Patagonia: Chilean Fjords & Argentina’s Staten Island
Embark into the unknown lands and islands of the southern tip of South America and visit places only now accessible to travelers on this Chilean fjords cruise. Take in seldom-seen channels, waterfalls and glaciers while searching for wildlife within this rugged, magnificent land.
The Chilean Fjords & Argentina’s Staten Island is an embarkation into the unknown lands and islands of the ends of the earth. These rarely visited areas are known for their seldom-seen natural splendors and mythical wilderness. This Patagonia cruise inhabits all the must-see’s of the area, including glaciers, snowcapped peaks, dramatic fjords, lakes, towering granite walls and epic waterfalls. This nature-filled voyage travels through tight channels and is only accessed by expedition ship, for which the 102-guest National Geographic Orion is ideally suited.
This carefully curated voyage includes visits to the wildlife-filled Karukinka National Park and sails through the Beagle Channel to view Cape Horn. Have the unique opportunity to explore the wilderness of the previously closed-to-visitors site of Isla De Los Estados (Staten Island) where Magellenic penguins inhabit and wildness abounds. Cruise around Observatory Island, a must-see island for birders, with its diverse and massive bird nesting colony. Visit wildlife reserves with animals such as condors, elephant seals, austral parakeets, foxes and sea lions.
Explore the incredible fjords, channels and scenic vistas via Zodiac, kayak or by foot with specialized naturalist guides and National Geographic photo instructors, both offering an in-depth travel experience. While aboard, guests can enjoy amenities such as a fitness center and sauna or even get a massage in the wellness center.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Patagonia cruises and Patagonia trips.
10-Day Southbound Patagonia: Chilean Fjords & Argentina's Staten Island Itinerary
The 10-day Southbound Patagonia: Chilean Fjords & Argentina’s Staten Island cruise embarks in Punta Arenas and cruises southbound toward Cape Horn to disembark in Ushuaia, Argentina, followed by a charter flight to end in Buenos Aires, Argentina or Santiago, Chile.
Arrive in Santiago, the capital city of Chile. Set against the Andes and Chilean Coastal mountain ranges, Santiago is home to half of the country’s population. Transfer from the airport to the Ritz-Carlton, Santiago (or similar).
Join the recommended flight from Santiago to Punta Arenas, Chile’s southern gateway to Patagonia, with provided transfers to the airport and luggage assistance. From there, drive to the outpost of Puerto Natales and embark. Be on deck to look for wildlife as your captain guides you through the Kirke or White Narrows—always a challenge to navigate because of the powerful currents that flow through its pinch points.
Today and during the following days be treated to the spectacular features of an active glaciated landscape with hanging valleys and tributary glaciers. This region was navigated by Ferdinand Magellan’s expedition and it took most of November 1520 for his ships to find a way through the channels that lie between the continental mainland and Tierra del Fuego to the south. Look to make a first stop in the extensive maze of channels and islands of the Chilean fjords, where you may go out by Zodiac and kayak.
Tierra del Fuego is one of Patagonia’s crown jewels. Visit its newest and largest protected area: Karukinka Natural Park. Established in 2004 through a gift from Goldman Sachs, Karukinka is one of the largest donations ever made for conservation. Explore, with special permission from the Wildlife Conservation Society, this private reserve, which spans 1,160 square miles and harbors endangered culpeo fox, Andean condors, albatross, grebes, petrels, fulmars, shearwaters and many other kinds of wildlife. Visit Jackson Bay, backed by a skyline of rugged mountains and look for wildlife including black-browed albatross that nest on one of the nearby small islands. Perhaps walk a trail to a lovely waterfall and look for elephant seals resting on not only the beach but also high in the grass meadows and even in the small river draining the valley inland.
Experience more stunning wilderness while exploring the fjords and glaciers of the region by Zodiac, kayak and on foot. Take Zodiacs out to explore these protected waters and rugged shores, keeping watch for the Andean condors, albatrosses, grebes, petrels, fulmars, shearwaters and many other birds that inhabit this otherworldly realm.
Sail the Beagle Channel and look to hike and kayak one of the wild areas in this region of beech forests, mountains, and rivers. This southernmost corner of the South American continent is also home to Cape Horn, the island at the convergence of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, famously difficult waters that, throughout the centuries, has been the graveyard of many ships from the time before the Panama Canal.
With special permission to visit extraordinary Staten Island, your small ship is one of the only expedition ships ever allowed here. It’s a place of superlatives, barely touched in recent decades and visited primarily by a few scientists and those who staff the tiny naval observatory. The island was named by Dutch explorers in 1615. Its mountainous, forested landscapes and rugged fjords are beautiful. A great deal of interest is found here and the exact schedule will remain flexible to take best advantage of conditions. Look for southern rockhopper and Magellanic penguins, many other water birds, and fur seals, otters and sea lions. See the replica of the 1884 San Juan de Salvamento lighthouse at the end of the world, which inspired Jules Verne’s novel by the same name. There will be chances to walk in the southern beech forests. These days are bound to stand out as a unique chance to explore a very remote place.
Disembark in Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. Fly to Buenos Aires (National Geographic Explorer) or Santiago (National Geographic Resolution) and connect with your flight home.
Included
One hotel night in Santiago; accommodations; meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar; excursions; services of expedition leaders, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.
Exclusions
Mandatory charter flights between Santiago and Punta Arenas, Chile, and Ushuaia and either Santiago, Chile or Buenos Aires, Argentina (contact your adventure specialist for pricing); immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking.
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The 10-day Southbound Chilean Fjords & Argentina’s Staten Island cruise begins in Santiago, Chile (SCL), and either ends back in Santiago, Chile or in Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE). Plan flights to arrive to Santiago by 11:00am on Day 1 of the itinerary in order to be eligible for the included group hotel transfer. Charter flights are needed to Punta Arenas (PUQ) for embarkation and from Ushuaia (USH) after disembarkation. Disembarkation is after breakfast on Day 10 of the outlined itinerary. Plan flights to depart Santiago or Buenos Aires no earlier than 9:00pm on Day 10. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Internal Flights
Group charter flights between Santiago and Punta Arenas, Chile and Ushuaia and Buenos Aires, Argentina (or Santiago, Chile), are required on this trip’s itinerary; see this trip’s Exclusions for pricing. There is a strict luggage limit of checked bags weighing up to 50 lbs from Santiago to Punta Arenas (overage is available and must be paid to airline) and 66 lbs from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires/Santiago (no overage available).
Activities
Activities included aboard this expedition include Zodiac cruises, hiking and kayaking. Other activities may include yoga and stretching, land treks, glacier viewing and wildlife observation.
Room Configuration
In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. There is no special kids programming on this itinerary.
Families & Children
Skilled staff members trained with National Geographic Education organize activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options. See the Deals section of this trip for any applicable child discounts.
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
10-Day Northbound Patagonia: Chilean Fjords & Argentina's Staten Island Itinerary
The 10-day Northbound Patagonia: Chilean Fjords & Argentina’s Staten Island cruise begins and ends with a flight from Santiago, Chile. Fly into Ushuaia, Argentina to embark, cruise northbound around Cape Horn, and disembark in Puerto Natales, Chile.
Arrive in Santiago and transfer from the airport to the Ritz Carlton (or similar) before a guided overview of this vibrant city backed by the inspiring Andes. Discover sites like the Plaza de Armas and get a feel for the mix of old and new that makes this city so great. In the early evening, gather for an informal welcome reception and a drink at the hotel.
Join the recommended flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, with provided transfers to the airport and luggage assistance. If the weather is fine, you’ll have a chance to view the spectacular mountains rising out of the Beagle Channel while enjoying lunch on a catamaran cruise. Later, embark and set sail.
With special permission, visit extraordinary Staten Island on one of the only expedition ships ever allowed here. It’s a place of superlatives, barely touched in recent decades and visited primarily by a few scientists and those who man the tiny naval observatory. The island was named by Dutch explorers in 1615. Its mountainous, forested landscapes and rugged fjords are beautiful, and there’s a great deal of interest here. The exact schedule remains flexible to take best advantage of conditions. See southern rockhopper and Magellanic penguins, many other water birds, fur seals and sea lions. Also look for otters on shore landings and see the replica of the 1884 San Juan de Salvamento “lighthouse at the end of the world,” which inspired Jules Verne’s novel by the same name. There will be chances to walk in the southern beech forests. These days are bound to stand out as a unique chance to explore a very remote place.
This southernmost corner of the South American continent is also home to Cape Horn, the island at the convergence of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, famously difficult waters that, throughout the centuries, has been the graveyard of many ships from the time before the Panama Canal. Sail the Beagle Channel and look to hike and kayak one of the wild areas in this region of beech forests, mountains and rivers. Take Zodiacs out to explore these protected waters and rugged shores, keeping watch for the Andean condors, albatrosses, grebes, petrels, fulmars, shearwaters and many other birds that inhabit this otherworldly realm. Experience more stunning wilderness while exploring the fjords and glaciers of the region by Zodiac, kayak and on foot.
Tierra del Fuego is one of Patagonia’s crown jewels. Visit its newest and largest protected area: Karukinka Natural Park. Established in 2004 through a gift from Goldman Sachs, Karukinka is one of the largest donations ever made for conservation. With exciting special permission from the Wildlife Conservation Society, visit this private reserve, which spans 1,160 square miles and harbors endangered culpeo fox, Andean condors, albatross, grebes, petrels, fulmars, shearwaters and many other kinds of wildlife. Perhaps explore Jackson Bay, backed by a skyline of rugged mountains and look or wildlife including black-browed albatross that nest on one of the nearby small islands. Or walk a trail to a lovely waterfall and look for elephant seals resting on not only the beach but also high in the grass meadows and even in the small river draining the valley inland.
Today, be treated to the spectacular features of an active glaciated landscape with hanging valleys and tributary glaciers. This region was navigated by Ferdinand Magellan’s expedition and it took most of November 1520 for his ships to find a way through the channels that lie between the continental mainland and Tierra del Fuego to the south. Look to make a first stop in the extensive maze of channels and islands of the Chilean fjords, and conditions permitting go out by Zodiac and kayak. The captain and local pilots navigate through Kirke or White Narrows, accessible only to a small ship—always a challenge to navigate because of the powerful currents that flow through the pinch point. Be on deck to look for condors and other wildlife as the ship makes her way to Puerto Natales.
Disembark this morning in Puerto Natales. Drive to Punta Arenas, take a flight to Santiago and connect to your overnight flight home.
Included
One hotel night in Santiago; accommodations; meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar; excursions; services of expedition leaders, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.
Exclusions
Mandatory charter flights between Santiago and Punta Arenas, Chile and Ushuaia, Argentina (contact your adventure specialist for pricing); immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking.
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The 10-day Northbound Chilean Fjords & Argentina’s Staten Island Cruise begins and ends in Santiago, Chile (SCL). Plan flights to arrive to Santiago by 11:30am on Day 2 of the itinerary in order to be eligible for the included group transfer. Charter flights are needed to Ushuaia, Argentina (USH), for embarkation and from Punta Arenas, Chile (PUQ), after disembarkation. Disembarkation is after breakfast on Day 10 of the outlined itinerary. Plan flights to depart Santiago no earlier than 9:00pm on Day 10. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Internal Flights
Group charter flights between Santiago and Ushuaia, Argentina, and Punta Arenas, Chile, are required on this trip’s itinerary; see this trip’s Exclusions and inquire with an Adventure Specialist for pricing. There is a strict luggage limit of checked bags weighing up to 50 lbs from Santiago to Punta Arenas (overage is available and must be paid to airline) and 66 lbs from Ushuaia and Santiago (no overage available). Luggage storage is available in Santiago for an extra charge; inquire with your Adventure Specialist for details.
Activities
Activities included aboard this expedition include Zodiac cruises, hiking and kayaking. Other activities may include yoga and stretching, land treks, glacier viewing and wildlife observation.
Room Configuration
In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.
Families & Children
See the Deals section of this trip for any applicable child discounts. There is no special kids programming on this itinerary.
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
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National Geographic Orion is a state-of-the-art expedition ship, designed to safely explore the remote regions of the planet. Orion carries 102 guests in 53 cabins, nine of them with balconies. She is equipped with a full complement of tools to explore the environment, including kayaks, Zodiacs, an ROV and the capacity to accommodate scuba divers. Her size and nimbleness offer the perfect combination of safety and the ability to go to the out-of-the-way islands and other places where large cruise ships cannot go.
National Geographic Orion Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ National Geographic Orion review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our experts have been aboard the Orion firsthand. Please read our National Geographic Orion review below then contact our experts to compare the National Geographic Orion with other with other small cruise ships, expedition ships offering Antarctica cruises, Greece small ship cruises, Mediterranean small ship cruises, Italy small ship cruises and Patagonia Cruises.
Designed and purpose-built in Germany in 2003 specifically for expedition travel, Orion is a modern, elegant ship with an intimate ambiance. In 2013, expedition cruise pioneers National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions purchased Orion Expeditions and rechristened the Orion as the National Geographic Orion. The ship itself remained the same with new cabin categories and the added benefit of onboard experts from National Geographic. The National Geographic Orion has since maintained the high standards of quality and service that the vessel has always been known for, while adding a special focus on education. Food & Wine magazine sets sail with National Geographic Orion, curating an unforgettable culinary adventure at sea. Food & Wine magazine's wine experts have curated an extensive wine list featuring over 40 regional varietals, perfectly complementing the journey with nightly onboard tastings. Choose the National Geographic Orion if you are seeking an upscale exploration with outstanding service and programs.
Design & Technology Aboard National Geographic Orion
National Geographic Orion was created from the outset to explore the far corners of the Earth in complete self-sufficiency. Engineered for maximum comfort and safety, Orion is equipped with the latest technology including large retractable stabilizers, sonar, radar and an ice-strengthened hull. A shallow draft plus bow and stern thrusters provide the convenience of being able to maneuver close to shore. Ten Zodiacs ensure quick disembarkation and offer the ideal transport for up-close exploration. National Geographic Orion meets strict specifications for environmental protection and the onboard waste management systems meet the stringent polar operational standards enabling travel to the most pristine environments. A host of advanced design features and technology ensures sustainable marine environmental practices.
Common Areas Aboard National Geographic Orion
Orion's public rooms include a dramatic window-lined main lounge/cocktail bar and library, as well as an observation lounge perched at the very top of the ship. The spacious lounge is the heart of the vessel's expedition community, and is suited for spirited cocktail hours, informative presentations and the nightly tradition of Recap. In addition, a dedicated state-of-the-art theater with surround sound provides a unique setting for specialist presentations or films and slideshows.
While Orion interiors are elegant, life aboard is always casual, with no need for formal clothing. And you’ll find shipboard services like laundry, in-room cabled internet and public-area WiFi make packing and traveling more convenient. In addition there is an outdoor bar; a mud room; a glass elevator; a sundeck with padded chairs and a Jacuzzi spa; a gym with a step machine, treadmill, cross trainer, two bicycles, free weights and exercise mats; and a health spa with a unisex dry sauna.
In the library, a wide range of books run the gamut from fiction to regional guides and reference books on the wildlife and region you’re exploring, as well as board games and cards. A laptop with internet access is available. An onboard Wellness Program offers everything from early morning guided yoga to massages and body treatments.
Dining Aboard National Geographic Orion
Both the main dining room and outside buffet easily accommodate all guests at once for open seating dining. On selected nights, weather permitting, the dining room menu is also available on the outside deck.
After your day exploring, unwind in Orion's Galaxy or Leda Lounge. Share stories with fellow adventurers over a curated wine tasting, a classic cocktail, or a refreshing drink. Then, settle in for another evening of exquisite dining.
Seating is open, allowing you to choose where to dine, and table sizes range from 2 to 12. More than opportunities to eat well, mealtimes are also opportunities to engage in the diversity of the expedition community—to join or be joined by naturalists, guest speakers, ship’s officers and fellow guests for stimulating and entertaining conversation.
Breakfasts are designed to set you up for a day of physical and mental activity: hearty and healthy, with a seasonal selection of fruit and yogurts, freshly baked breads and pastries, cheeses, cold cuts, and freshly made omelets to order. An early riser continental breakfast is served as well, and many guests choose to take their coffee and morning pastries out on deck. Lunch is a favorite on-deck experience, perhaps accompanied by a beer or glass of wine, perfect for a more relaxed afternoon, and is usually served buffet-style on the outside deck (weather permitting), with salads and both hot and cold buffet choices available. Depending on the day’s activities, an afternoon tea with cookies, cakes or pastries, is served buffet-style in the lounge.
With the entire expedition team dedicated to delivering the best expedition possible, meal times are always flexible. If a pod of dolphins is sighted shortly before lunch, the crew is adept at quickly changing meal times so you don’t miss a moment, and the quality of lunch is uncompromised.
Activities Aboard National Geographic Orion
The National Geographic Orion is purpose-built for exploration, outfitted with kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and a fleet of Zodiacs. Additionally, this ship features a custom-designed swim and kayak launch platform, secured between two Zodiac boats, to create a stable base for swimmers and kayakers. Outside of polar regions, Nat Geo Orion's on-shore activities are limited to group sizes of 15 guests or less.
Crew & Guides Aboard National Geographic Orion
Accompanying every departure is an undersea specialist, a National Geographic-Lindblad-certified photography instructor, a National Geographic Photography Expert, a wellness specialist and a full-time medical professional.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard National Geographic Orion
All accommodations have external doors and most cabins feature oversized picture windows. Double occupancy cabins come in a variety of configurations. Soothingly decorated in elegant tones, National Geographic Orion’s spacious cabins all offer beds cossetted in duvets and crisp cotton sheeting; an armchair; reading lamps; generous desk space; Ethernet jacks for in-cabin Internet access; personal safe; mini-refrigerator; individual climate controls; ample room to hang parkas and plenty of drawers, hooks and under-bed storage space; a public address system; and a flat-screen TV with several channels for movies, documentaries, lounge presentations, the Crow's Nest camera and the ship's electronic chart system displaying the ship’s current position. Generously sized marble bathrooms feature a spacious shower stall with a glass door and are stocked with environmentally inspired bath products and shower gel, hair dryer, cotton towels and cozy white robes.
Current Deals on This Trip
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Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary
National Geographic Orion is one of the most sophisticated vessel in its class. Small ship cruises aboard the Orion offer a luxurious exploration of Antarctica, Patagonia, the Mediterranean and beyond.
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