This deal has expired, but be sure to check out our Top 25 deals of the week for savings on trips to destinations around the globe.

One cruise line steps in to soften the financial blows dealt to the customers of another. Orion Expedition Cruises, a small luxury line comprising only two ships, the Orion and Orion II, unveiled in a press release on September 16 that it would offer special, marked-down rates to Cruise West passengers. After losing its CEO a week prior, the company staggered unwitting consumers with its announcement on September 7, terminating its 335-night worldwide voyage and freezing bookings, due to “restructuring efforts.”  Orion cited the restoration of customer trust and small-ship carrier solidarity as the main reasons for its efforts, nevertheless keenly utilizing an effective marketing strategy.

For those who have Cruise West documentation, Orion Expedition cuts cruise rates by 50 percent on all Orion sailings through March 7 (excluding Antarctica), 20 percent on all Orion II sailings in 2011, 25 percent on Papua New Guinea voyages in 2010 and 2011, 25 percent on Antarctica cruises December 2010 through January 2011, and 20 percent on Kimberley sailings in 2011. All transfer bookings must be reserved by October 31. And with rates that start at the $4,420 mark for the Australia Southeast sailing, 50 percent means paying as little as $2,210 for a five-star, once-in-a-lifetime cruising experience – which could very well regain the fidelity of even the most disgruntled cruise passenger.

Visit Orion Expedition Cruises to book.