fbpx

Chilean Fjords – Discovering the Heart of Patagonia Expedition

Chilean Fjords – Discovering the Heart of Patagonia Expedition

From AUD $8,599

Description

Join our expedition cruise through Patagonia and the Chilean fjords from Ushuaia to Valparaíso. You’ll visit remotenational parks and make approaches to both Garibaldi and Pio XI glaciers. The beginning of an adventure Begin with a night in romantic Buenos Aires before flying to Ushuaia to meet hybrid-powered ship MS Roald Amundsen. We’ll go straight into adventure mode and attempt a landing at Cape Horn. Waves from the Pacific and the Atlantic converge here, often creating challenging conditions. This fact just makes it all the more exciting if we do succeed in going ashore. You’ll then continue to the small town of Puerto Williams and we’ll try cruising into Garibaldi Fjord, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and home to a glacier of the same name. Patagonia’s National Parks Arriving in Puerto Natales, you may have the opportunity to join an optional excursion to the world-renowned Torres del Paine National Park. Next is Pio XI, the longest glacier in the southern hemisphere outside of Antarctica. The isolated but inviting communities of Puerto Edén and Caleta Tortel follow. Castro is a charming rustic city with access to Chiloé National Park while Niebla and its old Spanish fortress is your last stop before the vibrant hilltop city of Valparaíso.

Trip Name
Chilean Fjords – Discovering the Heart of Patagonia Expedition
Days
15
Overview
Vessel Type: Expedition Ship Length: 140 metres Passenger Capacity: 530 Built: 2019 MS Roald Amundsen is a modern expedition ship named after the legendary Norwegian polar explorer who first reached the South Pole. Built in 2019 at Kleven Yards in Norway, the vessel is purpose-designed for voyages in polar and remote waters, combining exploration capability with a strong focus on environmental performance. As one of the world’s first hybrid-powered expedition cruise ships, she uses battery-assisted electric propulsion to reduce fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions by up to 20 percent, setting a new standard for more sustainable expedition travel. With a capacity of 490 guests, she serves as a comfortable and efficient base camp at sea for journeys to some of the planet’s most extreme and spectacular regions. Onboard, Scandinavian design principles define both public spaces and accommodation, using natural materials such as granite, oak, birch, and wool to create a calm, functional, and refined atmosphere. All cabins are outside-facing, with around half featuring private balconies, while selected suites offer private outdoor hot tubs. Key facilities include a two-level indoor/outdoor Observation Deck, a Science Centre at the core of the expedition experience, multiple dining venues inspired by regional flavours, and comprehensive wellness amenities including a gym, sauna, spa, infinity pool, and hot tubs. Together, these features position MS Roald Amundsen as a technologically advanced and thoughtfully designed vessel, built to support immersive exploration without compromising comfort or environmental responsibility.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 The beat of Buenos Aires
 Feel the rhythm of bustling Buenos Aires Home to a proud and diverse community of porteños, or ‘people of the port’, Buenos Aires is a sensuous fusion of faded European splendour and Latin American panache. An overnight stay here is the ideal way to start your adventure. There are plenty of places to explore, including many parrillas serving authentic Argentine steak. Or maybe you’d like to practise your dance moves in the famous hometown of the tango.  Why not consider arriving a few days early to see all this vibrant city has to offer. 
Day 2 - Day 2 Setting sail from Ushuaia
 Fly south to Ushuaia and board your ship You'll have an early start today as we head to the airport for our flight to Ushuaia. With its backdrop of snow-covered mountains, Ushuaia holds the proud, if often-disputed, title of the southernmost city in the world.   MS Roald Amundsen is waiting in port for you. After picking up your expedition jacket and meeting your Expedition Team, settle in and explore the ship before enjoying the first of many delicious meals on board. Your adventure is officially underway.  
Day 3 - Day 3 Garibaldi Fjord
 The sights and sounds of a glacierThe goal for the day is a scenic cruise within Garibaldi Fjord in Alberto de Agostini National Park, all the way up to Garibaldi Glacier. Here, the Andes tumble into the Pacific and great glaciers calve ice into the beautiful fjord. The area is also a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and its rich waters are home to seals, sea lions and many seabirds, including the impressive Andean Condor.If conditions allow, we'll reach the Garibaldi Glacier at the head of the fjord, one of the most impressive glaciers in all of Chile. 
Day 4 - Day 4 Ainsworth Bay
 Marinelli Glacier: A glacier in retreatWe continue our exploration of Alberto de Agostini National Park sailing the Almirantazgo Sound amid towering mountain peaks to pristine Ainsworth Bay, a coastal inlet fed by the Marinelli Glacier, a glacier in retreat.  Here you’ll learn about the effects of glacial meltwater on local ecosystems and wildlife – a trend seen across the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. If local sea and weather conditions allow, we’ll explore the bay with our small expedition boats.  
Day 5 - Day 5-6 Stunning Chilean fjords
 Through the Strait of Magellan and the White NarrowsAs we sail north along the Chilean coast, join your Expedition Team for fascinating lectures on topics like pre-Columbian history, the geology of our surroundings, and the folklore of local communities. Enjoy the serenity and beauty of the maze of fjords we pass, surrounded by islands, glaciers, and steep mountains. And keep an eye out for elephant seals, dolphins, and whales, who often swim alongside the ship. Our resident photographer will be on hand to help you get the most from your wildlife and landscape photography. The next day, according to the tide, we’ll sail through the White Narrows into Puerto Natales. At only 100 metres (326 feet) wide in parts, this striking waterway between islets and sheer rock cliffs is only passable in slack water and daylight. Head out on deck to witness some of the most beautiful landscapes on the continent as your Captain skilfully navigates the ship through these famed channels. 
Day 6 - Day 7 Bohemian Puerto Natales
 Gateway to Torres del Paine Today you’ll awake in Puerto Natales, gateway to the Torres del Paine National Park. The rugged landscape features steppe, forest, and desert, punctuated by glaciers and lakes, and you can choose to see it either on a panoramic bus tour or on a hike.  Andean animals such as guanacos, rheas, and the elusive puma roam here. Look out for Chilean flamingos as well as the mighty Andean condor. Puerto Natales is a popular hub for hikers and adventurers, with many eateries, bars, andshops featuring outdoor equipment. Visit the artisan village at Etherh Aike or stroll along the photogenic waterfront.
Day 7 - Day 8-9 Exploration days
 Explore the soul-stirring Patagonian fjordsAccording to the tide, we’ll leave Puerto Natales behind and head back through the fabled White Narrows. As we make our way through the maze of the Chilean fjords, revel in the spine-tingling scenery and join the Expedition Team in the Science Centre. The next day, tidal conditions allowing, we hope to visit Puerto Edén, an enchanting village only accessible by sea. The 250-strong community here are some of the last remaining members of the Indigenous Kawésqar people, offering a fascinating insight into Patagonian culture.   Alternatively, we’ll spend the day cruising the majestic fjords, drinking in the incredible scenery and spotting wildlife along the way. We may take the opportunity to launch our small expedition boats and explore even closer. Be ready for spontaneous adventures! 
Day 8 - Day 10 Caleta Tortel
 Receive a warm welcome in Caleta Tortel We continue off the well-trodden path to visit isolated Caleta Tortel. Lying at the mouth of Río Baker, Chile's largest river, this charming village is home to just 500 inhabitants.  Instead of streets, a maze of boardwalks connects the close-knit community, spreading over water and around the mountain base.  While exploring the village, you'll come across locals selling handicrafts and you may even be treated to a performance by folk dancers.  
Day 9 - Day 11 Sea day
 Enjoy a day of scenic cruising Your expedition cruise continues north through the fabled waters of Patagonia. The seas here are captivating, with a whole palette of shades of blue, from the brightest aquamarine to the deepest midnight hues.  As we sail, we’ll scout for whales, seabirds, seals and more. Take in the scenery from the panoramic sauna or on-deck hot tubs and infinity pool, enjoy the onboard cuisine, or relax in the Explorer Lounge & Bar. Your Expedition Team will be on hand with fascinating lectures on local history and wildlife, and our onboard photographer can help with tips on expedition photography. 
Day 10 - Day 12 Castro's Chilotan charm
 Stilt houses and historic churches Set amidst the lush greenery of Chiloé Island, Castro is Chile’s third oldest city. It’s also home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Iglesia San Francisco and Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Gracia de Nercón. The former is one of the oldest colonial era buildings in the country and has survived 15 major earthquakes.    Keep your camera ready for views of the city’s colourful palafitos – stilt houses along the waterfront. For insight into local culture, head to the Museo Regional de Castro and Modern Art Museum.  
Day 11 - Day 13 The fortress at Niebla
 Explore a Spanish fortress and a lively market We go ashore at the pretty seaside town of Niebla, set on a picturesque peninsula with views of Corral Bay on one side and the Valdivia River on the other. Take a stroll on the wide sandy beach and, if the Feria Costumbrista market is open, sample traditional empanadas, anticuchos and churros.  Aside from the town itself, the ruins of the old Spanish fort and its associated museum are well worth a visit. Learn more about the region's history at the museum, then wander around the lighthouse. You'll enjoy beautiful views across the river and bay.  
Day 12 - Day 14 Relax at sea
 At Sea Your expedition cruise continues along the Pacific coast to Valparaíso, our final stop. Now, as our journey nears its end, take some time to reflect on the experiences you’ve had so far. Perhaps you’ve met some kindred spirits along the way, and maybe you’re even thinking ahead to your next adventure.  There will be a chance to enjoy a recap of our shared experiences in Patagonia and the fjords from our Expedition Team. And seeing as you’re at sea, you may as well take full advantage of all the great onboard facilities the ship offers – and enjoy a final fantastic evening meal. 
Day 13 - Day 15 UNESCO’s `Jewel of the Pacific´
 End your voyage in colourful ValparaísoYour South American expedition cruise ends in Valparaíso, the 'Jewel of the Pacific'. Built on steep hillsides overlooking the ocean, it's well worth spending time in this UNESCO-listed city before you fly home. Filled with attractions, the city is an intriguing mix of winding alleyways, colourful houses, and mercados packed with local produce. Why not take it all in on a funicular ride up to Cerro Alegre and Concepción. 
Day 14 - Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change.
Day 15 - Day 16: Valparaiso, Chile
Your voyage ends when we reach the seaport of Valparaíso. Built on steep hillsides overlooking the ocean, the UNESCO-listed city is a maze of monuments, churches, historical funicular lifts, trendy barrios, cobblestone alleys, colourful houses and charming plazas. Cerros Alegre and Concepción have probably the best views while the historic port district boasts colonial architecture, bustling mercados, and the maritime and modern art museums. You’ll likely be fascinated by this colourful and unusual city, so why not arrange to stick around for an extra day or two. From here, you also join a Post-Programme to Easter Island, famous for its mysterious statues of giant heads.
Day 16 - Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
26-03-202610-04-2026AUD $13,207Polar Outside. From
26-03-202610-04-2026AUD $14,475Arctic Superior. From
26-03-202610-04-2026AUD $18,049Expedition Suite. From
01-04-202715-04-2027AUD $8,599Polar Outside. From
01-04-202715-04-2027AUD $9,545Arctic Superior. From
01-04-202715-04-2027AUD $12,211Expedition Suite. From

Inclusions

    • A night in romantic Buenos Aires
    • Visit the small town of Puerto Williams and we’ll try cruising into Garibaldi Fjord, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and home to a glacier of the same name.
    • Join an optional excursion to the world-renowned Torres del Paine National Park.
    • Visit Pio XI, the longest glacier in the southern hemisphere outside of Antarctica. The isolated but inviting communities of Puerto Edén and Caleta Tortel follow.
    • Enjoy Castro, a charming rustic city with access to Chiloé National Park while Niebla and its old Spanish fortress is your last stop before the vibrant hilltop city of Valparaíso.

Map