New Zealand Orion Cruises

The New Zealand coast - photo courtesy of Orion CruisesDiscover myriad of islands, beautiful bays and beaches, active volcanoes, exquisite wine country and calm harbors in these cruises down under.

Orion Expedition Cruises - Founded in early 2004, Australian owned and operated, 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.

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.

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.

The M/V Orion - photo courtesy of Orion Cruises

Adventures of Lord Howe & Aotearoa

This 14 night voyage features a myriad of islands, beautiful bays and beaches, remnant and active volcanoes, exquisite wine country, calm harbours and exploration in vibrant Auckland. Explore onboard Orion from Brisbane visiting World Heritage listed Lord Howe Island and Balls Pyramid, the stunning Bay of Islands, Hawkes Bay and Marlborough Sounds enroute to Wellington. You will also appreciate time to simply relax and enjoy Orion’s acclaimed 5 star comfort and facilities.
2008 Departures – October 30

New Zealand South Island Exploration

These 11 night expeditions feature the contrasting scenic grandeur of New Zealand’s South Island including both the largest and smallest of New Zealand’s exquisite National Parks. Experience vast untracked southern wilderness in Fiordland National Park, the remote and rarely visited sub-Antarctic Snares Islands, the sun drenched northern coast of Abel Tasman National Park and the picturesque vineyards and wineries of the Nelson Region. This is New Zealand at her most beautiful, where the air is pure and valleys steep. Where waterfalls plunge from the sky and primeval forests are shrouded with gentle morning mist.
2008 Departures – November 19, November 30 (Reverse)

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