Designed for epic voyages to some of the world’s most remote and captivating destinations, the National Geographic Orion is a sleek and capable expedition ship that blends adventurous spirit with refined comfort. At 338 feet in length and accommodating just 102 guests, this ice-strengthened vessel is ideally sized for exploring wild coastlines, hidden coves, and polar waters—with the versatility and elegance that define every Lindblad-National Geographic experience.
The ship’s 53 outside-facing cabins and suites are tastefully appointed with large windows or portholes, comfortable bedding, en-suite bathrooms, and ample storage. Select suites offer additional space, lounge areas, and prime positioning for panoramic views. With a warm, contemporary aesthetic, each stateroom serves as a peaceful retreat after full days of exploration.
Onboard, guests enjoy a range of inviting social and educational spaces, including a library with floor-to-ceiling windows, a main lounge for presentations and briefings, a well-equipped fitness center, a sauna, and a massage room. Dining is a highlight, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a rotating menu that reflects the ship’s regions of travel—from Polynesia to Antarctica.
Expedition readiness is at the heart of the Orion. The ship carries a fleet of Zodiacs and kayaks, as well as scuba diving and snorkeling gear for tropical itineraries. Underwater cameras, an ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle), and video microscopes bring the marine world to life, while a team of naturalists, marine biologists, and a National Geographic-certified photo instructor guide every step of the journey with insight and expertise.
From the polar ice to the South Pacific’s coral atolls, the National Geographic Orion offers a seamless blend of rugged exploration and onboard comfort—delivering transformational travel experiences in some of the most remote corners of the globe.
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-#502, 507, 509*, 510 — These large, elegant suites feature a French balcony, except for #509 which has double windows. There is a living area with a sofa, two armchairs, coffee table, well-placed reading lamps, flat screen TV, espresso maker and climate controls complete the decor. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door, except for #502, which uniquely offers a ‘soaking tub with a view’ in addition to a shower stall and expansive vanity. Guests receive complimentary laundry, special turn down service and priority access to one spa appointment per departure.
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-#501, 503-506, 508 — These spacious suites feature open living areas with sliding glass doors opening to a shared French balcony. A separate sitting area with armchairs, sofa, writing/laptop desk, coffee table, well-placed reading lamps, flat screen TV, espresso maker and climate controls complete the decor. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door. Beds are configurable. Guests receive complimentary laundry, special turn down service and priority access to one spa appointment per departure.
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-#511, 515 — These suites feature separate sleeping and sitting areas, a chair, armchair, coffee table, and a two-cushion sofa facing an expansive window. Ample storage, reading lamps, a flat screen TV, espresso maker, and climate controls complete the amenities. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door. Beds are configurable. Guests receive complimentary laundry, special turn down service and priority access to one spa appointment per departure.
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-#512 — This solo cabin features two single beds and two large windows, plus two armchairs and a small table, reading lamps, coffee table a flat screen TV, and climate controls. The marble bathroom is generously sized and includes a spacious shower stall with a glass door.
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-#401-412, 414-419 — These spacious cabins feature a sitting area with a large window, a sofa—except slightly smaller #401 & #402—an armchair or two, writing/laptop desk, reading lamps, coffee table, flat screen TV, bedside table, and climate controls. Beds are configurable (call for details). Marble bathrooms include a spacious shower stall with a glass door. Ideal Upper Deck location provides easy access to Bar/Lounge and outdoor dining.
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-#302-312, 314, 315, 317 — Cabins feature a luminous oval window and configurable beds: two single beds that can be converted to a queen. An armchair, reading lamps, a flat screen TV, bedside table, coffee table, desk, and climate controls complete the amenities. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door.
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-#301, 322, 323 — These solo cabins feature a window or two portholes, a queen-size bed, except for #301 which has a double bed, writing desk and chair, climate controls, reading lamps, coffee table, two bedside tables, and a TV. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a roomy shower stall with a glass door.
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-#316, 318-321 — Cabins feature a luminous oval window and configurable beds: two single beds that can be converted to a queen. An armchair, reading lamps, a flat screen TV, two bedside tables, coffee table, desk, and climate controls complete the amenities. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door.
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-Cabins available on National Geographic Orion
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-Public Spaces
National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions is a leader in small ship expedition travel, offering immersive and expertly guided journeys to some of the world’s most remote and awe-inspiring destinations. With a fleet of intimate expedition vessels, these voyages are designed for travelers seeking authentic adventure, in-depth discovery, and unparalleled access to nature and wildlife. Destinations range from Antarctica and the Arctic to the Galápagos Islands, the Amazon, Alaska, and beyond, each expedition carefully curated to provide deep cultural and ecological insights.
What sets National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions apart is its commitment to exploration, science, and sustainability. Every voyage is enriched by onboard naturalists, marine biologists, historians, and National Geographic-certified photographers, ensuring that guests gain a deeper understanding of their surroundings through expert guidance and hands-on experiences. Whether it’s navigating glacial fjords in a Zodiac, snorkeling alongside sea lions in the Galápagos, or witnessing the mesmerizing northern lights in the Arctic, these expeditions offer a rare opportunity to engage with the natural world in a meaningful way.
With a focus on small group travel, these ships provide an intimate and engaging atmosphere, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in their surroundings. The onboard experience blends comfort with education, featuring scientific briefings, photographic workshops, and regionally inspired cuisine. National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions also emphasizes sustainable travel, supporting conservation initiatives, local communities, and scientific research projects that help preserve the fragile ecosystems they explore.
At Small Ship Travel, we specialize in carefully selecting the world’s finest small ship expeditions, ensuring that each journey meets our high standards of luxury, authenticity, and responsible exploration. National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions has been meticulously vetted and chosen as a premier partner in our curated collection, reflecting our dedication to offering transformative and environmentally conscious travel experiences.
With a reputation for scientific expertise, cultural immersion, and conservation-driven travel, National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions aligns perfectly with Small Ship Travel’s mission to provide journeys that are educational, inspiring, and seamlessly executed. Our team works closely with Lindblad to create customized itineraries, ensuring every traveler experiences an expedition tailored to their interests and travel aspirations.
As experts in luxury small ship travel, Small Ship Travel offers exclusive access, expert recommendations, and concierge-level service to enhance your National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions journey. From selecting the ideal itinerary to coordinating pre- and post-cruise accommodations, private transfers, and specialized excursions, we ensure that every detail is taken care of.
Embark on a journey of discovery with National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions and Small Ship Travel—where adventure, education, and sustainability come together for an unforgettable exploration of the world’s most extraordinary destinations. Contact us today to begin planning your expedition.
Reach out to our travel concierges today to create your perfect journey.