Chilean Fjords – Discovering the Heart of Patagonia | Southbound

Sail south along the Peruvian trench

Prepare for the adventures ahead as we spend a day at sea cruising south. Take the opportunity to get to know your ship better, perhaps trying out some of its facilities such as the hot tubs or sauna. There will also be lectures to attend and new friends to be made.

Our journey takes us through the rich waters of the Humboldt Current as we pass over the Peruvian trench—a tectonically active, 5,000-foot-deep gouge in the sea floor. The deep water and swift-moving currents bring a variety of wildlife to the area. Your Expedition Team will tell you more about the Humboldt Current’s importance to the marine ecosystem and help you spot birdlife, like Peruvian boobies, brown boobies and various species of whales.

Witness unforgettable seascapes

Your expedition cruise continues south through the waters of Patagonia. The seas here are captivating, with a whole palette of shades of blue, from the brightest aquamarine to the deepest midnight hues.

As we sail, there's a good chance you’ll see whales, seabirds, seals, and more. Take in the scenery from the panoramic sauna or on-deck hot tubs and infinity pool, or just enjoy the on-board cuisine before relaxing in the Explorer Lounge & Bar.

Your Expedition Team will be on hand with fascinating lectures on a range of topics, and our on-board photographer can help with tips on expedition photography.

Explore the Patagonian fjords and cross the White Narrows

We’ll spend the next two days sailing through the maze of the Chilean fjords. Tidal conditions permitting, we hope to visit Puerto Edén, an enchanting village only accessible by sea. The 250-strong community here contains some of the last remaining members of the Indigenous Kawésqar people, offering a fascinating insight into Patagonian culture.

Alternatively, we’ll spend the day cruising the majestic fjords, drinking in the incredible scenery and spotting wildlife along the way. We may take the opportunity to launch our small expedition boats and explore even more closely. Be ready for spontaneous adventures!

The next day, depending on the tide, we’ll sail through the White Narrows into Puerto Natales. At less than 330 feet wide in parts, this striking waterway between islets and sheer rock cliffs is only passable in slack water and daylight.

Head out on deck to witness some of the most beautiful landscapes on the continent as your captain skilfully navigates the ship through these famed channels.

Sail through the Magellan Strait

Tides and currents permitting, we’ll depart Puerto Natales and sail through the White Narrows again. Once we’re through, we’ll cruise deep into the heart of the Chilean fjords, surrounded by panoramic views as we head towards Garibaldi Fjord.

Sailing south along the Chilean coast, join your Expedition Team for fascinating lectures on topics that might include pre-Columbian history, the geology of our surroundings and the folklore of local communities.

Enjoy the serenity and beauty of the maze of fjords as we pass through, surrounded by islands, glaciers, and steep mountains. And keep an eye out for elephant seals, dolphins and whales, who often swim alongside the ship.

Our resident photographer will be on hand to help you get the most from your wildlife and landscape photography.

See one of Chile’s most impressive glaciers

The goal for the day is a scenic cruise through Garibaldi Fjord in Alberto de Agostini National Park, all the way up to Garibaldi Glacier. Here, the Andes tumble into the Pacific and great glaciers calve ice into the beautiful fjords.

The area is also a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and its rich waters are home to seals, sea lions, and many seabirds, including the impressive Andean condor.

If conditions allow, we'll reach the Garibaldi Glacier at the head of the fjord, one of the most impressive glaciers in all of Chile.