Guide to the Southern Skies

Orion Expedition Cruises

Ancient legends and modern science of the Southern Skies revealed

If you are interested in the enormity of the night skies but don't yet know a black hole from a white dwarf, or simply can't find your zodiac sign among the millions of stars in the night sky then this Orion 'Guide to the Southern Skies' expedition is the voyage for you.

In addition to the highlights of exploring the East and West Kimberley coast this 11 night voyage from Darwin to Broome will have a special astronomical focus when Professor Fred Watson, astronomer in charge of the Anglo Australian observatory at Coonabarabran, and Professor David Malin, astronomical photographer, writer and lecturer, join Orion's guests to reveal the ancient legends and modern science of the universe.

Far from being a series of dry academic lectures, these popular presenters will explain in layman's terms the wonders of the southern night skies from the perfect vantage point onboard the expedition cruise ship Orion. Typically crystal clear evenings, so often enjoyed in the remote Kimberley at this time of year, make this a must-do for anyone interested in the science and mythology of the night skies.

By contrast, dawn reveals the rich ochre of the Kimberley coast and the start of another day of exploration. Ancient aboriginal artworks are visited and revealed by Orion's expedition team and Orion's Zodiacs take guests between rugged gorges and up rivers, home to salt water crocodiles, to experience waterfalls and the wonder of the Kimberley close up.

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Did you know? Orion, in astronomy, is a prominent constellation able to be seen from both northern and southern hemispheres, identified in Greek mythology with the hunter – you may know the star grouping as the plough, big dipper, saucepan, shopping trolley or Orion's belt.

2009 is the International Year of Astronomy

Join Professors Fred Watson and David Malin on Orion Expedition Cruises' 21 June 2009 Kimberley Guide to the Southern Skies voyage between Darwin and Broome visiting West Timor (Kera Island), Roti and Kupang, Wyndham (for the Bungle Bungles and El Questro), King George River and Falls, Bigge Island, Hunter River (for Mitchell Falls), Montgomery Reef and Raft Point.

Fares Guide:

11-night Kimberley East and West 'Guide to the Southern Skies' departs Darwin 21st June, 2009.

Fares begin from A$8,430 per person for an ocean view Category B stateroom

Suites begin from A$11,625 per person for a Junior Suite

Owners’ Suites with French Balcony are A$17,655 per person

Orion Islands magazine Blue List

Orion selected in the top 100 examples of responsible tourism in the world

Orion Expedition Cruises has been included in the current edition of the US travel magazine Islands inaugural Blue List of the top 100 tourism products from around the world that best represent responsible tourism.

In a letter of congratulations, Ty Sawyer, Editorial Director of Islands magazine, said that Orion was included "because you have exceeded all expectations in this arena, and you impact your world in an ongoing, sustainable and positive manner".

Special reference was made to Orion's expeditions to Papua New Guinea and in particular remote Watam village near the mouth of the Sepik River, commenting "… Watam culture thrives, thanks in part to their relationship with Australian-based Orion Expedition Cruises. The company brings clothing, equipment and medical assistance ….. and landing fees paid by Orion help support community development initiatives such as purchasing school materials and agricultural supplies".

Editorial attention was paid to Orion's environmental responsibility, stating that Orion is "rigged to be environmentally friendly, recycling paper and water and using specially designed engines that promote energy efficiency".

This recognition follows Orion's recent ranking as #2 Expedition Cruise Ship in the world in the latest Berlitz Cruise Guide ratings.

Orion is Australia's only purpose-built luxury expedition cruise ship, with year round voyages to the Kimberley coast, Papua New Guinea, Melanesia, New Zealand and the Antarctic.

Further information on Orion Expedition Cruises can be obtained by visiting the website www.orioncruises.com.au