Singapore to Raja Ampat, Borneo and the Coral Triangle aboard National Geographic Orion

#expeditioncruising

Raja Ampat (Flickr user: franklynaggerjerry)

LINDBLAD EXPEDITIONS-NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ANNOUNCES NEW ITINERARY DEPARTING SINGAPORE TO RAJA AMPAT

A VOYAGE THROUGH BORNEO AND INTO THE HEART OF THE CORAL TRIANGLE

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic has announced a new 17 day itinerary from Singapore to Raja Ampat, through Borneo and the Coral Triangle aboard the National Geographic Orion.

This region is known as the global centre of marine biodiversity, with more than 500 species of coral and nearly 2,000 species of fish, and is a mecca for snorkelers and scuba divers. Above ground, guests can encounter the orangutans of Tanjung Puting National Park and the giant lizards of Komodo Island, as well as the ikat textile weavings of Flores Island.

Additional experiences include:

· Meeting National Geographic grantee Dr. Biruté Galdikas on a visit to Camp Leakey, an orangutan research and conservation centre she established in the forests of Borneo

· Exploring the jungles of Tanjung Puting National Park on an all-day excursion by local boat, and interacting with orangutans and other rare wildlife at rehabilitation centres

· Visiting Komodo National park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and searching for Komodo dragons – the world’s largest living lizards – in their natural habitat

· Snorkelling and diving the colourful reefs of Raja Ampat, Komodo National Park beaches, Badas Islands and the Banda Islands

National Geographic Orion in the Kimberley (supplied)

The National Geographic Orion accommodates 102 guests in 53 cabins. The interior is spacious and offers a range of modern public rooms with panoramic views. Her public rooms include a window-lined main lounge, as well as an observation lounge and library at the very top of the ship.

The dining on board includes degustation menus by one of Australia’s renowned international chefs, Serge Dansereau, principal of Sydney’s The Bathers’ Pavilion. Dining is an integral part of the expedition experience, with influences and flavours that reflect the regions being explored.

This expedition departs on 9 September 2015, with rates from AUD $18,160 based on a double occupancy in a category one cabin.

To order the Explorations brochure, obtain additional information on Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic or to book, visit au.expeditions.com, call 1300 361 012 or see your travel agent.

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic announces new experts on 2015 voyages

#expeditioncruising




A CHANCE FOR GUESTS TO INTERACT WITH A RANGE OF INFLUENCERS

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic has announced a suite of special guests for the next year as part of its Global Perspectives Speakers Program, including new itineraries with the legendary Valerie Taylor.

The wide range of expeditions offers guests the chance to explore and personally interact with world-renowned researchers and explorers. The line-up of speakers for 2015 allows Lindblad Expeditions guests to travel with individuals known for discovering new species, diving to uncharted depths, leading primate research, and altering the course of scientific history.

The below rates are per person per night in a category one cabin based on double occupancy.

Global Perspectives Speakers onboard the National Geographic Orion:

Valerie Taylor:

Valerie Taylor

Since her revolutionary footage of great white sharks in 1973, Valerie Taylor has been a hugely influential scuba diver. She has been on a National Geographic cover and featured in live shark sequences that have appeared in the movies of Jaws, Orca and the Blue Lagoon. Taylor will join 'Indian Ocean Odyssey: Seychelles, Maldives and Sri Lanka' departing 20 April 2015. Rates from $22,140.

Sir. James Mancham:

Learn the Seychelles history through the eyes of its founding president, Sir James R. Mancham. A visionary, award-winning peacemaker and author, Mancham played a pivotal part in settling international disputes. Mancham is widely recognised for putting the islands on the must-visit list for world travellers. He will join the two parts of the Seychelles: 'Treasures of the Indian Ocean: Zanzibar and the Seychelles' departing 9 April 2015 (from $14,770) and 'Indian Ocean Odyssey: Seychelles, Maldives and Sri Lanka departing 20 April 2015 (from $22,140).

Biruté Galdikas:

As the foremost authority on the orangutan, Biruté Galdikas has dedicated her life to educating others of the importance of this endangered animal. Since 1971, she has studied the science of these red apes through documenting their ecology and behaviour. Galdikas founded "Camp Leakey" and is the President and founder of Orangutan Foundation International. Galdikas will join three itineraries in 2015. These are 'Wild Islands of Sri Lanka, Borneo and the Andaman Sea' departing 6 May 2015 (from $23,380) 'Camp Leakey: Faces in the Forest' departing August 30 2015 (from $14,630) and 'Singapore to Raja Ampat: Exotic Indonesia' departing September 9 2015 (from $18,160).

Lawrence Blair:

Dr. Lawrence Blair has spent much of the past three decades exploring and making films in Indonesia. An expert on the culture, geography and zoology of Indonesia, he has also spent many years as a media communicator and has written, presented and co-produced the series Ring of Fire which won two Emmy awards in 1988. Dr Blair will join 'Wild Islands of Sri Lanka, Borneo and the Andaman Sea' departing 6 May 2015 (from $23,380) and 'Kimberley Expedition with the Spice Islands' departing 16 August 2015 (from $12,830).

Global Perspectives Speakers onboard the National Geographic Explorer:

Eric Larsen:

The first to journey on a summer expedition to the North Pole, Eric Larsen is known for completing more polar expeditions than any other American. Larsen's other expeditions include cycling in Antarctica, dog sledding in the Canadian Arctic and climbing Mount McKinley. Larsen will join the 'Land of the Ice Bears: An In-Depth Exploration of Arctic Svalbard' departing 16 June 2015. Rates from $10,490.

Johan Reinhard:

Johan Reinhard is famed for the recovery of Ice Maiden, an Inca mummy found on Mount Ampato. This feat was chosen by Time magazine as one of the world's ten most important discoveries of 1995. An anthropologist and high-altitude archaeologist, Reinhard has authored more than 70 publications, including six books. Reinhard will join 'Peru and Chile: Ancient Sites and Natural Wonders' departing 8 October 2015. Rates from $19,660.

Don Walsh:

Don Walsh, along with his colleague, is recognised for completing the deepest manned dive in history. An oceanographer, ocean engineer and retired Navy Captain, Dr. Walsh is author of more than 200 ocean-related publications with his explorations taking him on more than 50 polar expeditions. Dr. Walsh will travel on 'Land of the Ice Bears: An In-depth Exploration of Arctic Svalbard' departing 2 June 2015. Rates from $10, 490.

To order the Explorations brochure, obtain additional information on Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic or to book, visit au.expeditions.com, call 1300 361 012 or see your travel agent.

Cruising is a consuming passion - NG Orion

Just learned from our hotel manager, Tracy Greiner, about some of our consumption habits aboard National Geographic Orion since we left Fiji on 18 November.

 

• 3000 eggs
• 520 lbs potatoes
• 1300 toilet rolls
• 320 litres ice cream
• 300+ lbs of beef
• 520 bottles of wine
• 500 beers
• 1540 cans soda
• 2500 baked cookies

 

and from the engine room

 

The ship has burned 150 tonnes of diesel travelling 3100 NM

 

The ship uses up to 50 tonnes of water per day, most of which is in the cabins. An estimated 20% is used in the galley and laundry. The water maker on board can produce up to 100 tonnes.

Hanging on in the Tuamotus - Rangiroa drift dive

#expeditioncruising

Post by Adventure and Expedition Cruising.

More images:

Millennium Atoll - the most pristine marine ecosystem in the world?

#expeditioncruising

Post by Adventure and Expedition Cruising.

Flint Island - Southern Line Islands - Kiribati

#expeditioncruising

Post by Adventure and Expedition Cruising.

Lindblad Expeditions: Strange things happen at sea

#expeditioncruising

A radar blip turns out to be a whale carcass

You've heard me say it over and over. With expedition cruising, you just never know what's going to happen next. While that may unhinge certain travellers, for me it's part of the excitement of travelling in true expedition style.

Yesterday, in the open ocean en route to Manihiki Atoll, Captain Taillard picked up a blip on the radar. At first it was thought to be another small craft adrift. Then when visual contact was made, the rounded shape looked like an upturned boat, so he altered course slightly for a better look and perhaps to assist any survivors.

Soon the truth was revealed. It was a massive whale carcass, bloated and bobbing among the waves. With a bank of binoculars trained on the anomaly, it could be seen to be a sperm whale.

Such events are like a red rag to our underwater team and soon divemaster Justin and the marine squad were on their way to investigate. The ship stayed a couple hundred metres away but every so often the aroma of putrefying blubber would blow our way.

At $1000 per tooth, the temptation is there
to perform some ad hoc extractions (Justin Hofman)

Organic 'rafts' like these present opportunities for fish to congregate and feed on the bounty. Small pelagic trigger fish, wahoo and big travally were all lining up for a feed under the carcass which had obvious and disturbing evidence of shark bites. Big bites, probably from something like an oceanic white tip known for snacking on humans occasionally.

With the price of a sperm whale tooth easily $1000 a piece, I'm wondering if our away team had suddenly turned buccaneer at the temptation. But no, they returned with just fascinating video footage to share and quietly debating, I'm sure, whether they should have cashed in on this smelly windfall. There was no bringing this poor beast back to life.

Lindblad Expeditions in the South Pacifi: Manihiki, Island of Pearls

#expeditioncruising

Manihiki Atoll in the distant Northern Cook Islands sits just under the 10 degree south parallel and actually sits atop a 4000m underwater mountain. The flat atoll is made up of around 60 tiny islets and is just a few metres above sea level.

Known widely as the 'Island of Pearls', Manihiki's 4km wide lagoon supports an entire pearl industry and is dotted with ramshackle structures atop little outcrops that indicate oyster beds waiting to be harvested.

National Geographic Orion, we were told, is the first passenger ship ever to stop here and the locals turned out en masse to greet us with gorgeous singing children and a sampler of the energetic Cook Islands dancing that looks like hula on double fast forward.

Lindblad Expeditions in the South Pacific: Foiled by Nuatoputapu

Zodiacs probe for entry through the lagoon at Nuatoputapu

GPS tracking shows Tim's attempts to find an entry

Sunday 23 November 2014

15 deg 57.13 S 173 deg 45.6 W

Sometimes called Keppel or Traitors Island, the locals served up a warm reception for Dutch circumnavigator, Willem Schouten in 1616. So warm in fact that muskets were needed to cool down the welcome.

Today Nuatoputapu would thwart us as we tried to get ashore for a village visit. The falling tide made finding the tiny channel tricky and outboard props were tilted almost to 45 degrees to try and avoid striking the limestone bottom.

Expedition leader, Tim Soper, a chap very experienced in navigating reefs and shoals in the robust Zodiac tenders.

"We think we've found the channel now," calls Tim over the 2-way to our skipper, Dave Cothran, interrupting an impromptu lecture on atoll formation under way in the brief lull in our forward progress.

But that progress fell agonisingly short of our objective, the village of Hihifo in the SW corner of the island. With tide continually falling Tim, imagining the bosun's displeasure at damaged propellers, called stumps and the tiny fleet made its way back to the ship.

Such is expedition cruising.

Aboard the newly refitted National Geographic Orion

#expeditioncruising

National Geographic Orion in new livery (R Eime)

The 103m, 106-passenger Orion is a ship that grabbed the attention of the public and industry and won many hearts among travelling Australians when she launched under the stewardship of Sarina Bratton almost a decade ago.

I first travelled aboard Orion in 2008 to PNG and as this was my only voyage under the previous configuration, I didn't have the emotional attachment many past passengers built up, some from over a dozen or more repeat voyages.

The change in ship operators has been well-documented elsewhere on this site but now it's my chance to see the structural, cosmetic and operational changes first-hand.

Section of main lounge showing new 'pulpit' for lectures
with new flatscreen TVs 

The most obvious change is to the lounge area, where Lindblad have installed a central 'pulpit' with AV controls for the lecturer whose presentations are streamed to the six flatscreen TVs installed around the expanded space.

“The stage has been removed and the space converted to more seating,” says Tracy Greiner, hotel manager who has been aboard Orion since the beginning, “and as you can see the whole lounge has been transformed to suit Lindblad's style of daily pre-dinner recap and drinks.”

Looking around the lounge, the memories come back despite the alterations. The chairs, tables, carpets, lighting, wall hangings and bar itself have all been changed or modified to ensure the full compliment of passengers can fit into the area with unrestricted viewing of any screen.

The old lecture theatre is currently not in use as the seating was not really adequate if all passengers aboard a full ship wanted to attend. That space is also being considered for repurposing, perhaps to a larger spa or gym facility as the current treatment room is only really a booth off the existing small fitness room.

New chart table in the Deck 6 Observation Lounge

The Observation Lounge on Deck 6 is now the home to the library and now includes a large chart table. The bar has been removed and converted to a self-service refreshment area with tea, coffee, soft drink and snacks. It seems to work well as a quiet space for those wanting to read and perhaps nod off for a bit. Two iMac computers are installed for guest use.

self serve refreshment bar

Dining is largely unchanged with meals served alternatively in the main deck (3) restaurant and outdoor café on the upper deck (4). The Serge Dansereau menu has been updated and rotates daily with the same cheerful service from many of the long-serving Filipino staff including executive chef Lothar.

A dive deck is now on the uppermost level above the unused lecture theatre with storage of vests, tanks and sundry equipment for a maximum of 24 certified divers at a ratio of eight divers per divemaster. Orion is now fully self-sufficient as a live-aboard dive vessel with three compressors including one for Nitrox and several days emergency oxygen if required. A Zodiac is also equipped with ladders for exclusive use of divers.

Divers now fully catered for aboard NG Orion

Of course, not all these changes are to the universal delight of the many past passengers. Several repeat cruisers are aboard for this voyage and the loss of after dinner entertainment and dance floor is one factor cited although the observation deck seems to have gained much wider acceptance.

I will be aboard until Tahiti, so please check back regularly for more news and updates.

Www.expeditioncruising.com

National Geographic Orion: Taveuni Island and Ringgold Islets, Fiji

#expeditioncruising

NG Orion at anchor off Taveuni (R Eime)

by Rikki Swenson·Naturalist/Certified Photo Instructor

After a quiet night at anchor off the northwestern coast of Taveuni Island, we began our day heading ashore in various directions. Departing at first light were those interested in a birding walk on Des Voeux Peak. They were rewarded with sightings of 12 endemic bird species, most exciting being the beautiful silktail. The higher rainforest was lovely, loaded with epiphytes, and the rare tagimoucia, the Fijian national flower, in bloom.

Bouma Falls (R Eime)

The morning was brilliant with color, the rich cobalt blue sea complimenting the deep and bright greens onshore. After breakfast, our Zodiacs swiftly delivered the remaining guests to shore for their outings. Once again, we loaded up into the local open-air buses. A hiking group headed directly to Bouma National Heritage Park for a more rigorous trek to view the park’s lovely waterfalls. Others opted for a gentler outing, first heading into a nearby town. As we approached the Catholic Wairiki Mission, we could hear the soft sounds of a chorus of voices drifting across the grass. To our surprise, our five-minute stop turned into twenty-five minutes as we discovered the large church was half full of schoolchildren, seated on the floor, singing beautiful songs. The acoustics and their lovely voices combined into an absolutely magical moment as we stood in the doorways, listening and taking photographs of their cheerful faces. It was a bit of unexpected magic both for us watching, and for the kids who were delighted to see us.

After making a quick stop at the 180° East/West Meridian marker which lay on the far side of a soccer field, we continued on to Bouma Park on the far side of the island. A short walk led us to the stunning Tavoro Falls. There, a dramatic drop of over 70 feet splashes into a great pool of cool water creating a perfect place for a refreshing swim. And the water fell, not only from the falls but from the sky as well, a sweet tropical rain accompanying us, cooling the air as we walked back to the buses.

Back on board National Geographic Orion, we set off for the Ringgold islands where we found a great place to have our first platform snorkel on an outlying reef. There were a terrific variety of corals and colorful fishes seen and it was wonderful to enjoy the bounty of the warm Fijian waters.

source: http://www.expeditions.com/daily-expedition-reports/or81421/176735/

New itineraries for National Geographic Orion.

#expeditioncruising

New shorter itineraries for Orion in the South Pacific and Indonesia

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic has announced six new itineraries that cater to guests looking for shorter stints of expedition travel aboard the 102-guest National Geographic Orion.

Guests can choose from a range of voyages that offer undersea exploration, islands with a wealth of history and cultures that maintain close ties to their ancestral traditions. Each expedition also sails with a National Geographic photographer and a Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor to assist guests with their photography skills – whether using an iPhone or SLR camera.
The following are the new global voyages for 2015. Rates are per person, in Australian dollars and based on a double occupancy in a category one cabin:

Bali to Palau: Exotic Indonesia

13-day itinerary

This is the chance to visit the real Indonesia up close. This itinerary is an expedition to find Komodo dragons and rare birdlife, explore a village’s water buffalo races and snorkel and dive Raja Ampat in the Coral Triangle – a region with more than 500 species of coral and 2,000 species of fish. Departs Sep. 19, 2015___ From $15,700 per person.

Palau to Solomon Islands: Along the Pacific Equator

16-day itinerary

Guests can venture to the heart of Micronesia to discover wild, remote islands and cultures. Here they will snorkel or dive amongst manta rays, reefs and famous shipwrecks on an expedition that offers both relaxation and island exploration, as well as iconic WWII fortifications. Departs Oct. 1, 2015___ From $19,320 per person.

Solomon Islands to Fiji: Hidden South Pacific

11-day itinerary

This is an itinerary that focuses on the culture and history of Melanesia, and the western edge of Polynesia. Guests can observe ancient petroglyphs, warrior dances and WWII wrecks as well as Fiji’s finest reefs, rare birds and the lush “Garden Island.” Departs Oct. 16, 2015___ From $12,080 per person.

Fiji to the Cook Islands: Polynesian Discovery

10-day itinerary

An exploration of four Polynesian nations – Fiji, Tonga, Niue and the Cook Islands. Guests can explore the beautiful geographies, with Niue boasting the largest uplifted coral island in the world, as well as kayak, Zodiac cruise, snorkel and dive reefs in the turquoise seas, and discover Palmerston Atoll, charted by Captain Cook on his second voyage. Departs Oct. 26, 2015___From $12,080 per person.

Cook Islands to Tahiti: Pristine Reefs of the South Pacific

11-day itinerary

Guests will venture to three distinct island groups for the ultimate undersea experience. Here they will snorkel turquoise lakes, swim over beds of giant clams, dive the pristine Southern Line Islands, identified as one of the most unspoiled reef systems in the world by the National Geographic Pristine Seas Project, and explore the culture of French Polynesia. Departs Nov. 4, 2015___From $12,080 per person.

Tahiti to Easter Island: Tales of the Pacific

17-day itinerary

This is a trip where guests will journey off the beaten track to explore a string of remote islands that are rarely visited by outsiders. Here they will uncover wild, pristine UNESCO sites, untouched tropical beaches, hear stories of early visitors and see the iconic Easter Island. Departs Nov. 14, 2015___From $19,320 per person.

To order the Explorations catalogue, obtain additional information on Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic or to book, visit www.expeditions.com, call 1300 361 012 or see your travel agent.

 

Further renovations to NG Orion

#expeditioncruising 
 

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic has announced that National Geographic Orion will undergo renovations to two public spaces during dry dock this September.

The renovations will be made to two public spaces: The Lounge (main) and the Observation Lounge, and are being redesigned to better serve the dynamic, learning-oriented community of guests and staff aboard.

Renovations include:

• The current library will be removed from The Lounge, providing an additional 20% of space that will enable seating now for all guests and expedition team at once.
• The Lounge will feature a “circle of truth” in the center (as on National Geographic Explorer), which will serve as the focal area for all presentations and recap discussions by the ship’s expedition team and experts.
• A newly designed bar.
• Updating of all furnishings and carpets in a modern, expedition style.
• Upgrade of all audio and visual functions including large high definition flat screens and contemporary audio system.
• The Observation Lounge will undergo a complete refurbishment and layout change, and will feature an intimate library, nautical chart table, and a self-serve beverage station.

The renovations are being done by ICF Singapore, a world leader in interior ship design, and will be completed in time for the September 16, 2014 Wild Encounters from Borneo to Bali expedition.

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic launched the 102-guest National Geographic Orion in March 2014. While she has retained all her state-of-the-art comforts, the ship was equipped with a full roster of exploration tools including tandem kayaks, an innovative ROV (remotely operated vehicle reaching depths up to 1,000 feet), snorkeling gear for all, a dive master, scuba gear that can accommodate up to 24 divers at a time, and a glass bottom boat.

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic voyage the best of the world’s seas and rivers

#expeditioncruising 
 

There are some places in the world that are best explored by small ship – a chance to get as close as possible to the destination and explore the wildlife on land and in the sea.

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic, the global leaders in expedition travel, voyage to some of the most remote and unique places in the world, providing guests the ultimate experience while also respecting the cultures and ecosystems they explore.

The following five expeditions are the ones that guests should put to the top of their priority list for 2014/15 – the places that need to be seen now from onboard an expedition ship. Rates are per person, in Australian dollars based on a double occupancy in a category one cabin:



The Galápagos Islands

Described as “a little world within itself” by Charles Darwin, the Galápagos offers a paradise where each island is different and the wildlife have no fear of humans. Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic have raised millions for the conservation of this archipelago, and have two ships based there year round. Guests can explore Galápagos the way Darwin did – aboard an expedition ship. The voyage is designed to offer more in-depth learning and up-close encounters, with opportunities to hike, kayak and Zodiac, as well as snorkel with sea turtles, penguins, sea lions and the world’s only swimming iguana. The 10-day expedition departs and disembarks every Friday and Saturday from Guayaquil, Ecuador. Prices from $5,490.

The Kimberley and Spice Islands

Discover the Kimberley’s dramatic landscapes etched with ancient human history and sail to remote island villages of Indonesia. Guest can search for spectacular wildlife, snorkel and dive at Rowley Shoals and witness giant manta rays glide through the water. Guests can also dive and snorkel at three more landings in the Spice Islands, including Komodo, one of Valerie Taylor’s favourite places to dive. Peter Hillary, son of Sir Edmund Hillary, will join this voyage as a Global Perspectives guest speaker. Following in the footsteps of his father, the first mountaineer to summit Mount Everest alone with Tenzing Norqay, Peter has climbed the highest mountain on every continent, including Mount Everest five times on different routes, as well as travelled extensively around Australia. The 15-day voyage departs Broome and disembarks Bali on 10 August 2014 and 16 August 2015. Prices from $11,155.

The Amazon

Guests will discover the wildlife of the upper Amazon, witness sunsets on the still waters of the Amazon Rivers basin and explore the tannin-rich lakes of the flooded forest of Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve with the team of naturalists. Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic offers three expeditions that explore the Amazon – the Upper Amazon; Upper Amazon plus Galápagos; and Upper Amazon plus Machu Picchu & Peru’s Land of the Inca. The Upper Amazon is a 10-day expedition that embarks and disembarks in Lima, Peru. Prices from $5,990. The Upper Amazon plus Galápagos is an 18-day expedition that departs Guayaquil, Ecuador and disembarks in Lima, Peru. Prices from $11,480. Upper Amazon plus Machu Picchu & Peru’s Land of the Inca is a 17-day expedition that embarks and disembarks in Lima, Peru. Numerous departures throughout the year. Prices from $10,980.

Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is home to more than 1,500 species of fish, 134 species of sharks and rays and more than thirty species of marine mammals. Along with the Spice Islands, guests can snorkel, swim and dive the world’s largest reef and see a range of animals, from starfish and sea anemones to reef sharks and turtles. Aboard the National Geographic Orion, guests will have access to the new exploration tools as part of recent enhancements to the ship, including kayaks, a remotely operated vehicle that reaches depths of up to 300 metres, a glass bottom boat, Zodiacs and more. Dr. Lawrence Blair, an expert on the culture, geography and zoology of Indonesia, will join this voyage as a Global Perspectives guest speaker. The Spice Island Adventure is a 17-day expedition that departs Bali, Indonesia and disembarks Cairns, Australia on 20 October 2014. Prices from $15,540.



Antarctica

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic is bringing to life one of the most storied expeditions in modern history with special activities, amenities and events celebrating the Centennial of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition. Guests aboard National Geographic Explorer and National Geographic Orion will be led by a remarkable expedition team, who will shed new light on the storied exploits of Shackleton and his men. And, since expedition photography is part of the Lindblad-National Geographic DNA, the season will be dedicated to Shackleton’s expedition photographer, Frank Hurley. Guests will also receive a commemorative Centennial edition parka that combines vintage- style expedition wear with high-tech fabrication for maximum comfort, and comes with a Centennial badge to commemorate the once-in-a-lifetime adventure. The Journey to Antarctica: The White Continent is a 12-day expedition that departs Buenos Aires, Argentina, embarking/disembarking in Ushuaia, Argentina. Departures are Nov. 29; Dec. 9, 19, 29, 2014; Jan. 8, 18, 28; Feb. 7, 2015. Prices from $12,350. Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falklands is a 22-day expedition that departs Buenos Aires, Argentina, embarking/disembarking in Ushuaia, Argentina. Departures on the National Geographic Explorer: Nov. 9, 2014; Feb. 17, 2015; on the National Geographic Orion Dec. 27, 2014; Jan. 26 & Feb. 15, 2014. Prices from $20,720.

To obtain additional information on Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic or to book, visit www.expeditions.com, call 1300 361 012 or see your travel agent.

Lindblad Orion event evenings: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane

#expeditioncruising



Join Lindblad Expeditions for a relaxed information event as we reveal our new 2014-15 Explorations brochure.

The fleet of 10 expedition-style ships visit all 7 continents and offer over 40 unique itineraries ranging from seven to twenty-one nights. In 2015, National Geographic Orion begins a momentous year of discovery that takes her, literally, around the world. From Madagascar to the Maldives, Sri Lanka to the Seychelles, these itineraries offer the best new discoveries in expedition travel. The event will also feature destinations such as The Kimberley, Galápagos, Antarctica, Arctic, Alaska, Borneo and the South Pacific.

Please join us for light refreshments and an engaging event where you will meet members of our team.

Wednesday 7 May 2014
Harbourview Terrace, Taronga Centre, Taronga Zoo
Bradley’s Head Road, Mosman NSW
RSVP by 30 April 2014

Tuesday 13 May 2014
RACV City Club
501 Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC
RSVP by 6 May 2014


Thursday 5 June 2014
MODA Events Portside
Level 2, 39 Hercules Street, Hamilton QLD
RSVP by 29 May 2014

Events start at 2pm and 5pm.
Please arrive at 2pm for 2:30pm presentation and 5.00pm for 5:30pm presentation

To reserve your place, call 1300 361 012, email invitations@expeditions.com or contact your travel agent.

National Geographic Orion Sets Sail on Inaugural Voyage

This Friday 21 March 2014 marks an exciting new chapter for Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic as the National Geographic Orion, formally the Orion, will be christened under its new name, before embarking on its inaugural voyage from Auckland to Cairns.

Lindblad Expeditions, the pioneering expedition travel company which partners with the National Geographic Society for expedition cruising, acquired Orion Expedition Cruises in March 2013. The name change comes with new ship enhancements that include a full roster of exploration tools, including kayaks, a state of the art remote operated vehicle (ROV) that reaches depths of up to 300 metres, full snorkelling gear for all, a SCUBA program that can accommodate up to 24 divers at a time with a dive master, a glass bottom boat and additional Zodiacs,to name a few.

Tomorrow's inaugural activities commence with a champagne ceremony with Valerie Taylor - the celebrated dive legend, shark chronicler, undersea photographer and filmmaker - while guests sail out in Zodiacs to watch the proceedings.  Valerie, and her husband Ron Taylor, gained fame in the early days of scuba diving for their breathtaking live footage of sharks, particularly Great Whites.  Following the ceremony Valerie will join the inaugural voyage as a Global Perspectives guest speaker, adding layers of knowledge and connection to the geographies explored for the guests on board.

The expanded expedition team will feature a National Geographic photographer, a Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor, and a video chronicler on all departures; an undersea specialist/dive master on many voyages, plus Global Perspectives guest speakers on select voyages.  

Jeremy Lindblad, Australian Business Development Director of Lindblad Expeditions says: "These enhancements will only heighten the already exceptional standards of accommodation, service and cuisine on this incredible ship. The additional expedition tools ensure the National Geographic Orion is fully equipped for its 2014/15 itineraries that take the ship beyond Australian waters, allowing guests to explore the undersea like never before.

"The addition of National Geographic Orion to our fleet will increase passenger capacity by 18 per cent. These itineraries are selling fast with these enhancements, highlighting the ever-increasing support from the Australian and New Zealand market.

The National Geographic Orion accommodates 102 guests in 53 cabins. The interior is spacious and offers a range of modern public rooms with panoramic views. Her public rooms include a window-lined main lounge and library, as well as an observation lounge at the very top of the ship. In addition, a dedicated theatre provides a unique setting for specialist presentations, films or slideshows.

Designed and purpose built in Germany in 2003 specifically for expedition travel, National Geographic Orion was created from the outset to explore the far corners of the Earth in self-sufficiency.

For more information on Lindblad Expeditions visit www.expeditions.com
 

Contact Lindblad Expeditions on T: 1800 EXPEDITION (1800 397 3348)

 E: info@expeditions.com or see your travel agent

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic Limited Availabilities for 2014 aboard Orion

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic has announced its last remaining availabilities for 2014 sailing to the Pacific Islands and Australia aboard the 102 guest National Geographic Orion. These expeditions explore the undersea and natural history, as well as the diverse and fascinating cultures of each destination visited, including the likes of the Kimberley, Papua New Guinea and Tahiti.

Following are the 2014 itineraries. Rates are per person, in Australian dollars based on a double occupancy in a category 1 cabin:

Kimberley with Spice

Discover the Kimberley's dramatic landscapes etched with ancient human history and sail to remote island villages of Indonesia. Search for spectacular wildlife, snorkel and dive at Rowley Shoals and witness giant manta rays glide through the water. A chance to learn the history of the Spice Islands - fought over among English, Portuguese and Dutch colonisers.

Peter Hillary, son of Sir Edmund Hillary, will join this voyage as a Global Perspectives guest speaker. Following in the footsteps of his father, the first mountaineer to summit Mount Everest alone with Tenzing Norquay, Peter has climbed the highest mountain on every continent, including Mount Everest five times on different routes, as well as travelled extensively around Australia. The 15-day voyage departs 10 August 2014. Rates begin at $11,155, departing Broome and disembarking in Bali.

Spice Island Adventure

Set sail from Bali and discover Indonesia's rich tapestry of cultures and lush tropical islands. Experience the thrill of spotting rare Komodo dragons in the wild, snorkel and dive at coral reefs from the Moluccas to West Papua and take part in exuberant welcome ceremonies at the secluded villages. Explore the fascinating riverine world of the Asmat region and the underwater of the Great Barrier Reef. The 17-day voyage departs 20 October 2014. Rates begin at $15,540, departing Benoa, Bali and disembarking in Cairns.

Exploring the Coral Sea: Papua New Guinea

See the location of some of the fiercest battles of the Pacific theatre during World War II. As National Geographic Orion makes her way from Papua New Guinea to the Solomons, Vanuatu and Fiji, those onboard will snorkel and dive pristine reefs and famous wrecks, trace the history of the Battle of the Coral Sea and the legends of the ancient Melanesians. The 14-day voyage departs 5 November 2014. Rates begin at $12,550, departing Cairns and disembarking in Lautoka, Fiji. Book this expedition before 30 June 2014 and receive $1,000 air credit. Valid on new bookings only, not combinable with any other offers.

Reefs, Lagoons and Volcanic Isles

Sail from the sparkling white shores of Fiji to Tahiti's lush volcanic crags, discovering fascinating geology and an abundance 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 reefs of Kiribati, chosen as part of National Geographic's Pristine Seas project. The 18-day voyage departs 18 November 2014. Rates begin at $18,420, departing Lautoka, Fiji and disembarking in Papeete, Tahiti. Book this expedition before 30 June 2014 and receive $1,000 air credit. Valid on new bookings only, not combinable with any other offers.

Legends of the South Pacific

The tropical seas that stretch from French Polynesia to Easter Island have seen missionaries, mutineers and explorers pass their way. Travelling aboard National Geographic Orion, encounter volcanic landscapes in Bora Bora and uplifted atolls of Henderson Island. End the voyage among the moai of Easter Island. The 19-day voyage departs 4 December 2014. Rates begin at $17,410, departing Papeete, Tahiti and disembarking on Easter Island.

For more information on Lindblad Expeditions visit www.orionexpeditions.com.


About Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic

Lindblad Expeditions‐National Geographic, pioneers in expedition travel, offers voyages in the Galápagos, Antarctica, the Arctic, Baja California, Alaska, Costa Rica, Panama, the Amazon, Asia & Pacific, Africa, Europe and beyond. They work in alliance to inspire travellers to explore and care about the planet. Their collaboration in exploration, research, technology and conservation provides extraordinary travel experiences and disseminates geographic knowledge around the globe. Lindblad Expeditions‐National Geographic has won numerous awards and accolades, most recently in 2013:

Awards 2013

Condé Nast Traveler 2013 World Savers "Doing it All" Award

Condé Nast Traveler's 2013 Readers' Poll - Top Small Cruise Ships in the World: #2 National Geographic Explorer, #3 National Geographic Endeavour

Condé Nast Traveler's 2013 Readers' Poll - Top Cruise Line

Prow's Edge Cruise Magazine - Best Adventure Cruise Lines - 2012/2013 (Lindblad Expeditions and Orion Expedition Cruises)

Travel & Leisure World's Best Awards 2013 - Top Small Ship Cruise Lines

Virtuoso 2013 Award: Sustainable Tourism Leadership – Supplier

Condé Nast Traveler 2013 Readers' Choice Awards – Top 25 Cruise Lines

2013 Cruise Critic Editors' Picks Awards - Best For Adventure Cruise Line

Contact Lindblad Expeditions on T: 1800 EXPEDITION (1800 397 3348)

E: info@orionexpeditions.com or see your travel agent

Peter Hillary To Join Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic Kimberley With Spice Islands Voyage

Peter Hillary, son of Sir Edmund Hillary, will join Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic as a Global Perspectives guest speaker on the Kimberley with Spice Islands expedition departing 10 August 2014.

Following in the footsteps of his father, the first mountaineer to summit Mount Everest along with Tenzing Norquay, Peter has climbed the highest mountain on every continent, including Mount Everest five times. His 2002 climb is the subject of the National Geographic documentary, "Everest: 50 Years on the Mountain."

Peter will share his experiences of more than 40 mountaineering expeditions, including one where he was the sole survivor of a storm that claimed seven other climbers at more than 26,000 feet on K2, the world's second highest mountain.

Peter has also travelled extensively across Australia. His experience includes climbing and skiing the Snowy Mountains, filming shark frenzies in the Coral Sea of the Great Barrier Reef and riding a motorbike more than 14,000km around the perimeter of the continent.

Continuing his father's dedication to the Himalayas of Nepal, Peter is a board member and fundraiser for the Himalayan Trust. This includes the running of 42 schools, hospitals and forestry and environmental programs.

The Global Perspectives program adds an extra layer of interest and insight to a Lindblad-National Geographic expedition with special guests drawn from the top tiers of world affairs, broadcast journalism, and exploration and research.  The unique program affords guests the opportunity to travel and explore with world-class personalities. Guests will have the opportunity to hear them in the context of their lounge talks, but also to spend time with them and other members of staff—while cruising in a Zodiac, over a drink, or during dinner.


The Kimberley with Spice expedition allows those on-board to discover the Kimberley's dramatic landscape etched with ancient human history, and sail to the remote island villages of Indonesia. Guests can search for spectacular marine life, snorkel and dive at Rowley Shoals and witness giant manta rays glide through the water. The 15-day voyage departs 10 August 2014. Rates begin at $11,155, departing Broome and disembarking in Bali. Rates are per person, in Australian Dollars based on a double occupancy in a category 1 cabin.

For more information on Lindblad Expeditions visit www.orionexpeditions.com.



Contact Lindblad Expeditions on T: 1800 EXPEDITION (1800 397 3348)

 E: info@orionexpeditions.com or see your travel agent

WIN 10 nights aboard the National Geographic Orion

This post removed as per publisher request

Win a 10-night Kimberley expedition cruise for two

This post removed as per publisher request