Hurtigruten Expeditions in-depth Antarctica and Patagonia Northbound Expedition

23-day itinerary

Day 1: The sights of Santiago de Chile, the nation’s capital

The journey begins in Santiago, Chile’s vibrant capital. There is so much to see and do as you kick off your expedition cruise. Whether you would like to take in the city’s colonial-era architecture, high-quality restaurants, or fascinating Museums, Santiago offers something for everyone. Visit the Mercado Central Market and the Presidential Palaca, or check out the Sky Costanera which offers panoramic views of the city, 1,000 feet in the air.

Hurtigruten recommend arriving a few days early and joining one of the available pre-program packages, to experience the best of Santiago.

Day 2: Punta Arenas departure

Starting early, you will be departing Santiago and flying to Chile’s Southernmost port city, Punta Arenas. As you embark your expedition cruise ship, take time to familiarise yourself with the excellent onboard facilities, and meet your expedition team.

Given their years of experience journeying round the Antarctic Circle, the friendly and welcoming team will be happy to answer any questions you may have before you set off on your adventure.

Day 3-4: Journeying through The Drake Passage

Upon sailing toward the Antarctic, the expedition has to pass through The Drake Passage – a two-day journey with ever-changing sea conditions. Named after the legendary Sir Francis Drake, the corridor separating you from South America and the frozen continent is view by many as a ‘rite of passage’, with this being a must-see experience on your expedition cruise.

Spend some of your time in the onboard Science Centre and discover what is yet to come, while the Expedition Team will take you through intriguing lectures regarding the history, wildlife, and ecosystems of the Antarctic. You will also find out about the Citizen Science programmes you will be able to join, with the team teaching passengers how to make the visit as safe and sustainable as possible.

Day 5-12: Antarctica: Out of this world

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 eight 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 13-14: Sailing round Cape Horn

After eight unforgettable days exploring the beauty of Antarctica, the expedition cruise will then pass the southernmost tip of South America, Cape Horn.

From here, the cruise will navigate the Drake passage towards the Chilean Fjords. 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 Chile’s History and Geology, while Passengers will also be offered the opportunity to participate in Citizen Science projects.

Day 15: Exploring the Chilean Fjord’s

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 16-17: Bohemian Puerto Natales

Torres del Paine’s gateway

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 18: Exploring the remote 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 19: Patagonian waters

Timeless Andean seascapes

Cruising North towards the Chiloe islands in Castro, you will get to experience the captivating iceberg-studded waters of Patagonia. Take in the waters’ mesmerising shades of blue, culminating in the sparkling aquamarine to the deepest midnight hues.

As we 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 20: Castro’s charm

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 21-22: Reflect on your adventure

The following two days after your trip to Castro will be spent at sea, where you will have many more opportunities to reflect further on the wonders you have experiences

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

Day 23: Ending in Valparaiso

The vibrant city of Valparaiso will be the final destination on your Antarctica and Patagonia Northbound 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.

Still feel like you haven’t quenched your thirst for adventure? Hurtigruten offer optional post-programmes so that you have more time to fully experience the port city.

What’s included

Hotel

• Overnight in Santiago de Chile before the expedition cruise, including breakfast

Flights

• Flight in economy class from Santiago de Chile to Punta Arenas

Transfers

• Transfer from the hotel to the airport in Santiago de Chile before the expedition cruise
• Transfer from the airport to the ship in Punta Arenas before 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
• 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, 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 landing 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)
• Mandatory Medical Screening Form to be completed by all passengers for Expeditions to Antarctica. See the help center for more information.

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

MS Fram