Discover the dramatic fjords, glaciers and peaks of southern Chile.
We make our way north through a vast network of deep fjords and channels, occasionally venturing out to the Pacific Ocean as we navigate towards Valparaiso – Chile’s historic deep-sea port.
Robert Thirsk
Astronaut and Presenter
Canadian Engineer, physician and former Astronaut. He holds the Canadian record for the most time spent in space, and is part of the Order of Canada, and the Order of British Columbia. Join Robert onboard and learn more about life as an Astronaut.
March 28 - April 10, 2020
Royal Canadian Geographic Society (RCGS)
Co-branded voyage
A Canadian non-profit educational organization dedicated to imparting a broader knowledge and deeper appreciation of Canada.
March 8 - March 18, 2020 | March 28 - April 10, 2020| April 20 - April 29, 2020 | June 13 - June 24, 2020 | August 30 - September 11, 2020
NEW for 2021 - please check trip notes for updates to pre-voyage hotel night and private air charter.
Please note this is a SAMPLE ITINERARY and subject to change. Reference the full trip notes for your chosen departure details. We explore our surroundings by Zodiac boat, approaching huge glaciers and observing resident and migratory wildlife and birdlife.
Onshore, we enjoy hikes of varying durations to outstanding viewpoints, in the company of expert guides. In addition, visits to small coastal communities showcase the unique way of life of the hardy local inhabitants – telling a story of both indigenous and European settlement.
Our journey through Chile’s spectacular fjord region commences this afternoon in Ushuaia (Argentina). Excitement is in the air as we enjoy a welcom...
Our journey through Chile’s spectacular fjord region commences this afternoon in Ushuaia (Argentina). Excitement is in the air as we enjoy a welcome cocktail and dinner before casting off, bound for the stunning landscapes of Patagonia, rugged coastal Chile and historic city of Valparaiso.
Our journey is now well under way. Through the night we sailed south through the Wollaston Islands and down to the notorious Cape Horn headland on ...
Our journey is now well under way. Through the night we sailed south through the Wollaston Islands and down to the notorious Cape Horn headland on Hornos Island – one of the most southern points of Chile and the northern boundary of the Drake Passage.
We have rounded Cape Horn and during the night we sailed in a northwesterly direction back into the Beagle Channel, which separates Argentina from ...
We have rounded Cape Horn and during the night we sailed in a northwesterly direction back into the Beagle Channel, which separates Argentina from neighbouring Chile, and into Alberto de Agostini National Park, designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve due to its large tracts of ancient sub-Antarctic forest systems. At the break of dawn, we’ll find ourselves at the opening of the Pia and Garibaldi fjords. Our Fjord and glacier of choice will depend on current sea and tidal conditions.
Sailing through the night, by morning we have rounded the western tip of the great isle of Tierra del Fuego. We take in views of the ice-capped pea...
Sailing through the night, by morning we have rounded the western tip of the great isle of Tierra del Fuego. We take in views of the ice-capped peaks of the Darwin Range as we enter remote D’Agostini Sound. Here, the Dainelli and Serrano Glaciers, along with several others, cascade into the sea. Our captain will assess current ice and weather conditions to determine where we can land to explore from shore.
We arrive at Cabo San Isidro, on the north shore of the Magellan Strait, and site of the southernmost lighthouse on the continent. This is our oppo...
We arrive at Cabo San Isidro, on the north shore of the Magellan Strait, and site of the southernmost lighthouse on the continent. This is our opportunity to enter the normally impenetrable Magellanic southern beech forests. A hiking trail follows the shoreline, passing shell middens left by the indigenous Kawéskar people, leading from Aguila Bay, a site of an important whaling station over a century ago
We cruise through the maze of channels that form Chile’s inside Passage, gradually making our way northward. We exit the Strait of Magellan and soo...
We cruise through the maze of channels that form Chile’s inside Passage, gradually making our way northward. We exit the Strait of Magellan and soon find ourselves in the Smyth Canal along the east coast Manual Rodrigues Island – named after the guerilla leader and arguably one of the founders of independent Chile – home to a large section of the Alacalufes National Reserve.
Navigating into Peel Fjord, we make our way towards the impressive glaciers of this region. If you’re on the outer decks for a morning coffee or ph...
Navigating into Peel Fjord, we make our way towards the impressive glaciers of this region. If you’re on the outer decks for a morning coffee or photography session you may hear what sounds to be thunder - a noise stemming from glacier movement and breakage known as calving. After breakfast, we’ll make our way onto the water where, from the low vantage point of our Zodiacs or Kayaks, the sheer scale of the glacier faces is an experience you won’t forget. Be on the lookout for wildlife such as South American Sea Lions, Rock Cormorants, and Andean Condors.
Navigating into Eyre fjord, the vast sweep of the Brüggen Glacier comes into view. Often called the ‘Pio XI’, at almost 60 kilometres in length it ...
Navigating into Eyre fjord, the vast sweep of the Brüggen Glacier comes into view. Often called the ‘Pio XI’, at almost 60 kilometres in length it is the largest glacier in the Southern Hemisphere outside of Antarctica. It rises almost 70 metres above the surface of the water and is a staggering 4 kilometres wide. In the afternoon, we put on our expedition gear to explore the seldom-visited Falcon Fjord.
We awaken off the shores of Wellington Island, alongside one of the most isolated inhabited places in the world. The tiny indigenous village of Pue...
We awaken off the shores of Wellington Island, alongside one of the most isolated inhabited places in the world. The tiny indigenous village of Puerto Edén is home to the last remaining Kawéskar people.
Throughout the day our onboard experts educate us with a series of presentations about the environment, wildlife and history of this stunning regio...
Throughout the day our onboard experts educate us with a series of presentations about the environment, wildlife and history of this stunning region. Take some time to relax in the wellness centre, pool or stroll around the decks. Our open bridge policy means that you can join the ship’s Captain and learn about the operations of our modern expedition vessel.
We have moved to milder climes and are now in position close to the town of Castro – the provincial capital of the island of Chiloé. The town was f...
We have moved to milder climes and are now in position close to the town of Castro – the provincial capital of the island of Chiloé. The town was founded in 1567 and is the third oldest city in Chile. Today it is known for its elaborate churches, made entirely of wood, which have earned it a designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We make our way ashore and are immediately struck by the colourful houses built on stilts around the harbour. Known as ‘palafitos’, they are simple homes built by local fisherman. The local markets are a highlight and showcase some of the most impressive crafts and textiles in the country. Reboarding the ship in the afternoon, we hug the coastline, hoping to see the snow-capped summits of the many active volcanoes that characterize this region.
Located at the mouth of the Valdivia River, Niebla is an intriguing coastal town with rich history. Inhabited for centuries by the indigenous Mapuc...
Located at the mouth of the Valdivia River, Niebla is an intriguing coastal town with rich history. Inhabited for centuries by the indigenous Mapuche tribe, Europeans first discovered it in the mid-15th century. Take in the historical remains of Fuerte de Niebla – part of an important fort system established by the conquering Spanish army to protect the estuary of the Valdivia River.
As we make our way towards the historic port of Valparaiso, the educational presentations continue and we enjoy an entertaining voyage recap by our...
As we make our way towards the historic port of Valparaiso, the educational presentations continue and we enjoy an entertaining voyage recap by our Expedition Leader. Join our photography expert in the multimedia room, where you can download and/or back up your precious images. Or spend time outside on the observation decks, in our spacious lounges or on the bridge. It’s a fitting time to reflect on a wonderful expedition. This evening we enjoy a special dinner attended by the Captain of the ship.
This morning we arrive at Valparaiso. A transfer to downtown Santiago, via Santiago Airport, is provided for all guests, however Valparaiso is well...
This morning we arrive at Valparaiso. A transfer to downtown Santiago, via Santiago Airport, is provided for all guests, however Valparaiso is well worth a day or two of exploration if your schedule allows.
All prices are listed in USD. Single supplement: 1.5 for the twin occupancy cabins and 2 for the suites (single supplements not available for the triple share cabins).
Sea Kayaking in South & Central America is complimentary.
*NEW for 2021 - please check trip notes for updates to pre-voyage hotel night and private air charter.
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