Revamped Orion sets sail under new name

Revamped Orion sets sail under new name
By admin


The Orion, formerly the flagship of Orion Expedition Cruises, will tomorrow be christened the National Geographic Orion before embarking on its inaugural voyage under its new name.

The vessel is now owned by Lindblad Expeditions who bought Orion Expeditions Cruises in in March 2013. Its inaugural voyage under the new name will take it from Auckland to Cairns.

Itt has been enhanced with a range of exploration tools including kayaks, a remote operated vehicle that can reach depths of up to 300m, full snorkelling gear, a SCUBA program for up to 24 divers at a time, a glass bottom boat and additional zodiacs.

“These enhancements will only heighten the already exceptional standards of accommodation, service and cuisine on this incredible ship,” Australian business development director Jeremy Lindblad said.

“The additional expedition tools ensure the National Geographic Orion is fully equipped for its 2014/15 itineraries that take the ship beyond Australian waters, allowing guests to explore the undersea like never before.”

Strong sales of itineraries aboard the National Geographic Orion are a sign of the “ever-increasing” support from the Australian and New Zealand market, he added.

The inaugural celebrations will kick off tomorrow with a champagne ceremony hosted by dive legend  Valerie Taylor. Guests will sail out in zodiacs to watch the proceedings.

Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

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