Voyage of Discovery

Cosmopolitan and Energetic

Santiago, the diverse capital of Chile is where your adventure begins. An overnight stay gives you some time to explore this exhilarating city. With so much to see and do – shopping, an eclectic mix of food, museums, panoramic views and nightlife – you’re guaranteed to find yourself wanting more.

Let the Journey Begin

Fly early in the morning to Punta Arenas where your ship awaits, ready for your expedition cruise to Antarctica.

Rich and comfortable, all of the cabins are outside, with 50% having private balconies. But one of the most inspiring features is the indoor / outdoor Observation Deck. Built over two levels, it is perfect for catching both the scenery and the wildlife with your binoculars.

The Drake Passage: Days 3 – 4

Following in the footsteps of the great explorers we sail through the Beagle Channel strait in the Tierra del Fuego archipelago at the southern tip of South America. About 150 miles long and 3 – 8 miles wide, it was named after Charles Darwin’s British ship, Beagle, which explored the area in 1833-34. We will also sail through the iconic Drake Passage.

On board, our Expedition Team launch their lecture programme. Featuring information about Antarctic wildlife, history and geology, it’s not to be missed.

You’re About to Enter another World: Days 5 – 8

Made up of over 90% ice, in places up to 4000 metres thick, Antarctica will leave a lasting impression. In the winter, sea ice virtually doubles the size of the continent and in summer, it becomes a fertile breeding ground for penguins, seals and whales.

Dedicated to peace, science and tourism, we follow strict environmental rules to ensure that we do not disturb the fragile ecosystem. Although wild and unforgiving, to give you a glimpse of the diverse wildlife, our experienced captain will attempt landings in the South Shetlands and on the Antarctic Peninsula. If possible, we hope to cross the Polar Circle and venture into the permanently iced down and almost unnavigable areas, that are far beyond the limits of most cruises.

Observe the Wildlife: Days 9 – 10

What better way to relax after your Antarctic adventures than unwinding at sea. Whether you choose to unwind on deck or spend time in the Science Centre, there’s plenty to do onboard. MS Roald Amundsen, named after the first man to cross Antarctica and reach the South Pole, has been specifically constructed for voyages in polar waters and is a new addition to the fleet. The state-of-the-art liner features new hybrid propulsion (a first for large ships) and environmentally sustainable hybrid technology that will reduce fuel consumption.

Pure Paradise

Deep fjords, creaking glaciers and tall mountains that literally plunge into the icy water – welcome to the breathtakingly and stunningly beautiful Chilean fjords. Scarcely explored, this remote region promises to be an experience that you will never forget. Epic colonies of penguins, gargantuan ocean seals lazing on the beaches and pods of humpback whales await you.

Torres del Paine National Park: Days 12 – 13

Puerto Natales is a port city in southern Patagonia and is the gateway to Torres del Paine National Park. With so much to see and do in this region, you’ll be glad of the overnight stop. Scenes of Puerto Natales is an included excursion that combines the highlights of the charming town with the interesting Midodón Cave.

There is also the option to take advantage of an excursion to the National Park. Known as the “eighth wonder of the world” this overnight trip gives you plenty of time to explore the 242,000 hectares of rich habitat.

A Nature Lover’s Paradise

Cruising through the Patagonian waters, we reach the village of Puerto Edén in Bernardo O’Higgins National Park. A hamlet and minor port at the end of a deep fjord and surrounded by mountains, with only 250 inhabitants, it is considered one of Chile’s most isolated inhabited places.

The Quiet Waters of Patagonia

Make sure that you keep some time aside to check out the iconic Andean seascapes as we head north through the legendary waters of Patagonia. It’s the perfect opportunity to take some time on deck to reflect on your incredible journey so far.

Let’s Explore Castro

 An eclectic mix of palafitos (wooden houses on stilts) greet you as we pull into Castro. Established in the 16^th century, Castro is Chile’s third-oldest city and was once home to farmers. A blend of both old and new, there are plenty of place to see. While we’re here, why not take in the sights with our Castro Walking Tour.

Headed North: Days 17 – 18

You’ll get to see plenty of wildlife as we make our way along the Pacific coast to Valparaíso. Our Expedition Team will also be on hand to recap the highlights of the expedition cruise.

The Fanfare

We end the expedition in the pretty, colourful city of Valparaíso. Known as the “Jewel in the Pacific”, Valparaíso went through rapid growth when it became a major stopover for ships as they travelled between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. If you can, it would be well worth you taking some time to explore this scenic town before your flight home.