Orion is a purpose built expedition ship. Constructed in 2003, she has the strength and shallow draft that you would associate with a vessel that is as comfortable in the icy waters of Antarctica as she is in the temperate seas around Papua New Guinea. The beauty of Orion, and where she differs from other “adventure” ships, is that she has all the facilities you would expect from a ship constructed just 4 years ago which means she can truly deliver 5 star quality. She boasts a wonderful spa, beautifully appointed staterooms with marble bathrooms, gym, sauna, sundeck and marina platform. All this is complemented, indeed enhanced, by excellent levels of service, fantastic cuisine, and expert onboard lecturers and guides which bring to life each and every destination you visit. What more do you need from this floating sanctuary? Well, Orion comes into her own with her itineraries, taking guests to remote and pristine destinations rarely accessed by conventional tourism.

There are three voyages which will be of particular interest to those wishing to explore New Zealand. The first of these departs Australia’s Brisbane on the 30th October 2008 and sails across the Tasman Sea for Wellington. Lord Howe and Aotearoa – Māori name for New Zealand – is a 14 night adventure featuring beautiful bays and beaches, exploration of the region’s tectonic creations, picturesque wine country and the calm waters surrounding a myriad islands. Showcasing World Heritage listed Lord Howe Island and Balls Pyramid, the beautiful Bay of Islands, Hauraki Gulf, Tauranga, the actively-volcanic White Island, Napier and the picturesque Marlborough Sounds, the good number of sea days complements those days spent exploring this truly remarkable region, allowing plenty of time to simply relax.

The New Zealand South Island Exploration is a must for anyone wishing to be immersed in the rugged beauty of the South Island. Departing Milford Sound on 19th November 2008 this 11 night expedition takes you to the remote fjordlands visiting Doubtful and Dusky Sounds, sub-Antarctic Snares and Stewart Islands, Port Pegasus and Half Moon Bay, Dunedin, Akaroa, Kaikoura and Marlborough Sounds before arriving in Wellington. These destinations boast spectacular waterfalls, wonderful coastal towns and a host of wildlife, not to mention some of the most renowned vineyards in New World wine. There is a return voyage, departing Wellington 30th November 2008, also 11 nights, with the same itinerary in reverse. This precedes Orion’s trip into Antarctica.

We feel a trip to Australasia is simply not complete without an Orion Expedition Cruise. We can create bespoke travel experiences in both Australia and New Zealand, so if you are planning a trip down under to explore or to see relatives, contact the team here for help with your needs, by air, land and of course sea.

Fares:
11-night New Zealand South Island Exploration:
Milford Sound to Wellington, 19 November 2008
Wellington to Bluff 30 November 2008
Fares begin from AU $7,525 (current equivalent £3200) per person, cruise only, for an ocean view category B stateroom

For more information on New Zealand please refer to the October 2007 issue of Cruise News, or find the destination review online at http://www.mundycruising.co.uk/news/164/New-Zealand-