Orion announces New Zealand itineraries for 2008

Orion Expedition Cruises has released two signature ‘Voyages of Discovery’ itineraries to new destinations that include Lord Howe Island and Aotearoa – the North and South Islands of New Zealand.

With a trademark Orion twist these voyages explore paths less travelled, taking guests to remote and pristine destinations rarely accessed by conventional tourism.

The all new Adventures of Lord Howe & Aotearoa ‘Voyage of Discovery’, departs Brisbane for Wellington on the 30th October 2008, an exciting sailing that includes World Heritage listed Lord Howe Island and Balls Pyramid, the beautiful Bay of Islands, Hauraki Gulf, Tauranga, the actively-volcanic White Island, Napier (famous for its elegant Art Deco architecture) and the visually stunning Marlborough Sounds.

This 14 night voyage features a myriad of islands, beautiful bays and beaches, remnant and active volcanoes, exquisite wine country, calm harbours and plenty of exploration time. Guests will appreciate a number of sea days, allowing plenty of time to simply relax and enjoy Orion’s 5 star comfort and facilities.   

A second new itinerary entitled New Zealand South Island Exploration has been announced. Departing Milford Sound on 19th November 2008 this 11 night expedition reaches deep into remote fiord lands and reveals coastal secrets of the South Island. Orion’s guests will visit Doubtful and Dusky Sounds, sub-Antarctic Snares and Stewart Islands, Port Pegasus and Half Moon Bay, Dunedin, Akaroa, Kaikoura and Marlborough Sounds before arriving in Wellington.

There is a return voyage, departing Wellington 30th November 2008, also 11 nights, with the same itinerary reversed, concluding in Bluff before Orion departs for Antarctica.

These Orion expeditions feature the scenic grandeur of New Zealand’s South Island including exquisite National Parks, untracked southern wilderness in Fiordland National Park, the rarely visited maritime sanctuaries of the sub-Antarctic Snares and Stewart Islands, the sun drenched northern coast of Abel Tasman National Park and the picturesque vineyards and wineries of the Nelson Region.

Fares Guide:

14-night Adventures of Lord Howe & Aotearoa expedition: Brisbane to Wellington, 30 October 2008.

Fares begin from $9,575 per person for an ocean view category B stateroom.

Suites begin from $13,210 per person for a Junior Suite

Orion’s spacious Owners’ Suites with French Balcony are $20,055 per person.

11-night New Zealand South Island Exploration: Milford Sound to Wellington, 19 November 2008/Wellington to Bluff  30 November 2008.

Fares begin from $7,525 per person for an ocean view category B stateroom.

Suites begin from $10,380 per person for a Junior Suite.

Orion’s spacious Owners’ Suites with French Balcony are $15,760 per person.

Report by The Mol

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