National Geographic Orion: Ship Details and Overview


Photo of National Geographic Orion

*The National Geographic Orion is not currently operating in Antarctica*

Built in Germany in 2003, the National Geographic Orion is a purpose built luxury cruise vessel with a focus on elegance. 

Fully stabilized with an ice-strengthened hull and state of the art navigation system, the Orion is more than capable of dealing with Antarctica’s harsh environment.

The National Geographic Orion is one of the most luxurious ships operating in Antarctica. Carrying just over 100 passengers, the Orion’s small size gives the ship an almost super-yacht feel. The ship offers up exceptional elegance, intimate ambiance and high quality fittings. 

With over 75 crew on board, the service aboard the Orion is second to none and you’ll always be able to relax and enjoy your surroundings in comfort. Freshly baked bread, panoramic views, spa center, sun deck dining and massage therapy are just a number of reasons why the Orion is regarded as one of the most popular cruise ships in Antarctica.

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National Geographic Orion Ship Overview

Specifications

Ship Type: Luxury Expedition Ship

Crew : 75

Passengers: 102

Cabins : 53

Length : 338

Speed : 12.5

Beam : 47

Draft : 13

Voltage : 220V

Route Map of the National Geographic Orion

Facilities

Gymnasium and Health Spa, Sun Deck with Outdoor Bar and Jacuzzi, Large Lecture Theatre, Hospital and Infirmary, Library with wifi Access, Lounge and Outdoor Cafe, Restaurant, Mud Room, Boutique and Salon, Glass Elevator

Equipment

Zodiacs, Kayaks, Remotely operated vehicle (R.O.V.), Snorkeling gear, Splash-Camera, Underwater video cameras, Video microscope

Cabin Options

Category 1
Main Deck – Cabin comes with two twin beds or one queen bed, large window, reading lamps armchair, flat screen TV and temperature controls.
Category 2
Main Deck – Cabin comes with two twin beds or one queen bed, large window, reading lamps armchair, flat screen TV and temperature controls.
​Category 3
Upper Deck – Beds are arranged for number of people. Large window, sofa and armchairs (or two armchairs), desk, flat screen TV, reading lamps and climate controls.
Category 4
Bridge Deck – Beds are configurable depending on number of people in cabin. Separate seating areas with a chair and armchair, two-cushion sofa facing a large window, flat screen TV, reading lamps and climate controls.
​Category 5
Bridge Deck – Beds are configurable depending on how many people in cabin. Suites are spacious and come with open living areas, sitting chairs/couch and sliding glass doors that lead to a private balcony.
Category 6
Bridge Deck – Owner’s suites are spacious and feature a balcony. (Please note that cabin 509 does not have a balcony). Suites come with spacious bathrooms, large shower and separate soaking tub with window, large separate living area with a couch and two bucket chairs.
​Category 1 Solo
Main Deck – Queen or double bed. Cabin comes with with a window or two portholes, climate controls, writing desk and chair, reading lamps and a flatscreen TV.
​​Category 3 Solo
Bridge Deck – Cabin comes with two twin beds, large window, two armchairs, small table, reading lamps, a flatscreen TV and temperature controls.

On-Board Facilities

Public Area Facilities

The national Geographic Orion is a luxury cruise ship designed to give people a fabulous Antarctic experience within 5 star comfort.

The Orion is a small vessel which allows the ship to make daily shore landings. With a number of zodiacs on board, passengers will never miss a single photo opportunity or wildlife viewing.

With luxury in mind, the facilities on board the Orion are second to none with only the finest fittings and furnishings. Facilities include Gymnasium and Health Spa, Lecture Theatre, Hospital & Infirmary, Library with Internet Access, Restaurant, Lounge & Outdoor Cafe, Sun Deck with Jacuzzi and Outdoor Bar, Mud Room, Boutique and Salon and Glass Elevator.

Cabin Facilities

Like the public areas, the cabins on the Orion are luxurious and well appointed.

The Orion’s accommodation comprises of 31 Suites and 22 Staterooms. Every cabin on board the Orion comes with sea views. 

All cabins are equipped with flatscreen TV/DVD player, climate control, armchairs, spacious marble bathrooms with good sized glass showers, toiletries, spa robe/towel, hair dryer, internet, refrigerator, Expedition Essential Kit and personal safe.

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Custuomer photo

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Ship Photos

Activities Offered

Activity Details Offered?
Camping

$180 per person on average – camping info

Kayaking

$465 per person on average

Skiing

Adventure itineraries only

Photography Workshop

Selected itineraries only

Shore-based walking

Included in price

Hiking and snowshoeing

Included in price

Polar Plunge and Zodiac Trip

Included in price

Helicopter Ride

Price varies

Scuba-diving

Select departures. Price varies

FAQ

If you would like to know more, please leave a comment below and we will endeavor to get back to you within 24 hours! Alternatively, please see our FAQ page here. If you would like to get a cruise quote, please use this form.

Thank you - AntarcticaGuide Team

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