Behind Orion's Expeditions to Borneo

As you would imagine a great deal of time and effort goes into the preparation of Orion expeditions, whether to the Antarctic, PNG, Kimberley, or, in this instance for Orion II's 2011 four different itineraries that circumnavigate Borneo.

While some MD's can reel off seat pitch and others their wine list of preference for various airlines, the immigration stamps in Sarina Bratton's battered passport hint at adventures behind business trips of a different nature, to places where frequent flyer points are unheard of.

Behind Orion's expeditions to Borneo

In preparation for inaugural visits in 2011 by the expedition cruise ship Orion II, Sarina Bratton, Founder and Managing Director of Orion Expedition Cruises, recently returned from a scouting expedition to Borneo. Accompanied by Expedition Leader Mick Fogg, Sarina spent days trekking, researching and exploring parts of Borneo to finalise bespoke shore activities that Orion's guests will experience in August and September next year.

 "This visit to Borneo exceeded all my expectations on every level" enthused Sarina. "The wildlife is quite simply amazing – orangutans, sun bears, proboscis monkeys are just the beginning. Unfortunately much of the natural habitat has been impacted by logging, plantations, even poaching, so part of the reason behind my visit was to open discussions with a number of wildlife rehabilitation organizations at Camp Leakey, Samboja Lestari and Sepilok to see how we can meaningfully assist with rehabilitating orangutans and other endangered wildlife".

"Beyond the wildlife experiences and National Parks we will visit, our guests will also have the chance to stay overnight in a rainforest lodge retreat, snorkel with manta rays, scuba dive, see historically important World War II sites at Labuan and Sandakan and enjoy cultural interaction with the wonderful, gentle, locals with their longhouses and ancient traditions".

"I am very excited to be able to take Orion's guests there in a responsible, controlled manner, to help contribute to the local tourism industry in a sustainable way".

New Kimberley Cruise - 6-day Captain's Quest

We have put our Captain's knowledge and experience to the test and ask them to create their ideal itinerary along the Kimberley coast. Joining forces they have come up with an expedition that covers the places they love to explore and rarely have the opportunity to visit.

We are therefore very excited to announce this completely new six day expedition which delves into the hidden areas that highlight our Captains' love of the Kimberley. Exploring the area of coast between the Hunter River and Mitchell River which both seven day southern and northern cruises never encounter, this is your opportunity to share in the excitement and revel in new discoveries.

6 Day Captains' Quest 2011

25 September - 30 September
30 September - 5 October

Copies of the new itineraries are attached, otherwise please visit www.kimberleyquest.com.au

Alternatively email cruise@kimberleyquest.com or phone 1300 156 035 for more details.

Orion named Best Responsible Cruise Operator at World Travel Market

Orion Expedition Cruises, the leading operator of five-star expedition cruising in the Australasian region, has been named Best Responsible Cruise Operator at the internationally acclaimed 2010 Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Awards which took place as part of World Travel Market in London on Wednesday 10th November (World Responsible Tourism Day).

Thousands of tourism organisations and travel experiences were nominated by the public in just 13 categories with the central tenet being that all types of tourism – from niche to mainstream – can and should be operated in a way that respects and benefits destinations and local people. These prestigious awards recognise individuals, companies and organisations in the travel industry that are making a significant commitment to the culture and economies of local communities and are providing a positive contribution to biodiversity conservation.

Commenting on Orion Expedition Cruises' award, the judges said: "Orion Expedition Cruises is the only cruise company with Earthcheck certification, and shows a real commitment to the communities it visits. By acknowledging that authenticity can only be realised for their guests by working in partnership with communities, they conduct community research ahead of establishing new ports of call - helping protect cultural heritage and environment while offering real benefits to the places they visit. They have influenced suppliers to make positive changes like moving from plastic containers to cardboard and aluminium bottles over plastic. Cruise is a growth area and this small operator is one to watch."

Commenting on the award, Sarina Bratton, Founder and Managing Director of Orion Expedition Cruises, said: "The destinations visited by Orion have some of the most pristine and sensitive wilderness areas on our planet, with little or no infrastructure to support visits by hundreds of people at one time. Understanding this, we have a social responsibility to develop a marine tourism blueprint that is sustainable, one that is at the forefront of eco-sensitivity and a benchmark for internationally recognisable and environmentally sound operating practices. For Orion, sustainability is more than a fashion, a trend or a compelling need. Sustainability is a core component of our company's originating vision and values. To explore "a path less travelled" requires a gentle step. To work with the challenges and opportunities these environments offer is the starting point of every journey."

Founded in early 2004, Orion Expedition Cruises has developed voyages to encourage guests to become a part of the region they are discovering. It is a unique product that appeals to both local and international travellers alike: people who seek the mental stimulation of new experiences, places and discovery, whilst enjoying the comfort of luxurious surroundings.

Orion Expedition Cruises operates the 106-passenger expedition vessel Orion in the Kimberley region of Australia, the East Coast of Australia, Papua New Guinea, New Zealand and the Sub Antarctic Islands, Melanesia, the Spice and Forgotten Islands and Antarctica.

In May 2011, Orion Expedition Cruises will increase the size of its fleet with the addition of a second specialist expedition cruise ship, Orion II. Based on thorough research, and following the success of Orion's recent voyages, Orion II will be based in South East Asia offering a wide range of expeditions that will include Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Borneo, the Inland Sea of Japan and the Russian Far East.

For further information or reservations call 1300 361 012 or visit www.orionexpeditions.com

Win a 10-night Kimberley Expedition aboard Oceanic Princess

Spend 10 nights exploring the rugged Kimberley coastline, ancient gorges and tumbling waterfalls on board the luxury 72-passenger Oceanic Discoverer.

For your chance to win, write us a slogan promoting Coral Princess Cruises in 25 words or less.

The prize includes a 10-night Kimberley cruise for 2 people PLUS 2 return airfares from your nearest capital city and is valued at over $20,000. Terms and conditions apply.

Enter Now [Entries close on 31-01-2011 at 11.59pm.]

North Star Cruises Australia is Now Featuring Market Leading Experiences at Market Leading Prices

The company has announced adjusted pricing for most of its 2011 & 2012 cruise options - an affirmative action designed to keep North Star in-step with a changed market.

Prices have been significantly reduced across the entire cruise schedule and persons with effected bookings would be offered adjustment.

In addition, North Star will offer an increase in the number of shorter duration cruise options and greater overall variety incorporating new destinations and, four completely different options to experience the magnificent Kimberley.

New schedule highlights include the Kimberley Snapshot - a one week opportunity to experience the entire Kimberley coast, Batavia Bound - a Fremantle departure focused on the stunning Abrolhos Islands and, the Montes Extravaganza - an opportunity for Pilbara mining communities to experience fishing paradise in style!

Commenting on the changes, North Star's general manager, Mr Peter Trembath, said "the changes are consistent with North Star's reputation for being a market leader and will surely make our cruises even more irresistible to the discerning adventurer!"

Full details are available at http://www.northstarcruises.com.au/sailingschedule.asp?Date=2011

True North Background

The multi-award winning adventure-cruise ship, True North, allows discerning guests to experience wilderness in surroundings more akin to one of the world's most exclusive hotels.

Lavish features include:

* A sundeck, forward observation lounge, ship's lounge, alfresco bar, internet café, plasma screens with interpretive information, lower deck dining room with large panoramic windows, and fine dining.
* All cabins feature enhanced décor, en-suite facilities, in-house entertainment and satellite telephones.
* Multiple expedition boats (6) allow passengers greater opportunity to do "what they want, when they want".
* To add another dimension to adventure - most cruise options feature an onboard helicopter.
* The purpose built True North is able to explore the upper reaches of shallow river systems.
* Adventure-cruises are conducted all around the Australian coastline and in the stunning waters of Indonesia, Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands.
The True North - one of the finest adventure-cruise ships in the world!

For more information visit http://www.northstarcruises.com.au

Savings PLUS a complimentary helicopter flight - Orion Kimberley

Explore Australia's great Kimberley wilderness – and save!

Book now, save up to 15% and receive a bonus helicopter flight

Enjoy the Kimberley highlights including pre-history Gwion Gwion and Wandjina rock art, land on remote islands and beaches, explore gorges, venture into waterways in search of saltwater crocodiles PLUS enjoy complimentary helicopter sightseeing over King George Falls OR Mitchell Falls in addition to an inclusive (and exclusive) 2 hour fixed wing Bungle Bungle Ranges flight.

Savings of 10% to 15% now available on new Orion 2011 season Kimberley bookings made before 30 November 2010

Fares begin from $8,190 (including savings) per person twin share for an ocean view Category B Stateroom.

Thirteen 10-night Orion voyages between late April and early September 2011

Darwin/Broome and v.v. including King George River and Falls, Vansittart Bay, Hunter River (for Mitchell Falls), Montgomery Reef and Raft Point, Talbot Bay/Horizontal Waterfalls, Cape Leveque, the Lacepedes – refer to specific itineraries for details.

There is no better way to experience the Kimberley in 2011 than onboard Orion - the only expedition cruise ship to hold internationally-recognised EarthCheck EC3 marine tourism accreditation acknowledging world-leading sustainable and environmentally sound operating practices.

Orion Expedition Cruises' environmental responsibility is recognised both domestically and internationally, including an Honorable Mention, Education, in the 4th Annual Conde Nast Traveler Save the World Awards.

Orion's passion for expedition cruising invariably exceeds expectation, providing important differences no other cruise operator in the Kimberley can offer. Combine a relaxed onboard ambiance, the highest staff to guest ratio of any ship based in Australian waters, and unmatched facilities and services (including spa, hairdresser, elevator and gym) on a ship of international standards and you will discover it's not just what we do, it's the way we do it that sets the benchmark for expedition cruising in Australia and Asia.

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

For reservations or to obtain a brochure call Orion Expedition Cruises: 61-2 9033 8777 (Sydney callers) 1300 361 012 (regional and interstate) or your travel agent. Email: info@orionexpeditions.com  

New Qantas Brisbane-Broome Service a Boon for Kimberley Cruisers

Qantas 737-800 arriving in Broome (BME). Photo: Simon Wilson/airliners.net

Qantas announced it will commence direct Brisbane-Broome services next year (2011), resulting in Broome becoming the third destination behind Perth and Karratha that Queensland passengers can fly to direct from Brisbane. The new services will be seasonal, operating from April-October, to coincide with the Broome dry season.

This new service will join Broome-Melbourne and Broome-Sydney services, resulting in passengers from the popular tourist destination being able to fly direct from Broome to three east-coast destinations, as well as Perth.