Asia Expeditions

Feel the energy of ancient empires and sophisticated cultures. Walk in palaces of kings who have over a hundred wives. You will see the architecture that reflects the influences of Chinese Dynasties and France's expansionist era, side by side. You will feel at first hand the events that made both sides of the Vietnam conflict heroes of adversity and survivors of tragic politics. You will reflect and ponder the Cambodian madness and then be uplifted by a people who believe in a great future.

Thailand, Temples & the Mekong

• 2011 Departure - 15th December 
  
• 2012 Departure - 5th March
  

Sailing between Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City, the ship will berth at Sihanoukville to allow us access to the World Heritage Listed temples of Angkor Wat. The overnight package includes flights to Siem Reap and accommodation and the chance to explore the ancient temples. Options to explore Ton Le Sap, the inland sea of the Mekong will also be available. A venture into the Mekong Delta where you will experience the famous floating markets of the Mekong is sure to be a highlight.

Gulf of Siam Explorer

• 2011 Departure - 22nd December
  
• 2012 Departure - 27th February
  

Enjoy a 7 night exploration of the coastlines and islands of Malaysia and Thailand. In addition to visiting some of Asia's major centres, the expeditions provide the opportunity to experience both traditional and modern Asia from a different perspective, often far away from the crowds. There is a balance of history, culture and relaxation on sublime islands and beaches, among the finest in South-East Asia.

Vietnam Explorer

• 2011 Departures - 6th December
  
• 2012 Departures - 12th & 21st March
  

Vietnam is intoxicating. It has an energy and charm of equal proportions, and a regal history of passion, war and conquests to rival any European history. Vietnamese society has undergone a profound transition in the past decade. There is an extraordinary vitality in the cities, where dynamic new businesses and stylish resorts blend with elegant French colonial history. In the countryside, picturesque rice paddies, serene river villages and patient water buffalo contrast with the jungles and mountainous highlands and their enormously diverse wildlife.

Explore the extraordinary history and relics of the Vietnam War through to the street markets and restaurants, sampling the delicacies of a cuisine that is renowned for its originality, delicate flavours and creativity. Exploring Vietnam aboard Orion II has the advantage of the ability to sail the secluded backwaters of beautiful bays and rivers. We will visit four World Heritage sites and take a step back in time in the ancient capital of Hue, walk the narrow streets of Hoi An, cruise the stunning jade waters of Ha Long Bay and see the exquisite spiritual architecture of My Son in the mountains of the long lost kingdom of Champa. Enjoy every step of the way to Hanoi where the medieval and modern co-exist.

Vietnam Explorer Photography Expedition

• 2012 Departure - 30th March
  

Join Nick Rains onboard Orion's photography expedition to explore the energy and charm of Vietnam. Departing on the 30th March 2012 for 9 nights you'll have the amazing opportunity to get right up close and personal with your camera in one of the world's most photo opportunistic locations with a renowned photographer. Exploring Vietnam aboard Orion II gives you the ability to sail the secluded backwaters of beautiful bays and rivers, and the opportunity to visit four World Heritage sites. Take a step back in time in the ancient capital of Hue, walk the narrow streets of Hoi An, cruise the stunning jade waters of Ha Long Bay and see the exquisite spiritual architecture of My Son.

Learn new skills from Nick Rains - a professional photographer for the past 28 years who's work has been published all around the world. He has authored six books including - A Photographer's Eye. Nick will be holding pre-shoot workshops onboard which will cover a wide range of subjects including camera operation, travel photography tips, printing, post processing methods and file management. Onshore there will be plenty of excellent photographic opportunities and Nick will be on hand to share his experience and help you get the best images. You'll capture unique compositions from dawn to dusk.