Circumnavigate The Emerald Isle in this comprehensive yet delightfully unexpected voyage along the Irish coast. Hike and Zodiac the Great Saltee Island and the spectacular Skellig Isles for incredible encounters with wildlife and amazing views of the Atlantic; discover an abandoned Celtic Christian village in Inishmurray and explore the rugged cliffs of Slieve League; visit Glenveagh National Park with a naturalist; kayak on Lough Swilly and around Rathlin Island; investigate the gorgeous and fabled geological formation of Giants Causeway; delight in the charms of Dingle where youll visit a local whiskey distillery; and enjoy a guided tour of the Dun Aenghus Fortress and a goat cheese farm among many other attractions.
Skirt the historic rock of Skellig Michael in a Zodiac or climb to the top, where sixth-century monks braved the elements and built their monastery.
Experience true Irish culture on the Aran Islands and pay a visit to a working goat farm on Inishmore to watch how goat cheese is made.
Join a local guide to delve into the fascinating geology and mythology behind Giants Causeway, a coastal landscape formed from naturally formed hexagonal rock columns.
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.
