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Orion Cruises Antarctica Expedition

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During the peak of the southern hemisphere summer, Orion offers travellers a unique opportunity to venture to the Continent of Antarctica. Orion sails from Australia and New Zealand, crossing the Antarctic Circle to places redolent with history and adventure.

Along the way the wildlife we encounter will astound you. The Sub-Antarctic islands are home to penguin breeding colonies numbering in the millions, to Elephant Seals and Hooker Sea Lions, and the endangered Wandering Albatross.

Mawson's Antarctica - Commonwealth Bay
2011 Departure - December 1
2012 Departure - January 3
For many, the highlight of the voyage is a visit to Cape Denison, the site of Sir Douglas Mawson's hut from the historic 1911-1913 expedition; a time capsule from a great era of exploration. This is one of the most exclusive places on earth - more people have stood at the top of Mt Everest than have stood inside this historic hut. The voyage also takes us to Port Martin, the site of 100 grounded icebergs, allowing our guests to get up close and view these amazing sites; and Dumont d'Urville, the French base renowned for its rich local wildlife, including colonies of Adelie and Emperor penguins.

Scott & Shackleton's Antarctica - Ross Sea
2012 Departure - January 21
These 20 night voyages cover some of the polar regions famously charted during the first race to the South Pole by pioneering explorers Scott and Shackleton. The Ross Sea coast extends from the ice shelf northwards until it reaches the very tip of Victoria Land and Cape Adare. During our time in the Ross Sea Region we will attempt a variety of opportunistic landings, subject to weather conditions.