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HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Antarctica and Patagonia Expedition (Southbound)

Hurtigruten Expeditions Antarctica and Patagonia Expedition (Southbound)

Call free – 0800 707 6229 – or enquire for huge extra savings on Hurtigruten Expeditions Antarctica and Patagonia

 

18-day expedition cruise visiting Valparaiso, Patagonia and the Antarctic, before concluding in the wonderful Argentine Capital, Buenos Aires.

  • Experience the Antarctic in late Spring, taking in the fascinating wildlife on this desolate continent.
  • Visit outstanding UNESCO recognised World Heritage Sites and delve deep into the Chilean Fjords.
  • Adventure around the vivacious Valparaiso, the unique stilt-houses of Castro, and the picturesque mountains surrounding Puerto Natales.

18-day itinerary

Day 1: Valparaiso, a UNESCO gem

Discover the beauty of Chile’s principal port city

The vibrant city of Valparaiso will be the first stop on your Antarctica and Patagonia expedition cruise. Often referred to as the ‘Jewel of the Pacific’, this colourful and unique city is built on steep hillsides overlooking the crystal blue ocean.

Brimming with enticing scents and sounds, Valparaiso is an exciting maze of alleyways and barrios, colourful houses, as well as ‘mercados’ packed with locally sourced produce. Immerse yourself with the city’s culture by taking a funicular ride up Cerro Alegre and Concepcion.

Fancy exploring more of what the city has to offer before setting sail? Hurtigruten offer optional pre-programmes so that you have more time to fully experience the port city.

Day 2-3: Prepare yourself for adventure

The following two days after your trip to Valparaiso will be spent at sea, where you will many opportunities to learn more about the wonders awaiting you on your trip.

Hurtigruten’s onboard expedition team are experts in everything from Oceanography and Geology to History and Ornithology. Drop in on their engrossing lectures and take part in the hands-on presentations in the Science centre.

See if you can spot any rare wandering albatrosses and petrels while on deck, and make the most of the excellent onboard facilities.

Day 4: The charm of Castro

See historic churches and stilt houses

Being Chile’s third-oldest city, Castro is set amongst the abundant vegetation of Chiloe island. Home to two UNESCO world heritage sites, Iglesia San Francisco and Iglesia Nuestra Señora de Gracia de Nercón, you’ll enjoy fantastic views of the city’s vibrant ‘palafitos’, which are stilt houses situated along the waterfront.

To delve deeper into the city’s rich culture, head to the Regional Museum and the Museum of Modern Art. The city also hosts a varied array of stunning bird species – so bring along your binoculars and you may just see some Chilean Flamingos, Penguins and Ringed Kingfishers, to name but a few.

Day 5: Heading South

The expedition will now journey South as you head towards the remote Puerto Eden, passing the stunning islands of Aysen as the MS Roald Amundsen cruises through the fabled waters.

As you sail, there’s a strong chance you’ll see a variation of whales, seabirds, penguins, and more. Absorb the scenic views from the panoramic sauna or the hot-tubs on deck, and enjoy locally sourced cuisines from the restaurants onboard.

Need some pointers on improving the quality of your photography? The professional photographer will be happy to share his tips on landscape photography.

Day 6: The secluded Puerto Eden

Experience the unique Kawesqar culture in a Patagonian village

The next stop on your expedition journey is the enchanting village of Puerto Eden, set in Bernardo O’Higgins national park and at the end of a deep Fjord.

This remote settlement can only be accessed by sea, with the ferry connecting the settlement to the mainland only visiting once a month. With the village’s 250 inhabitants being some of the last remaining indigenous Kawesqar people, the shops and houses are all connected by wooden boardwalks – there are no roads here. Take the opportunity to speak to the local residents to gain further insight into their isolated culture.

Day 7-8: Puerto Natales – gateway to Torres del Paine

The cruise continues on towards Puertos Natales, the gateway to Torres del Paine national park. Hurtigruten offer both bus and hiking tours for passengers to experience the beauty of this national park, with both tours worth participating in.

Chilean Flamingos and Guanacos roam freely amongst this mountainous landscape. The rugged backdrop features steppe, forest, and desert, accentuated by breathtaking glaciers and lakes. If you’re fortunate enough, you may even be able to spot the Mighty Andean Condor looming in the skies above.

The many eateries, bars, and outdoor shops make Puerto Natales a popular hub for hikers and explorers alike. Take the opportunity to visit the artisan village of Etherh Aike, wander along the picturesque waterfront, or drop by the Last Hope Distillery for a guided gin tour.

Day 9: The Chilean Fjords

Observe the spectacular landscapes brimming with wildlife

Your journey south along the Chilean coast guides you through beautifully rugged island chains, making up the fjords of the Magallanes province. Wildlife thrives here – with lonely islands and hidden bays providing a prosperous ecosystem.

You will have the opportunity to cruise aboard small boats (RIBs) or on deck, scanning the vast coastline for Magellanic Penguins, elephant seals, and even various species of whale. Passengers may also be able to see striking waterfalls along the this dramatic and stunning section of coastline.

Day 10-11: Cape Horn

After sailing through the Beagle channel, the expedition cruise will then pass the southernmost tip of South America, Cape Horn. Any landing attempts will be dependent on good weather conditions, as the iconic landmark regularly presents a challenging environment to contend with.

From here, the cruise will navigate the Drake passage toward Antarctica. During the route, the onboard team will fully prepare you for what lies ahead, ensuring that your visit is as smooth as possible.

The expedition team will hold lectures about Antarctica’s History, Geology, and Fauna, whilst also discussing the impact of climate change and plastic pollution has on the region. Passengers will also be offered the opportunity to participate in Citizen Science projects.

Day 12-15: Antarctica: Out of this world

Uncover Antarctica’s remote beauty

The first sight of Antarctica’s immense, frozen beauty will leave you speechless. Titanic icebergs float in the straits as you are greeted with the sheer majesty of this ice-covered continent. Despite the harsh conditions, nature continues to thrive. Gentoo and Chinstrap penguins court while Adelie Penguins nest. Countless seabirds patrol the skies overhead. This is a place like no other.

You will actively explore several landing sites over the next four days, with there being a total of 20 possible landing areas around the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands. Every day will be thrilling in different ways, no matter where you go or what you do.

The cruise may sail into flooded volcanic caldera or land in icy bays where you may see remnants of whaling paraphernalia. The experienced expedition team may also take passengers kayaking amongst the icebergs and seals, and snowshoeing to scenic viewpoints.

Antarctic seabirds such as skuas, petrels, and terns make for great viewing for bird enthusiasts. The team will also conduct onboard lectures and onshore talks surrounding the precious habitat, and how we as humans can help to conserve it.

Day 16-17: Sailing toward Ushuaia

After enjoying the wonders of what Antarctica has to offer over your 4-day expedition, it’s time to head back. Coursing through your mind will be memories of unforgettable sights and sounds, while phones and cameras are full to the brim with timeless images captured by you and your fellow passengers.

As you begin your final days at sea, you will be offered the opportunity to reflect on your unique experiences, recapping your knowledge of the frozen continent with the expedition team and other passengers. Why not also take advantage of the excellent restaurant and bar areas, as you leave the idyllic landscape in the rear-view.

Be sure to unwind from all of the excitement by using the panoramic sauna and hot-tub facilities as the cruise heads towards Ushuaia, the final destination.

Day 18: Ushuaia and Buenos Aires

Ushuaia, the main city in Argentina’s Tierra Del Fuego, will be the final destination on your expedition cruise. After disembarking the cruise ship, you will then be flying to Buenos Aires to conclude your holiday – but the adventure does not have to end there.

If you’re looking to experience more of Argentina’s passionate capital, why not join our post-programme, for more information about other deals and excursions on offer for you to experience.

What’s included

Transfer

  • Transfer from the ship to the airport in Ushuaia after the expedition cruise

Flights

  • Flight in economy class from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires after the expedition cruise

Expedition Cruise

  • A stay in a cabin of your choice
  • Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Wine, beer and spirits available at meals and throughout the day and evening (subject to licensing laws, excludes premium drinks)
  • All day coffee, tea and soft drinks
  • Meals and take-away available throughout the day during Fredheim restaurant opening hours
  • Fine dining in restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests
  • A complimentary water bottle to refill on board and take home
  • A polar expedition jacket, a backpack, or another piece of HX kit
  • Professional photos from your trip taken by our onboard photographer
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi. Please note, streaming is not supported
  • Use of sauna, hot tubs, pool, fitness room, lounges and more
  • Gratuities included. Fantastic service is standard at HX – though if you’d like to leave something extra, it’s always appreciated
  • Range of included activities

Onboard Activities

  • In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team
  • Full access to the ship’s Science Centre
  • Citizen Science Programme allows guests to assist with ongoing scientific research
  • Professional onboard photographer gives tips and tricks for the best landscape and wildlife photos
  • Informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings

Landing Activities

  • Escorted landings with small expedition boats
  • Loan of boots, trekking poles and all equipment for activities
  • Expedition photographers on hand to assist you

Notes

  • All planned activities are subject to weather and ice conditions
  • Excursions and activities are subject to change
  • Please make sure you meet all entry and boarding requirements
  • Depending on your flight times, an additional overnight might be needed (not included)

What’s not included

  • International flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Luggage handling
  • Optional shore excursions with our local partners
  • Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team
  • Optional treatments in the onboard wellness and spa area

 

 

 

Please call us free on 0800 707 6229 for pricing and availability

Useful Info

Location

Board Basis

All inclusive

Duration

18 days

Holiday Type

Cruise expedition holiday

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During your Antarctic journey with Hurtigruten, you’ll have the opportunity to observe abundant wildlife, including penguins, seals, seabirds, and whales.

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