The journey begins in Puerto Montt, Chile, with boarding between 15:00 and 16:00 hrs. After all mandatory briefings, the ship sets sail towards the Gulf of Corcovado.
We continue south to visit the area around Puerto Aysen and Puyuhuapi in the Aysén region. As we cruise and explore the area, we see the landscape unfold with its many fjords, islands, and channels. We hope to visit either Puerto Cisnes, Puyuhuapi, or Magdalena Island, with the possibility to see dolphins, whales, cormorants, sea lions, and river otters.
Today, the ship reaches the Chonos Archipelago. Heading towards the Moraleda Channel, the vessel cruises around the area of San Rafael National Park, a biosphere reserve, if weather permits. The park is the main entry point to Chile's Northern Patagonian Ice Field. We will also explore the surrounding fjords, channels, islands, and coves.
As we sail south, we cross the Gulf of Penas, enjoying beautiful views of the surrounding mountain ranges. The expedition team tells us about the indigenous inhabitants of these southern lands, the early Spanish colonizers, and famous explorers such as Charles Darwin, Fitz Roy, and Alberto de Agostini. We also learn about the region's biodiversity through presentations about the local marine fauna and flora.
If weather permits, a visit to Caleta Tortel or the surrounding region is planned for the morning. Located between the mouth of the Baker River and a small cove within the Baker Channel, Caleta Tortel is a small village consisting mainly of stilt houses, typical of Chilotan architecture, built along the coast for several kilometers. Wooden walkways are built with Guaitecas cypress, they connect houses and give the village its distinctive look and unique culture. We continue sailing south towards Messier Channel and navigate through the dramatic 18-meter-wide (59 feet) English Narrows for a privileged view of the glaciers of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. Outside Antarctica, some of the largest glaciers in the southern hemisphere are found here.
We embark on a Zodiac excursion to the Amalia Glacier area or the surrounding glaciers along the Peel Fjord in the Bernardo O'Higgins National Park. We bask in the glacier’s icy-blue beauty and cruise across the sea and among its ice floes to uncover part of Chile's natural mystique. As we sail between snow-capped peaks to get a closer look at the glacier and its brilliant and rugged textures, we may spot dolphins swimming at a distance, cormorants or condors flying above, and otters.
While heading south along the Strait of Magellan, we explore the waters of the fjords that branch out from Tierra del Fuego. We follow the remote coast around the Francisco Coloane Marine Park, a protected area in the southern hemisphere where whales feed. If we are lucky, we may be able to spot humpback or sei whales breaching in the distance. We may also see dolphins, sea lions, seals, penguins, albatrosses, and petrels.
The Beagle Channel is a striking narrow passage in the archipelago of Tierra del Fuego, a region originally named after the fires that burned in local native settlements when the first European explorers arrived. Dividing Chile and Argentina, the passage showcases ice formations along the snow-dusted Darwin Range. We will sail along Glacier Alley, home to the Holanda, Italia, Francia, Alemania, and Romanche glaciers, aiming to explore the Garibaldi Fjord.
Morning arrival in Ushuaia and disembarkation.
Note: the itinerary presented above is for reference. A northbound itinerary description is available on request. As for any expedition cruise, our route will be subject to weather conditions and the requirements of the Chilean authorities.
Accommodation for this trip can be on either of these two vessels:
The Magellan Discoverer offers a luxurious travel experience with modern amenities, spacious cabins, gourmet dining, and stunning views. Guests can enjoy a fitness center, sauna, and library, all supported by a professional crew for a memorable journey through pristine regions.
The Magellan Explorer is a modern vessel for polar expeditions, offering comfortable cabins, gourmet dining, and leisure facilities like a gym, sauna, and library, all supported by an experienced crew for a safe and memorable journey through remote landscapes.
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For other dates, please inquire with our Travel Experience Designers.
This trip starts in Puerto Montt and ends in Ushuaia.
This trip suits those not prone to seasickness and are able to walk gently over flat terrain. It is not physically demanding.
The Magellan Explorer & Magellan Discoverer can accommodate 76 passengers on air-cruises and 96 passengers on sea voyages.
Transport outside the ship will be in 4 seat vehicles or vans.
Antarctica21's expeditions cater to adventurous travelers in good health, requiring flexibility due to changing conditions. Participants come from over 40 countries, sharing a passion for adventure. Travelers must complete an online Participation Form at least ninety days before departure and have adequate medical and cancellation insurance. While itineraries aim to be followed, changes may occur due to unpredictable weather, prioritizing safety. Clients are advised against using expensive luggage and should consider luggage insurance, as Antarctica21 is not liable for damage. English is the official language, and non-English speakers should travel with someone who understands it for safety and enjoyment.
Each cruise trip has its own Terms & Conditions, and we highly recommend reviewing them here before booking your trip.
The vast unbroken stretch of ocean to the west and south of the South American continent leaves the Patagonian Andes very exposed to the winds that circle the Antarctic landmass, making the weather hard to predict. Fine weather may deteriorate almost without warning; even in summer (December to March), you should come prepared to find strong cold winds (up to 130km/hr) and rainfall. Summer’s average temperature is 11ºC (52ºF), ranging between 2 to 24ºC (35 to 75ºF).
The average temperature in the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) during the time of our visit is in the 5 - 10°C (40 – 50 °F) range. The average temperature in South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula area during the time of our visit is about 0°C (32°F), although sometimes it may feel a little lower because of the wind chill factor. For this reason, it is best to wear several layers of light, warm clothing. The suggested clothing for Antarctica and the sub-Antarctic regions is very similar to that recommended for skiing: thermal underwear, a couple of warm and wicking mid-layers, a windproof and waterproof jacket, plus pants as the outer layer. You will also need a hat, a scarf, waterproof and insulated gloves, and sunglasses with high UV protection. The pre-departure material provides further details. We also suggest packing comfortable clothes to wear on board, as well as rubber-soled shoes for walking around on the outside decks.
* Image courtesy of Antarctica21.
Updated October 4th, 2022
Dear Traveler,
We are very happy to announce that there are currently no travel restrictions in Chile.
Together with the above mentioned, it is mandatory to comply with the following requirements:
In case you have any questions, we will be happy to help you!
Best,
The Team at Cascada Expediciones & EcoCamp Patagonia
