From Penguins to Patagonia

If you have time, join the optional excursion to Tierra del Fuego National Park before embarking on MS Fram. 

Enjoy life on board and keep a lookout for wildlife, or join the Expedition Team as they start the onboard lecture series.

As you reach Antarctica, gaze at the endless white wilderness full of vistas of nature and wildlife. Staggeringly photogenic and blessed with some of the most spectacular Antarctic scenery imaginable, Half Moon Island is a glittering gem among these island treasures. Cuverville Island boasts the largest known colony of gentoo penguins in the Antarctic Peninsula. Sail through the narrow Errera Channel to and from Cuverville and see the icebergs that have become trapped and grounded in the nearby shallows. Danco Island lies peacefully among the icebergs in the Errera Channel, just a few hundred yards from the Antarctic mainland, and is a breeding site for gentoo penguins. Go ashore and explore, go kayaking to see the ice up close, or take a trip on one of the small boats. Port Lockroy is a British station from the World War II that was turned into a museum in 1996. It is one of the most popular sites in Antarctica and offers a peek into life on an Antarctic base in the 1950s. Pleneau Island is situated just south of the Lemaire Channel and is a beautiful landing site, with many stranded icebergs in the bay area.

After four unforgettable days in Antarctica, MS Fram takes you safely back across the famous Drake Passage.

At almost 56 degrees south, Cape Horn is the southernmost point of South America, and one of the most mythical places on Earth. Before the Panama Canal, seafarers had to pass this infamous rocky island in order to cross from one side of the Americas to the other. The MS Fram does her best to land on Cape Horn, despite the high seas and challenging conditions.

Sail through the Magellan Strait and the Beagle Channel, with channels, fjords, and mountains plunging into the icy water. This wild and remote area seems almost untouched by humans. The ice has scoured its way between the mountains, creating the isolated islands and hidden bays that form the unique fjord landscape of Chile. Nature enthusiasts are excited by the Chilean fjords. The snow-capped mountains and steep valleys make a striking contrast to an otherwise very green area that is rich in wildlife. Come ashore and you might be able to spot sea lions, Andean condors, and several other birds that can only be found here. 

Puerto Natales is the gateway to the world-renowned Torres del Paine National Park, one of the most attractive national parks in Chile. The ‘towers,' the impressive rock formations, both colossal and unique, called ‘Torres del Paine’ (Towers of Paine), are the main attractions of the park. The towers are made up of the Torre Central (9,186 feet high), Torre Sur (9,350 feet) and Torre Norte (7,375 feet). Enjoy hiking, glacier traversing, kayaking, and landings in these amazing surroundings. The diversity of environments here has led to very rich fauna and flora. While you are here you might see llamas, pumas, chilla foxes, and skunks – in addition to more than 100 species of birds such as the Andean condor and black-chested buzzard eagle. 

After an unforgettable voyage through the Patagonian Archipelago, visit the unique village of Puerto Edén. Known for its geographical isolation, its population of 250 includes the 15 remaining members of the Kawéskar people. Stroll among the laneways or join the Expedition Team for hiking, mountain climbing, or kayaking. 

Enjoy another day in the Chilean fjords. From the deck or the panorama lounge you have front-row seats to the majestic mountains and beautiful scenery.

Puerto Montt boasts great views of the ocean and the towering peaks of the Andes. Going ashore on one of these excursions gives you a great overview of the scenery, culture, and architecture of this area. You can also explore this city on your own. 

Enjoy a day at sea. Relax on deck or join the lectures from the Expedition Team.

Described as both colorful and poetic, Valparaíso is a unique, artistic city undergoing an impressive cultural resurgence, although poets, painters, and philosophers have long been drawn to this place. After disembarkation, learn more about the city during a sightseeing tour before you are transferred to your hotel in Santiago de Chile.

After breakfast in the hotel your expedition comes to an end.