The intimate 53 Stateroom National Geographic Orion returns to the Mediterranean in 2025, a region known for sun drenched shores and turquoise seas. This, however, is a deeper exploration of the ancient relics that bring to life some of the world’s greatest civilizations through the experience and knowledge of our renowned expedition team and access to lesser-known gems, from Greece’s iconic isle of Santorini and the walled city of Dubrovnik, to outlying Croatian isles and vestiges of antiquity in Albania and Turkey. This is an opportunity to explore fascinating UNESCO World Heritage sites, explore medieval towns and delve into powerful empires from the past. This is exploration at its best.
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Four Very Special, Brand-New Mediterranean Expeditions
During the 2025 summer season, National Geographic Orion will embark on 19 expeditions along the iconic Mediterranean coasts, including these four brand new itineraries:
Ancient Mediterranean Odyssey
The Dalmatian Coast enchants, with sun-soaked beaches, charming port towns, and a rich maritime history that dates to the Venetian Empire. Sail between Greece, Albania, and Croatia, delving into ancient empires and their archaeological treasures, and visiting fascinating UNESCO World Heritage sites, from Delphi to Dubrovnik. Soak in the Ionian Sea’s idyllic turquoise waters, and encounter the region’s lesser-known gems, including outlying Croatian isles and vestiges of antiquity in Albania.
Greek Isles Odyssey
Legends come to life in the Greek Isles, where sun-drenched shores hold ancient relics and rich traditions from one of the world’s oldest civilizations. Embark on an Aegean odyssey to discover Cycladic islands both storied and secret, from iconic Santorini to laid-back Naxos and Paros, and explore them from every angle—through mythology and archaeology, natural wonders and culinary delights. Bask in the beauty of volcanic shores and whitewashed villages, and dive into the Aegean’s inviting turquoise waters for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and more.
Crossroads of the Ancient World
Sail along the magnificent isles and rocky coastlines of Greece and Turkey, where a mélange of Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences take us on a fascinating journey through history. Encounter glittering marble cities of the ancient world from Delos to Ephesus; stroll the timeless, whitewashed villages of the Cyclades; and soak up the rhythms of everyday life as you travel age-old trade routes along vibrant Aegean coastlines poised at the crossroads of the world.
Treasures of the Adriatic
Encounter the wonders of Croatia and Montenegro, where aquamarine waters, lush isles, and Venetian towns converge on one of Europe’s most enchanting rivieras. Explore the winding lanes of the medieval walled cities from Kotor to Dubrovnik, and travel inland to witness pristine nature reserves, including the waterfall-laced Plitvice Lakes National Park. Engage with the region’s rich cultural heritage through customs such as oyster farming, sword dancing, and silk embroidery, learning about their importance from the people dedicated to preserving these timeless traditions.
Step Aboard National Geographic Orion
Meet the Fleet: National Geographic Orion
Featuring 53 cabins, the gracious and intimate National Geographic Orion takes travelers to little-known waters in the Mediterranean to experience natural and cultural wonders up close.
![Unrivaled Cuisine](https://cdn.approachguides.co/66512/conversions/orion-cuisine-lindblad-cover.jpg)
Unrivaled Cuisine
Our European explorations feature local ingredients, expertly prepared and in tune with the relaxed atmosphere that prevails onboard the ship.
![Unparalleled Service](https://cdn.approachguides.co/66514/conversions/orion-expertise-lindblad-cover.jpg)
Unparalleled Service
Whether interacting with a off-duty guide or a server at one of our many restaurants, service is always first rate, professional, and best of all, personal.
Why Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic?
![The Premier Expedition Fleet](https://cdn.approachguides.co/63650/why-lindblad-1.webp)
The Premier Expedition Fleet
Experience the world’s premier expedition fleet: intimately scaled ships, cutting-edge exploration tools, maximum comfort.
![Pioneers](https://cdn.approachguides.co/63652/why-lindblad-2.webp)
Pioneers
Explore with the pioneers of expedition travel: 50+ years and counting because there’s always more to discover.
![No Better Team](https://cdn.approachguides.co/63653/why-lindblad-3.webp)
No Better Team
See the world from a new perspective with a veteran expedition team by your side and leading the way.