Tasmania Wilderness: Hobart to Hobart
« Orion
| Days | Dates | Deck + Cabin Type | |||||
| Cat B - Oceanview Stateroom | Cat A - Oceanview Stateroom | Junior Suite | Deluxe Suite | French Balcony Suite | Owner | ||
| 8 | Dec 1 '10 |
$4,420 | $5,135 | $6,100 | $6,675 | $7,975 | $9,255 |
| Destinations : South Pacific, Australia |
|||||||
Day 1 Hobart, Tasmania
Set on the River Derwent, Hobart is very much a city of the sea with views of the Derwent estuary appearing around every corner. Historic 19th century waterfront warehouses remain, still bordering the commercial harbour, though today they house restaurants and hotels. Hobart is easy to explore on foot, with the fishing harbor, Parliament, convict built sandstone buildings and the colorful Salamanca Markets (open on a Saturday morning) all within strolling distance of each other.
Day 2 Maria Island
Maria Island is about 10-15km off the Tasmanian mainland, and once you encounter its craggy peaks historic settlement, fossils and wildlife you'll understand why it is so richly deserves to be an unspoilt National Park with no cars, no shops and no electricity! The island is characterized by sheer limestone cliffs tumbling into the sea, beautifully banded sandstone cliffs known as the Painted Cliffs, the ruins of a 19th century convict settlement and abundant wildlife.
Day 3 Flinders Island
This remote, windswept and starkly beautiful island off the north-eastern coast of Tasmania boasts rugged landscapes, granite peaks, pristine beaches and headlands of granite boulders encrusted with orange lichen. The best way to experience the isolation of Flinders Island is to take a hike. There's an easy walk available from our landing spot at Trouser's Point or for the fit take a hike in Strzelecki National Park. Wildlife is plentiful and includes wallabies, pademelons (sometimes referred to as the rufous wallaby), wombats, echidnas, and bird life that is rich and varied. Wybalenna on Flinders Island is infamous for being the site of the last colony of Tasmanian Aborigines and we'll learn more of this sad chapter in Australia's history.
Day 4 Wineglass Bay & Coles Bay
In the morning Orion will drop anchor in iconic Wineglass Bay in the centre of Freycinet National Park. You’ll awake to find the view is spectacular, with dramatic red granite peaks reflecting in clear blue waters and a near-perfect circle of white sand forming the beach of the bay. Named in 1802 by the French Explorer Nicholas Baudin, the area was proclaimed a national park in 1916. Vegetation in the park varies from marshy heathlands to grass trees, banksias, stands of wattle, Oyster Bay pine and bull oak. The park is rich in wildlife including black cockatoos, green rosellas, wedgetailed eagles and a wide variety of seabirds including white-breasted sea eagles. Subject to weather, a highlight today will be a 2.5 hour Ranger-led hike from the beach at Wineglass Bay up a short and fairly steep climb to the saddle between Mt. Amos and Mt. Mason (known as the Hazzards) to the Wineglass Lookout where you will be afforded a wonderful view of Orion riding gently at anchor in this iconic location. The walk continues on towards the small coastal township of Coles Bay where you’ll re-join Orion later in the day.
For those who wish to remain onboard, you’ll be rewarded with vistas of the dramatic coastlines as Orion departs Wineglass Bay and makes her way to Coles Bay via Schouten Island. The oyster farm near Coles Bay is famed for the freshness of its produce so perhaps take this chance to indulge in some of the local seafood and oysters with a chilled glass of Tasmanian wine. Water sports available from the town include diving and sea-kayaking, canoeing and fishing charters can be arranged. Late in the day, be sure to find yourself a spot on deck as the sun slips towards the western horizon. It is now that the orange lichens on the granite peaks glow red with the setting sun.
Day 5 Port Arthur
The penal settlement of Port Arthur originally began as a timber station and in 1857 became a convict penitentiary. Just 20 years later the last convict left Port Arthur. Today the ruins capture a fascinating, if dark, part of Australia's colonial history. The well-preserved ruins built with convict labor, impressive architecture, delightful gardens and chilling prison facilities will afford you a glimpse into what is probably one of the gloomier aspects of this country's history.
Day 6 South Bruny Island
South Bruny Island is home of the beautufil South Bruny National Park, providing the ultimate Tasmanian wilderness experience. On land, you can venture into the wilderness on a bushwalk. Orion zodiacs will also explore the stunning coastline of this island. Bruny island is home to fur seals, fairy penguins, white wallaby and provides excellent opportunities for birdwatching.
Day 7 Port Huon
Port Huon is set amongst picturesque waterways and wilderness. Art, craft and heritage; apple blossom and vineyards; farmers, foresters and fisherman capture the essnce of the Tasmanian countryside. Nearby Franklin is the oldest township on the Huon River, with some significant early timber architecture. Anglers might consider a visit to the Geeveston Highlands Salmon and Trout fishery. Close by is the Tahune Airwalk which allows visitors a unique view of the lush forest canopy.
Day 8 Hobart, Tasmania
Disembark in Hobart for your return flight home.
Itinerary Notes
CRUISE FARE – WHAT’S INCLUDED: Included in your cruise fare are accommodations as booked, cruise transportation, all meals onboard, 24-hour room service, entertainment and educational programmes, use of ship's sporting equipment and facilities, port & handling charges, Zodiac excursions and tender transfers, access to the ship's library, Govt. Fees & Taxes. Fares also include the services of 75 experienced crew.CRUISE FARE – WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED: Fares do not include airfare and items of a personal nature, including but not limited to: travel and medical insurance, laundry charges, shopping onboard, bar expenses, hair dressing and massage treatments, optional shore experiences, medical treatment, telephone and internet charges.
Deposit & Payment
Initial deposit is 25% trip cost per person, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card. We accept Visa, Mastercard, and Discover. Alternatively, you can send a check to our Missoula, Montana, office or register online at: http://www.alvoyages.com/four-ways/
Final payment is due 100 days prior to departure.
Booking last minute? No problem! Please contact one of our trip planners, and we can get you on your way if booking less than 100 days prior to departure.
Click here to see a copy of our Terms and Conditions.
Cancellation Policy
| Days Prior to departure | Fee |
|---|---|
| Antarctic Cruises | . |
| 121 | AU $1000 |
| 120-91 | deposit |
| 90-0 | 100% trip cost |
| All other cruises | . |
| 120-91 | deposit |
| 90-0 | 100% trip cost |
Orion
- Ship Highlights
- Passengers : 106
- Luxury Expedition Ship
Technically and aesthetically, Orion is arguably the most sophisticated vessel in its class. The Berlitz Ocean Cruising and Cruise Ships guide describes her as "the latest in the quest to build the ideal expedition cruise ship". Constructed by the world-leading Cassens Shipyard in Emden, and launched in November 2003, she boasts a host of advanced design features including technology that sets new standards in sustainable marine environmental practices.
Although custom-made for expedition cruising, Orion is the epitome of elegance. No expense has been spared when it comes to the quality of fittings and furnishings, and the range and calibre of onboard recreational facilities are nothing short of five-star. Orion's luxurious appointments means she is more mega-yacht than cruise ship and her guests are few; around just 50 couples, all cared for in 5-star comfort by a crew of 75. Chart your own path less travelled.
Facilities:
Boutique
Open daily when the ship is at sea, the Boutique offers a wide range of gifts ranging from signature clothing to the most beautiful pearls in the world from Paspaley. A limited supply of sundry items is available.
Elevator
Orion has a glass elevator, centrally located in the atrium for ease of access. It services all stateroom decks and Deck 6, where you will find the Galaxy Observation Lounge and Cosmos Lecture Theatre.
Gymnasium
Located on Deck 6 with sweeping ocean views, the gymnasium is equipped with the following LifeFitness equipment: a step machine, a treadmill, a cross trainer, 2 bicycles, free weights and exercise mats.
Hair and Beauty Salon
Our hair stylist is available by appointment, offering a range of services from a simple shampoo and blow dry to a complete make-over including manicure and pedicure.
Hospital & Infirmary
Orion has a doctor on board at all times and consultations should be arranged through the Reception Desk. A very limited range of pharmaceuticals is maintained on board so please be sure to pack sufficient quantities of medicines for your journey. Please note the Australian Medicare system does not extend to Orion and consultation fees will be charged to your stateroom account.
Internet
A laptop is available in the Library with internet connection. Internet access is also available in your stateroom using your own laptop. If your laptop is wireless enabled you may use it anywhere in the Galaxy Observation Lounge or the Leda Lounge. Two laptops are available for loan from the Reception Desk. Internet access cards can be purchased for A$30.00 (60 minutes) or A$50.00 (125 minutes). Communications at sea are subject to satellite connections.
Jacuzzi
A Jacuzzi spa is located on the Sun Deck, Deck 6. In warmer climes you'll find the spa affords a cool dip, doubling as a plunge pool.
Lecture Theatre
Our state-of-the-art lecture theatre with surround-sound is the scene for themed presentations by our Expedition team and Guest Speakers. All guests are comfortably accommodated in arm-chair style seating.
Leda Lounge and Cocktail Bar
Centrally located on Deck 4, the Leda Lounge and Cocktail Bar is the hub of social life aboard Orion, comfortably seating all guests at once. Tour briefings are held here before dinner and a duo plays for your entertainment later in the evening.
Library
Our library is well-stocked with a wide variety of informative books and journals on our destinations, and both novels and games are also available. You'll also find a laptop here for internet access.
Marina Platforms
You'll embark the Zodiacs from either the Stern Marina Platform (accessed by the rear stairs from the Outdoor Café) or the Portside Embarkation Platform (accessed via the Mud Room on Deck 2). Cruise staff will direct you to the platform in use each day.
Mud Room
Located on Deck 2, this is a "wet area" allowing you to wash down boots after returning to the ship, thereby minimising the risk of cross-contamination between pristine locations ashore, such as those found in Antarctica. You may also use this room to store your snorkel and flippers in designated lockers.
Observation Lounge
Located high atop Orion on Deck 6, the intimate Galaxy Observation Lounge affords stunning 270º views. Early Riser breakfast and Afternoon Tea are both served here.
Outdoor Café
The Delphinus Outdoor Café, located aft on Deck 4, offers al fresco dining for buffet breakfast and lunch. On balmy evenings you may book a table outdoors for dinner enjoying the same menu and service as presented in the restaurant.
Outdoor Bar
Located high on the ship adjacent to the Sun Deck Jacuzzi spa on Deck 6.
Reception Desk
Manned 24 hours a day, the Reception Desk is your 'first port of call' for all administrative matters.
Restaurant
The Constellation Restaurant offers guests a relaxed yet sophisticated environment for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Dining aboard Orion is a leisurely experience with a single, open sitting allowing you to choose when and with whom you dine. Special signature menus designed for us by Sydney's Serge Danserau of 'The Bathers' Pavilion' fame complement our other alternatives.
Sporting Facilities
Orion is equipped with a fleet of 10 inflatable 2-man kayaks and when in warmer waters you are welcome to borrow goggles, snorkels and fins for the duration of your stay with us.
Sun Deck
You'll find padded teak steamer chairs on Deck 6 beside the Jacuzzi spa affording you a relaxing spot to read a book or simply doze in the sun. You'll find an ample supply of large blue beach towels close by.
Vega Health Spa
The Vega Spa offers a uni-sex dry sauna, the gymnasium is equipped with cardio vascular exercise machines and a range of massage/spa treatments are available.
Technical Information
Length: 103 metres
Beam: 14.25 metres
Draft: 3.82 metres
Hull: Ice-reinforced for voyages in the Arctic and Antarctic
Ice Class: E3 (Germanischer Lloyd)
Gross Tonnage: 4,000
Engines: Mak; 8M25; 3,265HP
Speed: 12.5 knots
Stabilisers: Blohm & Voss, retractable fin stabilisers
Manoeuvrability: Bow and stern thrusters
Built: 2003
Delivery Date: November 2003
Builder: Cassens Shipyard-Emden, Germany
Staterooms and Suites: 53
Guest Capacity: 106 (twin occupancy). 19 additional guests may be accommodated in convertible sofa or upper Pullman beds.
Elevator: Yes
Classification: Germanischer Lloyd
100 A5 E3 Passenger Ship MC E3 AUT
Regulations: Orion is built according to the latest international safety regulations, including those of the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Public Health, Canadian Arctic Shipping, and St. Lawrence Seaway.
Additional Craft: 10 Zodiac Heavy Duty MK5, 10 Kayaks
Communications: Direct-dial satellite telephones; fax; e-mail; Internet access; internal telephone system
Registry: Bahamas
| Cabins | |
|---|---|
 | Cat B - Oceanview Stateroom Outside Staterooms with oval window and sitting area. Deck 3. 175 sq. ft. #301, 322, 323. |
 | Cat A - Oceanview Stateroom Outside Staterooms with oval window and sitting area. Deck 3. 180 sq. ft. #302-312, 314-321. |
 | Junior Suite Outside Junior Suites with rectangular window and sitting area. Decks 4 & 5. 218 sq. ft. #401-412, 414-419, 512. |
 | Deluxe Suite Outside Suites with large window and living room. Deck 5. 230 sq. ft. #511, 515. |
 | French Balcony Suite Outside Suites with French balcony and living room. Deck 5. 230 sq. ft. #501, 503-506, 508. |
 | Owner Outside Grand Suites with French balcony, separate bedroom and living room. Deck 5. 345 sq. ft. #502, 507, 509, 510. |
