The National Geographic Orion makes a triumphant return to Australian waters.

When industry legend, Sarina Bratton formed Orion Expedition Cruises in 2024, the MV Orion became an icon as our first local luxury expedition ship.

But luxury expedition cruising is a tough, competitive business, and eventually American brand Lindblad Expeditions bought over Orion.

Now nearly 10 years later, she’s back in The Kimberley as the National Geographic Orion. 

kimberley cruise
The Orion will take guests to see Indigenous rock art

The National Geographic Orion returned to Australian waters this week and will sail two itineraries in the Kimberley, the new hub of Australian expedition cruising. 

The itineraries

Starting from the 19th of July, Orion will say this Kimberley Expedition: Australia’s Wild Northwest itinerary. 

With an expedition team including Australian Marine Biologist Martin Cohen, guests will visit sites King George River and its huge waterfalls via Zodiac.

And they will be able to see an outdoor Aboriginal art gallery.

Or watch the rapid tide reveal coral at Montgomery Reef and more. Prices for this sailing start from $13,940 and do not include flights. 

There are two options for the 11-night sailing, one departing Broome on July 19 and one departing Darwin on July 29 on National Geographic Orion. 

For a longer sailing, guests can add some stops in Indonesia on this 15-night Kimberley Expedition: Northwest Australia and Indonesia itinerary. And will include all of the highlights of the Kimberley sailings.

But there will also be a visit to Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Indonesia. And snorkeling and diving opportunities at Rowley Shoals in Australia and various Indonesia sites. Prices start from $19,520 for the sailing departing on August 8.

For more information, click here