| Deck 3 view | Oceanview Stateroom B view | B | 25% | $16200enquire now | $8100enquire now | N/A | N/A | |||||
| Deck 4 view | Junior Suite view | JS | 25% | $18620enquire now | $9310enquire now | N/A | N/A | |||||
| Deck 5 view | Deluxe Suite view | DS | 25% | $20390enquire now | $10195enquire now | N/A | N/A | |||||
| Deck 5 view | Balcony Suite view | BS | 25% | $27580enquire now | $13790enquire now | N/A | N/A | |||||
| Deck 5 view | Owners Suite view | OS | 25% | $28260enquire now | $14130enquire now | N/A | N/A | |||||
*Please note: All prices featured are in NZ dollars (unless otherwise stated), and include port taxes, government taxes and fees. Prices and availability are subject to change due to changes made by the Cruise Companies. | ||||||||||||
Cruise Itinerary
| Day | Ports of call | Arrival | Departure |
| 1 | Cairns | Wed, Oct 24 2012 17:00 | |
| 3 | Alotau | Fri, Oct 26 2012 08:00 | Fri, Oct 26 2012 17:00 |
| 4 | Samarai & Kwato Islands | Sat, Oct 27 2012 08:00 | Sat, Oct 27 2012 17:00 |
| 5 | Kitava Island | Sun, Oct 28 2012 08:00 | Sun, Oct 28 2012 17:00 |
| 6 | Tufi Harbour | Mon, Oct 29 2012 08:00 | Mon, Oct 29 2012 17:00 |
| 7 | Tami Island | Tue, Oct 30 2012 08:00 | Tue, Oct 30 2012 17:00 |
| 8 | Madang | Wed, Oct 31 2012 08:00 | Wed, Oct 31 2012 17:00 |
| 9 | Sepik River (Watam Village) | Thu, Nov 1 2012 08:00 | Thu, Nov 1 2012 17:00 |
| 11 | Rabaul | Sat, Nov 3 2012 08:00 | Sat, Nov 3 2012 17:00 |
| 12 | Rabaul | Sun, Nov 4 2012 09:00 | |
| Total length of cruise: 11 Nights | |||
TYPICAL ITINERARY
Begin your idyllic cruise on the Orion from Cairns, Australia. Unpack once, relax and enjoy leisurely days at sea as you cruise to:
Cairns, Australia – Embark
The Cairns region is internationally recognised for worldclass attractions, superb natural features and friendly north Queensland hospitality. It is the focal point for the magnificent World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and is surrounded by tropical rainforests. Visitors enjoy browsing at indigeneous art galleries, shopping at the night markets and dining out on multicultural cuisine in the many restaurants along the esplanade.
Alotau, Milne Bay – Dry landing
Alotau, the capital of Milne Bay Province, is located at the eastern tip of mainland Papua New Guinea. The rugged Owen Stanley Ranges to the west have isolated Alotau and there is no road access to the rest of the country.
Many of the population of around 10,000 rely on the sea for their livelihood and as a result the busy harbour is the focal point of the town. Cargo movements drive harbour activity, and there is an array of colourful vessels to be seen, ranging from tiny canoes to well-equipped charter boats.
Australian military history is closely linked to this area. The recently completed Battle of Milne Bay War Memorial is close to the foreshore and has a detailed description of the battle. In August 1942, the battle over Gurney Airstrip saw the Australians win the first significant land-based victory over Japanese forces in the Pacific. Remnants of the battle are still being discovered, with aircraft, vehicles and tanks to be found on land and on the seabed.
Australian troops had, at Milne Bay, inflicted on the Japanese their first undoubted defeat on land. Some of us may forget that, of all the allies, it was the Australians who first broke the invincibility of the Japanese army.
Samarai & Kwato Islands – Wet landing
In the early 1900s Samarai Island was the thriving colonial capital of the territory of Papua and the town’s streetscape carries reminders of those bygone, halcyon days. Back then it was described as one of the most beautiful places in the South Pacific.
Despite its faded-glory atmosphere, commerce is still the lifeblood of this tiny island, just 24ha in area, with inter-island trading ships frequenting the harbour. A pleasant stroll through the town can be taken past the wharf and the Trading Company opposite to the sports ground, which is still the scene of fiercely contested cricket matches. From here a relatively easy climb up the small hill near the old hospital is rewarded with wonderful views of the harbour and the China Strait.
The China Strait islands surrounding Samarai have a history of witchcraft that persists, despite the best efforts of missionaries to debunk stories of ghost ships and mysterious lights.
Just three kilometres west of Samarai is Kwato Island, where European traders broke their journey en route to the South Pacific in search of gold and to trade in mother of pearl, sandalwood and sea cucumbers (beche de mer).
Kitava, The Trobriands – Wet landing
In 1793 the French vessel Esperance marked the first European visit to the Trobriand Islands, which were named after the first lieutenant on board - Denis de Trobriand. The area soon became a hub for trading ships from Europe, American whalers and German ships seeking supplies of yams.
The islands are famed for its beautiful beaches and today you’ll have the chance to visit a village and see examples of the distinctive yam houses. The people rely on subsistence farming and fishing, and the yam plays a very important role in their diet. More than just the staple diet, yams are revered by all, being proudly displayed after harvesting and then kept in elaborate storehouses. The unique Trobriand culture was studied by the anthropologist Bronislaw Malinowski in the early 1900’s and resulted in the islands being dubbed (perhaps erroneously) “The Island of Love”.
Orion guests will be able to admire and purchase carvings which are renowned throughout Papua New Guinea for their high quality and workmanship – look for walking sticks, small stools and bowls of various shapes and sizes.
Tufi – Wet landing
The magnificent scenery around Cape Nelson on the north coast of the mainland is a well-kept secret. More than 30 fjords are carved into the shoreline with each fjord being surrounded by dense rainforest above sheer basalt walls, many with waterfalls plunging into the sea. Sandy beaches meet coral reefs and the crystal clear water is crammed with diverse marine life – a perfect combination for swimming, snorkelling and diving.
Local villages are set in isolated areas along the coast and on the imposing slopes of Mount Trafalgar. The cultural heritage of the area is based on subsistence farming and fishing. The Oro pottery and Tapa cloth-making is also renowned throughout Papua New Guinea.
The world's largest butterfly, the Queen Alexandra Birdwing, inhabits the rainforest, and specimens with a 30cm wingspan have been found. The world's largest grasshopper, longest stick insect and longest beetle can also be found in the Tufi area.
Tami Islands – Wet landing
Today we will land at the Tami Islands, a seldom-visited island in Morobe Province not far from the town of Finschaffen.
The Tami Islands are a small group of uplifted coral atolls, with two main villages on the two larger islands and many smaller reefs and cays. In the centre is a beautiful, crystal clear blue lagoon with abundant marine life and stunning coral formations.
The local people will greet Orion with an authentic cultural performance and there will be an opportunity to purchase Tami artefacts and explore the islands and their beautiful gardens.
Madang – Dry landing
Early this morning, Orion will enter the spectacular Madang Lagoon, something worth climbing out of bed for. Madang itself is a pretty town set on a peninsula, with lush gardens and magnificent vistas of tropical seascapes, islands and inlets.
The market is a must-see – with masses of colourful produce, shell jewellery, woven bags known as bilums, carvings and Bilbil clay pots, which are a local specialty. The old German cemetery is close to the marketplace and the weathered stones are reminders of the German colonial past.
Divers come from around the world to dive sites just offshore, which encompass wartime wrecks, pelagic marine life, reef-filled shallow lagoons and drift-diving off deep drops. In the centre of the harbour is the wreck of a US minesweeper (the Boston), still intact after over 50 years.
Sepik River & Watam Village – Wet landing
The meandering Sepik River is the longest river in Papua New Guinea and for years has been a major trading artery linking the coast and the interior. From the West Papuan border, the Sepik twists its way towards the coast where the river mouth is more than a mile wide. Orion will take two anchorage positions during the day, one close to the mouth of the Sepik River and the other nearby the village of Watam, which is home to a population of 300.
In Watam, guests will enjoy a cultural display and meet some of the villagers to gain an appreciation of Sepik River village life. Local artists will have carvings and woven baskets available for purchase.
Rabaul, Papua New Guinea – Disembark
Set at the eastern end of the island of New Britain, the tropical port town of Rabaul has always been famous for its spectacular setting. Nestled beside Simpson Harbour, the township is surrounded by six volcanoes, one of which, Mt Tavurvur, is still active today. During more than 100 years of settlement, Rabaul has been rocked by massive volcanic eruptions and war, a testament to the resilience of the townsfolk who have rebuilt after each event.
The most recent major volcanic eruption was in September 1994 when Tavurvur and Vulcan covered much of Rabaul and surrounding villages with volcanic ash. This eruption saw the growth of the nearby coastal town of Kokopo which has now become the administrative and tourism centre for East New Britain, replacing Rabaul in that role..
The area played a significant role in WWII and the Japanese occupation in 1942 saw the building of hundreds of kilometres of tunnels underneath the town and the Gazelle Peninsula as protection against constant Allied bombing raids. It is almost hard to miss the rusting relics left over by the retreating forces. In one tunnel are five huge barges that were pulled along rails to the shore and back by prisoners of war. Dozens of sunken aircraft and ships dot the harbour and to the north are sea caves used as a drop-off point by Japanese submarines.
OVERVIEW
Set sail from Cairns on your 11 night Papua New Guinea Cultural Highlights Cruise on Orion. This 12 day cruise visits 7 different ports including Alotau-Milne Bay, Samarai & Kwato Islands, Kitava-The Trobriands, Tufi, Tami Islands, Madang and Sepik River & Watam Village before you head for Rabaul-Papua New Guinea.
INCLUSIONS
- Accommodations as booked
- Cruise transportation
- All meals onboard
- 24-hour room service
- Entertainment and educational programmes
- Use of ship's sporting equipment and facilities
- Port & handling charges
- Zodiac excursions and tender transfers
- Access to the ship's library of Govt
- Fees & Taxes
- Services of 75 experienced crew
| Vessel: MV Orion | Length: 338ft |
| Year: 2003 | Beam: 46.70ft |
| Draft: 10.76ft | Cruising speed: 13kn |
| Manufacturer: Cassens Shipyard | Crew: 75 |
| Gross Tonnage: 4,000 | Jacuzzi: 1 |
| Onboard Currency: AU Dollar | 24-Hour Room Service |
| Boutique | Gym |
| Internet Service | Library |
OTHER INFORMATION
Technically and aesthetically, Orion is arguably the most sophisticated vessel in its class. The Berlitz Ocean Cruising and Cruise Ships guide describes her as "the latest in the quest to build the ideal expedition cruise ship". 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 50 couples, all cared for in 5-star comfort by a crew of 75. Chart your own path less traveled. Technical Information Length: 103 metres Beam: 14.25 metres Draft: 3.82 metres Hull: Ice-reinforced for voyages in the Arctic and Antarctic Ice Class: E3 (Germanischer Lloyd) Gross Tonnage: 4,000 Engines: Mak; 8M25; 3,265HP Speed: 12.5 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). 19 additional guests may be accommodated in convertible sofa or upper Pullman beds. Elevator: Yes Classification: Germanischer Lloyd 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, Canadian Arctic Shipping, and St. Lawrence Seaway. Additional Craft: 10 Zodiac Heavy Duty MK5, 10 Kayaks Communications: Direct-dial satellite telephones; fax; e-mail; Internet access; internal telephone system Registry: BahamasABOUT Orion Expedition Cruises
Founded in early 2004, Orion Expedition Cruises has developed voyages to encourage guests to become a part of the region they are discovering.
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. As part of our commitment to offering guests an enriching experience, on board speakers have been selected for their knowledge and expertise on the regions they visit. Guests are invited to attend presentations in the 90 seat Lecture Theatre.
Our innovative expeditions are year-round and vary with the seasons:
- Summer (December, January and February) Antarctica and New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands.
- Autumn (March, April) in remote and unspoilt parts of Papua New Guinea and Melanesia.
- Winter (April to September) in the Kimberley and Arnhem Land.
- Spring (October, November) New Zealand and south-East Asia.
For Orion, sustainability is more than a fashion, a trend or a compelling need. Sustainability is a core component of our company’s 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 and recycling of grey water 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.
Balcony Suite
- 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.
- Stateroom and Suite ceiling height is 2.1m
- Single Bed Dimensions: 196cm(l) x 90cm(w)
- Queen Bed Dimensions: 196cm(l) x 180cm(w)
Deluxe Suite
- 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.
- Stateroom and Suite ceiling height is 2.1m
- Single Bed Dimensions: 196cm(l) x 90cm(w)
- Queen Bed Dimensions: 196cm(l) x 180cm(w)
Junior Suite
- 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).
- Stateroom and Suite ceiling height is 2.1m
- Single Bed Dimensions: 196cm(l) x 90cm(w)
- Queen Bed Dimensions: 196cm(l) x 180cm(w)
Oceanview Stateroom A
- 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.
- Stateroom and Suite ceiling height is 2.1m
- Single Bed Dimensions: 196cm(l) x 90cm(w)
- Queen Bed Dimensions: 196cm(l) x 180cm(w)
Oceanview Stateroom B
- 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).
- Stateroom and Suite ceiling height is 2.1m
- Single Bed Dimensions: 196cm(l) x 90cm(w)
- Queen Bed Dimensions: 196cm(l) x 180cm(w)
Owners Suite
- Orion’s four spacious Owners’ Suites are located on Deck 5. These 345 sq ft* suites contain a beautifully appointed separate bedroom and living room. Enjoy your private French Balcony featuring floor to ceiling sliding glass doors and a small outside area for viewing the breathtaking scenery. (OS509 has two large rectangular windows instead of a balcony. OS502 has the living room space incorporated into the bedroom and features a large bathroom with separate bathtub).
- Stateroom and Suite ceiling height is 2.1m
- Single Bed Dimensions: 196cm(l) x 90cm(w)
- Queen Bed Dimensions: 196cm(l) x 180cm(w)
MV Orion
Deck 3
Oceanview Stateroom B
- 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).
- Stateroom and Suite ceiling height is 2.1m
- Single Bed Dimensions: 196cm(l) x 90cm(w)
- Queen Bed Dimensions: 196cm(l) x 180cm(w)
Click to enlarge
Oceanview Stateroom A
- 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.
- Stateroom and Suite ceiling height is 2.1m
- Single Bed Dimensions: 196cm(l) x 90cm(w)
- Queen Bed Dimensions: 196cm(l) x 180cm(w)
Click to enlarge
- 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 other alternatives allowing you to sample from each menu at your whim.
- Orion’s adventurous spirit is also reflected in the selection of Australian, New Zealand and European wines: vintages from exceptional lesser-known wineries complement the 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 the Outdoor Café.
Located on Deck 3 deck
Shopping
- 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.
Located on Deck 4
Bars and Lounges
- Located high atop Orion on Deck 6, the intimate Galaxy Observation Lounge affords stunning 270º views. Early Riser breakfast and Afternoon Tea are both served here.
Located on Deck 6
- 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.
Located on Deck 4
Sports and Spa
- 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.
Located on Deck 6
- 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.
Located on Deck 6
- The 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.
Located on Deck 6
Salon
- The 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.
Located on Deck 4
Library
- The 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.
Located on Deck 4
MV Orion Photos
TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR THIS CRUISE
Terms of booking on this website
Information disclaimer
The rates on this website are often heavily discounted. This is due to our negotiated rates and bulk buying power. On very rare occasions, a rate may be displayed incorrectly due to our, or the cruise operator's error. In such a case, if you make a reservation enquiry with us at a quoted rate that is incorrect, we will notify you of any price change and give you the option to proceed or cancel. We make every effort to keep information on our site up to date, but we cannot guarantee this website is free of errors or omissions and retain the right to update or change the information published at any time.
Liability
To the extent permitted by law we/the owners of this website will not be liable to you or to any third party (whether in contract, tort, or otherwise) for any direct, indirect or consequential loss or damage (including but not limited to any accident, injury, delay or loss of enjoyment) arising out of your reliance upon information contained on this website, including but not limited to your use (or inability to use) any products or services described or procured through this website. When making a reservation via this website or over the phone, we ask you to agree to the terms and conditions displayed. Your reservation and cruise holiday will be governed by the terms of the agreement and any other documentation or information provided to you before you depart. Our total liability to you in relation to your use of this website and the information contained on this website will not exceed the dollar amount of the deposit we have received from you in relation to your booking. Refunds will not be made for bookings cancelled due to inclement weather. We strongly recommend that you take out travel insurance. Your use of this website is governed by the laws of Victoria and the jurisdiction of the Victorian courts.
Booking information
To reserve a cabin(s), you must complete our reservations enquiry form which is easy to follow and secured with the latest encryption technology. Once we receive your enquiry, we will contact you via phone or email, to advise of availability and confirm the final price is correct. A booking is confirmed when you have been emailed a confirmation notice and at this stage the deposit is processed on your credit card or your bank deposit has been received. Your deposit then becomes subject to the cancellation policy of the cruise line and Cruise Republic. These are stated in the terms and conditions.
When your booking has been confirmed we will send you your cruise booking number for the cruise line. Once you receive your confirmation, please check your details carefully and notify us immediately if there are any incorrect details, as it may not be possible to make changes at a later date without incurring a penalty. If you are booking via phone, please first make sure you have read the terms and conditions. Our reservations consultant will ask you if you have read the terms and agree to them before proceeding. The onus is always on the customer to ensure they make themselves fully aware of the terms displayed on our website.
Information disclosure
In booking on/via this website you acknowledge that we disclose your information to your selected Cruise Ship company/operator.
Amendments
Once you have paid a deposit against your cruise, any changes made to the booking will incur an amendment fee of $25 plus and applicable fees set you by the cruise line. Please see the Cruise Company's terms and conditions for cancellation and amendment policy.
Cancellations
Once a deposit is made towards your cruise holiday it is deemed that you have accepted our terms and conditions, so are subject to any cancellation fees. Bookings canceled after the deposit is paid, will incur a cancellation fee of $200. Plus any additional cancellation fees set out by the cruise line. Please see the Cruise Company's terms and conditions for cancellation and amendment policy.
Payments
Payments towards your cruise holiday made by credit cards are subject to a transaction fee of 2.5%. Cruise Republic accept Visa and Mastercard Cards only. Payments made by bank deposit do not incur any transaction fees nor do payments made using the BPAY payment system.
Privacy
Privacy of your information is an absolute priority to us. When you book we request whether you are interested in receiving further offers from us. If you decline, we will not email you with such offers. We also always give you the opportunity to unsubscribe and opt out of receiving these emails. We treat your details as confidential and we NEVER disclose your information to third parties other than the supplier who is fulfilling your cruise holiday.
Orion Expedition Terms and Conditions
Placing a reservation
Orion Expedition Cruises will make an offer of accommodation, the offer being valid for 4 days. The payment of the required deposit will confirm acceptance of the offer , the offer automatically expiring should a deposit not be received.
Deposit and final payment
To secure your reservation a deposit of 25% of the fare is required. The deposit must be accompanied by a completed and signed Guest Booking Form and is due within 4 days of booking. Final payment must be received by Orion Expedition Cruises no later than 100 days before sailing. Separate conditions apply to the Cancellation Protection Plan.
Guest form
A completed and signed Guest Form must be submitted with your deposit. For immigration purposes, on International Expeditions, a copy of your current passport must be received prior to the release of cruise documents.
Ticketing
Travel Documents will include passage ticket, baggage labels, itinerary, life onboard information, details of included and optional shoreside experiences, embarkation & disembarkation instructions.
Documents will be forwarded approximately 20-35 days prior to sailing. Failure to send Guest Form will delay documentation. For late payments and reservations placed within 7 days of sailing, documentation may be collected at the pier.
Cancellation fees
The following cancellation fees will apply to all reservations. The day on which notice is received by Orion Expedition Cruises will determine the applicable penalties.
Day on Which Notice is received Penalty
121 days and over - Antarctic cruises $1000 pp
- All other cruises No penalty
120 - 91 days prior to sailing Loss of deposit
90 days or less 100% of fare
No show - no written notice 100% of fare
*Please see Cruises Online (the agent) cancellation policy in their terms and conditions below.
Fares/Prices
Prices are subject to currency fluctuations, fuel price and tax increases and so can only be guaranteed once full payment has been received by Orion Expedition Cruises.
Cruise fare – What's included
Included in your cruise fare are accommodations as booked, cruise transportation, all meals onboard, 24-hour room service, entertainment and educational programmes, use of ship's sporting equipment and facilities, port & handling charges, Zodiac excursions and tender transfers, access to the ship's library of Govt. Fees & Taxes. Fares also include the services of 75 experienced crew.
Cruise fare – What's not included
Fares do not include items of a personal nature, including but not limited to: travel and medical insurance, laundry charges, shopping onboard, bar expenses, hair dressing and massage treatments, optional shore experiences, medical treatment, telephone and internet charges.
Money matters
All onboard prices are quoted in Australian dollars and, for your convenience, you may charge onboard expenses to your shipboard account. You can choose to settle your onboard account with
a credit or charge card. We accept American Express, Diners Club International, MasterCard and Visa. You may also use Travellers Cheques or cash. Please note there are no cash withdrawal facilities onboard and regretfully we are unable to accept personal cheques.
Gratuities
Gratuities are not expected, however if you wish to recognise exceptional service from an individual staff member , you are welcome to do so entirely at your discretion.
Passports and Visas
Passports are required for all expeditions including one or more international ports. Photo ID, such as a driver’ s licence, is required for all domestic expeditions. Our Reservations & Customer Service centre can provide specific advice for your selected departure.
Medical conditions & Physical considerations
Any medical condition, advanced pregnancy or disability must be advised to Orion Expedition Cruises when a request for accommodation is made. On every Orion voyage extensive use of the ship’ s Zodiacs will be made transporting guests between ship and shore. It is anticipated this travel may be physically demanding from time to time. In order for Orion Expedition Cruises to determine if safe passage can be offered, guests may be asked to provide additional information, such as a medical assessment of their fitness for expeditionary travel. All guests must sign a disclaimer onboard to participate in offship activities. Guests should be sure to bring onboard sufficient supplies of any prescription medication they may require.
Insurance
Orion Expedition Cruises strongly recommends that all guests purchase comprehensive international travel and medical insurance to cover lost or damaged baggage, personal property, medical evacuation. Australian Medicare system does not apply onboard Orion.
Life onboard Orion
DINING
All meals onboard Orion may be taken in a leisurely single sitting, free of fixed table assignments. Dining hours for the Constellation Restaurant and the Delphinus Outdoor Café will be provided with your tickets. 24 hour room service is also available.
Dress
During the day dress onboard is casual and relaxed. When venturing ashore we suggest you select practical clothing suitable to the part of the world you are visiting. Evening dress code onboard Orion is "smart casual", gentlemen being asked to wear a collared shirt. Jackets, ties and formal wear are not required.
Hairdressing
Our hairdressing salon is located on Deck 4. All staterooms and suites are equipped with a hairdryer .
Health facilities
The Vega Health Spa includes a gymnasium, sauna and massage facilities.
Laundry / Pressing facilities
Laundry and pressing services are available at an additional charge. Orion is not equipped with self service facilities.
Medical facilities
There is a doctor onboard. Consultation fees will be charged to your stateroom account.
Security / Visitor policy
As part of our security policy we regret visitors are not allowed onboard at any time.
Shoreside expeditions
We include a number of complimentary shore experiences utilising our Zodiacs. In addition we offer an exciting and diverse selection of optional shore experiences which can be either booked for in advance or reserved onboard and charged to your onboard account. Due to limited numbers on some experiences we recommend you pre-register to avoid disappointment. Details will be provided with your ticket.
Sports facilities
Orion is equipped with a fleet of ten 2-man kayaks for the use of guests in addition to a 4-man fishing boat. Snorkelling equipment (mask, fins & snorkel ) is available to all guests free of charge when conditions permit.
Valuables
Be sure to personally carry all valuables onboard and be sure not to pack them in the checked luggage. All staterooms and suites are equipped with a mini safe.
Voltage
The voltage on board is 110 and 220 volt (plugs are round sockets with two round pins). Adaptor plugs are available.
