Patagonia
Chilean Fjords
Patagonia
Patagonia
Explore the fjords and channels of southern Chile from Ushuaia to Valparaíso. Traverse Cape Horn, discover Torres del Paine National Park, and immerse yourself in the wild landscapes of Patagonia.
Duration: 15 days / 13 nights on board.
Starts: Ushuaia, Argentina
Ends: Valparaiso, Chile.
Language: English speaking voyage
The itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather and ice conditions. Your Captain and Expedition Leader will make the necessary adjustments to ensure the best possible experience.
Ship Cruise More info about this activity
Not only we travel from one point to another and find our shelter on board the ship we chose. We also enjoy from incredible scenery, landscapes and interactions that only our noble vessel can provide.
Everyday the Bridge Team navigates the ship to position ourselves on the best posible spots, looking for unique opportunities.
Many times, this includes sainig through narrow passages, on the vicinity of glaciers or entering bays and fjords only approachable from the ship.
Enjoy this incredible places from the comfort of the common areas on board, open decks or your own private balcony!
Shore Excursion More info about this activity
Shore excursions are the backbone of almost all itineraries, with most ships making landfall at least once every day once they reach their destination. The weather plays a huge role in your daily itinerary, although given the sheer array of fantastic landing sites all over there are plenty of options your Captain and Expedition Leader can choose from. On-shore excursions allow you to visit scientific research stations, communities, prominent wildlife colonies and take hikes to elevated viewing points for fantastic photography.
Zodiac cruising More info about this activity
On board the Zodiac you will discover a world of possibilities; accessing the most exclusive landing sites, cruising the coast in search of wildlife or simply enjoying a tour in the calm of the polar regions in search of marine wildlife or bird colonies.
The blue ice an its intimate presence is experienced at its best on zodiac tours.
It is not uncommon to meet curious seals, or humpback whales feeding.
Enrichment Program More info about this activity
Expedition cruising must be one of the most incredible ways of travelling. Not only for the amazing places you visit and the unforgetable wildlife but for the wildlife, the sensory overload and the unimaginable memories.
But all of this needs a context in order to understand where you are and what you are experiencing.
On board your expedition vessell you will find a group of experts, naturalists, zodiac drivers and guides that that will translate the language of nature for you, telling you the stories of the places you are visiting, reviewing the historical, biological, ecological and geological aspects of your trips.
You will experience first hand what surrounds you and arrive back home wiser and loaded with new knowledge.
Communities More info about this activity
The experience is not only about nature, but about the people who live in the places we visit.
We are always welcomed by the locals and respectfully wander around their towns and villages, shareing their lifestyle for a few moments.
Cultural shows and folcloric dances and arts are part of the hightlights of this encounters.
Hiking More info about this activity
Hiking options include very easy beach hikes (good for photographers who need time for photography), easier short hikes, medium-difficulty extended hikes, and more challenging long hikes.
This thrilling maritime adventure combines Patagonia’s wildest corners across the vast icefields, channels, and fjords of southern Chile. The journey sets sail from Ushuaia, Earth’s southernmost city, traversing legendary Cape Horn and the historic Straits of Magellan, waterways coveted by explorers for centuries to avoid open ocean violence. The expedition ventures into the heart of Torres del Paine National Park, famous for its granite towers and sapphire glacial waters, and continues toward remote settlements steeped in ancient Indigenous culture, such as Puerto Edén and Caleta Tortel, uniquely built on networks of cypress wood boardwalks.
Sailing up the Pacific Coast, the voyage follows the chilly Humboldt Current, an exceptionally productive marine ecosystem that brings frequent encounters with whales, albatross, and sealions. The route also explores local myths and the UNESCO World Heritage wooden churches on mysterious Chiloé Island, alongside colonial heritage in Niebla and Valdivia. Through daily Zodiac excursions and nature hikes along pristine mountain trails, this comprehensive expedition provides a first-hand experience of South America’s largest unspoiled wilderness.
Highlights:
Navigate the Smyth and Beagle channels framed by spectacular glacier-lined peaks.
Explore Torres del Paine National Park to spot native wildlife such as guanacos and condors.
Visit the remote boardwalk settlements of Puerto Edén and Caleta Tortel with local guides.
Discover the unique cultural heritage and UNESCO wooden churches of Castro on Chiloé Island.
Observe abundant marine wildlife including Magellanic penguins, whales, albatross, and sealions.
Day 1: Arrive and Explore in Ushuaia
The journey begins at the edge of the world
Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world. Enjoy a friendly welcome at the airport and transfer to one of our premium hotel resorts nestled in Patagonian nature. Take time to unwind or explore the city before an optional evening briefing to meet fellow travelers. All meals today are at your own arrangement.
Day 2: All aboard in Ushuaia
Setting sail into the Beagle Channel
Spend your morning relaxing at the hotel, visiting a museum, or exploring the shops in Ushuaia. In the mid-afternoon, transfer to the pier for embarkation. The Expedition Team and Crew will welcome you on board. After a safety orientation and drill, set sail into the Beagle Channel to explore Patagonia.
Day 3: Cape Horn
The southernmost tip of the Americas
Sail to legendary Cape Horn, the rugged and windswept symbolic end of human civilization. Weather permitting, explore this remote outpost, home to a small naval station and a touching monument to fallen sailors. In the afternoon, head northwest toward the sheltered waters of the fjords.
Day 4: Western Beagle Channel and Strait of Magellan
Zodiac exploration among remote peaks
Navigate the famous waterway of the Straits of Magellan, historically used by explorers to avoid Cape Horn. Conditions permitting, launch Zodiacs to explore the flora, fauna, and jaw-dropping scenery at the end of the Andes, surrounded by rugged mountains, languid glaciers, and icy fjords.
Day 5: Punta Arenas
Chile's gateway to Antarctica
Visit Punta Arenas, sitting on the Straits of Magellan. Stroll the seafront to watch Magellanic penguins and cormorants frolic in the water while albatross wheel overhead. Head into the surrounding countryside to discover Chilean ranching heritage or visit the Municipal Market for fresh local delicacies.
Day 6: Smyth Channel and Montañas Fjord
Sailing through the Kirke Narrows
Transit into the sheltered waters of the Smyth Channel on the Pacific side of the Magellan Straits. Highlights include the shipwreck of the Santa Leonor, the ice-capped summit of Monte Burney, and the glacier-lined peaks of Montañas Fjord. Settle on deck in the evening to pass through the Kirke Narrows.
Day 7: Puerto Natales & Torres del Paine
The granite towers of Blue Wilderness
Arrive at Puerto Natales, the gateway to Torres del Paine National Park. Spend the day exploring this wilderness of sapphire glacial waters and granite towers like the Cuernos del Paine. Enjoy a traditional Chilean lunch and look for native rheas, guanacos, armadillos, and pumas.
Day 8: Cruising the Chilean Fjords
Lectures and wildlife watching from hot tubs
Navigate through the pristine Chilean Fjords, a natural paradise largely untouched by human activity. Join the Expedition Team on deck to watch for albatross and sealions, learn about the sub-Antarctic ecosystems during expert-led lectures, or relax in the outdoor hot tubs as the scenery rolls past.
Day 9: Puerto Edén
The wooden boardwalks of Wellington Island
Arrive at Puerto Eden, a small settlement on Wellington Island accessible only by water. The village is one of the last strongholds of the Kawésqar people. Explore the roadless town with local guides via its incredible network of wooden boardwalks linking buildings surrounded by verdant hills.
Day 10: Caleta Tortel
Stairways and architecture of cypress wood
Visit Caleta Tortel, surrounded by sapphire fjords, steep mountains, and waterfalls at the mouth of the Baker River. The town is built entirely on a network of stairways and boardwalks constructed from local cypress wood. Hike into the surrounding mountains or spot endemic bird species along the shore.
Day 11: At sea, en route to Castro
Wildlife spotting along the Humboldt Current
Spend a relaxing day at sea sailing up the Pacific Coast of Chile along the chilly Humboldt Current. Originating in Antarctica, these waters bring exceptional productivity, making albatross, whales, and other marine life common in the area. Keep your binoculars close while relaxing on board.
Day 12: Castro, Chiloe Island
Myths, traditions, and wooden UNESCO churches
Explore Chiloé Island, characterized by green rolling meadows and steeped in a unique mixture of Indigenous and European myths. Stroll through the local markets in Castro to find regional delicacies like giant mussels. Discover the island's cultural heritage expressed in its historic wooden UNESCO World Heritage churches.
Day 13: Niebla
German heritage and the Valdivia River Market
Arrive at Niebla, a picturesque former fortress at the mouth of the Valdivia River. Stroll along the River Market to see local produce, black-necked swans, and sealions. Enjoy a slice of kuchen at a local cafe and soak up the unique atmosphere blending Spanish and German influences.
Day 14: At sea, en route to Valparaíso
The Captain's Farewell Party
Our final full day onboard is ideal for reconnecting with fellow explorers. Leave the cold of Patagonia behind, relax on the outer decks, and watch the changing seabirds. Savor an expertly crafted cocktail at the Captain’s Farewell Party and enjoy the final photographic slideshow and celebratory dinner.
Day 15: Valparaíso, disembarkation
Arrival at Chile's historic port Metropolis
Valparaíso comes into view, Chile’s main port, where thousands of colourful houses are draped across rolling hills linked by famous funicular elevators. Say a fond farewell to the Expedition Team and Crew as you disembark in this dynamic metropolis, located a short distance from the capital city of Santiago.
Day 1: Arrive and Explore in Ushuaia
The journey begins at the edge of the world
Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world. Enjoy a friendly welcome at the airport and transfer to one of our premium hotel resorts nestled in Patagonian nature. Take time to unwind or explore the city before an optional evening briefing to meet fellow travelers. All meals today are at your own arrangement.
Day 2: All aboard in Ushuaia
Setting sail into the Beagle Channel
Spend your morning relaxing at the hotel, visiting a museum, or exploring the shops in Ushuaia. In the mid-afternoon, transfer to the pier for embarkation. The Expedition Team and Crew will welcome you on board. After a safety orientation and drill, set sail into the Beagle Channel to explore Patagonia.
Day 3: Cape Horn
The southernmost tip of the Americas
Sail to legendary Cape Horn, the rugged and windswept symbolic end of human civilization. Weather permitting, explore this remote outpost, home to a small naval station and a touching monument to fallen sailors. In the afternoon, head northwest toward the sheltered waters of the fjords.
Day 4: Western Beagle Channel and Strait of Magellan
Zodiac exploration among remote peaks
Navigate the famous waterway of the Straits of Magellan, historically used by explorers to avoid Cape Horn. Conditions permitting, launch Zodiacs to explore the flora, fauna, and jaw-dropping scenery at the end of the Andes, surrounded by rugged mountains, languid glaciers, and icy fjords.
Day 5: Punta Arenas
Chile's gateway to Antarctica
Visit Punta Arenas, sitting on the Straits of Magellan. Stroll the seafront to watch Magellanic penguins and cormorants frolic in the water while albatross wheel overhead. Head into the surrounding countryside to discover Chilean ranching heritage or visit the Municipal Market for fresh local delicacies.
Day 6: Smyth Channel and Montañas Fjord
Sailing through the Kirke Narrows
Transit into the sheltered waters of the Smyth Channel on the Pacific side of the Magellan Straits. Highlights include the shipwreck of the Santa Leonor, the ice-capped summit of Monte Burney, and the glacier-lined peaks of Montañas Fjord. Settle on deck in the evening to pass through the Kirke Narrows.
Day 7: Puerto Natales & Torres del Paine
The granite towers of Blue Wilderness
Arrive at Puerto Natales, the gateway to Torres del Paine National Park. Spend the day exploring this wilderness of sapphire glacial waters and granite towers like the Cuernos del Paine. Enjoy a traditional Chilean lunch and look for native rheas, guanacos, armadillos, and pumas.
Day 8: Cruising the Chilean Fjords
Lectures and wildlife watching from hot tubs
Navigate through the pristine Chilean Fjords, a natural paradise largely untouched by human activity. Join the Expedition Team on deck to watch for albatross and sealions, learn about the sub-Antarctic ecosystems during expert-led lectures, or relax in the outdoor hot tubs as the scenery rolls past.
Day 9: Puerto Edén
The wooden boardwalks of Wellington Island
Arrive at Puerto Eden, a small settlement on Wellington Island accessible only by water. The village is one of the last strongholds of the Kawésqar people. Explore the roadless town with local guides via its incredible network of wooden boardwalks linking buildings surrounded by verdant hills.
Day 10: Caleta Tortel
Stairways and architecture of cypress wood
Visit Caleta Tortel, surrounded by sapphire fjords, steep mountains, and waterfalls at the mouth of the Baker River. The town is built entirely on a network of stairways and boardwalks constructed from local cypress wood. Hike into the surrounding mountains or spot endemic bird species along the shore.
Day 11: At sea, en route to Castro
Wildlife spotting along the Humboldt Current
Spend a relaxing day at sea sailing up the Pacific Coast of Chile along the chilly Humboldt Current. Originating in Antarctica, these waters bring exceptional productivity, making albatross, whales, and other marine life common in the area. Keep your binoculars close while relaxing on board.
Day 12: Castro, Chiloe Island
Myths, traditions, and wooden UNESCO churches
Explore Chiloé Island, characterized by green rolling meadows and steeped in a unique mixture of Indigenous and European myths. Stroll through the local markets in Castro to find regional delicacies like giant mussels. Discover the island's cultural heritage expressed in its historic wooden UNESCO World Heritage churches.
Day 13: Niebla
German heritage and the Valdivia River Market
Arrive at Niebla, a picturesque former fortress at the mouth of the Valdivia River. Stroll along the River Market to see local produce, black-necked swans, and sealions. Enjoy a slice of kuchen at a local cafe and soak up the unique atmosphere blending Spanish and German influences.
Day 14: At sea, en route to Valparaíso
The Captain's Farewell Party
Our final full day onboard is ideal for reconnecting with fellow explorers. Leave the cold of Patagonia behind, relax on the outer decks, and watch the changing seabirds. Savor an expertly crafted cocktail at the Captain’s Farewell Party and enjoy the final photographic slideshow and celebratory dinner.
Day 15: Valparaíso, disembarkation
Arrival at Chile's historic port Metropolis
Valparaíso comes into view, Chile’s main port, where thousands of colourful houses are draped across rolling hills linked by famous funicular elevators. Say a fond farewell to the Expedition Team and Crew as you disembark in this dynamic metropolis, located a short distance from the capital city of Santiago.
INCLUSIONS
Arrival transfer to ship (Day 1).
General description: Shipboard en-suite accommodation (days/nights as per itinerary) in your selected and paid category
Waterproof Expedition jacket, yours to keep, and rubber style muck boots on loan for the duration of your expedition
English-speaking Expedition Team
Guided walks, nature hikes, Zodiac landings and excursions, as per itinerary, guided by our Expedition Team (excluding optional activities with cost)
Briefings and educational lectures by the Expedition Team
Citizen Science Program
All meals on the ship (full board): breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks
Complimentary house wine, beer, and soft drinks at dinner (selected labels and brands)
From 2027: Complimentary house wine, beer, and soft drinks at lunch and dinner (selected labels and brands. Wine excluded at lunch)
24-hour access to tea, coffee, and ‘Grab and Go’ comfort food
Welcome and Farewell Cocktail Parties
Taxes and landing fees
1GB Complimentary WiFi for use on your personal device
Digital Expedition Memento, including a curated selection of photos, videos, expedition log and map, and wildlife list
Exclusive Suite Inclusions: Available on Ocean Albatros: Junior Suite (Cat A), Balcony Suite (Cat B), Brynhilde Suite & Freydis Suite only, and Ocean Victory: Junior Suite (Cat A), Balcony Suite (Cat B) & Freydis Suite only: Wine and fruit platter on arrival, restocked in-suite mini bar (non-alcoholic) and complimentary laundry service throughout your expedition
EXCLUSIONS
International or internal airfares unless listed in the itinerary
Excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary
Meals and beverages not listed as included
Voluntary gratuity for the crew and Expedition Team (we recommend USD 20 per person per day)
Personal expenses such as spa services, boutique purchases, bar, laundry, and communications unless specified
Mandatory travel insurance (must meet mandatory minimum coverage requirements for medical treatment and evacuation)
Visa, reciprocity, and passport fees
Medical care or emergency evacuation
Expedition Jacket and rubber muck-style boots outside of available sizes. Please enquire for more details.
Life jackets for selected minors. Please enquire for more details.
Anything not mentioned under ’Inclusions”
Post-voyage airport transfer
Located on Deck 3, Porthole Staterooms provide a cozy and practical base for exploration. Two classic portholes bring in natural light and offer a connection to the ocean outside, creating a comfortable space to rest and recharge after a full day ashore.
• Two portholes
• Twin beds or queen-sized bed
• Sitting area with writing desk
• Fitted wardrobe with personal safe
• Marble bathroom with shower
• In-cabin refreshments including soft drinks, juice, and
sparkling water
Ocean Staterooms offer a bright and welcoming retreat after a day of exploration. A large picture window fills the room with natural light and frames ever-changing ocean
views, while the comfortable seating area provides a relaxing space to unwind between excursions.
• Large ocean-view window
• Twin beds or queen-sized bed
• Sitting area with writing desk
• Fitted wardrobe with personal safe
• Marble bathroom with shower
• Ample storage space
• In-cabin refreshments including soft drinks, juice, and sparkling water
Vista Staterooms feature large picture windows that frame the surrounding landscapes and fill the room with natural light. A comfortable seating area and thoughtful layout create a welcoming space to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures between exciting shore landings.
• Large ocean-view window
• Twin beds or queen-sized bed
• Sitting area with writing desk
• Fitted wardrobe with personal safe
• Marble bathroom with shower
• In-cabin refreshments including soft drinks, juice, and sparkling water
Solo Vista Staterooms offer a comfortable and thoughtfully designed retreat for guests traveling on their own. A large window fills the room with natural light and provides views of the surrounding seascape, while the practical layout creates a relaxing space to recharge between excursions.
• Large ocean-view window
• Queen-sized bed
• Sitting area with writing desk
• Fitted wardrobe with personal safe
• Marble bathroom with shower
• In-cabin refreshments including soft drinks, juice, and sparkling water
The Discovery Suite offers generous space and natural light through two Juliet balconies. A comfortable seating area invites guests to relax while taking in the ever-changing scenery. Designed for comfort and functionality, the suite provides a refined balance of space and style.
• Two Juliet balconies with glass doors
• Comfortable sitting area with convertible sofa
• Twin beds or queen-sized bed
• Marble bathroom with full tub & separate shower
• Writing desk, vanity area and fitted wardrobe with personal safe
• Fruit and sparkling wine on arrival, restocked mini bar (soft drinks, juice, sparkling water, and beer), complimentary laundry service, and in-room espresso machine
Balcony Staterooms allow guests to step outside and experience the polar regions from the privacy of their own balcony. Inside, large glass doors bring in natural light, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere and a comfortable space to relax after a day of exploration.
• Juliet balcony with glass doors
• Twin beds or queen-sized bed
• Sitting area with writing desk
• Fitted wardrobe with personal safe
• Marble bathroom with shower
• In-cabin refreshments including soft drinks, juice, and sparkling water
The Grand Suite offers generous living space with a warm, inviting design. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a private balcony, bringing the surrounding landscape into the suite. A comfortable sitting area and refined details create a relaxed yet luxurious retreat after a day of exploration.
• Private balcony with outdoor seating
• Separate sitting area
• Twin beds or queen-sized bed
• Marble bathroom with full tub & separate shower
• Walk-in closet, writing desk & vanity area
• Fitted wardrobe with personal safe
• Fruit and sparkling wine on arrival, restocked mini bar (soft drinks, juice, sparkling water, and beer), complimentary laundry service, and in-room espresso machine
Located on Deck 7, Navigator Staterooms feature a private balcony ideal for enjoying the scenery in quiet comfort. Thoughtfully designed with warm wood accents and inviting furnishings, these staterooms offer a welcoming retreat after a day of exploration.
• Private balcony with outdoor seating
• Twin beds or queen-sized bed
• Sitting area with writing desk
• Fitted wardrobe with personal safe
• Marble bathroom with full bathtub and separate shower
• In-cabin refreshments including soft drinks, juice, and sparkling water
he Owner’s Suite offers expansive living space, sweeping polar views, and a private balcony. A separate living room and elegant furnishings create a residential feel at sea – an inviting place to unwind after a day exploring
• Private balcony with outdoor seating
• Twin beds or queen-sized bed
• Marble bathroom with full tub & separate shower
• Walk-in closet
• Writing desk & vanity area
• Fitted wardrobe with personal safe
• Fruit and sparkling wine on arrival, restocked mini bar (soft drinks, juice, sparkling water, and beer), complimentary laundry service, and in-room espresso machine
* The prices are per person in US Dollars, unless expressly specified in a different currency. In that case, payment will be in US dollars at the exchange rate of the day.
** Rates are correct at the time of publication. All prices will be re-confirmed by email at the time of booking.
NOTE: Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy—and excitement—of expedition travel. When traveling in extremely remote regions, your expedition staff must allow the sea, the ice and the weather to guide route and itinerary details. This itinerary is a tentative outline of what you’ll experience on this voyage; please be aware that no specific itinerary can be guaranteed.
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