2022-03-07
2025-01-01
from$ 19520 AUD
Note: Current p/p indicative rate. Final price may change due to currency fluctuations.
Ship
National Geographic Orion
National Geographic Orion
City
Papeete to Lautoka
Papeete to Lautoka
Special Offers
2022-03-07
2025-01-01
Overview
The archipelagos of the South Pacific have defined our notion of “island paradise” since Robert Louis Stevenson told his tales and Paul Gauguin captured Polynesia in paint. As we sail from Tahiti’s lush volcanic crags to the sparkling white shores of Fiji, discover a fascinating geology and a stunning wealth of bird species and marine life. Dive or snorkel among underwater canyons and tunnels formed from lava. Meet island communities. And explore the far-flung reef systems of the extraordinary archipelagos of the South Pacific.
Departures
Departing on 2025-01-15
$ 19520 AUD
These cabins feature an oval window and two single beds, two beds that can be converted to a queen-size bed, or a queen size bed (call for details). You'll find an armchair, climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV. Bathrooms are also generously sized with a roomy glass-walled shower stall.
$ 23680 AUD
These roomy cabins feature an oval window and two single beds, two beds that can be converted to a queen-size bed, or a queen size bed (call for details). You'll find an armchair, climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV. Bathrooms are also generously sized with a roomy glass-walled shower stall.
$ 27450 AUD
Cat 3 Suite with Window #401-412, 414-419 These suites have a comfortable sofa in the sitting area with a large window and plenty of storage. They have a variety of bed configurations (call for details) plus a writing desk and chair, climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV. Modern bathrooms are generously sized with roomy glass-walled shower stall.
$ 29280 AUD
These solo cabins feature a window or two portholes, a queen-size bed, writing desk and chair, climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV. Bathrooms are also generously sized with a roomy glass-walled shower stall
$ 30300 AUD
Cat 4 Deluxe suite with Window #511, 515 - These two suites feature separate sleeping and sitting areas, with a two-seater sofa that looks out a large rectangular window. Beds are configurable. You'll find storage, climate controls, reading lamps, a TV. Modern bathrooms are generously sized with roomy glass-walled shower stall.
$ 36530 AUD
Cat 5 Suite with Balcony #501, 503-506, 508 - These spacious suites feature open living areas and sliding glass doors that open to a private French balcony. Beds are configurable, and you'll find sitting chairs or a couch, a writing desk, climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV. The bathroom is spacious and has a glass-walled shower.
$ 41180 AUD
Cat 3S Suite with Window #512 - This solo suite features two beds and a large window, plus a bucket chair and small table, climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV. The bathroom is spacious and has a glass-walled shower.
$ 42420 AUD
Cat 6 Owner’s suite with Balcony #502, 507, 509*, 510 - These large, owner's suites feature a balcony (Cabin 509 does not have a balcony), a spacious bathroom with a large shower and separate soaking tub with a window, and a large separate living area with a couch and two bucket chairs, plus climate controls, reading lamps, and a TV.
Cruise Itinerary
Arrive in Papeete and join us for a tour before embarking National Geographic Orion in the late afternoon. (L,D)
Spend the day acclimating to island time at beautiful Taha’a. Surrounded by a sparkling turquoise lagoon, make use of our private motu choose to snorkel, swim, kayak or just enjoy your surroundings from the white sandy beach. One of the most important cultural sites in the Polynesian world, Marae Taputapuatea was a center for Polynesian seafarers and the location from which they set out for Rapa Nui (Easter Island), Hawaii, and New Zealand. Spend the morning exploring this site on Ra'iatea, then refresh yourself with a swim in the island’s lagoon. Spend time on deck during a day at sea, mesmerized by deep, seablue water while scanning the horizon for marine mammals and seabirds. (B,L,D Daily)
Known for its turquoise central lagoon, Aitutaki has been described as the perfect South Pacific island. Board Zodiacs to enter the lagoon via the pass on the western side of this “almost atoll.” Once ashore, you’ll step over sacred welcome stones to be greeted with a traditional Polynesian welcome. Explore the lagoon, walk palm-fringed beaches and finish with a swim in the warm, clear lagoon. Or, meet the friendly residents and experience traditional Polynesian food, culture and hospitality on a visit to an interior village. Then enjoy life aboard National Geographic Orion as we spend two days sailing west toward Samoa. (B,L,D Daily)
With its spectacular beaches and dense green foliage, hidden waterfalls and lava-sculpted landscapes, Samoa captures the essence of the South Pacific. During our time on these islands, hike through rain forests vibrant with flowers and birds, take a dip in a swimming hole, go snorkeling or diving, and soak up the languid rhythms of island life that drew Robert Louis Stevenson to these shores. (B,L,D Daily)
Another of France's South Pacific territories, the tiny island nation of Wallis and Futuna lies between Samoa and Fiji. In Wallis, we are greeted with local dancing and singing. Visit the beautiful crater lake Lalolalo and a cathedral built of blue volcanic stone, chiseled by hand. In Futuna, stop at a historic "cannibal oven" and learn of the history of these fascinating people, before a warrior dance performance in front of the Cathedral of Poi. (B,L,D Daily)
Enter the island nation of Fiji with a stop at Taveuni, Fiji’s third largest island, known as “The Garden Island” for its rich vegetation—which includes several species found nowhere else in the world. Experience warm Fijian welcomes at the village of Waitabu, and snorkel in one of the Pacific’s most successful community marine parks. Explore the waterfalls of nearby Bouma National Heritage Park, and dive nearby reefs. Witness a dramatic firewalking ceremony, at Beqa Island. (B,L,D Daily)
Disembark in Lautoka this morning. Take a tour of western Viti Levu Island then transfer to the international airport at Nadi for flights home or choose to extend your stay and check in to our hotel. (B,L)
Itineraries are subject to change.
National Geographic Orion
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition Length: 103 metres Passenger Capacity: 102 (in 53 cabins) Built: 2003 / Refurbished 2014 Engineered for maximum comfort and safety, Orion is equipped with the latest technology including large retractable stabilizers, sonar, radar, and an ice-strengthened hull. A shallow draft plus bow and stern thrusters provide the convenience of being able to maneuver close to shore. 14 Zodiacs ensure quick disembarkation and offer the ideal transport for up-close exploration. National Geographic Orion meets 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. National 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, as well as an observation lounge and library perched at the very top of the ship, with 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.
Highlights
• Visit the marae complex of Marae Taputapuātea, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important cultural sites in Polynesia • Snorkel, swim, or stand-up paddleboard in the clear, aqua lagoons and reefs of French Polynesia • Spot rare and colorful birds and flowers on Fiji’s spectacular “Garden Island,” Taveuni, and in the rainforests of Samoa • Visit remote island villages and discover rich cultural histories, including the tradition of fire-walking in Fiji
Map
