Borneo - Rajahs, Riches & Rainforests: 10 Nights

Begin your idyllic cruise on the Orion II from Kota Kinabalu-Malaysia. Unpack once, relax and enjoy leisurely days at sea as you cruise to:

Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia – Embark
Kota Kinabalu is the gateway to Borneo with regular flights to and from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur available.

Pulau Tiga, Sabah – Wet landing
The name Pulau Tiga means ‘Three Islands’, but only two of the original three remain in this 15km² marine park. The islands themselves are recent creations, formed in 1897 by the eruption of mud volcanoes that are still active in the form of bubbling mud pools. The larger of the two remaining islands, Palau Tiga is lined with fine sandy beaches providing great places to relax or a gateway to the underwater realm that fringes the shoreline. For the more energetic amongst us the island has a network of walking trails crisscrossing the island.

Klias Wetlands, Sabah – Scenic Zodiac Cruising
Located about 120 km from Kota Kinabalu on the Klias Peninsula are the Klias Wetlands, a Mangrove Forest Reserve rich with river wildlife and birds. Among the wildlife that can be spotted on a mangrove cruise on the Klias River are proboscis monkeys, long tail macaques, with some luck silver langurs and of course an amazing variety of birds.

Pulau Labuan, Territory of Labuan – Dry landing
Pulau Labuan is a tiny island town off Sabah’s coast that was formerly known as Victoria Town. Today, it is a hub for duty-free goods and boasts some nice cultural touches and landmarks. Because of its proximity to Brunei, Labuan attracts many visitors as well as avid scuba divers for its rich marine life. Labuan played a role in World War II particularly during Operation Oboe Six, which was the codename for the campaign by Australian forces to retake Brunei and Labuan island from Japanese forces between 10 June 1945 and the end of World War II. In 1990, it was declared an international offshore financial centre and free trade zone.

Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei – Dry landing
The State of Brunei Darussalam, or more simply Brunei as most of us know it is a sovereign state located on the north coast of the island of Borneo, between the Malaysian states of Sarawak and Sabah. Brunei has the second highest Human Development Index among the South East Asia nations, after Singapore, and significant economic growth between the 1970's and 1990's (averaging 56% from 1999 to 2008), has transformed Brunei Darussalam into a new modern industrialised nation. Bandar Seri Bagwan is the capital city of Brunei with a population of only 140,000 people. (Please note on south bound voyages departing Kota Kinabalu we will arrive in Brunei the night before for night activity options, north bound trips departing Singapore will see the ship stay in Brunei overnight for those activities departing for Labuan early the next morning).

Similajau National Park, Sarawak – Dry landing
The clear waters of the streams within the park are stained by the tannins of the peat swamps, lending them an attractive ruby red tinge. There is a great variety of faunal diversity on display throughout the park. From pitcher plants with tiny pitchers measuring merely 1cm to those growing to 20cm high. Tiny and colourful orchids can be seen rooted to trees and the rocks around the headlands. The more common fauna in the park includes gibbons, banded langurs and long tailed macaques. The park is also home to 185 bird species, including 7 species of hornbills, saltwater crocodiles, dolphins, porpoises and green sea turtles.

Bako National Park, Sarawak – Wet landing
Bako National Park heralds an early arrival for us as we have no time to waste in experiencing its rainforests, abundant wildlife, jungle streams, waterfalls, interesting plant life, secluded beaches and trekking trails. Very few places in the world pack so much natural beauty into such a limited area. Bako is one of the most rewarding parks in Sarawak for wildlife and protected since 1957, the animals are less wary of humans.

Tanjung Datu National Park, Sarawak – Wet landing
Tanjung Datu National Park is one of the smallest parks in Sarawak, with an area approximately 14km² (1,379 ha). Half of the peninsula is situated within Sarawak and the other portion lies in Kalimantan. Described as the ”Heaven of Borneo” by most visitors, its natural features of rain forest and unique coral reefs make it a significant area for its biodiversity. Its mountain ranges and luxurious mixed dipterocarp forest and fauna make the park a fascinating place to visit. Remoteness and isolation makes for a spectacular destination for us in Borneo.

Kuching, Sarawak (for Semenggoh Rehabilitation Centre) – Dry landing

Singapore – Disembark
The British East India Company established a strategic trading post on the island of Singapore in 1819, which was to become an important post along the Spice Route. Although a thriving and modern metropolis, remnants of these early colonial days can be enjoyed in many traditional pursuits such as a rickshaw ride and Singapore Sling at the famous Raffles Hotel. A compact and efficient city, Singapore offers easy access from most international airports.

Set sail from Kota Kinabalu-Malaysia on your 10 night Borneo - Rajahs, Riches & Rainforests Cruise on Orion II. This 11 day cruise visits 8 different ports including Pulau Tiga-Sabah, Klias Wetlands-Sabah, Pulau Labuan-Territory of Labuan, Bandar Seri Begawan-Brunei, Similajau National Park-Sarawak, Bako National Park-Sarawak, Tanjung Datu National Park-Sarawak and Kuching-Sarawak before arriving in Singapore.

• 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 of Govt
• Fees & Taxes
• Services of 75 experienced crew

OTHER INFORMATION

ABOUT Orion Expedition Cruises

Founded in early 2004, Orion Expedition Cruises has developed voyages to encourage guests to become a part of the region they are discovering.

Orion is a purpose built vessel designed to access the inaccessible, all in 5-star luxury. The ship combines the best and the latest in design with maritime and environmental technology, comfort and casual elegance. From the ice-strengthened hull to the chilled champagne and superb cuisine, this is expedition cruising at its finest.

Described as the latest in the quest to build the perfect expedition vessel *, all Orion’s staterooms feature ocean views and offer internet access, flat-screen TV, DVD/CD, a choice of twin and queen sized beds, a sitting area and marble bathrooms. Other on board amenities include a health spa with gymnasium, sauna, sun deck Jacuzzi and a stern marina platform.

Orion offers a range of included and optional Shoreside Expeditions designed to enhance the destination exploration for our guests. From Camel Safaris in Broome to snorkelling over pristine coral formations, there are many unique opportunities for guests to visit areas of Australia that even most Australians don’t get to see. As part of our commitment to offering guests an enriching experience, on board speakers have been selected for their knowledge and expertise on the regions they visit. Guests are invited to attend presentations in the 90 seat Lecture Theatre.

Our innovative expeditions are year-round and vary with the seasons:
- Summer (December, January and February) Antarctica and New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands.
- Autumn (March, April) in remote and unspoilt parts of Papua New Guinea and Melanesia.
- Winter (April to September) in the Kimberley and Arnhem Land.
- Spring (October, November) New Zealand and south-East Asia.

For Orion, sustainability is more than a fashion, a trend or a compelling need. Sustainability is a core component of our company’s originating vision and values. To explore “a path less travelled” requires a gentle step. To work with the challenges and opportunities these environments offer is the starting point of every journey.

A small ship – featuring the latest German designed environmental management technology. This purpose built design extends from the energy efficient engine, to the collecting of air conditioning condensation and recycling of grey water onboard. A ship designed to be fully self contained for up to 22 days at sea. A ship with environmental credentials designed to meet the strictest requirements for marine management established by the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators. Credentials that set the standard for best practice in all environments we operate in.

Community partnership – is the basis for all expedition itinerary design. We start first with an approach to the traditional owners, chiefs or heads of the communities, tribes or villages we hope to visit. We start a dialogue about their lives, their needs, and the opportunity of shared experience. A key ingredient in this discussion is authenticity. In most instances we are working with communities without tourism experience and it is important to us that our interaction with them is positive in ways that the communities feel are fair and beneficial to their needs and interests. They see the potential benefit to their people, but need investment, commitment and support to see this through. Our role is to nurture the partnership, ensuring both parties work together to protect their natural resources, sustain their well being and support cultural heritage.

Library

Bars and Lounges

Shopping

Sports and Spa

Salon

MV Orion II Photos

MV Orion II

MV Orion II

 

 

 

 

 

 

TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR THIS CRUISE

Terms of booking on this website

Information disclaimer

The rates on this website are often heavily discounted. This is due to our negotiated rates and bulk buying power. On very rare occasions, a rate may be displayed incorrectly due to our, or the cruise operator's error. In such a case, if you make a reservation enquiry with us at a quoted rate that is incorrect, we will notify you of any price change and give you the option to proceed or cancel. We make every effort to keep information on our site up to date, but we cannot guarantee this website is free of errors or omissions and retain the right to update or change the information published at any time.

Liability

To the extent permitted by law we/the owners of this website will not be liable to you or to any third party (whether in contract, tort, or otherwise) for any direct, indirect or consequential loss or damage (including but not limited to any accident, injury, delay or loss of enjoyment) arising out of your reliance upon information contained on this website, including but not limited to your use (or inability to use) any products or services described or procured through this website. When making a reservation via this website or over the phone, we ask you to agree to the terms and conditions displayed. Your reservation and cruise holiday will be governed by the terms of the agreement and any other documentation or information provided to you before you depart. Our total liability to you in relation to your use of this website and the information contained on this website will not exceed the dollar amount of the deposit we have received from you in relation to your booking. Refunds will not be made for bookings cancelled due to inclement weather. We strongly recommend that you take out travel insurance. Your use of this website is governed by the laws of Victoria and the jurisdiction of the Victorian courts.

Booking information

To reserve a cabin(s), you must complete our reservations enquiry form which is easy to follow and secured with the latest encryption technology. Once we receive your enquiry, we will contact you via phone or email, to advise of availability and confirm the final price is correct. A booking is confirmed when you have been emailed a confirmation notice and at this stage the deposit is processed on your credit card or your bank deposit has been received. Your deposit then becomes subject to the cancellation policy of the cruise line and Cruise Republic. These are stated in the terms and conditions.

When your booking has been confirmed we will send  you your cruise booking number for the cruise line. Once you receive your confirmation, please check your details carefully and notify us immediately if there are any incorrect details, as it may not be possible to make changes at a later date without incurring a penalty. If you are booking via phone, please first make sure you have read the terms and conditions. Our reservations consultant will ask you if you have read the terms and agree to them before proceeding. The onus is always on the customer to ensure they make themselves fully aware of the terms displayed on our website.

Information disclosure

In booking on/via this website you acknowledge that we disclose your information to your selected Cruise Ship company/operator.

Amendments

Once you have paid a deposit against your cruise, any changes made to the booking will incur an amendment fee of $25 plus and applicable fees set you by the cruise line. Please see the Cruise Company's terms and conditions for cancellation and amendment policy.

Cancellations

Once a deposit is made towards your cruise holiday it is deemed that you have accepted our terms and conditions, so are subject to any cancellation fees. Bookings canceled after the deposit is paid,  will incur a cancellation fee of $200. Plus any additional cancellation fees set out by the cruise line. Please see the Cruise Company's terms and conditions for cancellation and amendment policy.

Payments

Payments towards your cruise holiday made by credit cards are subject to a transaction fee of 2.5%. Cruise Republic accept Visa and Mastercard Cards only. Payments made by bank deposit do not incur any transaction fees nor do payments made using the BPAY payment system.

Privacy

Privacy of your information is an absolute priority to us. When you book we request whether you are interested in receiving further offers from us. If you decline, we will not email you with such offers. We also always give you the opportunity to unsubscribe and opt out of receiving these emails. We treat your details as confidential and we NEVER disclose your information to third parties other than the supplier who is fulfilling your cruise holiday.

Orion Expedition Terms and Conditions

Placing a reservation
Orion Expedition Cruises will make an offer of accommodation, the offer being valid for 4 days. The payment of the required deposit will confirm acceptance of the offer , the offer automatically expiring should a deposit not be received.

Deposit and final payment
To secure your reservation a deposit of 25% of the fare is required. The deposit must be accompanied by a completed and signed Guest Booking Form and is due within 4 days of booking. Final payment must be received by Orion Expedition Cruises no later than 100 days before sailing. Separate conditions apply to the Cancellation Protection Plan.

Guest form
A completed and signed Guest Form must be submitted with your deposit. For immigration purposes, on International Expeditions, a copy of your current passport must be received prior to the release of cruise documents.

Ticketing
Travel Documents will include passage ticket, baggage labels, itinerary, life onboard information, details of included and optional shoreside experiences, embarkation & disembarkation instructions.
Documents will be forwarded approximately 20-35 days prior to sailing. Failure to send Guest Form will delay documentation. For late payments and reservations placed within 7 days of sailing, documentation may be collected at the pier.

Cancellation fees
The following cancellation fees will apply to all reservations. The day on which notice is received by Orion Expedition Cruises will determine the applicable penalties.
Day on Which Notice is received                     Penalty
121 days and over - Antarctic cruises             $1000 pp
                                  - All other cruises                    No penalty
120 - 91 days prior to sailing                          Loss of deposit
90 days or less                                                  100% of fare
No show - no written notice                            100% of fare

*Please see Cruises Online (the agent) cancellation policy in their terms and conditions below.

Prices are subject to currency fluctuations, fuel price and tax increases and so can only be guaranteed once full payment has been received by Orion Expedition Cruises.

Cruise fare – What's included

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 of Govt. Fees & Taxes. Fares also include the services of 75 experienced crew.

Cruise fare – What's not included

Fares do not include items of a personal nature, including but not limited to: travel and medical insurance, laundry charges, shopping onboard, bar expenses, hair dressing and massage treatments, optional shore experiences, medical treatment, telephone and internet charges.

Money matters

All onboard prices are quoted in Australian dollars and, for your convenience, you may charge onboard expenses to your shipboard account. You can choose to settle your onboard account with

a credit or charge card. We accept American Express, Diners Club International, MasterCard and Visa. You may also use Travellers Cheques or cash. Please note there are no cash withdrawal facilities onboard and regretfully we are unable to accept personal cheques.

Gratuities

Gratuities are not expected, however if you wish to recognise exceptional service from an individual staff member , you are welcome to do so entirely at your discretion.

Passports and Visas

Passports are required for all expeditions including one or more international ports. Photo ID, such as a driver’ s licence, is required for all domestic expeditions. Our Reservations & Customer Service centre can provide specific advice for your selected departure.

Medical conditions & Physical considerations

Any medical condition, advanced pregnancy or disability must be advised to Orion Expedition Cruises when a request for accommodation is made. On every Orion voyage extensive use of the ship’ s Zodiacs will be made transporting guests between ship and shore. It is anticipated this travel may be physically demanding from time to time. In order for Orion Expedition Cruises to determine if safe passage can be offered, guests may be asked to provide additional information, such as a medical assessment of their fitness for expeditionary travel. All guests must sign a disclaimer onboard to participate in offship activities. Guests should be sure to bring onboard sufficient supplies of any prescription medication they may require.

Insurance

Orion Expedition Cruises strongly recommends that all guests purchase comprehensive international travel and medical insurance to cover lost or damaged baggage, personal property, medical evacuation. Australian Medicare system does not apply onboard Orion.

Life onboard Orion
DINING

All meals onboard Orion may be taken in a leisurely single sitting, free of fixed table assignments. Dining hours for the Constellation Restaurant and the Delphinus Outdoor Café will be provided with your tickets. 24 hour room service is also available.

Dress

During the day dress onboard is casual and relaxed. When venturing ashore we suggest you select practical clothing suitable to the part of the world you are visiting. Evening dress code onboard Orion is "smart casual", gentlemen being asked to wear a collared shirt. Jackets, ties and formal wear are not required.

Hairdressing

Our hairdressing salon is located on Deck 4. All staterooms and suites are equipped with a hairdryer .

Health facilities

The Vega Health Spa includes a gymnasium, sauna and massage facilities.

Laundry / Pressing facilities

Laundry and pressing services are available at an additional charge. Orion is not equipped with self service facilities.

Medical facilities

There is a doctor onboard. Consultation fees will be charged to your stateroom account.

Security / Visitor policy

As part of our security policy we regret visitors are not allowed onboard at any time.

Shoreside expeditions

We include a number of complimentary shore experiences utilising our Zodiacs. In addition we offer an exciting and diverse selection of optional shore experiences which can be either booked for in advance or reserved onboard and charged to your onboard account. Due to limited numbers on some experiences we recommend you pre-register to avoid disappointment. Details will be provided with your ticket.

Sports facilities

Orion is equipped with a fleet of ten 2-man kayaks for the use of guests in addition to a 4-man fishing boat. Snorkelling equipment (mask, fins & snorkel ) is available to all guests free of charge when conditions permit.

Valuables

Be sure to personally carry all valuables onboard and be sure not to pack them in the checked luggage. All staterooms and suites are equipped with a mini safe.

Voltage

The voltage on board is 110 and 220 volt (plugs are round sockets with two round pins). Adaptor plugs are available.