Orient lines re-established

The very much late lamented Orient Lines brand has been bought out by a US cruise retailer. Wayne Heller plans to now charter ships operate global itineraries – Heller who founded Orlando-based Cruises Only, hasn’t said how much he paid to obtain the line from Star Cruises. Orient has no ships so he plans to acquire vessels which he describes as ‘rich in history and character’ which will carry between 600-800 passengers. Orient will offer pre- and/or post-cruise hotel stays, sightseeing tours, guest lecturers and local cultural highlights, just as Orient did and Heller plans to announce his new flagship soon, followed by details of an inaugural cruise in August.