Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition
Length: 103 metres
Passenger Capacity: 102 (in 53 cabins)
Built: 2003
Designed and purpose built in Germany in 2003 specifically for expedition travel,National Geographic Orion was created from the outset to explore the far comers of the Earth in complete self-sufficiency.
Engineered for maximum comfort and safety, Orion is equipped with the latest technology including large retractable stabilizers, sonar, radar, and an ice-strengthened double hull. A shallow draft plus bow and stern thrusters provide the convenience of being able to maneuver close to shore. Ten Zodiacs ensure quick disembarkation and offer the ideal transport for up-close exploration.
National Geographic Orionmeets strict specifications for environmental protection and the on board waste management systems meet the stringent Antarctic operational standards enabling us to travel to the most pristine environments. A host of advanced design features and technology ensures sustainable marine environmental practices.
The privilege of wildness and the luxury of comfortNational Geographic Orion accommodates 102 guests in 53 cabins, including several with balconies. 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.
Her public rooms include a dramatic window-lined main lounge and library, as well as an observation lounge perched at the very top of the ship, plentiful observation decks. The spacious lounge is the heart of our expedition community, and is suited for spirited cocktail hours, informative presentations and our nightly tradition of Recap. In addition, a dedicated theater provides a unique setting for specialist presentations or films and slideshows. Both the main dining room and outside buffet easily accommodate all guests at once for open seating dining. On selected nights, weather permitting, our dining room menu is also available on the outside deck.
While Orion interiors are elegant, life aboard is always casual, with no need for formal clothing. And you’ll find shipboard services like laundry, in-room cabled internet, and public-area wifi make packing and traveling more convenient.
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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: 15 knots. Cruise speed: 13 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)
- Crew: 75
- 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, 2×12 passenger tenders
- Communications: Direct-dial satellite telephones; fax; e-mail; Internet access; internal telephone system
- Registry: Bahamas