Art of Arnhem Land
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| Dates | Deck + Cabin Type | |||||
| Cat B - Oceanview Stateroom | Cat A - Oceanview Stateroom | Junior Suite | Deluxe Suite | French Balcony Suite | Owner | |
| Deals, Discounts... Savings! | ||
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| Savings | Dates | |
| 40% | All Departure Dates | |
| These special offers are applicable only to new bookings. Discounts are subject to availability, so contact us for more details. | ||
Triple Cabin Discounts:
A passenger booking with two additional adults saves 50% off the fare, children aged 2-15 with two adults save 75%.
Deposit & Payment A passenger booking with two additional adults saves 50% off the fare, children aged 2-15 with two adults save 75%.
Day 1 Darwin, Northern Territory
Darwin is Australia’s closest city to the equator and the gateway to the Top End. Following bombing during World War II, Darwin was more a frontier town of crocodile and buffalo shooters and pioneer cattlemen. After the city was wiped out by Cyclone Tracy in 1974 it was rebuilt as Australia’s cosmopolitan northernmost tropical capital. Beyond the city lies Litchfield National Park (about 2 hours drive) and to the south-east the teeming wetlands of Australia’s largest national park, Kakadu. Much architecture remains from the city’s early periods, with museums, markets and an incredible diversity of restaurants to keep visitors entertained. The harbour foreshore area is a great place to discover the city’s maritime links. Take a relaxing cruise on an old pearl lugger, a thrilling flight in a seaplane or a gentle hovercraft trip. Spend a day out fishing for barramundi, jewfish, golden snapper and threadfin salmon, or go for the adventure of scuba diving around shipwrecks. At sunset, savour a taste of Asia’s night markets at Mindil Beach, where you can browse the food stalls for a picnic dinner on the beach.
Day 2 Pirlangimpi (Melville island)
Orion's first stop is Pirlangimpi, a small community on Melville Island in the Tiwi Islands. Visit the Munupi Arts to view the distinctive features of Tiwi art including ceramics and carved totemic Pukumani funeral poles, unique to Tiwi culture. You can visit the remnants of Fort Dundas - one of the original attempts to colonise the Top End, or learn new skills by joining the locals in their small boats to participate in traditional hunting and gathering, spearing fish, collecting mud crabs and items of bush tucker in this pristine marine-eco environment.
Day 3 Maningrida
Maningrida is a self-governing indigenous community in the heart of the Arnhem Land. The township dates back to just after WWII, with migration into Maningrida reflected in linguistic variety and cultural diversity evidenced by the different religious ceremonies and multitude of artistic forms in design, music and dance.
Recognised nationally and internationally, this is one of the powerhouse art areas of central Arnhem Land. Bark painting, pandanus weaving and wood carvings - especially the Mimi spirits - are all distinctive features of the artistic endeavour. The excellent Djiom Museum is a highlight, showcasing the richness of the ceremonial apparel and intricacies of the material culture.
Day 4 Elcho Island
This is a scenic and historic location. Local stories reflect the close association between the sea and the local Yolgnu clans, who regularly travelled between islands in bark and (later) dugout canoes.
A special feature of Elcho is the Morning Star poles, feather decorated funeral rite poles each distinctive to their clan groups. Yolngu Art is a reflection of the past and allows the individual to find and maintain a connection with the guiding presence of the spirit that represents the past, present and future. Each art work is based upon inherited designs which originate with ancestral beings that created the land.
Located on a cliff top south east of the Galiwin'ku town centre is an Art Centre with spectacular views over Mission Beach, Abbott Island and the surrounding sea.
Day 5 Jensen Bay / Hole in the Wall
Marchinbar Island is home to some fascinating rock art in the caves and overhangs around Jensen Bay. Only a short walk from the Zodiac beach landing you'll find yourself at these art sites. Only occasionally inhabited through history, this secluded island will enchant you with its solitude and beauty.
As ever, Orion's expedition team, guest lecturers and locals will provide valuable insight and interpretation to help enhance the experience.
Day 6 Yirrkala
The peaceful, leafy town of Nhulunbuy, the largest in Arnhem Land, lies in a spectacularly scenic region of wildly primeval, ancient landscapes and is justly regarded as one of the last wilderness areas on earth. Just outside of Nhulunbuy is the smaller community of Yirrkala, and it’s Yirrkala’s Shady Beach where we will land today.
The Yolngu people are of this land and are famous for their artworks. An optional visit to the Yirrkala’s art center will be included in your experience today. This is one of the finest indigenous art galleries in Australia.
The seas surrounding the Gove Peninsula boast some of the best tropical sport and reef fishing opportunities available anywhere in the world and the area is now being acclaimed as one of the last great fishing frontiers.
Orion guests will be transferred by Zodiac to Shady Beach were you will be met by local Yolngu community leader Timmy Barawanga who will give you a personal insight into the life and culture of his people. Guests will also have the opportunity to visit to the Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Art Center and Museum.
Day 7 Merauke
On arrival at Merauke, Orion will clear Customs and Immigration, giving you an opportunity to go ashore, and then immediately depart for the next Australian port.
Day 8 Thursday Island, Torres Strait
Thursday Island (traditionally known as Waiben) is recognized as one of the last frontiers in Australia, as it holds some great Australian history. At the Torres Strait Museum, learn about the feared Russian invasion of 1898. Had it eventuated, the invaders would have been greeted with a salvo from the 6-inch guns which still peer out over the ocean approach from Green Hill Fort, now home of the museum. Wander through pearlers’ cemeteries where stories of this once dangerous occupation are revealed. Or take in brilliant panoramic vistas of the surrounding islands and tropical seas from Lions Lookout.
The Gab Titui (Star of our Journey) Cultural Centre is a place where Orion guests can discover the rich diversity of the Torres Strait Islander people. It is the region’s first public keeping place for historical and cultural artifacts and tools, as well as both modern and traditional art.
Deposit & Payment
Initial deposit is 30%, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card. We accept Visa, Mastercard, AmEx, and Discover. Alternatively, you can send a check to our Missoula, Montana, office or register online at: https://www.adventure-life.com/forms/fourways.php
Final payment is due 100 days prior to departure.
Final payment by Visa, Mastercard, Discover, or AmEx.
Booking last minute? No problem! Please contact one of our trip planners, and we can get you on your way if booking less than 100 days prior to departure.
Click here to see a copy of our Terms and Conditions.
Cancellation Policy
| Days Prior to departure | Fee |
|---|---|
| Antarctic Cruises | |
| 121 days or more | $1200 per person |
| 120-91 days | Deposit |
| 90-0 days | 100% trip cost |
| Other Cruises | |
| 91+ days | Deposit |
| 90-0 days | 100% trip cost |
Orion
- Ship Highlights
- Passengers : 106
- Luxury Expedition Ship
Technically and aesthetically, Orion is arguably the most sophisticated vessel in its class. The Berlitz Ocean Cruising and Cruise Ships guide describes her as "the latest in the quest to build the ideal expedition cruise ship". Constructed by the world-leading Cassens Shipyard in Emden, and launched in November 2003, she boasts a host of advanced design features including technology that sets new standards in sustainable marine environmental practices.
Although custom-made for expedition cruising, Orion is the epitome of elegance. No expense has been spared when it comes to the quality of fittings and furnishings, and the range and calibre of onboard recreational facilities are nothing short of five-star. Orion's luxurious appointments means she is more mega-yacht than cruise ship and her guests are few; around just 50 couples, all cared for in 5-star comfort by a crew of 75. Chart your own path less travelled.
Facilities:
Boutique
Open daily when the ship is at sea, the Boutique offers a wide range of gifts ranging from signature clothing to the most beautiful pearls in the world from Paspaley. A limited supply of sundry items is available.
Elevator
Orion has a glass elevator, centrally located in the atrium for ease of access. It services all stateroom decks and Deck 6, where you will find the Galaxy Observation Lounge and Cosmos Lecture Theatre.
Gymnasium
Located on Deck 6 with sweeping ocean views, the gymnasium is equipped with the following LifeFitness equipment: a step machine, a treadmill, a cross trainer, 2 bicycles, free weights and exercise mats.
Hair and Beauty Salon
Our hair stylist is available by appointment, offering a range of services from a simple shampoo and blow dry to a complete make-over including manicure and pedicure.
Hospital & Infirmary
Orion has a doctor on board at all times and consultations should be arranged through the Reception Desk. A very limited range of pharmaceuticals is maintained on board so please be sure to pack sufficient quantities of medicines for your journey. Please note the Australian Medicare system does not extend to Orion and consultation fees will be charged to your stateroom account.
Internet
A laptop is available in the Library with internet connection. Internet access is also available in your stateroom using your own laptop. If your laptop is wireless enabled you may use it anywhere in the Galaxy Observation Lounge or the Leda Lounge. Two laptops are available for loan from the Reception Desk. Internet access cards can be purchased for A$30.00 (60 minutes) or A$50.00 (125 minutes). Communications at sea are subject to satellite connections.
Jacuzzi
A Jacuzzi spa is located on the Sun Deck, Deck 6. In warmer climes you'll find the spa affords a cool dip, doubling as a plunge pool.
Lecture Theatre
Our state-of-the-art lecture theatre with surround-sound is the scene for themed presentations by our Expedition team and Guest Speakers. All guests are comfortably accommodated in arm-chair style seating.
Leda Lounge and Cocktail Bar
Centrally located on Deck 4, the Leda Lounge and Cocktail Bar is the hub of social life aboard Orion, comfortably seating all guests at once. Tour briefings are held here before dinner and a duo plays for your entertainment later in the evening.
Library
Our library is well-stocked with a wide variety of informative books and journals on our destinations, and both novels and games are also available. You'll also find a laptop here for internet access.
Marina Platforms
You'll embark the Zodiacs from either the Stern Marina Platform (accessed by the rear stairs from the Outdoor Café) or the Portside Embarkation Platform (accessed via the Mud Room on Deck 2). Cruise staff will direct you to the platform in use each day.
Mud Room
Located on Deck 2, this is a "wet area" allowing you to wash down boots after returning to the ship, thereby minimising the risk of cross-contamination between pristine locations ashore, such as those found in Antarctica. You may also use this room to store your snorkel and flippers in designated lockers.
Observation Lounge
Located high atop Orion on Deck 6, the intimate Galaxy Observation Lounge affords stunning 270ş views. Early Riser breakfast and Afternoon Tea are both served here.
Outdoor Café
The Delphinus Outdoor Café, located aft on Deck 4, offers al fresco dining for buffet breakfast and lunch. On balmy evenings you may book a table outdoors for dinner enjoying the same menu and service as presented in the restaurant.
Outdoor Bar
Located high on the ship adjacent to the Sun Deck Jacuzzi spa on Deck 6.
Reception Desk
Manned 24 hours a day, the Reception Desk is your 'first port of call' for all administrative matters.
Restaurant
The Constellation Restaurant offers guests a relaxed yet sophisticated environment for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Dining aboard Orion is a leisurely experience with a single, open sitting allowing you to choose when and with whom you dine. Special signature menus designed for us by Sydney's Serge Danserau of 'The Bathers' Pavilion' fame complement our other alternatives.
Sporting Facilities
Orion is equipped with a fleet of 10 inflatable 2-man kayaks and when in warmer waters you are welcome to borrow goggles, snorkels and fins for the duration of your stay with us.
Sun Deck
You'll find padded teak steamer chairs on Deck 6 beside the Jacuzzi spa affording you a relaxing spot to read a book or simply doze in the sun. You'll find an ample supply of large blue beach towels close by.
Vega Health Spa
The Vega Spa offers a uni-sex dry sauna, the gymnasium is equipped with cardio vascular exercise machines and a range of massage/spa treatments are available.
Technical Information
Length: 103 metres
Beam: 14.25 metres
Draft: 3.82 metres
Hull: Ice-reinforced for voyages in the Arctic and Antarctic
Ice Class: E3 (Germanischer Lloyd)
Gross Tonnage: 4,000
Engines: Mak; 8M25; 3,265HP
Speed: 12.5 knots
Stabilisers: Blohm & Voss, retractable fin stabilisers
Manoeuvrability: Bow and stern thrusters
Built: 2003
Delivery Date: November 2003
Builder: Cassens Shipyard-Emden, Germany
Staterooms and Suites: 53
Guest Capacity: 106 (twin occupancy). 19 additional guests may be accommodated in convertible sofa or upper Pullman beds.
Elevator: Yes
Classification: Germanischer Lloyd
100 A5 E3 Passenger Ship MC E3 AUT
Regulations: Orion is built according to the latest international safety regulations, including those of the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Public Health, Canadian Arctic Shipping, and St. Lawrence Seaway.
Additional Craft: 10 Zodiac Heavy Duty MK5, 10 Kayaks
Communications: Direct-dial satellite telephones; fax; e-mail; Internet access; internal telephone system
Registry: Bahamas
| Cabins | |
|---|---|
 | Cat B - Oceanview Stateroom Outside Staterooms with oval window and sitting area. Deck 3. 175 sq. ft. #301, 322, 323. |
 | Cat A - Oceanview Stateroom Outside Staterooms with oval window and sitting area. Deck 3. 180 sq. ft. #302-312, 314-321. |
 | Junior Suite Outside Junior Suites with rectangular window and sitting area. Decks 4 & 5. 218 sq. ft. #401-412, 414-419, 512. |
 | Deluxe Suite Outside Suites with large window and living room. Deck 5. 230 sq. ft. #511, 515. |
 | French Balcony Suite Outside Suites with French balcony and living room. Deck 5. 230 sq. ft. #501, 503-506, 508. |
 | Owner Outside Grand Suites with French balcony, separate bedroom and living room. Deck 5. 345 sq. ft. #502, 507, 509, 510. |
