Antarctica, Chilean Fjords and Falklands – Great Explorers and Wildlife

Day 1

Exciting and Diverse

Santiago de Chile – Hotel

Your adventure starts with an overnight stay in Santiago, the exciting capital of Chile. There is much to discover here, from Andean glaciers at the city borders, to skyscrapers and lovely colonial architecture. Why not extend your expedition by adding an optional pre- and/or post-cruise Land Adventure to the amazing Atacama Desert?

Day 2

Embarking the Expedition

Santiago / Punta Arenas

Fly early in the morning to Punta Arenas where the hybrid-powered MS Roald Amundsen awaits, ready for your expedition cruise to Antarctica.

Day 3

Scenic Beagle Channel

Chilean Fjords – Patagonia

Enjoy cruising scenic Beagle Channel, surrounded by mountains plunging straight into icy waters. This wild and remote area seems almost untouched by humans. Take in the isolated islands, hidden bays and rich wildlife that create one the world´s most beautiful landscapes.

Day 4-5

Cape Horn and Drake Passage

Drake Passage – At sea

Cape Horn is the southernmost point of South America, and we will do our best to make a landing here. MS Roald Amundsen will then cross famed Drake Passage to Antarctica. On the way, enjoy lectures by our expedition team in the Science Center, as well as the wellness area and other onboard amenities.

Day 6-12

Antarctica – Beautiful Beyond Description

Antarctica

Antarctica is wilderness on a massive scale.  It is home to 90 percent of the world´s ice, reaching up to more than 13,000 ft in thickness. Winter sea ice virtually doubles the size of the continent. In summer, Antarctica is a breeding ground for millions of penguins, whales and seals.

As outlined in the Antarctic Treaty, this is a continent dedicated to peace, science and tourism. No human activity is permitted that can alter the perfect natural balance that has evolved through millennia. That´s why we follow very strict environmental guidelines and rules. We want to leave nothing but our footprints and take nothing but pictures!

Our captain and expedition team will take advantage of the often-ideal conditions to take you ice-cruising, and ashore on landings for exciting activities.  You may have the chance to kayak the icy waters in the company of whales, hike or even camp out on the world´s most isolated continent.

It´s hard to sum up all that an expedition cruise to Antarctica will give you. A well-known quote from veteran Antarctic traveler coins it: “If you can describe Antarctica with words, you have probably never been there.”

Day 13

Lectures and Spotting Wildlife on Deck

At sea

After exploring unforgettable Antarctica, we set course for the Falkland Islands. Our expedition team will brief you about the history and biology of the islands, point out wildlife from our outer decks and scout for albatrosses that often guide our way.

Day 14-16

At the Edge of Antarctica

 The Falkland Islands

After the wilderness of Antarctica, you may be amused by contrast of Stanley with its red English phone booths, red buses and old pubs. The capital is an ideal size for roaming the streets on foot, or you can join an excursion to explore wilderness and wildlife in the surrounding area. We will be docked here throughout the day.

The Falklands are teeming with wonders of nature, fantastically clear blue skies, vast horizons and stunning white sandy beaches.

As we reach the westernmost outposts in the Falklands, you will see remote farms that have been family-owned for generations. We may go ashore on Carcass Island – an aviary paradise with ducks, geese, penguins, albatrosses, caracaras and wrens. We hope to go ashore for exploring, hiking or taking a closer look at the birds.

Day 17

The Magellan Strait

At sea

As we complete the loop of Magellan Strait, we will recap everything we have experienced on the expedition cruise in the Science Center. Make sure you spend some time on deck watching for wildlife.

Day 18

The End of the Expedition

Punta Arenas / Santiago de Chile

We arrive back in Punta Arenas in the morning. After the flight back to Santiago de Chile, you can extend your vacation with a post-cruise Land Adventure to experience more of this impressive region.