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Sea lions in Beagle Channel

Patagonia & Chilean Fjords

Example 14 Day Cruise aboard Greg Mortimer
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Join Greg Mortimer on this 14-day voyage towards Chile while exploring some of the world’s most spectacular and diverse scenery, with a unique combination of wine country, dazzling Andean landscapes, and tantalizing cuisine. On this voyage, you will traverse the narrows and fjords in Patagonia that are filled with glaciers, experience the expansive wildernesses and marvel at the granite spires on hikes in Torres del Paine National Park, Zodiac cruise and kayak waterways rich in wildlife, where you can hope to see migrating whales, dolphins, penguins and seals. Join the journey exploring the fjords and coast of southern Chile and discover why Chile was voted best adventure destination in South America for three consecutive years at the World Travel Awards.
Hiking through colorful fields in PatagoniaView the seal and cormorant colonies as you sail across the Beagle Channel Experience whales up close during a whale watching boat tour around Chiloe IslandTorres del Paine scenerySea lions in Beagle Channel
Highlights
  • Revel in the dramatic landscape along the Beagle Channel and Patagonia
  • Overnight in Torres del Paine National Park and be in awe of the majestic beauty
  • Watch for blowholes as whales migrate from high to low latitudes in search of warmer waters
  • Discover the UNESCO heritage listed unique timber churches in Chiloé
Places Visited
Activity Level: Relaxed
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Ushuaia, Argentina

Arrive in Ushuaia and be transferred to the group hotel located in downtown Ushuaia within walking distance of the pier. The remainder of the day is yours at leisure. 

Note: Arrival airport transfer is on preferred flights only.

Day 2: Ushuaia | Embark

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Dinner
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before exploring Ushuaia on a half-day city tour. Ushuaia, the capital city of the province of Tierra del Fuego, is located on the shores of the Beagle Channel and it is surrounded by the Martial Range, which offers a unique landscape as a result of the combination of mountains, sea, glaciers and forest. The city tour will visit The Mission, Brown and Solierneighbourhoods, where you can see old houses belonging to the first families in Tierra del Fuego, such as the Beban, the Pastoriza, and the Ramos. Head 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) out of town to Martial Glacier. The ride in the chairlift to the trails leading up to the glacier provides wonderful regional views and of Ushuaia town, the Beagle Channel and its islands.

Afterward, continue to the End of the World Museum with exhibitions explaining the history of Tierra del Fuego. Return to town before walking to Ushuaia port in the late afternoon to meet your expedition team and commence boarding at approximately 4.00 pm (final embarkation time will be provided in your final documentation). As the Greg Mortimer pulls away from port, gather on the deck to commence your adventure with spectacular views over Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego. You’ll have time to settle into your cabin before important briefings. This evening, get to know your fellow expeditioners and expedition team and crew at a welcome dinner to celebrate the start of a thrilling adventure. 

Day 3: Beagle Channel | Glacier Alley

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
As you travel into the Beagle Channel, the important waterway that allowed ships to avoid the notoriously rough waters around Cape Horn, we 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 from Ushuaia, you travel through a dazzling stretch of the 240-kilometre long (150 miles) of the Beagle Channel called Glacier Alley –or ‘Avenue of the Glaciers’, as it’s more elegantly known. You’ll 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, you’ll board 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.

Day 4: Francisco Coloane Marine Park

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
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, you can hope to see the majestic creatures from the comfort of your ship, or if conditions permit, from your kayaks or Zodiacs. 

Day 5: Chilean Fjords, Kirke Narrows

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
As you venture 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. If the Captain opens up the bridge, 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. 

Day 6-7: Puerto Natales | Torres Del Paine National Park

  • 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners
Puerto Natalesis 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 two 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 Amamrga, Sarmiento, and Nordenskjold, and Salto Grande. You may be able to see someof 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 and suited to your individual interests and fitness level. On the afternoon of your second day in Torres del Paine National, you will be transported back to the Greg Mortimer in time for dinner, swapping stories on the drive back, of your exploration of the park. 

Day 8: White Narrows | Pio Glacier XI, Chile

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
At low tide this morning, cross the White Narrows –a narrow channel of water approximately 80 metres wide. Find a spot on one of the many observation areas and appreciate the masterful skills of your Captain as they navigate through this difficult channel. At the heart of Chilean Patagonia lies Bernardo O'Higgins National Park. More than 320 kilometres (200 miles) from one end 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.

The only way to visit this area is by sea, through a maze of fjords that ultimately leads to the entrance of Pío XI, named in honour 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 allare retreating, except Pío XI. Scientists have not been able to explain exactlywhy 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 retreatingand 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.

Day 9: Puerto Eden, Chile | At Sea

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
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 come as no surprise that the main economic activity is fishing -mussels being a local speciality. Known for their excellent craftsmanship for canoe-making and basketry, local handicrafts are also a speciality, 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.

Day 10-11: Chilean Fjords

  • Ship
  • 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners
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 theatre or you may choose to enjoy a book from the library, work up a sweat in the fitness centre, treat yourself to a massage in the wellness centre, or relax in the jacuzzi and sauna and simply enjoy the splendid scenery. 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 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, Melimollu volcano, and the Maca Volcano. Scan 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.

Day 12-13: Corcovado Bay | Chiloé

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
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 recognised as one of the few marine parks of Chile based not just onthe seasonal presence of the blue whales but also on the rich array of other cetaceans, marine mammals, and seabirds. In the Corcovado Gulf, you will enjoy watching a good sample of oceanic seabirds including black-browed albatross, southern giant petrel, southern fulmar and long-distant migrants such as the migratory Arctic skua. On a hike through the dense temperate woodland, you can hope to see interesting species such as black-throated Huet-huet, chucao, ochre-flanked and Magellanic tapaculos, Des Mur’s wiretail, thorn-tailed rayadito, white-throated treerunner, Magellanic woodpecker and rufous-legged owl.

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 Chilenos. Explore this mythical island with its colourful timber churches, 16 of which have been declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. In Castro, discover palafittes –colourfully-painted timber houses built on stilts above the water –and enjoy the wit and warmth of the Chilote people whose traditions give this unique archipelago its distinctive character.

Chiloé is renowned for its superb shipbuilding heritage and carpentry skills and nowhere else in Chile showcases this better than in Dalcahue village, where you’ll visit a few shipyards, enjoy one of Chiloe’s 16 UNESCO World Heritage-listed timber churches, and see some of the most impressive wood shingle houses anywhere in the world.

Gastronomy is another principalreason why Chilenos travel to Chiloé. Blessed with abundant seafood such as mussels and cod, and with hundreds of potato varieties to choose from, the local cuisine is an experience to savor in Chiloé. You will sample traditional curanto, a specially-prepared meal and one of the most ancient recipes still being used today. Archaeologists discovered a 6000-year-old cooking pit that contained skeletal remains of coypu, sea lions, birds, fish, and whales, as well as shells from scallops, snails, abalones, mussels, and clams. These were the vestiges of an early curanto. The word curanto means “stony ground,” and is more of a preparation style than a strict recipe. The process begins by filling a metre-deep hole, which traditionally is filled with rocks, then topped with locally-sourced timber logs burned to heat the stones for cooking.

The ingredients have changed over the centuries, but these days, a mix of shellfish, smoked meat, chicken, longaniza (sausage), and potatoes are the most popular choices. Potatoes are special to Chilotés and hundreds of varieties are cultivated in Chiloé. Traditional curanto features multiple potato varieties prepared three different ways –whole-steamed in their skin, chapaleles (potato dumplings) and milcaos (potato pancakes). After loading ingredients into the pit, it’s covered with wild rhubarb leaves, damp sacks, and packed dirt. As the shellfish cooks, the shells open and release juices that sizzle on the hot rocks and help steam the rest of the food. After a few hours of wet roasting, a mouth-watering feast awaits, and since the large pits lend themselves to feeding crowds, curanto is often prepared to enliven family gatherings and special occasions. After your shore excursion, enjoy curanto lunch while local musicians offer a taste of local folklore music. 

Shore Excurion (Choose one of the following):

Castro City and Dalcahue
Discoverthe main attractions of Castro town including the“Feria Yumbel” (local market), palafittes (houses on stilts), museums, churches and the crafts market. Afterwards, visitTey’s church, a building that was moved from its original place towhere it is today. The moving of an entire building is known as “Minga de Tiradura”, a project in which the entire community volunteers help. Continueto the town of Dalcahue, famous for its artisanalshipyards, for one of the 16 World Heritage churches known for its unique shingle design. Dalcahue isalso known for its beautiful houses, its tiny museum,and as a meetingplace for localartisans who gather at their craft market to sell their creations. You will visit the typical “cocinerias” or eateries serving up delicious variety offreshly-preparedlocal dishesfor which the area is famous. Finally, watch the unearthing ofthecuranto and savour its delights.

Castro City and Chonchi
Discover the main attractions of Castro town including the“Feria Yumbel” (local market), palafittes (houses on stilts), museums, churches and the handicraft market. Next follows a visit to the beautiful churches of the area that were declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites, located in the areas of Nercon, Vilupulli and Chonchi. Afterwards, 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.Finally, watch the unearthing of the curanto and savour its delights.

Chiloé National Park
This tour goes through the natural landscapes that amazed Charles Darwin during his explorations of the Huillinco and Curao Lakes and Pacific Ocean. At Chiloé National Park visit the interpretation centre, walk along lovely “Sendero el Tepual” a pathway that winds through Chiloé’s thick and humid forest. Drive back to Castro town and watch the unearthing ofthecuranto and savour its delights. 

Day 14: Puerto Montt | Disembark

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

Ship/Hotel

Greg Mortimer

Kayak in Antarctica
Greg Mortimer- Comfortable Dining
Greg Mortimer

Ushuaia - Hotels

Dates & Prices

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Per person starting at
$7,000
Greg Mortimer-Aurora StateroomGreg Mortimer-Aurora Stateroom Triple
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Aurora Stateroom Triple
230.34 ft² - 245.41 ft² - 6 rooms available. All include en-suite bathrooms, three single beds, porthole window, desk area and 42" flat-screen TV
Greg Mortimer
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Aurora Stateroom Twin Share
170 ft² - 245.41 ft² - Greg Mortimer features 8 porthole rooms, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they're close to the mudroom and loading platforms, perfect for adventurers who are looking for a comfortable base that's close to the action.
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Balcony Stateroom C
224.97 ft² - 266.95 ft² - 14 rooms available. All include en-suite bathrooms, floor to ceiling windows and balconies and a select number are also connecting rooms, perfect for families or groups.
Greg Mortimer-Balcony Stateroom
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Balcony Stateroom B
254.03 ft² - 266.95 f - 22 rooms available. All include en-suite bathrooms, floor to ceiling windows and balconies and a select number are also connecting rooms, perfect for families or groups.
Greg Mortimer
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Balcony Stateroom A
259.41 ft² - 301.39 ft² - 22 rooms available. All include en-suite bathrooms, floor to ceiling windows and balconies and a select number are also connecting rooms, perfect for families or groups.
Greg Mortimer-Balcony StateroomGreg Mortimer
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Balcony Stateroom Superior
303.54 ft² - 432.70 ft² - With a bit more room to stretch the legs, the Greg Mortimer's two Balcony Suites are perfect for polar adventurers who travel with plenty of gear. Featuring private balconies, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area, these will sell out quickly!
Greg Mortimer
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Junior Suite
The Greg Mortimer's four Junior Suites take in some impressive scenery from their vantage 418.71 ft² - points on Deck 7. When you aren't enjoying a landing, you can relax in the suites' separate lounge area, or just watch the world float by from the private balcony.
Greg Mortimer
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Captain's Suite
478.99 ft² - The largest of all the rooms, the Greg Mortimer's singular Captain's Suite will take you to the polar regions in ultimate style and comfort. Complete with large lounge area, balcony, walk-in wardrobe and en-suite.
Included
  • 11 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, 10 Dinners
  • 13 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Comprehensive pre-departure information
  • Beer, House Wine, and Soft Drinks with Dinner 
  • Educational Lectures and Guiding Services from Expedition Team 
  • Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consult)
  • Port Surcharges, Permits, and Landing Fees
  • Captain's Welcome and Farewell drinks including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages.
  • A 3-in-1 waterproof polar expedition jacket
  • Complimentary use of Muck boots during the voyage
  • All shore excursions and Zodiac cruises
  • All airport transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
  • On-board accommodation during voyage including daily cabin service
  • Waterproof Expedition Jacket
  • Gratuities for crew will automatically be added to your bill. Please advise at the time of settlement if you would like this to be removed.
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Passport and Applicable Visa Expenses
  • Airport Departure Tax - Airport arrival or departure taxes
  • Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks (outside of dinner service), laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses, Wi-Fi, email or phone charges
  • Hotels and meals not included in itinerary
  • Optional activity surcharges
  • Reciprocity and Vaccination Charges
  • Passengers traveling with Aurora Expeditions are required to be covered by a reputable travel insurance policy that includes baggage loss, cancellation & curtailment of the holiday, medical, accident, and repatriation/emergency evacuation coverage worth at least $250,000 USD.

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Everything was amazing! The planning with Adventure Life went smoothly. The actual trip was fantastic! One of the best trips I have experienced. The cruise staff members were knowledgeable and attentive. I will be writing more about this on the blog!
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