| Cruise line | Orion Expedition Cruises |
|---|---|
| Region | Far East and Indian Ocean |
| Book by | 30 June 2012 |
| Price | from £4,169 |
Save up to 20% off brochure fares and recive a free suite upgrade
Although custom-made for expedition cruising, Orion II 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 5-star. The ship’s luxurious appointments mean the vessel is more mega-yacht than cruise ship and her guests are few; around just 50 couples, all cared for in 5-star comfort.
Nestled in the heart of the Malay Archipelago, Borneo is the third largest Island in the world. The southern two-thirds of the island is divided into the four provinces of West, Central, South and East Kalimantan. The northern coast is divided into the states of Sarawak and Sabah. The tiny nation of Brunei is wedged between these two Malaysian states. Borneo is home to the world's oldest tropical rainforests which, until recently, covered the entire island. Since 1950 almost 50% of the Island has been cleared to satisfy the western world's appetite for cheap timber and palm oil.
Amongst the planet's most biologically diverse ecosystems, prepare to feel as though you have just stepped into a zoological paradise, such is the diversity of Borneo's floral, faunal, and cultural ecology.
Borneo falls within the "Coral Triangle', and this implies even more, 500 species of reef building corals, a global epicentre of marine biodiversity - no wonder the WWF has put this region on the top of its list for marine conservation..
Rajahs, Riches & Rainforests
2012 Departure - August 4. From £4,560
You will visit some of the key destinations in Malaysian Borneo, from the famous Bako National Park to the remote islands in the Anambas Archipelago. The Semenggoh Wildlife centre for orangutans, near Kuching, provides you with an opportunity to view, first hand, one of our closest relatives. The national parks of Tanjung Datu, Bako and Similajau provide you with a snapshot of the diverse ecosystems that once covered the entire island, and now provide refuge for the abundant wildlife. In addition, a visit to the Sarawak Cultural Village, near Kuching, will expand your understanding of the people of Borneo, and a visit to Bandar Seri Begawan in Brunei highlights the diversity of cultures embedded through the island.
Secrets of Sabah
2012 Departures - July 25 & September 12. From £4,560
You will explore some seldom visited and very remote islands to take advantage of the marine diversity that exists in the heart of the coral triangle. In addition you will visit the key destinations of Sandakan and the Kinabatangan River. Described as Malaysia's Gift to the Earth, the Kinabatangan is a wildlife mecca and you will be immersed deep within its beauty with an inclusive overnight stay in the rainforest lodges of Sukau. You will have the chance to view, wild orangutans, proboscis monkeys, macaques, and countless bird species as you journey along the river. Explore the tragic history of the WWII Sandakan Death Marches, where only 6 survived from the initial 6,000 participants. A visit to Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary gives an insight into the plight, and struggle to save, one of our closest relatives.
Across the Wallace Line
2012 Departure - September 22. From £4,845
Our expedition will take you down the seldom visited eastern side of Borneo. A visit to Samboja Lestari to view the reforestation projects and rehabilitation of the orangutans near Balikpapan is sure to be a highlight. Cross the famous Wallace Line, named after the 19th century British naturalist, and take an overnight journey through the ancient and mystical Toraja Land in Sulawesi. Finish off the journey with an insight into the ancient Goan Kingdom and the more recent Dutch history of Makassar.
Camp Leakey - Faces in the Forest
2012 Departures - August 14, 24, October 2 & 12
2013 Departures - October 25 & November 18. From £4,890
A myriad of exciting destinations await as you voyage along the southern and western coastlines of Borneo. From isolated tropical islands to diverse National Parks, the itinerary will showcase some of Borneo's undiscovered jewels. You will be joined onboard by Dr. Galdikas and at the landmark Camp Leakey in Tanjung Puting National Park, allowing for the opportunity to view the rehabilitation of the ex-captive orangutans. Tanjung Puting is one of the great wonders of Borneo and is a wildlife mecca. Also visit Bako National Parks to examine, first hand, the complexity of ecosystems that once covered the entire Island. They now provide a refuge for Borneo's 15,000 species of plants, 222 species of mammals, 420 resident birds, and numerous other reptile, amphibian and fish species.
Borneo, Borobudur & Beyond - Voyage of Discovery
2012 Departure - October 22. From £4,890
2013 Departure - September 29 (Borneo Discovery) From £4,670
This is the first time Orion is offering this exciting itinerary with the highlights of two of the Borneo voyages on the one expedition - Tana Toraja, "Land of the Heavenly Kings" and the orangutans of the world famous Camp Leakey plus a day trip to the extraordinary lost temple of Borobudur in Central Java. This stimulating voyage will explore the ancient cultures, amazing wildlife and temples of South East Asia like no other.
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.
Fares are based on 2 adults sharing a stateroom in pounds sterling, and are Cruise Only rates. Rates are per person and apply to new bookings only. Rates are subject to availability. Fares are applicable to bookings made between 12 June and 30 June 2012. Saving message based on Sabah fares - Deluxe Suite £6240(with 20% saving) upgraded to a Balcony worth £8200 pp.
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