Chilean Fjords Cruise

Overview

The vast Patagonian ice-sheet that straddles the Andes mountains in South America is the third largest ice-mass on the planet, after Antarctica and the Greenland icecap. It is a remnant of the earth’s most recent ice age and dominates the landscape, ecology and geology of Patagonia. Immense glacial systems cut through towering mountains as they move inexorably towards the sea. Take a look at any map of the region and this action becomes immediately apparent, in the maze of fjords and islands that make up one of the earth’s last great remaining wilderness regions. Ancient boreal forests also tell a story of an evolving planet and the supercontinent of Gondwanaland. They are home to several species of flora only found in South America, New Zealand, and Australia’s most southerly state, Tasmania.

Commencing in Ushuaia, the ship makes its way north through a vast network of deep fjords and channels, occasionally venturing out to the Pacific Ocean, navigating towards Valparaiso – Chile’s historic deep-sea port. Explore the surroundings by Zodiac boat, approaching huge glaciers and observing resident and migratory wildlife and birdlife. On shore, enjoy hikes of varying duration to outstanding viewpoints, in the company of expert guides. In addition, visits to small coastal communities showcase the unique way of life of the hardy local inhabitants – telling a story of both indigenous and European settlement. It is hard to think of a more remote, pristine location and you’ll discover it all in the comfort of one of the world’s most capable expedition ships, RCGS Resolute.

Gather at your central meeting point then transfer to the pier for embarkation. Excitement is in the air as you enjoy a welcome cocktail and dinner before casting off, bound for the stunning landscapes of Patagonia, rugged coastal Chile and historic city of Valparaiso.

Your journey through Chile’s spectacular fjord region commences this afternoon in Ushuaia (Argentina) when you board the RCGS Resolute. Gather at the central meeting point then transfer to the pier for embarkation. Excitement is in the air as you enjoy a welcome cocktail and dinner before casting off, bound for the stunning landscapes of Patagonia, rugged coastal Chile and historic city of Valparaiso.

Through the night the ship will have sailed south through the Wollaston Islands and down to the notorious Cape Horn headland on Hornos Island – one of the most southern points of Chile and the northern boundary of the Drake Passage. Prior to the opening of the Panama Canal in 1914, Cape Horn was part of a key world trade route (the Clipper route) and today rounding Cape Horn is a bucket list item for many recreational sailors. Weather and sea permitting, you’ll go ashore to explore the rugged landscape, lighthouse and chapel found on Hornos Island.

During the night the ship will have sailed in a north westerly direction back into the Beagle Channel, which separates Argentina from neighbouring Chile, and into Alberto de Agostini National Park, designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve due to its large tracts of ancient sub-Antarctic forest systems. Naturalists believe these forests started growing around 10,000 years ago. At the break of dawn, you’ll find yourself at the opening of the Pia and Garibaldi fjords. The fjord and glacier of choice will depend on current sea and tidal conditions. Here you have the option of taking a short but steep hike up to find panoramic views of either of the glaciers. It is also planned to explore either of the massive glaciers and near-by waterfalls here by Zodiac. Resident wildlife in the Beagle Channel includes the South American sea lion and several species of birds, including Magellanic penguins and albatross.

Sailing through the night, by morning the ship will have rounded the western tip of the great isle of Tierra del Fuego. Take in views of the ice-capped peaks of the Darwin Range as you enter remote D’Agostini Sound. Here, the Dainelli and Serrano Glaciers, along with several others, cascade into the sea. Your captain will assess current ice and weather conditions to determine where you can land to explore from shore.

Today you will arrive at Cabo San Isidro, on the north shore of Magellan Strait, and site of the southernmost lighthouse on the continent. This is your opportunity to enter the normally impenetrable Magellanic southern beech forests. A hiking trail follows the shoreline, passing shell middens left by the indigenous Kawéskar people, leading to Aguila Bay, site of an important whaling station over a century ago. Wildlife watchers will appreciate the variety of forest birds, and the viewpoint above the bay where dolphins are often observed swimming in the kelp beds below.

Cruise north through the maze of channels that form Chile’s inside Passage. After exiting the Strait of Magellan the ship will cruise along Smyth Canal on the east coast Manual Rodrigues Island – named after the guerrilla leader and arguably one of the founders of independent Chile – home to a large section of the Alacalufes National Reserve. As you explore this rugged area keep a look out for Chilean dolphins, whales and sea lions, as well as White-Crested Elaenias, Southern Churríns, Southern Crested Caracara and the Magellanic Woodpecker. Conditions permitting you will land for a shore excursion before returning to the ship for dinner. Over dinner and through the night continue to sail through the Smyth Channel towards Peel Fjord.

Navigating into Peel Fjord, the ship heads towards the impressive glaciers of this region. If you’re on the outer decks for a morning coffee or photography session you may hear the glacier calving. After breakfast head out on Zodiacs or Kayaks and witness the sheer scale of the glacier. Be on the lookout for wildlife such as South American Sea Lions, Rock Cormorants, and Andean Condors.

Navigating into Eyre fjord, the vast sweep of the Brüggen Glacier comes into view. Often called the ‘Pio XI’, at almost 60 km in length it is the largest glacier in the Southern hemisphere outside of Antarctica. From the low vantage point of our Zodiacs the sheer scale of the glacier face is overwhelming. It rises almost 70m above the surface of the water and is a staggering 4km wide. In the afternoon, put on your expedition hats to explore the seldom visited Falcon Fjord.

This morning the ship will arrive on the shores of Wellington Island, alongside one of the most isolated inhabited places in the world. The tiny indigenous village of Puerto Edén is home to the last remaining Kawéskar people. A visit to shore allows you to explore the village and to purchase local handicrafts, including models of bark canoes reflecting the Kawéskar’s paddling heritage. In the afternoon, sail north along Messier Channel, now leaving the Patagonian fjords to voyage over the open sea, rounding the Taitao Peninsula by night.

Throughout the day our onboard experts educate us with a series of presentations about the environment, wildlife and history of this stunning region. Take some time to relax in the wellness centre, pool or stroll around the decks. Our open bridge policy means that you can join the ship’s Captain and learn about the operations of our modern expedition vessel.

This morning the ship will be close to the town of Castro – the provincial capital of the island of Chiloe. The town was founded in 1567 and is the third oldest city in Chile. It flourished when the early Jesuits chose to base their mission here. Make your way ashore where you will immediately be struck by the colourful houses built on stilts around the harbour. Known as ‘palafitos’, they are simple homes built by the local fisherman. The local markets are a highlight and showcase some of the most impressive crafts and textiles in all of Chile. After re-boarding the ship in the afternoon you will sail up the coastline and hopefully see the snow-capped summits of numerous volcanoes that characterise this region.

Located at the mouth of the Valdivia River, Niebla is an intriguing coastal town with rich history, inhabited for centuries by the indigenous Mapuche tribe. Europeans first discovered it in the mid-15th century. Take in the historical remains of Fuerte de Niebla – part of an important fort system established by the conquering Spanish army to protect the estuary of the Valdivia River – and immerse yourself in the exhibitions at the Casa del Castellano museum. Unwind before the day is done by taking stroll along one of the outstanding nearby beaches and enjoy the sand, cliffs, and rock formations that scatter the coastline.

As the ship makes its way towards the historic port of Valparaiso, the educational presentations continue and you can enjoy an entertaining voyage recap by your Expedition Leader. Join the photography expert in the multimedia room, where you can download and/or back up your precious images. Or spend time outside on the observation decks, in the spacious lounges or on the bridge. It’s a fitting time to reflect on a wonderful expedition. This evening enjoy a special dinner attended by the Captain of the ship.

This morning arrive at Valparaiso – the principal deep water port for Santiago, which is around 100km inland from the coast. After breakfast it is time to say farewell to your crew and fellow travellers and disembark RCGS Resolute. A transfer to downtown Santiago, via Santiago Airport, is provided for all guests, however Valparaiso is well worth a day or two of exploration if your schedule allows. Ride the historic funicular railways that still operate around the city and enjoy the bohemian atmosphere. Or spend some time exploring the celebrated Casablanca wine region located nearby. Contact us if you would like to add on any arrangements.