Patagonia to Antarctica Expedition - Southbound

Description

Discover the natural beauty of Patagonia
Staring in the colourful city Valparaiso, we sail along the Chilean Pacific coastline that is filled with snow-tipped volcanoes that is reflected in beautiful lakes, raging rivers and lush vegetation. The vastness and untouched beauty of the rugged and mountainous landscape will surely make a great impression!

Stunning fjords and Cape Horn
We continue one of the most scenic national parks in the world and into the fjords of Chile. This wild and remote area seems almost untouched by humans, with mountains plunging into icy waters. The steep valleys with snow-capped mountains make a striking contrast to an otherwise green area that is rich so in wildlife. Cape Horn is a mystical place where to oceans meet. We might even go ashore here.

Exploring the Deep South
Further, we will be crossing of the treacherous Drake Passage to Antarctica to the mighty frozen wastes of the south. In Antarctica we will attempt to do landings at several places. Penguins, seals, whales and large flocks of sea birds give life to this surrealistic and beautiful landscape. We will bring you on shore to experience some of the most unique wildlife viewing while setting foot on the Antarctic continent. You might also get a chance to kayak in the icy waters of Antarctica. And while on board our comfortable ship you can hear presentations by experts in Antarctica’s rich history, so that you can get even more out of what you will experience along the way. Then we cross the Drake Passage again, before this expedition ends in Ushuaia.

INCLUDED IN YOUR VOYAGE: Transfer in Ushuaia from ship to airport – Economy flight from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires

Trip Name

Patagonia to Antarctica Expedition - Southbound

Days

Overview

Vessel Type: Expedition Length: 114m Passenger Capacity: 276 Built: 2007 MS Fram is designed for sailing in polar waters, holds the highest safety standards and is the perfect size for optimum nautical manoeuverability and guests' comfort. With space for only 276 guests, you are sure to get to know many of your fellow travellers. You will share stunning sights and memories of a lifetime long after returning home. The Norwegian word Fram means ‘forward’ – lifting expectations of the voyage at hand. MS Fram was built in 2007 with one mission in mind - to bring her guests closer to nature, wildlife and unforgettable experiences. As well as offering numerous lounges in which to relax, our more active guests can use our well-equipped gym. Meanwhile, on deck, our Jacuzzis guarantee you surreal memories when passing the towering icebergs of Antarctica or Greenland.

Itinerary

Day 1 - DAY 1: VALPARAÍSO, CHILE

The Jewel of the PacificEmbarkationOne of the best ways of getting around Valparaiso is to ride the charming funiculars for sweeping views. Explore the port and piers to get a feel for Chile’s quirky seafaring side or explore the amazing Atacama Desert by adding it as a Pre-programme activity before embarking on MS Fram.

Day 2 - DAY 2-3: AT SEA

Sailing SouthAs we make our way along the Pacific coast, the Expedition Team will start their lecture programme to prepare you for the experiences ahead. Make sure to spend some time on deck to look out for wildlife.

Day 3 - DAY 4: CASTRO

Cosmopolitan CastroFull dayLocated on Isla Grande de Chiloé, Castro is set among windswept hills and is known for its colourful `palafitos´; wooden houses mounted on stilts. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Iglesia San Francisco and spot for dozens of seabird species, as well as penguins and sea lions.

Day 4 - DAY 5: AT SEA

Waters of PatagoniaWe sail south through Patagonia to one of the world’s most remote and beautiful places: the southern province of Ultima Esperanza, meaning Last Hope. We voyage through iconic Andean seascapes and you have plenty of time to gaze out on the glorious expanse of undisturbed nature.

Day 5 - DAY 6: PUERTO EDÉN

Isolated BeautyHalf dayThe isolated village of Puerto Edén in Bernardo O’Higgins National Park will enchant you, set at the end of a deep fjord and surrounded by high mountains. Its population of 250 includes the 15 remaining members of the Kawéskar tribe.

Day 6 - DAY 7-8: PUERTO NATALES

Torres del Paine National ParkOvernight stay - 2 full daysPuerto Natales is the gateway to the world-renowned Torres del Paine National Park, named for the famed rock formations of Torre Central, Sur and Norte. Explore the park on our optional excursion and get a taste of the stunning variety, from the vast open steppe to rugged mountain terrain topped by looming peaks.Keep an eye out for llamas, pumas, and chilla foxes in addition to more than 100 species of birds like the Andean condor.

Day 7 - DAY 9: CHILEAN FJORDS

A Paradise for Nature EnthusiastsThis area´s natural beauty features deep fjords and tall mountains plunging into the icy water in a landscape that seems almost untouched by humans. Bask in the beautiful stillness as we cruise past isolated islands and hidden bays that form the unique natural gem of the Chilean landscape.

Day 8 - DAY 10-11: AT SEA

Cape Horn and the Drake PassageIn the morning, we sail through the Beagle Channel, named after the ship that carried Charles Darwin on his voyage of discovery – HMS Beagle. If conditions allow, we attempt to land on Cape Horn – the southernmost tip of South America. Going ashore can be very difficult because of the sometimes-extreme weather in this area.Next, we cross the Drake Passage, where two oceans meet, on our way to the most remote continent on Earth. On our way, you can learn a great deal about Antarctica’s fantastic wildlife and history from our Expedition Team.

Day 9 - DAY 12-16 ANTARCTICA

The White Wonder that is AntarcticaAntarcticaThis wilderness is full of overwhelming impressions on an impressive scale. Our expert captain and crew will work with the elements to create an itinerary designed to maximise your enjoyment of the amazing wildlife and landscape of Antarctica.We will attempt landings at several sites in the South Shetlands and on the Antarctic Peninsula with the aim of showing you the rich diversity of landscapes and wildlife on display in Antarctica.At every opportunity, our Expedition Team will take you out for landings or ice cruising to get close and truly explore Antarctic beauty, while being sure not to disturb the wildlife.You may also have the chance to kayak in untouched waters with icebergs floating by, take guided hikes to spectacular viewing points, or even spend the night in a tent. Every day will be different, and each carefully crafted by our Expedition Team to create lasting memories.

Day 10 - DAY 17-18: DRAKE PASSAGE

Crossing the Drake PassageAfter five unforgettable days in Antarctica, MS Fram takes us safely back across the famous Drake Passage. The voyage from the Antarctic Peninsula to the southern tip of Argentina is roughly 950 km (600 mi) or 40 hours sailing time in good weather. During the voyage north, we will continue our lecture series and recap our experiences of Antarctica.

Day 11 - DAY 19: USHUAIA / BUENOS AIRES

The End of the ExpeditionDisembarkationSadly, every expedition must come to an end. When we reach Ushuaia, it is time to say goodbye. Your journey home continues with your flight to Buenos Aires, where you have a chance to extend your stay and enjoy our optional Land Adventure programs.

Day 12 - Please Note:

This is an expedition where the elements rule, and the weather, wind and ice conditions will determine our final schedule. Safety is paramount and the captain will decide the sailing itinerary during the voyage. Therefore, this itinerary is just an indication of what you can experience, and why every expedition with us is unique.

Trip Dates

Start	End	Price From	Room Type

Inclusions

Experience Patagonia and Antarctica in one expedition
Visit Torres del Paine National Park
Sail into the Chilean fjords and see Cape Horn
Enjoy kayaking, hiking and see the wildlife up close in Antarctica