Orion Expedition Cruises is to increase the size of its fleet with the addition of a second specialist expedition cruise ship, Orion II.

Joining the existing 106-passenger Orion, the new 100-passenger, all-suite luxury expedition cruise ship is scheduled to commence expedition voyages under the Orion Expedition Cruises banner later this year.

Making the announcement from onboard Orion in Sydney Harbour, Sarina Bratton, Orion’s managing director, was upbeat about the expansion of the business she started in 2004, citing a strong existing market – despite tough current worldwide economic conditions – and growing interest from international markets in expedition cruising in this part of the globe.

A loyal Orion past-passenger base, resurgent growth by independent travellers and significant opportunities afforded through charter and incentives markets have provided the platform for the expansion.

The long term charter of a second purpose built ship able to access remote regions in comfort is a further step to fulfilling the company’s original vision to have Orion Expedition Cruises regarded as the operator of choice in the Asia Pacific.