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| Orion II 2013-2014 Calendars  |
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Overview - Orion II's inaugural voyages in June 2011 include the volcanic Kamchatka Peninsula of Russia's Far East, the tranquil inland Sea of Japan, the Philippines, extensive explorations of Borneo (Kalimantan, the home of orang-utans), Komodo Island of dragon fame, and eight voyages to fascinating Vietnam, Thailand and Cambodia (including the Mekong Delta, Ho Chi Minh, and a visit to Angkor Wat, the world's largest religious monument). The itineraries are continually reviewed for safety (notably, in Japanese waters), and guaranteed to give guests some remarkable experiences. Orion Expedition Cruises' vision for its vessels is to offer a five star standard of luxury accommodation and facilities. Accommodation - All suites and staterooms are exterior and feature a sitting area or living room, hand-crafted cabinetry, AC, TV, DVD/ CD player, Internet access, mini-refrigerator, safe deposit box, marble vanities (with fluffy towels and robes) and teak floor, ample closet space, twin beds that can be converted to a queen-size bed, and 24-hour room service. Whatever accommodation guests choose, the facilities are top rate. The adventure cruises are not suited to children and wheelchair-dependency. Ocean Suites boast plush appointments and ocean views through three portholes or windows. Junior suites have a windows and sitting area. Balcony suites have a sitting area and private balcony. The Penthouse Suites have private balconies, windows and sitting area. TV offerings include two feature films per day, informational channels on destinations, and a GPS display of the ship's location and the forward-looking bridge-cam. A changing slate of satellite news and sports outlets is offered based on the ship's current location. Food & Dining - MV Orion II follows the Orion mould. Dine buffet for breakfast and lunch at the Outdoor Café, and à la carte dinners served at a single open seating in the Golden Star Restaurant. The dining room has14 tables for six or eight, all lit by a series of portholes. Guests may choose when and with whom they dine. Menus created by Serge Dansereau of 'The Bathers' Pavilion' fame, features produce and flavours of the regions visited. The cuisine is extremely good and varied. The wine list draws from familiar and lesser-known wineries of Australia, New Zealand and Europe. Expect a dining atmosphere that is relaxed yet sophisticated. The Outdoor Café offers al fresco dining with the same menu and service as presented in the restaurant, and occasional barbeque dinners. Espresso/cappuccinos are complimentary in the two lounges/bars and restaurant. The lounge and cocktail bar is the hub of social life aboard. Early riser breakfast and afternoon tea are both served in the Lounge/Lecture Hall on the top deck. An outdoor bar is located next to the Jacuzzi spa. The service staff will be Filipinos, warm and communicative. Entertainment & Activities - There is no formal entertainment, apart from a small number of musical soloists who play background music and host the daily team-trivia game. Lectures by the expedition staff in the Leda Lounge (along with cocktails and hors d'oeuvres) review the day's activities, with a video or Power Point presentation. During the day lectures are presented by specialists, about marine or plant biology, and give very informative insights into the regions visited. A fleet of ten Zodiac inflatable motorized boats, a covey of kayaks, and a near-waterline Marina Deck Platform from which to board them, make it possible to land in shallow areas and navigate small rivers and waterways. Expeditionary teams lead nature hikes and other explorations. A mud room on the lower deck stores equipment used during a day of exploration. Optional shore excursions may include helicopter flights, bus tours and scuba diving. Cruise Calendars for • 2013 • 2014
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 "Orion II Live Bridgecam
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