National Geographic Orion

The National Geographic Orion is a sophisticated polar-class vessel offering a boutique-style expedition experience for just 102 guests. Designed with both elegance and exploration in mind, this small yet mighty ship is ideal for travelers who want to delve deep into the wonders of the Arctic or Antarctica without forgoing comfort. Her size allows for nimble navigation into remote coves, fjords, and icy inlets that larger ships can’t reach, while on board, guests enjoy an ambiance that is as relaxed and welcoming as it is refined.

The vessel features beautifully appointed staterooms and suites—many with ocean views or private balconies—decorated in warm, classic tones. Common spaces like the Observation Lounge, lounge bar, and a single-seating dining room foster an intimate, club-like atmosphere. Guests can indulge in spa treatments, enjoy curated talks by expert guides in the lounge, or admire the passing scenery from cushioned deck chairs with a glass of wine in hand. The ship also includes a library stocked with field guides and travel literature, and an outdoor café perfect for al fresco breakfasts under crisp polar skies.

Polar Adventures

The National Geographic Orion embarks on extraordinary expeditions to both poles. In Antarctica, she explores the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia, and the Falkland Islands, offering a rich tapestry of ice, wildlife, and history. Her Arctic voyages venture into the wilds of Svalbard and along Greenland’s dramatic coast, where glaciers calve into sapphire fjords and polar bears roam across ice floes.

Every day on board is shaped by exploration. Zodiac excursions bring guests close to whales, seals, and towering icebergs, while landings offer chances to hike tundra trails, visit penguin colonies, or explore the remnants of whaling stations and explorer camps. Onboard experts include marine biologists, geologists, and National Geographic photographers, ensuring every moment ashore is matched with insight, context, and unforgettable storytelling.

Sustainability & Science

The Orion may be elegantly styled, but she’s also built for purpose. Her ice-class hull allows for deeper immersion in polar environments, while her environmental protocols ensure sensitive operations in pristine regions. Plastic reduction efforts are in place throughout the ship, and she carries a full complement of kayaks and snorkeling equipment for up-close experiences that leave minimal impact.

Guests are invited to participate in Citizen Science initiatives and undersea exploration activities, deepening their engagement with the ecosystems they visit. An onboard ROV (remotely operated vehicle) captures footage from beneath the surface, bringing the mysteries of the deep polar seas to life in real-time on screen.

A voyage aboard the National Geographic Orion is a graceful leap into the unknown—where every day offers a new frontier and every landing tells a story of discovery. You’ll traverse otherworldly landscapes and encounter wildlife few ever see, all while enjoying the comfort of a ship designed to honor the spirit of exploration. Ideal for curious minds, adventurous souls, and those who want to explore the polar regions through a lens of learning, beauty, and awe. You’ll return not just with stories—but with a deeper appreciation of the fragile wonders that still exist at the far edges of our world.