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Orion II launches...Orion Expedition Cruises is to increase the size of its fleet with the addition of a second specialist expedition cruise ship to join the existing 106 passenger Orion.
Based on thorough research, and following the success of Orion’s recent voyages, 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. Details of destinations and itineraries will be released shortly once voyage details and expedition team scouting are finalised.
Recently subject to a €13 million refurbishment, with emphasis on technical enhancements and upgraded environmental systems, the ship will also undergo additional cosmetic enhancements to bring her fully into the Orion style.
Orion Expedition Cruises will be able to provide exclusive expeditions from Antarctica to Asia, and the Kimberley to Melanesia and New Zealand, with the two ships offering a balance of onboard service and luxury combined with unique personal experiences in environmentally and culturally sensitive parts of the region. Together, Orion and Orion II will be two of the most modern and capable expedition cruise ships cruising in Australasia.
About Orion II
This private yacht-like cruise ship accommodates only 100 guests in 50 suites, each of which affords ocean views, measuring 215 to 285 square feet, and are appointed with a sitting area or separate living room, twin or queen-size beds, spacious closets, and air conditioning. Each also features satellite TV, DVD/CD player, telephone, mini-refrigerator and marble-appointed en-suite.
Orion II complies with the latest international and US Coast Guard safety regulations and is outfitted with the most current navigation and communications technology as well as retractable fin stabilizers for smooth sailing, an ice-strengthened hull for Antarctic voyages and a fleet of Zodiacs to enable easy shore access in remote locations.
Orion II carries a staff of 65, providing a ratio of over one crew member for every two guests. Taken together with her limited guest capacity, excellence of design, craftsmanship and material, Orion II spaciousness and intimate ambience combine to make her ideal for distinctive cultural and expedition voyages.