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DestinationsAntarcticaNational Geographic Orion

National Geographic Orion

Overview of the National Geographic Orion

The 338-ft M/V National Geographic Orion was designed and built in Germany in 2003 specifically for expedition travel, with the express purpose of taking explorers to the planet’s remote, wild places in incredible comfort and in complete self-sufficiency. She offers the privilege of safely exploring Antarctica in the luxury of comfort, matched with the informality of an expedition-style adventure.
 

Trip Features
  • 9-10 Days
  • Starting at $13,975 per person
  • PHYSICAL RATING
    Moderate
  • ACTIVITIES
    Hiking, Kayaking, Photography
  • HIGHLIGHTS
    Glaciers, Icebergs, Whales, Penguins

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The National Geographic Orion expedition ship sails through icy waters surrounded by floating icebergs and snow-covered mountains in Antarctica, under a cloudy sky. Positioned toward the left side of the image, it creates a striking contrast against the white and blue landscape.
A penguin walks on an icy landscape in the foreground. In the background, a group of people in orange jackets are in a small boat on water with floating ice, approaching the National Geographic Orion expedition ship. The atmosphere is cold and snowy.
The National Geographic Orion expedition ship sails in icy waters near a large group of penguins standing on a floating ice sheet, against a backdrop of snow-covered mountains and an overcast sky.
A small group of people in red jackets ride a black inflatable boat towards a snowy shore populated by penguins. Behind them, the National Geographic Orion expedition ship is anchored near a rugged, icy coastline under a clear blue sky.
The National Geographic Orion expedition ship moves through icy waters in Antarctica. In the foreground, a group of penguins stands on a floating ice floe. Snow-covered mountains and a cloudy sky form the background.
Two people in orange jackets are cross-country skiing on a snowy landscape with a mountain backdrop. They are followed by the National Geographic Orion expedition ship in the distance under a cloudy sky. The leader is focused on the tracks while the follower is slightly behind, both wearing sunglasses.
A group of penguins stands on a rocky coast with icebergs and a ship in the distance. The blue water surrounds the icebergs, and a small red boat with people aboard can be seen between the icebergs. Snowy mountains are visible in the background, alongside the National Geographic Orion expedition ship.
A small inflatable boat with two people paddling through icy waters is in the foreground. The National Geographic Orion expedition ship sails in the background near huge glacial cliffs. Snow-covered mountains are visible in the distance under a cloudy sky.
Two people paddle in a yellow kayak between large icebergs in a cold, icy body of water. Both are wearing red jackets and hats. The National Geographic Orion expedition ship is visible in the background amid foggy, snow-capped mountains.
A group of people in orange jackets disembark from a small inflatable boat onto a snowy, rocky shore in a polar region. The National Geographic Orion expedition ship is anchored in the background. Snow-covered mountains and a partly cloudy sky complete the scene.
A group of people in orange jackets stand on the deck of the National Geographic Orion expedition ship navigating through icy waters. The ship's bow cuts through a sea partly covered with ice floes. Snow-covered mountains are visible in the background under a clear blue sky.
A colony of penguins on rocky terrain near the ocean with the National Geographic Orion expedition ship and a smaller boat in the background. Snow-covered mountains are visible in the distance under a cloudy sky.
Two seals rest on an ice floe with the National Geographic Orion expedition ship in the background. The vessel is surrounded by calm, icy waters with distant snow-capped mountains.
A group of people in red jackets ride an inflatable boat near a rocky shore in Antarctica. In the background, the National Geographic Orion expedition ship is anchored near snow-covered mountains under a clear blue sky. Penguins are visible on the shoreline.
A person in a red jacket treks across a snowy landscape, pulling a sled. The National Geographic Orion expedition ship is docked nearby, surrounded by snow and ice. Snow-covered mountains are visible in the background under a cloudy sky.
A penguin stands on a rocky shore while the National Geographic Orion expedition ship is anchored in the water. Snow-covered mountains and icebergs are visible in the distance, with other penguins near the water.
The National Geographic Orion expedition ship navigates icy waters near a large snow-covered mountain with rocky outcrops in an Antarctic landscape. Icebergs float in the foreground under a cloudy sky.
The National Geographic Orion expedition ship sails through the still, icy waters near a snow-covered mountain in Antarctica. The mountain and ship are beautifully mirrored in the calm, reflective surface of the water, surrounded by floating ice chunks and misty clouds.
A couple in orange jackets holds hands while walking on a vast expanse of ice under a blue sky. In the distance, a group of people approaches the National Geographic Orion expedition ship anchored nearby. The scene exudes a sense of adventure and exploration in a remote, cold environment.
Three penguins stand on the snow with the National Geographic Orion expedition ship and a group of people in the background. The ship is docked near the shore under a clear blue sky.
A small zodiac boat navigates through icy waters towards icebergs, with the National Geographic Orion expedition ship anchored in the background. The scene is set in a polar region with numerous floating ice formations scattered across the calm sea.
A group of penguins stands on rocky terrain near a snow-covered shore, with the National Geographic Orion expedition ship anchored in the icy blue ocean and snow-capped mountains in the background under a clear sky.
The National Geographic Orion expedition ship navigates through icy waters in a polar region under a moonlit sky. The moon's light reflects off the water and pieces of floating ice. Snow-covered mountains are visible in the distance. The ship's bow is prominently in the foreground.
The National Geographic Orion expedition ship is anchored in calm, clear waters near an ice-covered shore. Several people in small, inflatable boats are near the ship, with a bright blue sky above and reflective water below.
A group of penguins stands on an ice floe in icy waters, while the National Geographic Orion expedition ship with passengers in orange jackets observes them from a short distance. Snow-covered mountains and a clear blue sky form the background.
A large ocean vessel with a blue and white hull, labeled "National Geographic Orion," is positioned in icy waters near a snow-covered mountainous coastline. In the foreground, a whale from the National Geographic Orion expedition ship breaches the water's surface, blowing water from its blowhole.
A person in an orange jacket and a beige cap is smiling at the camera while holding a video camera on a tripod. In the background, there is a large ship, likely the National Geographic Orion expedition ship, on an icy landscape with mountains and a partly cloudy sky.

National Geographic Orion Itineraries

With many decades and hundreds of expeditions worth of experience, the National Geographic Orion’s ice masters and expedition leaders deliver an unparalleled experience. The ship is manned by a highly experienced, expert crew of 65. In addition to the video chronicler, National Geographic photographer, and undersea specialist, the onboard expedition crew of 12 includes an expedition leader, an assistant expedition leader, a wellness specialist, a spa therapist, zodiac drivers, naturalists, historians, guest speakers, and a full time doctor.

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Day 1 Arrive PUERTO NATALES, CHILE
Day 2 FLIGHT TO KING GEORGE ISLAND – Embark
DayS 3-6 ANTARCTICA
Day 7 KING GEORGE ISLAND – DISEMBARK – FLIGHT TO PUERTO NATALES
Day 8 PUERTO NATALES
Day 1 Arrive PUERTO NATALES, CHILE
Day 2 FLIGHT TO KING GEORGE ISLAND – Embark
DayS 3-7 ANTARCTICA
Day 8 KING GEORGE ISLAND – DISEMBARK – FLIGHT TO PUERTO NATALES
Day 9 PUERTO NATALES
Day 1 Arrive PUERTO NATALES, CHILE
Day 2 FLIGHT TO KING GEORGE ISLAND – Embark
DayS 3-8 ANTARCTICA
Day 9 KING GEORGE ISLAND – DISEMBARK – FLIGHT TO PUERTO NATALES
Day 10 PUERTO NATALES
Day 1 Arrive AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND
Day 2 AUCKLAND – Embark
DayS 3/4 EXPLORING COASTAL NEW ZEALAND
Day 5 GISBORNE
Day 6 NAPIER
DayS 7/8 ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK OR MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS / AT SEA
DayS 9/10 MILFORD SOUND AND DUSKY SOUND
Day 11 SNARES ISLANDS
DayS 12/13 AUCKLAND ISLANDS / AT SEA
DayS 14-16 MACQUARIE ISLAND, AUSTRALIA / AT SEA
DayS 17/8 CAMPBELL ISLAND / AT SEA
Day 19 STEWART ISLAND
Day 20 DUNEDIN – DISEMBARK
Day 1 Arrive AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND
Day 2 AUCKLAND / DUNEDIN – Embark
DayS 3/4 STEWART ISLAND / AT SEA
DayS 5/6 CAMPBELL ISLAND / AT SEA
DayS 7-9 MACQUARIE ISLAND, AUSTRALIA / AT SEA
Day 10 AUCKLAND ISLANDS, NEW ZEALAND
Day 11 SNARES ISLANDS
DayS 12-14 DUSKY SOUND / MILFORD SOUND / AT SEA
Day 15 ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK OR MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS
Day 16 NAPIER
Day 17 GISBORNE
DayS 18/19 EXPLORING COASTAL NEW ZEALAND
Day 20 AUCKLAND – DISEMBARK

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More About the National Geographic orion

National Geographic Orion is a perfectly sized ship—with a warm and intimate feeling, yet large enough to offer a variety of public spaces. Spacious, modern and subtly elegant, she offers ample indoor common space, as well as expansive outdoor deck space, giving guests plenty of room for viewing the spectacular scenery and wildlife. She meets strict specifications for environmental protection, enabling her to travel to the most pristine environments while ensuring sustainable marine environmental practices. Engineered for maximum comfort and safety, she is outfitted with a host of advanced design features and the latest technology.

The National Geographic Orion expedition ship, with a navy blue hull and yellow stripe, is sailing in icy waters with snow-covered cliffs in the background. Equipped with multiple decks, radar, satellite dishes, and lifeboats, this vessel is prepared for any adventure.
A luxurious seating area with large glass windows offering a panoramic ocean view on the National Geographic Orion expedition ship. The room features cushioned armchairs, glass-top tables, and a plush blue carpet. Daylight streams in through the windows, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere.
A cozy library aboard the National Geographic Orion expedition ship with a view of the ocean and distant mountains. The room features wooden bookshelves filled with books, a glass case with a model ship, wicker chairs with beige cushions around wooden tables, large windows, and blue carpet.
A person with light hair is seated at a table on a balcony overlooking the ocean. They are holding a pen, writing in a notebook, with a laptop and mug beside them. The scene is framed by beige curtains, with the horizon and a distant mountain visible, evoking the spirit of adventure found on a National Geographic Orion expedition ship.
A retail staff member, wearing an orange shirt, helps a couple examine a handcrafted wooden item in a boutique shop with natural light pouring through a window. Shelves displaying various items are seen in the background, and the ocean is visible outside the window, just like a scene from a National Geographic Orion expedition ship.
A man with a white beard, wearing glasses and a blue shirt, is standing in front of an audience, speaking into a microphone. He stands on a stage with a wooden podium, while behind him, a large screen displays an image of the National Geographic Orion expedition ship.
A spacious, modern lounge area on the National Geographic Orion expedition ship, featuring patterned armchairs, small round tables, and a bar with high stools. The space has large windows showing an ocean view, blue carpeting, and a curved ceiling with overhead lighting.
A cozy and elegantly designed lounge aboard the National Geographic Orion expedition ship features brown cushioned seating along the wall with round silver tables and patterned chairs. Two large windows offer a scenic view of lush greenery. Soft lighting from modern wall lamps and a table lamp add warmth to the room.
A dining area with a round table set with white cloth and glassware, surrounded by four wooden chairs with blue cushions. It has a large porthole window offering a scenic view of the sea and mountains, and the walls are adorned with paintings of beach scenes and sailboats, evoking the ambiance of a National Geographic Orion expedition ship.
A luxurious dining room on the National Geographic Orion expedition ship featuring elegantly set round tables with white tablecloths and blue cushioned chairs. Large windows provide a view of the sea. The space is decorated with maritime-themed artwork, wooden accents, and a central chandelier.
Elegantly set dining table with white tablecloth, wine glasses, and silverware in a luxurious restaurant aboard the National Geographic Orion expedition ship. The background features circular windows and framed artwork on the walls, creating a refined atmosphere.
A gourmet meal featuring a plated entrée with meat, vegetables, and garnish is elegantly arranged on a white tablecloth. The table is set with wine glasses, cutlery, and plates, with red wine visible in one glass. The background evokes the sophisticated ambiance of dining aboard the National Geographic Orion expedition ship.
A modern bar with a sleek design featuring a black marble countertop and several black barstools. Behind the bar, rows of various bottles are displayed on glass shelves. The well-lit bar area has glass doors in the background leading to an outdoor seating area, perfect for those just back from a National Geographic Orion expedition ship.
A bartender serves drinks to customers at a classy, dimly lit bar on the National Geographic Orion expedition ship. People sit along the bar, enjoying their beverages and engaging in conversation. The atmosphere is lively and relaxed, with warm lighting and a modern interior design.
A group of people are sitting and chatting in a lively, well-lit bar on the National Geographic Orion expedition ship. One person is drinking wine while others engage in conversation, clearly enjoying themselves. The setting is modern, with colorful lighting overhead.
A woman with a ponytail holds a colorful drink with a lemon wedge garnish, leaning on a black marble counter in conversation with a smiling bartender. The bartender stands behind the counter in a modern, well-lit bar aboard the National Geographic Orion expedition ship.
A modern office setup with two desktop computers on a wooden desk against a beige wall. One screen displays a desert scene with cacti and a person, while the other shows a group of penguins. Above the desk, a framed underwater photograph of the National Geographic Orion expedition ship hangs on the wall.
Four uniformed ship officers are navigating from the bridge of the National Geographic Orion expedition ship. They are surrounded by various control panels and instruments, with expansive windows offering a view of the sea. The officers appear focused on operating the ship.
A uniformed captain stands by a maritime map, pointing at a location while explaining something to a middle-aged couple. The couple, dressed casually, listens attentively aboard the National Geographic Orion expedition ship. They are in a spacious, well-lit room with large windows offering scenic ocean views.
A smiling older woman stands at the ship's bridge, touching the control panel while a ship's officer guides her aboard the National Geographic Orion expedition ship. Another officer in the background looks through binoculars. The scene unfolds against a backdrop of the sea and distant mountains.
Two people are standing in a well-lit room aboard the National Geographic Orion expedition ship, looking at a large map spread out on a table. The person on the right is pointing to a location on the map, while the person on the left is smiling and watching attentively.
A cozy gift shop with wooden shelves and displays filled with various items such as backpacks, hats, scarves, and souvenirs. A large window on the left side provides a scenic view of a body of water and mountains in the background, making it resemble the setting of a National Geographic Orion expedition ship.
A bright gym room with several treadmills and elliptical machines lined up facing full-length windows. The windows offer a scenic view of the ocean and greenery outside, creating a serene workout environment, much like what you'd find on the National Geographic Orion expedition ship. The room is spacious and well-lit.
An older couple in white bathrobes sits in a wooden sauna on the National Geographic Orion expedition ship, holding hands and looking out a window with a view of the ocean. A clock is mounted on the sauna wall. The atmosphere is calm and serene.
A cozy sauna room with wooden benches, a bucket, a ladle, rolled towels, and a clock on the wall. Large glass windows offer a picturesque view of a calm sea and a sunset, bordered by curtains and a wooden handrail. Perfect for relaxation after an adventure on the National Geographic Orion expedition ship.
Ship Highlights
  • Size/Type
    338 ft.
  • Guest Capacity 102
  • Features
    Open Bridge
    Lounge
    Library
    Observation Lounge
    Outdoor Cafe
    Theater
    Fitness Center
    Spa, Sauna, Jacuzzi
    Wireless Internet
    14 Zodiacs
    24 Double Kayaks
View Deckplans

Cabin Details

Soothingly decorated in elegant tones, the National Geographic Orion’s 53 spacious cabins include: 10 suites with private balconies, and 39 cabins with windows, and 4 cabins with windows specifically designed for solo travelers. Sixteen cabins and 12 suites can be configured as triples.

A cozy cabin on the National Geographic Orion expedition ship features a large bed with beige and white bedding, curtain-lined portholes, wooden accents, a blue upholstered chair, and a wooden desk. The room is softly lit with wall-mounted lamps and decorated with simple artwork.
A modern bathroom with marble countertops and a sink. The vanity area includes a makeup mirror, several toiletries, and a leather pouch. Towels are neatly placed on a rack, and the reflection shows a well-lit space with a large mirror, giving it an air of luxury akin to the cabins of the National Geographic Orion expedition ship.

National Geographic Explorer

Category 1

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A cozy, well-appointed cruise ship cabin with a neatly made double bed, blue accent chairs, a porthole with a scenic ocean view, a desk, and wooden furnishings. A framed nautical photograph adorns the wall above the bed. Natural light fills the room on this National Geographic Orion expedition ship.
A well-lit, cozy cabin room on the National Geographic Orion expedition ship with two single beds adorned with cream and brown bedding. The room has wooden furniture, including a desk and green cushioned chair, and a large porthole window letting in natural light. There's a painting of a sailboat on the wall.
A modern bathroom with marble countertops and a sink. The vanity area includes a makeup mirror, several toiletries, and a leather pouch. Towels are neatly placed on a rack, and the reflection shows a well-lit space with a large mirror, giving it an air of luxury akin to the cabins of the National Geographic Orion expedition ship.

National Geographic Explorer

Category 2

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A spacious cruise ship cabin on the National Geographic Orion expedition ship features a large bed, green carpeting, wood-paneled walls, and two windows with ocean views. The room includes a desk, a green armchair with an ottoman, a small table, and wall-mounted storage.
A well-appointed cabin on the National Geographic Orion expedition ship features two single beds, green and beige decor, and wooden accents. A window offers a scenic view of water and trees. The room includes a desk with a green chair and a painting of a sailboat on the wall.
A modern bathroom with marble countertops and a sink. The vanity area includes a makeup mirror, several toiletries, and a leather pouch. Towels are neatly placed on a rack, and the reflection shows a well-lit space with a large mirror, giving it an air of luxury akin to the cabins of the National Geographic Orion expedition ship.

National Geographic Explorer

Category 3

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A well-lit cabin on the National Geographic Orion expedition ship with a large window revealing a sea view at sunset. The room features two neatly made twin beds with beige covers, a blue sofa, a round table, and wooden furnishings. A framed nautical-themed picture hangs on the wall above the beds.
A well-lit, spacious cruise ship cabin on the National Geographic Orion expedition ship features a large bed in the foreground, a seating area with blue armchairs and a sofa, a small glass table, a desk with wooden finishes, and a window revealing a scenic ocean view with distant mountains.
A modern bathroom with marble countertops and a sink. The vanity area includes a makeup mirror, several toiletries, and a leather pouch. Towels are neatly placed on a rack, and the reflection shows a well-lit space with a large mirror, giving it an air of luxury akin to the cabins of the National Geographic Orion expedition ship.

National Geographic Explorer

Category 4

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A luxurious cabin on the National Geographic Orion expedition ship features two twin beds, blue and beige decor, a large window with an ocean view, and a seating area with a small table and two chairs. The cabin is well-lit with a framed sailboat photo on the wall and curtains drawn to the side.
A luxurious National Geographic Orion expedition ship cabin features a large bed with beige pillows and throw, adjacent nightstands with lamps, and a framed sailboat photograph on the wall. There's a seating area with a sofa and table by the window, offering a view of the sea and shoreline.
A modern bathroom with marble countertops and a sink. The vanity area includes a makeup mirror, several toiletries, and a leather pouch. Towels are neatly placed on a rack, and the reflection shows a well-lit space with a large mirror, giving it an air of luxury akin to the cabins of the National Geographic Orion expedition ship.

National Geographic Explorer

Category 5

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A cozy cabin on the National Geographic Orion expedition ship with large windows offering an ocean view. The room features blue upholstered chairs, a glass coffee table with a magazine, a wooden desk with a mirror, and a TV. Bright natural light illuminates the space.
A well-lit cabin room on the National Geographic Orion expedition ship with a large window revealing an ocean view. The room features a king-sized bed with white and beige bedding, a blue sofa and armchair, a glass-top table, and framed artwork on the walls. Blue curtains and carpet complement the decor.
A well-lit bedroom with a large bed featuring beige and white bedding, two beige pillows, and wall-mounted lamps on either side. A large sliding glass door leads to a balcony with ocean views, inspired by the allure of the National Geographic Orion expedition ship. The room has dark blue armchairs and nautical-themed artwork.
A bright, well-lit cabin on the National Geographic Orion expedition ship features two single beds with white linens and beige accents. The room is adorned with wooden paneling, blue drapes, and a framed sailboat picture. A window offers a scenic view of the ocean and distant land. Two wall lamps provide additional lighting.
A cozy cabin on the National Geographic Orion expedition ship with a large window overlooking the sea. The room features a blue sofa, two matching armchairs, a glass coffee table, and a wooden desk with a large mirror. Nautical-themed artwork decorates the walls, and the room leads to a separate bedroom.
A luxurious bathroom features a marble vanity with a sink, gold fixtures, and a mirror. There's a walk-in shower with glass doors and a bathtub by the window, which offers an ocean view. The decor includes modern lighting and elegant accents, reminiscent of the elegance found on a National Geographic Orion expedition ship.

National Geographic Explorer

Category 6

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TRIP FAQs

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You have the flexibility to choose your own travel dates on most of our trips. Certain trips, such as cruises, have fixed schedules. Availability on these trips is always changing so please contact us with your preferred travel time and we can find the perfect itinerary for you.

The first step is to get in touch with a Southern Explorations travel planner for date availability and information on activities, accommodations and other travel aspirations you may have. Give us a call at 1.877.784.5400, fill out this form or email info@southernexplorations.com.

Yes! All of our posted itineraries can be considered a starting point and were happy to tailor a trip to your exact desires. There may be some elements of a trip, such as a cruise or all-inclusive lodge stay, that cannot be modified but we can always adjust the tours around those components.

We provide full service tours so in general our trips include all guided activities with professional English-speaking guides, accommodations, transportation, airport transfers, entrance fees and permits, select meals, and pre-departure services. You will be responsible for international airfare while we will book all in-country airfare. Contact one of our expert travel planners for even more details on this specific tour.

We have more detailed information about each destination in the Plan Your Trip section of this website. Our team of friendly travel planners is also available to walk you through various options and to work with you on the perfect trip!

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Deanna and the entire team were very kind, patient, and accommodating. Id highly recommend them to arrange your Antarctica trip as they source the best itineraries and operators – period.

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