Announced March 6, adventure cruise operator Lindblad Expeditions has acquired Australia-based Orion Expedition Cruises. Orion’s sole vessel, the 106-passenger Orion, will join Lindblad’s fleet in March 2014 and operate in Australian waters, the South Pacific and Southeast Asia. The ship is built with a reinforced hull suitable for icy conditions and carries 10 Zodiac boats for off-ship exploration.
Lindblad currently owns five vessels, which sail under the National Geographic brand through a partnership, and also charters an additional five ships. The U.S.-based expedition company runs itineraries across the Arctic, Antarctica, Africa, the Amazon and the Mediterranean, combining expert-led programming with immersive small-ship experiences.
“We are extremely excited about the opportunity to offer global expedition cruising to Australians and we intend to bring the full weight of our experience and that of National Geographic to the Orion organization and the ship,” said Sven Lindblad, president and founder of Lindblad Expeditions. With this acquisition, Lindblad expands its presence in the Southern Hemisphere and strengthens its capacity for regional expeditions, shore excursions and wildlife-focused voyages.
The addition of the Orion enhances Lindblad’s versatility: the vessel’s design supports both tropical and polar operations, while its fleet of Zodiacs enables close-up encounters with remote coastlines, reefs and wildlife habitats. Guests aboard such small ships typically benefit from expert naturalists, photographers and local guides—elements Lindblad has integrated across its offerings to deliver in-depth cultural and environmental interpretation.
Bringing Orion into the Lindblad family also creates opportunities to align itineraries, safety standards and program content with Lindblad’s established expedition format. That includes an emphasis on responsible travel practices, scientific collaboration where appropriate, and educational enrichment tied to each destination. For travelers seeking intimate, immersive exploration in and around Australia and neighboring island regions, the upgraded Orion is positioned to offer a refined expedition experience backed by Lindblad’s operational experience and National Geographic’s brand of storytelling.
The acquisition underscores a broader trend in the expedition cruise market: operators are investing in smaller, versatile ships capable of accessing remote locations while offering high levels of onboard expertise and expedition equipment. For passengers, the expanded fleet means more options for itineraries that combine wildlife observation, cultural encounters and active exploration—often led by teams of specialists who enhance the voyage with lectures, guided outings and photographic instruction.
As Lindblad integrates Orion into its schedule, travelers can expect a continuation of the ship’s established regional focus along with enhancements that reflect Lindblad’s programming and partnership with National Geographic. The move positions Lindblad to better serve Australian and international travelers interested in the unique natural and cultural richness of the South Pacific, Southeast Asia and nearby waters.