Home » Antarctica Cruises & Travel Tours » Ships – Antarctica » National Geographic Orion
Designed and purpose built in Germany in 2003 specifically for expedition travel, National Geographic Orion was created from the outset to explore the far corners of the Earth in complete self-sufficiency. She is spacious and modern, with a variety of public rooms that offer panoramic views of the passing landscape. Friendly and informal, Orion fosters a welcoming atmosphere where like-minded guests share in exceptional experiences and enrichment.
Engineered for maximum comfort and safety, Orion is equipped with the latest technology including large retractable stabilizers, sonar, radar, and an ice-strengthened hull. A shallow draft plus bow and stern thrusters provide the convenience of being able to manoeuvre close to shore. 14 Zodiacs ensure quick disembarkation and offer the ideal transport for up-close exploration. Best of all, Orion is equipped with a glass-bottom Zodiac that enables remarkably clear, gratifying observations of the undersea for those who prefer to stay dry.
You’ll find National Geographic Orion is unlike any other ship. Her appointments are luxurious, yet life aboard has a distinctly relaxed flavor with the international-standard service being warm and unobtrusive. The ambiance is intimate and subtly elegant. Orion takes you to the planet’s most remote, wild places while maintaining a superb level of comfort and convenience. Whether it’s the fresh bread baked daily, the panoramic views and gracious appointments, or the soothing wellness treatments in the spa, Orion is unrivalled for quality comfort.
All accommodations are outside, and most cabins feature oversized picture windows that connect you with the passing views. Double occupancy cabins come in a variety of configurations, including two single beds, two beds that can be converted to a queen-sized bed, and queen-sized beds.
Soothingly decorated in elegant tones, National Geographic Orion’s spacious cabins offer a large desk, with ample drawer space. All offer a comfortable armchair or sofa for reading. Cabins designed for solo travelers are similar to double occupancy cabins, and feature the same amenities.
Owner’s Suite with French Balcony #502, 507, 509*, 510. These large, elegant suites feature a French balcony, with the exception of #509 which has double windows. Each provides a separate living area with a sofa and two arm chairs, except for #502, which uniquely offers a 'soaking tub with a view' in addition to a shower stall and expansive vanity. All cabins have reading lamps, a flat screen TV, and climate controls. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door.
Bridge Deck Suite with balcony #501, 503-506, 508. The six luxurious Balcony Suites have an open living room with a total average area of 230 square feet. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors open onto a private French balcony allowing you to take in the sea breeze.
Bridge Deck Deluxe Suite with window #511, 515. The two Deluxe Suites occupy up to 230 square feet. 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.
Upper Deck Suite with window #401-412, 414-419. These generously sized 218 square-foot suites offer lots of storage space and most feature a comfortable two-seater sofa in the sitting area.
Cat 2 #302-312, 314, 315, 317. Cabins feature a luminous oval window and configurable beds: two single beds, two beds converted to a queen-size bed, or a queen size bed. An armchair, reading lamps, a flat screen TV, and climate controls complete the amenities. Marble bathrooms are generously sized, and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door. Dinner is served in the dining room, located on this deck.