Sail storied waters where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean, a crossroads shaped over centuries by shifting empires, maritime trade and cultural exchange. Discover the Azores’ otherworldly beauty, where volcanic landscapes rise stark against the sea; wander Morocco’s vibrant medinas, alive with color and tradition; and explore Spain’s enduring fortresses that echo with history. In August 2027, enjoy the rare opportunity to witness a total solar eclipse at sea, from aboard the open deck of National Geographic Orion—an unforgettable moment that culminates this once-in-a-lifetime voyage.


Highlights


• Experience a solar eclipse over the Strait of Gibraltar, witnessing the moment of totality unfold between two continents (conditions permitting)

• Travel aboard the intimate National Geographic Orion, with open decks and spacious observation areas that immerse you in your surroundings

• Enjoy a special private visit to the legendary Alhambra, exploring its ornate palaces, tranquil courtyards and exquisite gardens that embody the splendor of Moorish Spain

• Trace Spain’s rich history from the Moorish fortresses of Malaga to Valencia’s futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, an architectural complex that symbolizes Spain’s dynamic blend of tradition and modernity

• On São Miguel, savor cozido—a traditional Azorean stew cooked underground by volcanic heat—then set out on a catamaran to seek out cetaceans (weather permitting)


Arrive in Ponta Delgada, the capital of the Azores. Transfer from the airport to the city, and spend the day at leisure, wandering the cobblestone streets and soaking in the island’s unique blend of Portuguese and Atlantic culture. Later this afternoon, embark National Geographic Orion.   

Meals Included: Dinner


Venture into the lush Furnas Valley and enjoy a traditional Azorean specialty for lunch: cozido, a hearty stew of meats and vegetables slow-cooked underground by volcanic steam. Weather permitting, set out with local spotters on a catamaran in search of cetaceans.    

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Spend time relaxing at sea as the ship sails toward Morocco. Join the officers on the Bridge to learn about navigating the western coast of Africa, attend an engaging talk with one of the naturalists or take advantage of the ship’s amenities, such as a rejuvenating spa treatment with the wellness specialist. 

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


This morning, arrive at the Strait of Gibraltar, the only natural waterway between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic Ocean. As we sail this legendary passage, a total solar eclipse unfolds overhead—an awe-inspiring spectacle that will blanket the seascape in otherworldly hues. Navigate to the path of totality to take in this rare celestial event from the best possible position (conditions permitting).   

Later, explore Tangier, which lies just across the Strait of Gibraltar from Spain and has long been a gateway between Africa and Europe—a true cultural crossroads. Stroll the winding streets of its medina. Then ascend to the city’s legendary kasbah or visit the American Legation Museum, a symbol of centuries-old diplomacy, and the only U.S. National Historic Landmark located outside the country. 

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Málaga is one of Spain’s oldest cities—a vibrant coastal hub where layers of ancient history blend with contemporary culture. Explore the Alcazaba, a remarkably well-preserved Moorish fortress overlooking the sea, and climb to the Castillo de Gibralfaro, the 14th-century stronghold that once guarded both the Alcazaba and the city below. 

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Visit the hillside village of Frigiliana, renowned for its whitewashed houses and Moorish old quarter, where winding lanes are decorated with vibrant ceramic mosaics. Continue to the Caves of Nerja, a subterranean network stretching for nearly three miles, home to vast chambers, soaring stalactites and some of the world’s oldest known cave paintings. The day caps off in Grenada, with a special private visit to the famed Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This 13th-century hilltop fortress exemplifies the artistic, scientific and architectural achievements of the Moors. 

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Uncover Cartagena’s remarkable history, from its Roman foundations to its role as a Mediterranean stronghold. Stand before the magnificent Roman Theatre, admire the remains of the Augustus Temple and see the imposing city walls—a UNESCO World Heritage site.  

Later, set out on a tapas tour of the city, weaving your way through narrow lanes and bustling terraces as you taste local delicacies like caldero del mar menor, a traditional fisherman’s rice dish. If time allows, we’ll also visit the night market, held in the summer along the harbor or in the central squares. Here, street musicians, pop-up performers and a relaxed local crowd bring a festival feel to the evening. 

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Begin your exploration of Valencia with a visit to its majestic cathedral, home to the revered Holy Chalice—believed by many to be the cup used by Jesus at the Last Supper. Savor an authentic paella, the city’s signature dish, before exploring the City of Arts and Sciences, a futuristic complex where science, culture and architecture converge. Later, wander the winding streets of the old quarter, browse the bustling Mercado Central or take in world-class art at the Palau de les Arts. 

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


The ship anchors near the city of Castellón on mainland Spain. From here, enjoy water activities in the Columbretes Islands, an archipelago 30 miles off the coast. The islands are a haven for wildlife, offering opportunities to observe endemic species such as Andouin's gull, Eleonora's falcon and Scopoli's shearwater.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Enjoy breakfast on board before disembarking and transferring to the airport for flights home. 

Meals Included: Breakfast

Itineraries are subject to change. 

Category 3S

Category 3S
#512 — This solo cabin features two single beds and two large windows, plus two armchairs and a small table, reading lamps, coffee table a flat screen TV, and climate controls. The marble bathroom is generously sized and includes a spacious shower stall with a glass door.

Category 1S

Category 1S
#301, 322, 323 — These solo cabins feature a window or two portholes, a queen-size bed, except for #301 which has a double bed, writing desk and chair, climate controls, reading lamps, coffee table, two bedside tables, and a TV. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a roomy shower stall with a glass door.

Category 01

$38,830 AUD pp
Category 01
#316, 318-321 — Cabins feature a luminous oval window and configurable beds: two single beds that can be converted to a queen. An armchair, reading lamps, a flat screen TV, two bedside tables, coffee table, desk, and climate controls complete the amenities. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door.

Category 02

$43,236 AUD pp
Category 02
#302-312, 314, 315, 317 — Cabins feature a luminous oval window and configurable beds: two single beds that can be converted to a queen. An armchair, reading lamps, a flat screen TV, bedside table, coffee table, desk, and climate controls complete the amenities. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door.

Category 03

$56,477 AUD pp
Category 03
#401-412, 414-419 — These spacious cabins feature a sitting area with a large window, a sofa—except slightly smaller #401 & #402—an armchair or two, writing/laptop desk, reading lamps, coffee table, flat screen TV, bedside table, and climate controls. Beds are configurable (call for details). Marble bathrooms include a spacious shower stall with a glass door. Ideal Upper Deck location provides easy access to Bar/Lounge and outdoor dining.

Category 04

$62,353 AUD pp
Category 04
#511, 515 — These suites feature separate sleeping and sitting areas, a chair, armchair, coffee table, and a two-cushion sofa facing an expansive window. Ample storage, reading lamps, a flat screen TV, espresso maker, and climate controls complete the amenities. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door. Beds are configurable (call for details). Guests receive complimentary laundry, special turn down service and priority access to one spa appointment per departure.

Category 05

$65,290 AUD pp
Category 05
#501, 503-506, 508 — These spacious suites feature open living areas with sliding glass doors opening to a shared French balcony. A separate sitting area with armchairs, sofa, writing/laptop desk, coffee table, well-placed reading lamps, flat screen TV, espresso maker and climate controls complete the decor. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door. Beds are configurable (call for details). Guests receive complimentary laundry, special turn down service and priority access to one spa appointment per departure.

Category 06

$71,164 AUD pp
Category 06
#502, 507, 509*, 510 — These large, elegant suites feature a French balcony, except for #509 which has double windows. There is a living area with a sofa, two armchairs, coffee table, well-placed reading lamps, flat screen TV, espresso maker and climate controls complete the decor. Marble bathrooms are generously sized and include a spacious shower stall with a glass door, except for #502, which uniquely offers a ‘soaking tub with a view’ in addition to a shower stall and expansive vanity. Guests receive complimentary laundry, special turn down service and priority access to one spa appointment per departure.

Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition

Length: 103 metres

Passenger Capacity: 102 (in 53 cabins)

Built: 2003 / Refurbished 2014

With just 53 cabins, National Geographic Orion offers an intimate and refined platform for exploring some of the world’s most remote and culturally rich regions—from the Pacific Islands and Asia to Antarctica and the Mediterranean. Purpose-built for expedition travel, she boasts an ice-class hull for navigating polar waters and exceptional manoeuvrability that enables access to secluded bays, narrow inlets and winding rivers—places far beyond the reach of larger cruise ships.

Life aboard Orion is designed to immerse guests in the natural world, with panoramic deck spaces, a whirlpool hot tub, and ample opportunities for wildlife viewing. Her public areas include two relaxed dining venues, a lounge with bar, an observation library, fitness centre and spa, as well as the OM System Photo Gear Locker to support photography at all levels. Open-Bridge access allows guests to connect with the ship’s officers and learn about navigation first-hand. Whether sailing through polar pack ice or anchoring off a tropical atoll, Orion delivers a seamless blend of adventure and comfort.

Cabin layout for National Geographic Orion

Inclusions


• All accommodations, meals, and non-alcoholic beverages aboard ships
• Use of snorkeling equipment, wet suits, and kayaks (where available)
• Services of our expert expedition team and guest speakers
• Services of a ship physician on most voyages
• Certain hotels and meals ashore as indicated in the itinerary
• Round-trip transfers based on group flights
• Shore excursions, sightseeing, entrance fees, and special access permits
• Taxes, service charges, and tips (except for ship’s crew, at our guests’ discretion)
___________

Exclusions


• Air transportation (except when we indicated in the itinerary, as included) Extensions
• Passport, visa, and immigration fees
• Travel Protection Plan
• Special and unique excursions such as scuba diving, flightseeing, etc. (where offered)
• Alcoholic beverages (alcohol is included on select ships)
• Items of personal nature
• Phone and Internet Service
• Laundry
• Gratuity for ship’s crew, at our guests’ discretion (crew tips are included on select ships)
13 Days from
$2,987 AUD per day

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1800 107 715

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