Orion Offers Samurai, Sake and Soba

Orion II (above) the new ship from Orion Expedition Cruises will be making her inaugural voyages to Japan in June and July. The ten-night Inland Sea of Japan voyages live up the promise of a path less travelled, with the specialist expedition team introducing guests to insider experiences, many of which are exclusive to Orion.

Guests will cruise the moat surrounding imposing Matsue Castle; learn to make Soba noodles; stroll the main street of Sakaiminato with hundreds of bronze statues depicting animated cartoon monsters and enjoy a visit to Sakai's Sake brewery to sample their fine rice wine.

Other experiences include traditional drumming with Japan's best Taiko drum troupe, Kodo, and a trip in a Taraibune - round barrel boats traditionally used to collect abalone and other molluscs from narrow coves.

Orion’s three 10-night Inland Sea of Japan voyages depart July 8, 18 and 28. The voyages start in Aomori and visit Sado Island; Kanazawa, Honshu Island; Sakai Ko, Honshu Island; Busan, South Korea; Nagasaki, Kyushu Island; Uwajima, Shikoku Island; Hiroshima, Honshu Island; Miyajima; and Uno Ko, Honshu Island before finish in Kobe.

The July 18 voyage is in reverse. Prices are from £4,770 per person including 10 nights on Orion II, all meals, entertainment and educational programmes, use of the ship’s sporting equipment and facilities, Zodiac excursions, port and handling charges, tender transfers and government fees and taxes.

For further information, visit http://www.orionexpeditions.com/ or contact the UK's leading adventure cruise experts of The Cruise Line Ltd.

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