Follow the thread of D-Day from the beaches of Normandy, France across the English Channel to the secret Allied headquarters in Portsmouth, England. By special permission, enter the private, hallowed map room of Southwick House, Portsmouth to see where D-Day was planned. This two-week voyage will also call at the beautiful, small islands frequented only by locals; explore Belle Ile, a favorite of Monet, and Sark, a migratory seabird stop in the middle of the Channel. Enjoy Englands picture-postcard villages and gardens, and relish the classic food of the French region: cheese, oysters, ciders, cognac, and more.
Discover the musical traditions of each culture you encounter
An ethnomusicologist on your expedition team helps bring a unique perspective on Europe's traditions and cultural diversity. Our musicologist Jacob Edgar has curated a set of exclusive performances and special concerts. Enjoy an exclusive private dinner and performance in a 13th-century castle in the English Pembrokeshire countryside, as well as a festive musical celebration at Holyhead.
An onboard concierge for personal exploration
Combining the best of independent travel with the gracious and effortless benefits of shipboard travel, our concierge provides assistance with daily choices to suit your individual interests: active, cultural, or mode sedentary options, and with special arrangements, off-ship dining and more. Get the most out of your time in Europe with personal outing tailored to specific interests.
Travel in excellent company
Explore under the sure guidance of an expedition leader, an assistant expedition leader, a mix of historians, naturalists, archaeologists, an ethnomusicologist, an onboard concierge, a National Geographic photographer plus a National Geographic certified photo instructor, and a wellness specialist. Their knowledge and passion is the key to your incredible experience.
See the magnificent Vauban citadel (one of 12 Vauban border fortifications recognized by UNESCO) on the beautiful island on the sea, Belle-Ile-en-Mer.
Visit the Normandy Beaches with a local historian. Walk in the footsteps of the Allied troops on Omaha Beach and pay your respects at a nearby American cemetery.
Kayak around the English Channel islands in search of puffins, gannets, and black-backed gulls.
Tour Greenway House, Agatha Christies home and gardens in Dartmouth, England.
There are no future departures for this trip at this stage.
National Geographic Orion
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition
Length: 103 metres
Passenger Capacity: 102 (in 53 cabins)
Built: 2003 / Refurbished 2014
Engineered for maximum comfort and safety, Orion is equipped with the latest technology including large retractable stabilizers, sonar, radar, and an ice-strengthened hull. A shallow draft plus bow and stern thrusters provide the convenience of being able to maneuver close to shore. 14 Zodiacs ensure quick disembarkation and offer the ideal transport for up-close exploration.
National Geographic Orion meets strict specifications for environmental protection and the on board waste management systems meet the stringent Antarctic operational standards enabling us to travel to the most pristine environments. A host of advanced design features and technology ensures sustainable marine environmental practices.
National Geographic Orion accommodates 102 guests in 53 cabins, including several with balconies. She is spacious and modern, with a variety of public rooms that offer panoramic views of the passing landscape. Friendly and informal, Orion fosters a welcoming atmosphere where like-minded guests share in exceptional experiences and enrichment.
Her public rooms include a dramatic window-lined main lounge, as well as an observation lounge and library perched at the very top of the ship, with plentiful observation decks. The spacious lounge is the heart of our expedition community, and is suited for spirited cocktail hours, informative presentations and our nightly tradition of Recap. In addition, a dedicated theater provides a unique setting for specialist presentations or films and slideshows. Both the main dining room and outside buffet easily accommodate all guests at once for open seating dining. On selected nights, weather permitting, our dining room menu is also available on the outside deck.
While Orion interiors are elegant, life aboard is always casual, with no need for formal clothing. And you’ll find shipboard services like laundry, in-room cabled internet, and public-area wifi make packing and traveling more convenient.
