Chilean Fjords – Highlights of Patagonia

Argentina’s bustling capital

Home to a proud and diverse community of porteños, or ‘people of the port’, Buenos Aires is a fusion of faded European splendour and Latin American panache. An overnight stay here is the ideal way to start your adventure.

There are plenty of places to explore, including many parrillas serving authentic Argentine steak. Or maybe you’d like to practise your dance moves in the famous hometown of the tango.

We recommend arriving a few days early to enjoy the vibrant city, or join our optional pre-voyage programme.

Starting at the end of the world

Your adventure begins with an early morning flight to Ushuaia. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Martial Glacier, this bustling port city is the capital of Argentina's Tierra del Fuego Province and vies for the title of the world's southernmost city.

Your ship awaits in port. After a briefing from your Expedition Team and picking up your expedition jacket, settle into your cabin and explore the ship before enjoying the first of many delicious meals on board. Your journey is officially underway.

The sights and sounds of a glacier

Over the next three days, we immerse ourselves in the spectacular waterways of Chilean Patagonia. Our exact route remains flexible, allowing us to respond to weather, ice, and wildlife activity.

We’ll explore Alberto de Agostini National Park, a remote UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its towering peaks, pristine fjords, and dynamic glacier systems. Journeying deep into the fjords, we’ll approach striking glaciers such as the Garibaldi or Pía, while keeping watch for seals, sea lions, seabirds, and the majestic Andean condor.

Our journey may also take us through waterways like the Almirantazgo Sound and Ainsworth Bay, an inlet shaped by the retreating Marinelli Glacier. Time on Zodiac boats brings us closer to wildlife and the rugged shoreline. We’ll also navigate the legendary Beagle Channel, a dramatic passage carved between plunging rock walls and icy blue waters.

One of the great ambitions of this part of the voyage is reaching Cape Horn, the southernmost headland of the Americas, where the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans collide. Powerful seas and fast-changing weather define this historic maritime landmark. We will attempt a landing and explore this windswept symbol of exploration and endurance.

Through the Strait of Magellan and the White Narrows

As we sail north along the Chilean coast, join your Expedition Team for lectures on topics like pre-Columbian history, the geology of our surroundings, and the folklore of local communities.

Enjoy the serenity of the maze of fjords we pass, surrounded by islands, glaciers, and steep mountains. Keep an eye out for elephant seals, dolphins, and whales swimming alongside the ship.

Our resident photographer will be on hand to help you get the most from your wildlife and landscape photography.

The next day, according to the tide, we’ll sail through the White Narrows into Puerto Natales. At only 100 metres (328 feet) wide in parts, this striking waterway between islets and sheer rock cliffs is only passable in slack water and daylight.

Head out on deck to witness some of the most beautiful landscapes on the continent as your Captain skilfully navigates the ship through these famed channels.

Gateway to Torres del Paine

Today you’ll awake in Puerto Natales, gateway to the Torres del Paine National Park. The rugged landscape features steppe, forest, and desert, punctuated by glaciers and lakes, and you can choose to see it either on a panoramic bus tour or on a hike.

Andean animals such as guanacos, rheas, and the elusive puma roam here. Look out for Chilean flamingos as well as the mighty Andean condor.

Puerto Natales is a popular hub for hikers and adventurers, with many eateries, bars, and shops featuring outdoor equipment. Visit the artisan village at Etherh Aike or stroll along the photogenic waterfront.

Explore the soul-stirring Patagonian fjords

Tides permitting, we’ll leave Puerto Natales and head back through the fabled White Narrows. As we make our way through the maze of the Chilean fjords, enjoy the scenery and join the Expedition Team in the Science Centre.

The next day, conditions allowing, we hope to visit Puerto Edén, an enchanting village only accessible by sea. The 250-strong community here are some of the last remaining members of the indigenous Kawésqar people, offering a fascinating insight into Patagonian culture.

Alternatively, we’ll spend the day Zodiac cruising the majestic fjords, watching for wildlife along the way.

A warm welcome in Caleta Tortel

We venture off the well-trodden path to visit isolated Caleta Tortel. Lying at the mouth of Río Baker, Chile's largest river, this charming village is home to just 500 inhabitants.

Instead of streets, a maze of boardwalks connects the close-knit community, spreading over water and around the mountain base. While exploring, you'll come across locals selling handicrafts and may even be treated to a performance by folk dancers.

Enjoy a day of scenic cruising

Your expedition cruise continues north through the fabled waters of Patagonia. The seas here are captivating, with a whole palette of shades of blue, from the brightest aquamarine to the deepest midnight hues.

As we sail, we’ll scout for whales, seabirds, and seals. Take in the scenery from the panoramic sauna, hot tubs, or infinity pool, enjoy a drink on deck, or relax in the Explorer Lounge & Bar.

Your Expedition Team will also take lectures on local history and wildlife, and our onboard photographer can help with tips on expedition photography.

Stilt houses and historic churches

Set amidst the lush greenery of Chiloé Island, Castro is Chile’s third oldest city. It’s home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Iglesia San Francisco and Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Gracia de Nercón. The former is one of the oldest colonial-era buildings in the country and has survived 15 major earthquakes.

Keep your camera ready for views of the city’s colourful palafitos: stilt houses along the waterfront. For insight into local culture, head to the Museo Regional de Castro and Modern Art Museum.

Explore a Spanish fortress and a lively market

We go ashore at the pretty seaside town of Niebla, set on a picturesque peninsula with views of Corral Bay on one side and the Valdivia River on the other. Take a stroll on the wide sandy beach and, if the Feria Costumbrista market is open, sample traditional empanadas, anticuchos, and churros.

Aside from the town itself, the ruins of the old Spanish fort and its associated museum are well worth a visit. Learn more about the region's history at the museum, then wander around the lighthouse. You'll enjoy beautiful views across the river and bay.

The final day at sea

Your expedition continues along the Pacific coast to Valparaíso, our final stop. As our journey nears its end, take some time to reflect on the experiences you’ve had so far. Perhaps you’ve met some kindred spirits, or you’re already thinking ahead to your next adventure.

Join your Expedition Team for a recap of our time in Patagonia. And with your final full day at sea, take advantage of everything the ship has to offer, including one last evening meal.

End your voyage in colourful Valparaíso

Your South American expedition cruise ends in Valparaíso, the 'Jewel of the Pacific'. Built on steep hillsides overlooking the ocean, it's well worth spending time in this UNESCO-listed city before you fly home.

An intriguing mix of winding alleyways, colourful houses, and mercados packed with local produce, the city rewards wandering. Take it all in on a funicular ride up to Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción.