Cool it this summer – Orion’s Sub Antarctic and Antarctic voyages

While the rest of Australia swelters under the summer sun a handful of spaces remain for a fortunate few onboard the expedition cruise ship Orion to follow paths pioneered by historic polar explorers to the World Heritage listed Sub-Antarctic Islands and mainland Antarctica.

Orion 13 night Sub-Antarctic Wildlife Adventure / 15 January 2011: Secluded and seldom visited, these Sub-Antarctic Islands have UNESCO World Heritage status recognising one of our planet’s most important bio-diverse regions with their volcanic and glacial geological formations and extraordinary diversity of flora and fauna.

This region has the highest diversity and abundance of seabirds found anywhere in the world, some of which exist nowhere else.

Orion 21 night Scott and Shackleton’s Antarctic expedition / 27 January 2011: Departs from Hobart, heading for Macquarie Island, then crossing the Antarctic Circle at 66 degrees south bound for the Ross Sea with visits to polar explorers Scott and Shackleton’s historic bases.

These important time-capsule buildings reveal how these ‘heroic era’ explorers lived with plentiful examples of clothing, books, food, crates, sleds, ropes and kerosene tins remaining, literally frozen in time.

The southern part of the Ross Sea is icebound for some 9 months of the year and few ships venture here; those that do principally to supply the scientific stations.

These expeditions particularly suit modern-day adventurers, those with an interest in polar exploration, nature lovers and keen wildlife and seascape photographers, as well as anyone with an adventurous spirit interested in visiting remote places of outstanding historic and ecologic importance.

The Mawson’s Huts polar expedition has sold out however limited space remains on each of the following voyages:

Orion 13-night Sub-Antarctic Wildlife Adventure / 15 January 2011: Surrounded by the Southern Ocean, secluded and seldom visited, these Sub-Antarctic Islands have UNESCO World Heritage status recognising one of our planet’s most important bio-diverse regions with their volcanic and glacial geological formations and extraordinary diversity of flora and fauna.

The remnants of the old whaling station on Macquarie Island, the high cliffs and numerous caves and arches formed by marine erosion on Campbell Island and the enormous sea stacks on the southern peninsulas of Snares present dramatic contrast to the prolific bird life, penguins, fur and elephant seals, sea lions, killer whales and unique flora seen in this remote region.

This region has the highest diversity and abundance of seabirds found anywhere in the world, some of which exist nowhere else. Birds of a feather flocking together.

Orion 21 night Scott and Shackleton’s Antarctic expedition / 27 January 2011: Departs from Hobart, heading for Macquarie Island, then crossing the Antarctic Circle at 66 degrees south bound for the Ross Sea with visits to polar explorers Scott and Shackleton’s historic bases.

These important time-capsule buildings reveal how these ‘heroic era’ explorers lived with plentiful examples of clothing, books, food, crates, sleds, ropes and kerosene tins remaining, literally frozen in time. The specialist expedition team will provide insightful background to enhance the experience.

The southern part of the Ross Sea is icebound for some 9 months of the year and few ships venture here; those that do principally to supply the scientific stations, making this a rare opportunity for visitors to experience this remote and fascinating region.

Orion, with the benefit of oversized stabilisers, retractable sonar and ice strengthened hull, provides her 100 guests with the needs of today’s adventurers: technology, safety and creature comforts that include fine food and wines, a gym, boutique, hairdressing, sauna and massage facilities – as well as 80 staff and specialist expedition crew to look after every need.

Orion’s 10 inflatable Zodiacs, the perfect expedition transport, will be put to good use for landings ashore in both Antarctica and the Sub-Antarctic islands.

13 night Sub-Antarctic Wildlife Adventure – departs Dunedin for Hobart 15 January 2011 Dunedin / Fiordland / Stewart Island / Snares Island / Auckland Island / Campbell Island / Macquarie Island / Hobart

Fares from $10,630 per person twin share for an ocean view Category B stateroom

Suites from $14,660 per person twin share for a Junior Suite

Owners’ Suites with French Balcony are $22,265 per person twin share

21 night expedition: Hobart / Antarctica / Christchurch – departs 27th January 2011 Hobart / Ross Sea region / Campbell Island / Snares Island / Christchurch

Fares from $22,590 per person for an Ocean View category B Stateroom

Suites from $31,160 per person for a Junior Suite

Orion’s spacious Owners’ Suites are $47,315 per person

NOTE: Please note that all Antarctic voyages are subject to possible variation according to prevailing weather conditions and as such are opportunistic in nature. On occasion intended destinations will need to be changed for safety or other reason.

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.au