Active & Wild Antarctica Air Cruise

This morning, enjoy breakfast and check out. Please ensure your cabin luggage is fitted with cabin tags clearly labelled with your name and cabin number. Take your cabin luggage to hotel reception, prior to, or at check-out. Your luggage will be stored and transferred directly to the port for clearance, to be placed in your cabin ahead of your arrival on board. Please keep any valuables or personal items with you throughout the day.

Your morning is at leisure to explore Ushuaia. Those wishing to join the afternoon catamaran cruise, meet back at the hotel lobby at 12:45pm ready to transfer to the port at 1:00pm. Here, board your catamaran and sail the Beagle Channel, towards the city’s iconic Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse. Crossing the Bridges Archipelago, slow down to watch colonies of sea lions and imperial cormorants sun themselves on the rocky outcrops, while gulls, rock cormorants, skuas, petrels, albatrosses and cauquenes are often sighted. This cruise offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountain range, in addition to hearing tales of the people and communities of the region.

Alternatively, enjoy your day at leisure and meet at your hotel lobby at 3:45 pm to be transferred to the pier for embarkation. Once on board, you’ll have time to settle into your cabin before important mandatory briefings. As the ship pulls away from port, gather on the deck to commence the adventure with spectacular views over Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego. This evening, get to know your fellow expeditioners and friendly expedition team and crew at a welcome dinner to celebrate the start of a thrilling adventure to Antarctica.

As the ship commences the Drake Passage crossing, make the most of the time getting comfortable with the motions of the sea. The expedition team prepares everyone for the first landing with important wildlife guidelines and biosecurity procedures, and they start the lecture program to enlighten guests about Antarctica’s history, wildlife and environment. Wildlife experiences begin with watching and photographing the many seabirds, including majestic albatrosses and giant petrels following in the ship’s wake. They rise and fall skillfully, using air currents created by the ship to gain momentum.

Nearing the South Shetland Islands and the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula, the excitement is palpable with everyone converging on one of the observation decks, watching for the first iceberg. The ocean takes on a whole new perspective once the ship is below the Antarctic Convergence and is surrounded by the surreal presence of floating ice sculptures. The memory of the first big iceberg sighting is unforgettable. Weather permitting, the first landing in Antarctica may be attempted by late afternoon.

It’s almost impossible to describe the feeling of arriving in Antarctica. Take a deep breath of some of the most fresh, crisp air on earth. The western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are ready to be explored, and there are many options. Being so far south, experience approximately 18-24 hours of daylight, enabling the days to be as busy as desired. The experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to design the voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, ice conditions and wildlife opportunities.

Hope to make landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day, as planned. Dress warmly before joining Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs or among grounded icebergs, keeping watch for whales, seals and porpoising penguins. Zodiacs will also provide transport between the ship and landing sites that are host to penguin rookeries and historic huts. While ashore, aim to stretch the legs, wandering along pebbly beaches or perhaps up snow-covered ridgelines to vantage points with mountains towering overhead and ice-speckled oceans below.

Possibly enjoy ship cruises through some of the narrow, dramatic straits separating offshore islands from the mainland, or linger in scenic bays to watch whales travelling or feeding. This is a great time to enjoy the observation lounge or bridge for uninterrupted views of Antarctica in all its splendor. Keep an ear out for the creak and deep rumble of glaciers as they carve their way from summit to sea, and take a quiet moment to experience the wonder of this incredible white continent.

Additionally, on Wild Antarctica Departures Only:

Central to the story of where Sir Ernest Shackleton’s ship, the Endurance became trapped in formidable sea ice, the Weddell Sea is high polar adventurers’ lists. Many large tabular bergs escape the Weddell Sea through the Antarctic Sound, often making navigation difficult. However, the rewards can be great. Fossils are a reminder of a more temperate era—gastropods, large clams and spiral-shaped ammonites, all turned to stone. Be spoiled with wildlife such as large colonies of Adélie penguins, Antarctic blue-eyed shags jostle and Wilson’s storm petrels. On the water, watch for chinstrap and gentoo penguins, and humpback, minke and orca whales. With good ice and plenty of luck, possibly even get close to a well-known emperor penguin colony. Cameras are sure to get a solid workout during this time in the Weddell Sea.

As the ship approaches Frei Base on King George Island, it is time to say farewell to Antarctica and an amazing adventure before boarding the flight (approximately one-and-a half-hours) to Punta Arenas, Chile. On arrival at the Punta Arenas airport, be transferred to the group hotel. Note: King George Island is located at the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula in the South Shetland Islands and is one of the most remote places on Earth. A clear sky with perfect visibility is required in order to take off and land safely. Apologies in advance for any delays.

After breakfast, bid a fond farewell to fellow travelers as everyone continues onward journeys, hopefully with a newfound sense of the immense power of nature.

This morning, be transferred to Punta Arenas airport for an early morning charter flight to King George Island, Antarctica (weather permitting). The flight will take approximately one-and-a-half hours. On arrival into King George Island the expedition team is on hand for greetings and a Zodiac transfer to board the vessel. Take time to settle into your cabin before important briefings. Note: King George Island is located at the northern part of the Antarctic Peninsula in the South Shetland Islands and is one of the most remote places on Earth. A clear sky with perfect visibility is required in order for the plane to take off and land safely. Apologies in advance for any delays.

It’s almost impossible to describe the feeling of arriving in Antarctica. Take a deep breath of some of the most fresh, crisp air on earth. The western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are ready to be explored, and there are many options. Being so far south, experience approximately 18-24 hours of daylight, enabling the days to be as busy as desired. The experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to design the voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, ice conditions and wildlife opportunities.

Hope to make landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day, as planned. Dress warmly before joining Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs or among grounded icebergs, keeping watch for whales, seals and porpoising penguins. Zodiacs will also provide transport between the ship and landing sites that are host to penguin rookeries and historic huts. While ashore, aim to stretch the legs, wandering along pebbly beaches or perhaps up snow-covered ridgelines to vantage points with mountains towering overhead and ice-speckled oceans below.

Possibly enjoy ship cruises through some of the narrow, dramatic straits separating offshore islands from the mainland, or linger in scenic bays to watch whales travelling or feeding. This is a great time to enjoy the observation lounge or bridge for uninterrupted views of Antarctica in all its splendor. Keep an ear out for the creak and deep rumble of glaciers as they carve their way from summit to sea, and take a quiet moment to experience the wonder of this incredible white continent.

Additionally, on Wild Antarctica Departures:

Central to the story of where Sir Ernest Shackleton’s ship, the Endurance became trapped in formidable sea ice, the Weddell Sea is high polar adventurers’ lists. Many large tabular bergs escape the Weddell Sea through the Antarctic Sound, often making navigation difficult. However, the rewards can be great. Fossils are a reminder of a more temperate era—gastropods, large clams and spiral-shaped ammonites, all turned to stone. Be spoiled with wildlife such as large colonies of Adélie penguins, Antarctic blue-eyed shags jostle and Wilson’s storm petrels. On the water, watch for chinstrap and gentoo penguins, and humpback, minke and orca whales. With good ice and plenty of luck, possibly even get close to a well-known emperor penguin colony. Cameras are sure to get a solid workout during this time in the Weddell Sea.

Today, the landings come to an end as the ship enters the Drake Passage for the return journey to South America. With lectures and film presentations to complete the Antarctic experience, there is still plenty of time to enjoy the magic of Southern Ocean and the life that calls it home. There is time for reflection and discussion about what has been seen and experienced, and the impact this voyage has had. Approaching the tip of South America, the captain may sail close to legendary Cape Horn, weather and time permitting.

During the early morning, cruise up the Beagle Channel before quietly slipping into dock in Ushuaia, where disembarkation occurs around 8:00am. Say farewell to the expedition team and fellow passengers as everyone continues onward journeys, hopefully with a newfound sense of the immense power of nature. A transfer to downtown Ushuaia before continuing to the airport is included in the cost of the voyage.

This morning, be transferred to Punta Arenas airport for your charter flight to King George Island, Antarctica (weather permitting). The flight will take approximately one hour and forty-five minutes. On arrival into King George Island your expedition team is on hand to greet you and to prepare you for your Zodiac transfer to the vessel. You will have time to settle into your cabin before important safety briefings. Note: King George Island is located at the northern part of the Antarctic Peninsula in the South Shetland Islands and is one of the most remote places on Earth. A clear sky with perfect visibility is required in order for the plane to take off and land safely. Apologies in advance for any delays.

It’s almost impossible to describe the feeling of arriving in Antarctica. Spotting your first iceberg and taking a deep breath of some of the most fresh, crisp air on earth is an experience that will stay with you forever. Once you arrive, the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are yours to explore, and there is a host of choices available. Because you are so far south, you will experience approximately 18-24 hours of daylight and the days can be as busy as you wish.

Your experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to design your voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, ice conditions and wildlife opportunities. You’ll generally make landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day. You will want to dress warmly before joining Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs or among grounded icebergs, keeping watch for whales, seals and porpoising penguins.

Zodiacs will also transport you from the ship to land, where you can visit penguin rookeries, discover historic huts and explore some favorite spots along the peninsula. While ashore, aim to stretch your legs, wandering along pebbly beaches or perhaps up snow-covered ridgelines to vantage points with mountains towering overhead and ice-speckled oceans below.

In addition to Zodiac cruises and shore excursions, you may ship cruise some of the narrow, dramatic straits separating offshore islands from the mainland, or linger in scenic bays to watch whales travelling or feeding. This is a great time to enjoy the observation lounge for uninterrupted views of Antarctica in all its splendor. Keep an ear out for the creak and deep rumble of glaciers as they carve their way from summit to sea. Take a quiet moment to experience the wonder of this incredible white continent.

Central to the story of where Sir Ernest Shackleton’s ship, the Endurance became trapped in formidable sea ice, the Weddell Sea certainly is high on the list for many polar adventurers. A small set of islands standing off to the east of the Antarctic Peninsula collectively form the Antarctic Sound–the gateway to the Weddell Sea. With a well-deserved reputation as being an iceberg alley where large icebergs try to escape the Weddell Sea through Antarctic Sound, often making navigation difficult. However, the rewards can be great. Fossils are a reminder of a more temperate era–gastropods, large clams and spiral-shaped ammonites, all turned to stone.

Hope to experience memorable wildlife encounters as the Weddell boasts a large Adélie penguin colony just outside of Antarctic Sound, some of which breed on the rocky slopes of a small volcanic island, where a large colony of Antarctic blue-eyed shags jostle for space with nest-building Wilson’s storm petrels. On thrilling Zodiac excursions or slicing a path through the maze of sea ice in your kayak, keep watch for chinstrap and gentoo penguins in and out of the water, as well as humpback, minke and orca whales. Your camera is sure to get a solid workout during your time in the Weddell Sea.

Enjoy a final morning landing in the South Shetland Islands before the ship re-enters the Drake Passage for your return journey to South America. With lectures and film presentations to complete your Antarctic experience, there is still plenty of time to enjoy the magic of the Southern Ocean and the life that calls it home. There is time for reflection and discussion about what you have seen and experienced. Hopefully you will become an ambassador for Antarctica, telling your family, friends and colleagues about your journey to this magical place, advocating for its conservation and preservation so that they might one day visit the region to experience what you have been lucky to see and do here. As the ship approaches the tip of South America, your captain may sail close to legendary Cape Horn, weather and time permitting.

During the early morning, cruise up the Beagle Channel, before quietly slipping into dock in Ushuaia, where you will be free to disembark around 8:00am. Say farewell to your expedition team and passengers not continuing with the land portion, hopefully with a newfound sense of the immense power of nature. Fly to El Calafate to begin your small group trek. On arrival into El Calafate, transfer to the group hotel (details will be provided in your final documents).

This township, founded in 1927, is best known as the national capital of the glaciers and is the gateway to the Patagonian Los Glaciares National Park including the famous Perito Moreno Glacier. Today is at your leisure to explore the town or walk down to Lake Argentino to watch the waterbirds. You will have a briefing in the afternoon to meet your guide and learn about your upcoming adventure, before having the first dinner with your group. Overnight in El Calafate.

Suggestions of activities in El Calafate:
• Reserva Natural Laguna Nimes: ideal for spending a morning or an afternoon bird watching, just a 10-minute walk from downtown. http://www.lagunanimez.com/
• Glaciarium: Amazing and extremely interesting Museum of Ice. Very close from town with a free transfer.
http://glaciarium.com/en

This morning, depart very early to the breathtaking Perito Moreno Glacier to watch and listen to the frequent ice calving. Later, drive across the arid Estepa Patagónica to El Chaltén (approx. 4 hours). The village of El Chaltén is in the north of Los Glaciares National Park and it’s from here that you’ll make your day trips. Enjoy dinner together this evening and overnight El Chaltén.

Over the next 2 days enjoy day walks to the base camp of Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre. Mount Fitz Roy is found at the northern end of the park and is part of a range of bizarre peaks including the needle-like rock pinnacle of Cerro Torre. For a climber it looks to be one of the most unclimbed peaks in the world–in fact it was only scaled for the first time in 1974. To the south runs a great chain of massive glaciers that basically follows the line of the Chile/Argentina border.

The dramatic rock spires beckon and your days here will be a highlight of the trip. The beautiful valleys hold crystal clear streams and are home to a multitude of bird life. During the short summer the beech trees and the flowers bloom profusely and you are here at the best time to enjoy it. Overnight in El Chaltén.

Key Trekking Highlights

Fitz Roy Base Camp / Laguna de los Tres (Los Glaciares National Park)
Difficulty: Medium/High
Description: Short drive to Hostería El Pilar next to Río Blanco 11 miles (18 kilometers) north of El Chaltén. The trail follows Río Blanco, pass Piedras Blancas glacier and up to Río Blanco base camp. Piedras Blancas glacier is a hanging glacier that descends from the base of Fitz Roy. Lunch stop will be in the vicinity of Río Blanco or Poicenot base camp. To return to town the group will follow the trail and pass Laguna Capri to enjoy even more views of Mount Fitz Roy.
Duration: 8 hours
Distance to cover: Approx. 12.5 miles (20 km)
Elevation gain: Approx. 2,297 feet (700 meters)

Cerro Torre Lagun & Glacier (Los Glaciares National Park)
Difficulty: Medium
Description: Hike along the Río Fitz Roy valley to reach the Laguna Torre at the end of the valley. Get as close as non-climbers can get to the mystical Cerro Torre. You will also visit the base camp where climbers wait for the good weather to attempt the climb.
Duration: 7 hours
Distance to cover: Approx. 13.7 miles (22 km)
Elevation gain: Approx. 820 feet (250 meters)

Today, leave El Chaltén and Argentina as you cross the border into Chile, driving across the pampas to Puerto Natales. Set on the shores of Seno Última Esperanza, this city is the gateway to the famous Torres del Paine National Park. The afternoon is at leisure and this evening you may like to sample king crab in one of the seafood restaurants. Overnight in Puerto Natales.

This morning, leave Puerto Natales and journey towards Torres del Paine National Park and its fabulous scenery. Board a boat and travel down the fjord, pausing at the Balmaceda Glacier en route. Then change onto Zodiacs and continue along the Serrano River before reaching Torres del Paine. Overnight in Villa Serrano.

Over the next few days, plan to view the highlights of the park on foot. On the first day, explore the park on a bus to reach the most remote areas, with stops for short treks. On the second day, do a long and amazing trek to reach the base of Las Torres peaks. The next 2 nights are spent in Torres del Paine National Park.

Note: The trekking level will depend on the group’s level of fitness, bearing in mind that many of the highlights of these parks require a 7-8 hour walk (round-trip). There are other walk options which are easier and provide excellent views of the parks, however as with any trek, the fitter you are the more you will enjoy the day. The whole experience of trekking in Patagonia will spoil you!

Key Trekking Highlights

Las Torres Base (Torres del Paine National Park)
Difficulty: Medium/High
Description: You will explore the Ascencio Valley, walking through a beautiful Lenga forest and getting up close to the astounding Torres del Paine viewpoint. Throughout the trek you will walk through bushes, streams and glacier moraines.
Duration: 7 hours
Distance to cover: Approx. 12.5 miles (20 km)
Elevation gain: Approx. 2,953 feet (900 meters)

Drive for approximately 3-4 hours across the steppes following the face of the Andes. The scenery is breathtaking, with great rolling hills dotted with stunted beech trees. Plan to arrive in Punta Arenas in the late afternoon. The remainder of the day is at leisure, with time for last-minute shopping or indulging the dulce de leche, a dessert you will by now be familiar with! Overnight in Punta Arenas.

Today your expedition throughout Antarctica and Patagonia will end in Punta Arenas. Transfer to the airport, or extend your adventure in the region.

This morning, be transferred to Punta Arenas airport for your charter flight to King George Island, Antarctica (weather permitting). The flight will take approximately one hour and forty-five minutes. On arrival into King George Island your expedition team is on hand to greet you and to prepare you for your Zodiac transfer to the vessel. You will have time to settle into your cabin before important safety briefings. Note: King George Island is located at the northern part of the Antarctic Peninsula in the South Shetland Islands and is one of the most remote places on Earth. A clear sky with perfect visibility is required in order for the plane to take off and land safely. Apologies in advance for any delays.

It’s almost impossible to describe the feeling of arriving in Antarctica. Take a deep breath of some of the most fresh, crisp air on earth. The western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are ready to be explored, and there are many options. Being so far south, experience approximately 18-24 hours of daylight, enabling the days to be as busy as desired. The experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to design the voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, ice conditions and wildlife opportunities.

Hope to make landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day, as planned. Dress warmly before joining Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs or among grounded icebergs, keeping watch for whales, seals and porpoising penguins. Zodiacs will also provide transport between the ship and landing sites that are host to penguin rookeries and historic huts. While ashore, aim to stretch the legs, wandering along pebbly beaches or perhaps up snow-covered ridgelines to vantage points with mountains towering overhead and ice-speckled oceans below.

Possibly enjoy ship cruises through some of the narrow, dramatic straits separating offshore islands from the mainland, or linger in scenic bays to watch whales travelling or feeding. This is a great time to enjoy the observation lounge or bridge for uninterrupted views of Antarctica in all its splendor. Keep an ear out for the creak and deep rumble of glaciers as they carve their way from summit to sea, and take a quiet moment to experience the wonder of this incredible white continent.

Enjoy a final morning landing in the South Shetland Islands before the ship re-enters the Drake Passage for your return journey to South America. With lectures and film presentations to complete your Antarctic experience, there is still plenty of time to enjoy the magic of the Southern Ocean and the life that calls it home. There is time for reflection and discussion about what you have seen and experienced. Hopefully you will become an ambassador for Antarctica, telling your family, friends and colleagues about your journey to this magical place, and advocating for its conservation and preservation so that they might one day visit the region to experience what you have been lucky to see and do here. As the ship approaches the tip of South America, your captain may sail close to legendary Cape Horn, weather and time permitting.

There is an afternoon catamaran cruise option today. Board your catamaran and sail the Beagle Channel, towards the city’s iconic Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse. Crossing the Bridges Archipelago the catamaran will slow down to watch colonies of sea lions and imperial cormorants sun themselves on the rocky outcrops, while gulls, rock cormorants, skuas, petrels, albatrosses and cauquenes are often sighted. This cruise offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountain range, in addition to hearing tales of the people and communities of the region. Alternatively, enjoy your day at leisure and meet at 3:30pm back at the pier for embarkation.

Located on Hornos Island in the Tierra del Fuego archipelago lies Cape Horn, near the southernmost point in South America. Until the opening of the Panama Canal in 1914, ships had to sail round Cape Horn to travel between the east and west coast of South America—a hazardous endeavor due to the strong winds and current, large powerful waves and occasional icebergs. These days, Cape Horn attracts adventurous travellers—mostly from expedition cruise ships, who go ashore and hike to the landmark lighthouse known as Stella Maris Chapel. At the top of the hill, you can enjoy panoramic views of where the Pacific and Atlantic oceans meet and feel the incredible power of nature as these two mighty oceans squeeze through the Drake Passage.

As the ship re-enters the Beagle Channel, an important waterway that allowed ships to avoid the notoriously rough waters around Cape Horn, follow the route that a young Charles Darwin took on board the famous HMS Beagle back in 1831, a five-year expedition that forever changed his life and which led him to develop his seminal theory of evolution.

Sailing west past Ushuaia, travel through a dazzling stretch of the 150-mile-long (240-kilometer) Beagle Channel called Glacier Alley or Avenue of the Glaciers as it’s more elegantly known. You will marvel at this string of tidewater glaciers pushing down to the edge of the sea from the enormous Darwin Ice Field. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, most of the glaciers were named after European countries or the explorers who discovered them: Holland, Italy, Romanche, Spain, Garibaldi. Weather permitting, board the Zodiacs for a closer look at the impressive Romanche Glacier. Even if fog obscures the view, the sound of the cracking ice as it calves into the water is sure to impress. Apart from the spectacular scenery, Glacier Alley offers opportunities to spot wildlife such as penguin rookeries and South American fur seals.

Established in 2003 as Chile’s first marine reserve, Francisco Coloane was the first known feeding ground for humpback whales along the Pacific coast of South America. The park honors Francisco Coloane, a celebrated Chilean author who wrote many stories of ocean adventures about Patagonia and Antarctica. Coloane was himself an adventurer, explorer and son of a whaler. Around the southern area of Santa Ines Island, surrounded by spectacular views including the tidewater glacier pushing down the rugged mountainous island, spend time kayaking and Zodiac cruising, getting a close look at Magellanic penguins, imperial cormorants, flightless steamer ducks and southern fur seals. Around Carlos III Island, a known feeding ground for the humpback whales, hope to see the majestic creatures from the comfort of your ship, or if conditions permit, from kayaks or Zodiacs.

As the ship ventures north, enter one of the many channels and fjords of Patagonian Chile. Be prepared to experience wild weather. The fjords and islands of Chilean Patagonia take the brunt of the prevailing westerlies that blow across the southern seas, and here, the wind can blow almost constantly, and rain and snow can fall all year round. You may sail through Montañas Fjord, a long fjord flanked by rugged mountains and a number of glaciers including Herman, Bernal, and Paredes.

At low tide this evening, cross the White Narrows–a narrow channel of water approximately 260 feet (80 meters) wide. Find a spot on one of the ship’s many observation areas and appreciate the masterful skills of your captain as he or she navigates through this difficult channel. At the heart of Chilean Patagonia lies Bernardo O’Higgins National Park. More than 200 miles (320 kilometers) from one end to the other, the park encompasses Patagonia’s Southern Ice Field, which in combination with its northern counterpart forms one of the largest expanses of glacial ice outside the Polar Regions.

Puerto Natales is the gateway to Torres del Paine National Park, world-renowned for its granite towers, which give the park its name. These gigantic spires were carved by glacial ice and upon entering the park, you will see a series of lakes with intense colors, mountains covered in ice and an array of local fauna. In Patagonia, you will feel the immensity of nature and delight in feeling completely insignificant in its presence. The jaw-dropping landscapes of turquoise waters, glaciers and towering granite horns of the Torres del Paine National Park is a humbling experience.

You will have 2 days to experience the wonders of Torres del Paine National Park on various hikes suited to your fitness level. You will pass several estancias (ranches) en route to the national park, and you will witness the landscape change from a steppe eco-region to deciduous forest. Along the way, pause amongst the mountains to admire views of the lakes called Amarga, Sarmiento, Nordenskjold and Salto Grande. You may be able to see some of the local fauna, including many species of birds including the majestic condor. Look out for foxes, huemul (Andean deer) and guanacos, which are wild camelids related to the llama. The reclusive, difficult-to-spot puma has also been seen inside the national park where authorities are happy to report a healthy growing population.

Spend the night at a comfortable hotel located just outside of the national park offering superb mountain and river views. Here you will enjoy local cuisine and Chilean wine and hear about the various hiking options  available to you (detailed below) and suited to your individual interests and fitness level. On the afternoon of your second day in Torres del Paine National Park, you will be transported back to the vessel in time for dinner, swapping stories on the drive back, of your exploration of the park.

Later this evening, enjoy the crossing of the Kirke Narrows. From the observation areas, it’s an ideal opportunity to watch the scenery unfold as you sail through this beautiful channel. Enjoy informative and entertaining presentations from the hand-selected expedition team, who will bring to life the natural environment, wildlife, culture and history of the places you’ll be experiencing.

Hiking in Torres del Paine National Park
You can choose from one of the following three itineraries to suit your fitness levels: Easy, Medium, and Difficult

Day One in Torres del Paine National Park
Easy Option: Shorter days with minimal walking required with visits to the national park’s most impressive lookouts such as Sarmiento Lake viewpoint, Laguna Amarga lookout, Nordenskjold Lake lookout and Salto Grande lookout. Lunch at Pehoe Lake and end the day at Villa Serrano to check-in to your hotel for the evening.

Medium Option: Easy treks of up to 8.7 miles (14 km) per day such as the Lazo-Weber trek, stopping for lunch during the trek. The trek is not difficult but it is long in distance. Walking poles are recommended for this trek. End the day at Villa Serrano to check-in to your hotel for the evening

Difficult Option: Longer and more challenging treks (three total) of up 13.7 miles (22 km) per day, such as the Fauna Trail from Sarmiento to Amarga and Salto Grande + Mirador Cuernos. Lunch at Pehoe Lake before the cóndor lookout. End the day at Villa Serrano to check-in to your hotel for the evening.

Day Two in Torres del Paine National Park
Easy Option: Depart from Villa Serrano. Visit Cascada del Río Paine and Laguna Azul. Stop at Cerro Castillo on your drive back to Puerto Natales to rejoin the ship.

Medium Option: Today’s itinerary consists of two short treks of up to 3.7 miles (6 km) each, including Salto Grande + Mirador Cuernos, Nordenskjold Lake lookout, the Fauna Trail from Sarmiento to Amarga Laguna and Amarga lookout. Drive back to Puerto Natales to rejoin the ship.

Difficult Option: Las Torres Base trek, up to 12.5 miles (20 km). You will explore the Ascencio Valley, walking through a beautiful Lenga forest and getting up close to the astounding Torres del Paine viewpoint. Throughout the trek you will walk through forests, along streams and across glacier moraines. Drive back to Puerto Natales to rejoin the ship.

This afternoon, a maze of fjords ultimately leads you to the entrance of Pío XI, named in honor of Pope Pius XI by Father Alberto de Agostini, an Italian missionary and explorer, who in 1931 was the first person to cross the Southern Ice Field. Of the 48 glaciers in the Southern Ice Field, nearly all are retreating, except Pío XI. Scientists have not been able to explain exactly why it has advanced so far and so fast over the past 80 years. In any case, Pío XI Glacier is an anomaly in a world where nearly all glaciers are retreating and being able to see it up close is a privilege. Head to Puerto Eden on your journey northwards, navigating more challenging passages including Paso del Abismo, a very narrow and spectacular channel where you can continue to enjoy remarkable scenery.

Located on the east coast of Wellington Island, inside Bernardo O’Higgins National Park, Puerto Eden is a tiny fishing village connected by intricate canals, imposing mountains, icefields, and is considered one of Chile’s most isolated inhabited places. The village is known for being the home to approximately 25 Kawésqar indigenous inhabitants–roughly 10% of the population of the village. The village is connected by beautiful timber boardwalks called pasarelas. Kawésqar are traditionally nomadic sea people and it comes as no surprise that the main economic activity is fishing-mussels being a local specialty. Known for their excellent craftsmanship for canoe-making and basketry, local handicrafts are also a specialty, and you’ll have ample opportunity to meet the locals and to purchase locally made handicrafts directly from them. You’ll enjoy exploring the picturesque boardwalks over the maze of canals, meeting the friendly locals, and soaking in the tranquil natural beauty of this isolated hamlet.

Leaving Puerto Eden behind, re-enter the channels for a few days navigating your way through Patagonia’s maze of fjords towards Chiloé. Your team of experts will continue to deliver informative and entertaining presentations in the lecture theater or, you may choose to enjoy a book from the library or stay active in the fitness center.

Spend time on the decks to scan for whales, dolphins and seabirds, while admiring the beautiful landscapes of the maze of channels and islands around. You will be sailing along part of the 90-mile-long (145 km) Moraleda Channel, which separates the mainland from the huge archipelagos of Chonos and Guaitecas. To the east you will see magnificent Andes peaks such as the Mentolat, Melimoyu and the Maca volcanoes. You will be scanning the waters for the occasional presence of pods of killer whale that predate on the numerous South American sea lion colonies located along the coast and forested islands.

Spend the morning exploring the delightful and impressive coastline of Tic Toc Bay–either ship cruising or perhaps by Zodiac and kayak. This whole area has been recently recognized as one of the few marine parks of Chile famous not only for the seasonal presence of blue whales but also for the rich array of other cetaceans, marine mammals and seabirds. In the Corcovado Gulf, you will enjoy spotting a good variety of seabirds including black-browed albatross, southern giant petrel, southern fulmar and long-distant migrants such as the migratory Arctic skua.

Continue to keep watch for whales in the Corcovado Gulf as you sail into Chiloé, an archipelago of lush islands, a land of myths and legends, unique folklore and culinary traditions. It’s a region blessed with natural beauty and culture, cherished by Chileans. Explore this mythical island with its colorful timber churches, sixteen of which have been declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO.

Continue to Castro, the charming capital of the Chiloé region. Here you have a choice of one of the following two shore excursion options:

Option 1: Castro and Chonchi (5 hours)
Discover the main attractions of Castro town including palafittes (houses on stilts), museums, churches and the handicraft market. You will then visit the beautiful renowned churches of the area recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. Continue to Chonchi, nicknamed the “city of three floors” for its terraces, with important sites such as the Museum of Traditions, Accordion Museum and its attractive waterfront. For lunch, savor the taste of the region’s fresh produce before returning to Castro for some free time.

Option 2 – Chiloé National Park (6.5 hours)
This excursion takes you through the pristine natural landscapes that amazed Charles Darwin during his explorations of the Huillinco and Cucao Lakes and Pacific Ocean. At Chiloé National Park visit the interpretation center and walk along lovely Sendero el Tepual, a pathway that winds through Chiloé’s thick and humid forest. After the walk, it’s time to relax and enjoy lunch, where you will savor the flavors of the region’s produce, before returning to Castro for some free time.

This evening, enjoy captain’s cocktail party and farewell dinner to celebrate the end of a memorable adventure in this magical part of the world.

Your voyage ends In Puerto Montt. Say farewell to your expedition team and fellow adventurers before transferring to the airport for your onward travels