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Covering about 400,000 square miles (about 1.5 times the size of the UK), Patagonia lies at the southern end of South America. Shared by Argentina and Chile, its formidable landscape is made up of part of the Andes mountains, lakes, fjords and glaciers in the west and deserts, steppes and tablelands in the east.
Antarctica, magnificent in its isolation, yet teeming with an abundance of wildlife and monumental icebergs is a majestic, timeless wonder waiting to be discovered. To fully appreciate the immense scale and pure splendour of these two regions, we have combined two voyages. Known as The Voyage of Discovery, the 19-day trip takes in Antarctica, Patagonia and the Chilean Fjords.
End-to-end Excitement
A varied and truly exciting expedition cruise, it combines the highlights of Antarctica, the stunning Chilean fjords and the intense, rich, natural beauty of Patagonia. Our experienced Expedition Team will be on hand to share their knowledge, point out wildlife and provide insights as you embark on this journey of discovery.
Wonder at the stunning natural beauty and explore the vast wilderness as you follow in the footsteps of the early Antarctic explorers. As well as getting to see wildlife such as penguins, whales and seals amidst icebergs, you will also get the opportunity to take part in ice-cruising and various landing activities – guaranteed to make it an unforgettable voyage.
Our itinerary will give you a few ideas about what you can expect to explore but bear in mind that this is just an indication of what you can experience.
Day 1 Santiago de Chile
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.
Day 2 Punta Arenas
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.
Day 3 At Sea
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.
Day 4 Antarctica
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.
Day 5 At Sea
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.
Day 6 Chilean Fjords
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.
Day 7 Puerto Natales (overnight stay)
Torres del Paine National Park: Days 7 – 8
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.
Day 8 Puerto Edén
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.
Day 9 At Sea
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.
Day 10 Castro, Chile
Let’s Explore Castro
An eclectic mix of palafitos (wooden houses on stilts) greet you as we pull into Castro. Established in the 16th 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.
Day 11 At Sea
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.
Day 12 Valparaíso
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.
Life On Board
The Hurtigruten line was originally launched to transport people and goods along the coast of Norway. It was particularly prevalent in winter when infrastructure was still in its infancy and land travel was generally more difficult. Even though there are now alternative means of transport, the Hurtigruten line still runs, calling at 34 ports along the Norwegian coastline.
When going on an expedition voyage departing from Dover, you will be travelling on board MS Maud, the name chosen after the famous polar vessel used by Roald Admundsen in 1917. MS Maud refurbishment will be completed in time for the first voyages in March 2021. As part of the refurbishment, the ship has become even more sustainable by working on biodiesel, which reduces CO2 emissions by 80%. The ship offers comfort and style alongside its expedition cruises.
Need more info?
Tel: 01582 349 480
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