Orion: Cruising into luxurious adventure

November 4, 7:53 AMDallas Adventure ExaminerChris Wessling

There are adventures … and then there are adventures. Orion Expedition Cruises specializes in the latter.

How adventurous? Well, how does a visit to the Antarctic sound? It’s one of the most beautiful and isolated parts of the world, where the majesty of glacial ice is a daily event. Extraordinary wildlife and snow-shrouded mountains mark the world’s “last frontier,” and you can have an up-close-and-personal view – all while enjoying five-star luxury [www.orionexpeditions.com].

Or maybe you’d prefer a voyage to Asia, where it’s possible to sample the forgotten islands of Maluku, the underwater paradise of Alor, the uninhabited island of Satonda and the tiny fishing village of Kenanga. Each has its own unique charm, providing a glimpse into cultures few outsiders have the privilege of enjoying.

But that’s just a small sample of what’s available through Orion, which bills itself as the cruise line that can take you down “the pass less traveled.” There are itineraries to:

Papau New Guinea: Breathtaking scenery … a land of 800 languages … volcanic tropical fjords … pristine white-sand beaches … world-class diving and snorkeling.

Melanesia: The picturesque Isles of Pines … Melanesia's “Ring of Fire” … the volcanic islands of Anatom and Tanna … excursions to the rim of the crater of Mt. Yasur, a spectacularly active volcano.

New Zealand: The scenic grandeur of New Zealand's exquisite national parks … the sun-drenched northern coast of Abel Tasman National Park … the picturesque vineyards and wineries of the Nelson Region … pure air, dramatic waterfalls and primeval forests shrouded in gentle morning mists.

That’s just a partial listing of the adventures to be found with Orion, whose namesake ship is designed to access the inaccessible. Built to accommodate only 50 or so couples, the Orion was custom-built to envelop its guests in the caliber of comfort usually associated more with a mega-yacht than a cruise ship. And with a crew of 75, personal attention to every guest is one of the vessel’s hallmarks.

And what would a cruise be without superb cuisine? It wouldn’t be an Orion cruise, that’s for sure. Award-winning Australian chef Serge Dansereau proudly presents signature menus inspired by local culinary traditions, and dishes that feature produce and flavors that reflecting the regions the ship visits. Australian, New Zealand and European wines complement the five-star fare.

In contrast to the ruggedness of kayaking in New Zealand, climbing King George Falls or snorkeling in Milne Bay, the Orion’s spa is decidedly civilized (and possibly even addictive). A fully equipped fitness center with sweeping ocean views … a beauty salon that offers a full range of haircutting, hair colouring, makeup, nails and beauty services to both men and women … custom-designed spa treatments to revitalise body and skin … an onboard massage therapist fluent in such varied massage techniques as Swedish, Arometherapy, Lymphatic Drainage, Reflexology, Drainage, Reflexology, Remedial, Sport Injury and Deep Tissue.

Orion Expedition Cruises – nourishment for your body and soul.

Photo courtesy of Orion Expedition Cruises