Patagonia, Cape Horn & Antarctica

Arrive at any time and enjoy the sights and sounds of this World Heritage city, set on hills overlooking the Pacific Ocean. In the afternoon, embark on board ship and set sail southwards. 

Enjoy lectures and on-board facilities and spend time on deck spotting birds and marine wildlife as you set sail towards the Chilean fjords.

Located on Isla Grande de Chiloé, Castro is set among windswept hills and green vegetation. The city is known for its colourful “palafitos”, wooden houses mounted on stilts along the water's edge. Come ashore and enjoy the local Chilote character and curious energy, mixed with a dash of modern development. There are markets, cafes and a variety of birds and sealions to be seen close to the water's edge.  

Heading south towards the remote province of Ultima Esperanza, or Last Hope.

After an unforgettable cruise through Patagonian waters, the unique village of Puerto Edén will enchant you. It is a tiny settlement in Bernardo O’Higgins National Park, situated at the end of a deep fjord and surrounded by mountains. Its population of 250 includes the 15 remaining members of the Kawéskar people. There are no roads, only wooden walkways, and electricity is only available during a few hours every day. Puerto Edén is a great place to experience the traditional indigenous culture of Patagonian tribes. The villagers sell fish, mussels and shellfish products, which are taken to markets by a weekly transport boat. For souvenirs, buy traditional Kawéskar crafts such as wicker baskets and boats made from sea lion skins and tree bark. Enjoy a stroll among the laneways, and maybe you will spot one of the many Magellan hummingbirds found here, when you join the Expedition team for hiking or kayaking.

Puerto Natales is the gateway to the world-renowned Torres del Paine National Park, one of the most attractive nature sanctuaries in the world. Its main feature is the eponymous “towers” themselves; impressive rock formations,made up of the Torre Central (9,186 feet high), Torre Sur (9,350 feet) and Torre Norte (7,375 feet). The park features azure lakes, trails that meander through emerald forests, roaring rivers, (which you'll cross on rickety bridges) and one big, radiant blue glacier. Torres del Paine hosts stunning variety, from the vast open steppe to rugged mountain terrain topped by looming peaks. This diversity of environments here has led to the flourish of a wide variety of a fauna and flora. While we are here you might see llamas, pumas, chilla foxes and skunks in addition to more than 100 species of birds like the Andean condor and black-chested buzzard eagle. Enjoy hiking in these amazing surroundings.

Sail close to the spectacular Chilean fjords, spending time on deck marvelling at the scenery and spotting birds and other wildlife. We will do our best to make a landing on Cape Horn. However, this is an area known for high seas and challenging conditions and if we make it this will be a great achievement. Then onwards towards Antarctica across the famed Drake Passage, followed by albatrosses, petrels and other seabirds.

Come ashore to explore the impressive Antarctic scenery, penguins and fur seals. From deck there are lots of chances of seeing whales as well. Enjoy close encounters with wildlife and glaciers, old whaling stations and relics. You are in one of the most remote areas of the world, but trust us when we say that you will not be bored for one single second.  Some of the places we will see are the South Shetlands and Cuverville Island, home to a large colony of gentoo penguins. Neko Harbour is beautifully located in the innermost part of Andvord Bay. Paradise Harbour got its descriptive name from the whalers during the last century. You can also look forward to visiting Half Moon Island, considered a jewel of diversity in the polar landscape. Join the expedition team and explore Antarctica with landings to get a close look at thousands of penguins and seals, enjoy kayaking and visits to the most interesting places.  

Relax and enjoy on board facilities and take last opportunities on deck spotting birds and looking for whales.

Arrive and transfer to airport for flight to Santiago