Nothing symbolizes Orion space power more than this sleek and powerful vessel, often called "the Orion D-7". A design implemented in the middle of the 23rd Century , the Wanderer owes much to Human starships, particularly in the use of an oval main hull where the bridge, sensors, computer, and most of the crew quarters are located. The engineering section, contained in a swelling 'abdomen', also contains the compact shuttlecraft bay (two eight man shuttlecraft are carried in snug bays and can be launched simultaneously) and a powerful tractor beam capable of towing vessels up to twice the mass of the Wanderer.

The most striking feature of this ship is its outrigger weapons pods, carried at the waist of the narrow hull. Not only are these pods convenient for mounting heavy or dangerous weapons, but they are also easier to access for repair or to jettison in case of explosion, fire, or leakage. The heaviest weaponry carried by a Wanderer has been four disruptors and no less than four Federation constructed photon torpedoes. With some modifications (such as reducing the ship's shields), even heavier arms could be carried.

Although the Wanderer has often been termed nothing more than a pirate's mount, a number of Federation concerns have purchased Wanderers (despite the heavy import duties) because the ship is suitable for certain tasks. As a salvage and rescue vehicle it has few peers, especially because sensor pods possessing marvelous range and sensitivity can replace the weapons pod. For the same reason, they perform planetary survey work well, particularly in unmapped regions or near uncertain borders where its great speed may ensure the survival of the mission.