New Zealand Bay of Islands
« All Orion cruise options
| Dates | Deck + Cabin Type | |||||
| Cat B - Oceanview Stateroom | Cat A - Oceanview Stateroom | Junior Suite | Deluxe Suite | French Balcony Suite | Owner | |
| Deals, Discounts... Savings! | ||
|---|---|---|
| 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. | ||
Day 1 Auckland, New Zealand
In the Maori language Auckland is known as Tamaki Makau Rau, the city of 100 lovers, having earned the name because it was a place desired by all and conquered by many. The setting is spectacular, the city being nestled upon three harbours - the Waitemata, the Manukau and the Kaipara. Don't miss the chance to dine out in Auckland as the city has perfected the style of cuisine called "Pacific Rim", blending Asian and Pacific flavours. Seafood features prominently on restaurant menus so be sure to try New Zealand green lipped mussels and succulent Clevedon Coast oysters - all matched with an excellent New Zealand wine.
Day 2 Tiritiri Matangi Island / Kawau Island
One of the world’s most successful conservation projects, Tiri Tiri is a Scientific Reserve and Bird Sanctuary. A guided walk on this beautiful island is an endangered experience indeed with many species of rare birds including kiwi, kokako and saddleback plus the rare colourful Takahe.
Set in the idyllic waters of the Hauraki Gulf, Kawau Island became known as the home of Governor Sir George Grey. A historic reserve was created to protect his stately home in Mansion House Bay, which is open for viewing. Friendly peacocks strut the extensive gardens and peaceful walking tracks lead through native forest to beaches, Maori Pa sites and old copper mines.
Day 3 Great Barrier Island / Mokohinau Islands
Great Barrier Island is just 90km off the coast with flourishing plant life and an impressive variety of birdlife. Weather permitting, our Zodiacs will land on a remote and pristine beach in Medland Bay.
Approximately 25 kilometres northwest of Great Barrier Island, the sheer volcanic stacks of the Mokohinau Islands sit on the edge of the continental shelf. This is the perfect site for a remote nature reserve with glorious scenery.
Day 4 Whangaroa
There are few better cruising areas in the world than this remarkable coastline with its stunning natural beauty. Through the headlands and into the open waters, there are many secluded bays and waters with a world famous reputation for big game fishing with plentiful tuna, marlin and sharks.
Day 5 Roberton Island
Roberton Island, or Motuarohia, is steeped in Maori history with a number of archaeological sites. With steep coastal cliffs, extensive stands of maritime pines and two glorious lagoons, Roberton is a delight for photographers and walkers.
Day 6 Russell, Bay of Islands
On the east coast of the North Island of New Zealand we enjoy our first taste of Aotearoa. Here a coastline of bays and white sandy beaches embraces a sea dotted with 150 islands. The Maoris believe that the Bay of Islands was originally discovered by their legendary navigator Kupe. This is where the Maoris first arrived, and not so long ago was a base for whalers, sealers and sailors, preparing the way for a fusing of Maori and European culture. It is famously known as being the home of the Treaty of Waitangi, the first official agreement between Maori and the British.
Day 7 Aukland, New Zealand
In the Maori language Auckland is known as Tamaki Makau Rau, the city of 100 lovers, having earned the name because it was a place desired by all and conquered by many. The setting is spectacular, the city being nestled upon three harbours - the Waitemata, the Manukau and the Kaipara. Don't miss the chance to dine out in Auckland as the city has perfected the style of cuisine called "Pacific Rim", blending Asian and Pacific flavours. Seafood features prominently on restaurant menus so be sure to try New Zealand green lipped mussels and succulent Clevedon Coast oysters - all matched with an excellent New Zealand wine.
Deposit & Payment
Initial deposit is 25% trip cost per person, 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 | $850 |
| 120-91 days | Deposit |
| 90-0 days | 100% trip cost |
| Other Cruises | . |
| 121 days or more | $100 |
| 120-91 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 270º 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. |
