On this 15-day Chile cruise aboard 199-guest Ultramarine, retrace Charles Darwin’s epic voyage to the “edge of the world.” On this comprehensive journey into Chile’s spectacular network of fjords and channels, enjoy helicopter flightseeing and Zodiac cruises along an enchanting stretch of coastline. Take in awe-inspiring perspectives of some of the most remote and picturesque landscapes on Earth. From Magellanic penguin colonies and other seabirds to South American sea lions and southern elephant seals, the fascinating array of wildlife is as abundant as the majestic blue-toned tidewater glaciers. Discover this enchanting wonderland and experience all the natural splendors of southern Patagonia.

Highlights include encountering iconic wildlife, such as Magellanic penguins, sea lions and seabirds; experiencing some of the world’s most remote glacial and fjord systems, including Glacier Alley; retracing Darwin’s route through the Beagle Channel and learning about the storied history of southern Chile; Zodiac cruises among gorgeous glaciers, fjords and channels; and the unique opportunity for helicopter flightseeing right from the ship.

Modern expedition ship Ultramarine acts as home base. This purpose-built vessel is designed to extend the boundaries of exploration and offer an unmatched experience, including an unforgettable flightseeing tour (weather permitting) and a range of adventure options more extensive than any other ship in her class. Optional activities (additional cost) include kayaking, one-time paddling excursions, stand-up paddleboarding and an exclusive heli-landing.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Patagonia cruises and Patagonia trips.

Essential Patagonia: Chilean Fjords & Torres del Paine Itinerary

Buenos Aires, ArgentinaPunta Arenas, Chile, Fly to Santiago & Depart

The 15-day Essential Patagonia: Chilean Fjords & Torres del Paine cruise embarks in Ushuaia, Argentina, moving south to Cape Horn and then north to Torres del Paine before backtracking to disembark in Punta Arenas.

Route map of Essential Patagonia: Chilean Fjords & Torres del Paine Cruise, operating from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, Argentina for embarkation, disembarking at Punta Arenas, Chile and ending in Santiago, Chile.

Upon arriving in this splendid city, known for its architecture and rich European heritage, you will independently transfer to your pre-expedition hotel, which is included in your Charter Flight & Hotel package.

ACCOMMODATIONS Hotel TBA
MEALS N/a

After an early breakfast at the hotel, transfer with the group to the airport and board a private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina. Upon arrival, be transferred from the airport to a central downtown location to have some time on your own to explore this quaint port town before meeting the bus (at a designated location) to be transferred to the ship.

After a late afternoon embarkation, sail along the historic Beagle Channel, which transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America.

ACCOMMODATIONS Ultramarine
MEALS Breakfast

Begin exploration of Chile’s southern extent and expect a new adventure every day. Though each expedition will be different, depending on the weather, aim to start the journey to the “edge of the earth” with a visit to historic Cape Horn (Cabo de Hornos). At the southernmost point of the Tierra del Fuego (“Land of Fire”) archipelago, this steep, rocky headland on Hornos Island marks the northern boundary of the famous Drake Passage, where the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans meet. From the 1700s to the early 1900s, prior to the opening of the Panama Canal, this cape was part of a major global trade route.

If sea and weather conditions allow, go ashore for a hike out to the lighthouse, the tiny Stella Maris (“Star of the Sea”) Chapel, and the albatross-shaped monument honoring the many mariners who lost their lives attempting to “round the Horn.” Atop the windswept promontory, pause for a moment to take in the panoramic view and to enjoy the peaceful solitude that can only be found at one of the most southern stretches of land in the world. Even get your passport stamped by the family operating the lighthouse!

ACCOMMODATIONS Ultramarine
MEALS Breakfast

As the ship sails north toward the southern edge of Tierra del Fuego, be enriched by the expedition team’s stimulating presentations on glacial systems, geology, environment, wildlife and storied history of the region while retracing Charles Darwin’s historic journey through the Beagle Channel, a 150-mile strait separating Tierra del Fuego’s main island from several smaller islands. Named after Captain Robert FitzRoy’s famous ship on which Charles Darwin was a young naturalist, the channel presents plenty of photo ops to capture seabirds hovering overhead and dramatic vistas of jagged-peaked mountains and massive tidewater glaciers. Rugged and untouched, this magnificent landscape is as starkly beautiful as it was when Darwin first laid eyes on it in 1833. What he experienced in this region would later help him form his earthshaking theory on evolution by natural selection.

Glacier Alley (as it’s nicknamed) is one of the most spectacular ship passages in Tierra del Fuego. To honor the European countries that first explored the region, the glaciers have taken their names—España (Oblicuo), Romanche, Alemania (Roncagli), Francia, Italia and Holland Glaciers. Situated within the protected boundary of Alberto de Agostini National Park, both Pia and Garibaldi Glaciers sit at the head of picturesque ice-choked fjords that offer jaw-dropping views. Located within the Cordillera Darwin (Darwin Mountain Range), the impressive Pia Glacier extends from the soaring mountaintops down into the sea. A short hike to a lookout point provides superb vistas of the glacier and mountains. Surrounded by pristine sub-Antarctic forests, Garibaldi Glacier flows from a separate mountain, providing equally exceptional views, with the Darwin Mountains rising dramatically out of the fjord. Explore this area by Zodiac, including a beautiful glacial waterfall nearby. While navigating the fjords, the expedition team keeps watch for Andean condors, massive birds rivaled in wingspan by only the wandering albatross.

ACCOMMODATIONS Ultramarine
MEALS Breakfast

Located at the end of a tranquil lagoon surrounded by lush sub-Antarctic forests in Agostini Sound, Dainelli Glacier (sometimes called Aguila—Spanish for “Eagle” Glacier) is a unique sight, as it appears to flow over rolling hills rather than mountains. Cruising aboard a Zodiac toward the blue-tinged wall of ice, conditions permitting, be humbled by the wonder of nature’s power. Hope to venture ashore for an easy hike along the beach to get a more intensive look at the glacier and surrounding mountains.

ACCOMMODATIONS Ultramarine
MEALS Breakfast

Continuing north, the ship navigates through a remote network of coastal fjords and channels, including time spent venturing out into the Pacific Ocean. The expedition team will prepare all for the adventures that await, helping everyone further understand the glacial systems, as well as the flora and fauna that can be found in this part of Chile. Take a moment, while gliding past soaring snow-capped peaks, to contemplate the mariners of long ago who traveled these same sheltered passageways and were rewarded with the same wondrous sights.

ACCOMMODATIONS Ultramarine
MEALS Breakfast

Sailing the turquoise waters of the extraordinary stretch of coastline leading to the small port of Puerto Natales, the ship meanders through a mesmerizing maze of deep, windswept fjords, narrow channels and isolated bays, with an eye toward the rugged landscape, unique wildlife and impressive glaciers that tumble from the towering mountains into the icy waters below, along with the imperial and king cormorants, South American terns, black-necked swans and southern wigeons (Chiloé wigeons) that frequent the fjords.

Torres del Paine National Park is one of the most stunning wilderness areas in South America, and Puerto Natales is the gateway. This enormous park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, so designated for both its natural wonders and ancient human history, and named for the three granite peaks that tower above the glacier-fed lakes. Enjoy a full day of hiking tailored to different activity levels and stopping at lookouts in the park, followed by a traditional Patagonian barbecue in the afternoon.

Taking the expedition onto dry land for another full day, also visit a working Patagonian estancia (“ranch”), founded in 1891 by Scottish immigrants. Here, learn about Patagonian sheep farming in a historic pastoral setting. Inhabiting the surrounding grasslands are the ostrich-like rhea, and guanacos, a wild relative of the domestic llama. Complete this cultural experience with a lunch of barbecued lamb al palo (“on a stick”) and return to the ship in the early evening.

ACCOMMODATIONS Ultramarine
MEALS Breakfast

Cruising the calm, crystal-clear waters of the Canal de las Montañas (“Channel” or “Fjord of the Mountains”) is breathtaking. Be awed by the amazing series of waterfalls cascading down between the jagged peaks that rise up sharply on either side of the narrow, 41-mile long channel dotted with glaciers, five of which spill dramatically into the water. Here, impressive ice fields glisten and steeply sloped glaciers exceed elevations over 8,235 feet. The channel also provides an ideal place to put Zodiacs in the water for more detailed exploring or going ashore for a hike to scenic viewpoints.

ACCOMMODATIONS Ultramarine
MEALS Breakfast

A series of small islands and rocky outcrops in Almirantazgo Sound (“Admiralty Sound”), a fjord off the Strait of Magellan, Tuckers Islets is a superb location for viewing penguins. Though landing here is prohibited to protect the fragile nesting habitat, a Zodiac excursion along a pebble beach enables viewing of a colony of 4,000-plus breeding Magellanic penguins, conditions permitting. Named for Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan, whose crew sighted the charming creatures in 1520 during the first circumnavigation of the globe, the species is native to the region; and the sight of them in their burrows, lounging on the beach or waddling in and out of the water, is unforgettable. With luck, also spot Chilean skuas, Magellanic cormorants (rock shags), imperial cormorants (king shags), oystercatchers, kelp geese, or even dolphins.

ACCOMMODATIONS Ultramarine
MEALS Breakfast

Continue exploring Almirantazgo Sound by going ashore at Ainsworth Bay, one of the most picturesque and pristine places in Patagonia. Surrounded by untouched sub-Antarctic forest, this isolated bay is a protected area within the border of Alberto de Agostini National Park. It hosts abundant birdlife, so keep eyes peeled while cruising in the Zodiacs. Hiking options are available for all fitness levels, affording panoramic views of Marinelli Glacier, Marinelli Fjord and the surrounding Darwin mountain range.

ACCOMMODATIONS Ultramarine
MEALS Breakfast

Another excellent spot for glacier exploring in Almirantazgo Sound is Bahia Brookes (Brookes Bay) where, conditions permitting, go ashore by Zodiac. The bay offers ample chances for closer views of a number of waterfalls and glaciers, including the calving North Brookes Glacier, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the towering Darwin mountain range. Amid the serene silence of this icy wonderland, the only sound may be the powerful roar of ice breaking off and crashing into the frigid waters below. This is also a great location for viewing ice fall deposits, which form reconstituted glaciers and kame (silt and sediment deposits).

ACCOMMODATIONS Ultramarine
MEALS Breakfast

In the middle of the Strait of Magellan, Marta Island (Isla Marta) is home to abundant birdlife and more than one thousand Patagonian (South American) sea lions. To protect the wildlife, shore landings are not possible here, but plan to circumnavigate the island with numerous opportunities to observe and photograph the colony from a short distance, in the comfort of a Zodiac. Called lobos marinos (“sea wolves”) by local Chileans, these giant pinnipeds—males can weigh over 700 pounds—form quite a noisy group as each sea lion vies for a choice spot of coastline. While cruising by, catch possible sightings of imperial cormorants, skuas, southern gulls, Antarctic pigeons—and with luck—dolphins.

ACCOMMODATIONS Ultramarine
MEALS Breakfast

After an adventurous 2 weeks of exploration, you’ll say goodbye to your expedition team and disembark in Punta Arenas, to be transferred to the airport for your charter flight to Santiago which is included in your Charter Flight & Hotel Package. Upon arrival at the airport, you are welcome to continue on your own travels or connect to your homeward flights.

ACCOMMODATIONS n/a
MEALS Breakfast

Included

Charter Flight & Hotel Package (approximate package price is $1,195 for the 2025-26 season, or $1,295 for the 2026-27 season and includes one night’s pre-expedition hotel night in Buenos Aires with breakfast on Day 2, group transfer from hotel to airport in Buenos Aires, charter flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, arrival transfer in Ushuaia, airport transfer after disembarkation in Punta Arenas, and charter flight from Punta Arenas to Santiago); shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping; all meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board; select beer and wine during dinner; all shore landings per the daily program; leadership throughout the voyage by experienced expedition leaders; all Zodiac transfers and cruising per the daily program; formal and informal presentations by expedition team and special guests as scheduled; a photographic journal documenting the expedition; waterproof expedition boots on loan for shore landings; an official Quark Expeditions® parka to keep; coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock; a hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin; basic WiFi (premium packages available for purchase); all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; all luggage handling aboard the ship; one 10- to 15-minute helicopter flightseeing excursion (weather and logistics permitting); Torres del Paine National Park entrance fee and ground transfers; Estancia visit and ground transfers; barbecue lunches ashore during Puerto Natales/Torres del Paine excursion days.

Exclusions

International airfare; passport and visa expenses; Chilean reciprocity fee, if applicable; government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above; meals ashore unless otherwise specified; baggage, cancellation, interruption, evacuation and medical travel insurance (strongly recommended); excess-baggage fees on international and domestic flights; mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, and any other gear not mentioned above; laundry, bar, massage services and other personal charges unless specified; phone charges; additional overnight accommodation; optional adventure activities; voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew; arrival and departure transfers, except where explicitly stated.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 150 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 120 days – 100% of deposit
119 to 90 days – 75% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

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 Essential Patagonia: Chilean Fjords & Torres del Paine cruise begins in Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE), and ends in Santiago, Chile (SCL), with charter group flights from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia and from Punta Arenas to Santiago. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to Buenos Aires ahead of the 12:00-8:00pm window for luggage weighing and tagging on Day 1. Arrange your own independent transfer to the included Buenos Aires hotel on Day 1. Plan flights to depart Santiago the day after disembarkation, as arrival in Santiago is likely to be after most international flights have departed (flight details will be available closer to departure). In Santiago, choose to book a stay at the airport hotel in preparation for an early morning departure, or book a transfer and hotel in the city if staying longer. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Internal Flights

Group charter flights between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia, and Punta Arenas and Santiago are required on this trip’s itinerary; see the Charter Flight & Hotel Package information listed above under Exclusions. The flight to Ushuaia is expected to depart early on Day 2 of the itinerary. There is a strict luggage limit on the flights to Ushuaia and from Punta Arenas, which will be detailed in your final documents as flights are confirmed close to departure; only one checked bag and one cabin bag is allowed. There is no option to pay for additional luggage or for it to be stored, as the itinerary concludes in a different location. On Day 15 of the itinerary, the ship is scheduled to arrive at the pier between 7:00 and 8:00am local time. Disembarkation follows breakfast, with a group transfer to the airport for the charter flight to Santiago.

Activities

Various optional activities may be available on your Essential Patagonia: Chilean Fjords & Torres del Paine cruise. Included are optional hiking, Zodiac cruising, daily presentations, photography guides and a 10- to 15-minute helicopter flightseeing excursion (weather- and logistics-dependent). Per-person prices for the 2025-26 & 2026-27 seasons: Heli-Landing $995; kayaking $1,995; photography included; stand-up paddleboarding $295. One-time paddling excursions are available for $395 per person, per outing, for those who want something less in-depth than the full sea kayaking program; no experience is necessary. Each departure’s first paddling excursion may be pre-booked and all subsequent outings are booked on the ship. Please contact AdventureSmith to reserve activity space with your booking.

Room Configuration

Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Solo travelers willing to share can reserve a triple or twin-shared cabin, where you will be matched with a person of the same gender. If the other cabin berth goes unsold, you will be guaranteed the double rate. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x (2x for Premium cabins) the per-person listed rate in select cabins based upon availability. Premium Cabins are as follows:
Ultramarine: Deluxe Balcony Suite, Terrace Suite, Penthouse Suite, Owner’s Suite & Ultra Suite

Families & Children

At date of embarkation, a minimum age restriction of 8 years and minimum height and weight requirements (weight of 64lbs or 29kg and 48 in. or 1.2 m. tall) must be met. Children under 16 years of age must be supervised by a parent/guardian at all times and may not participate in adventure options.

Travel Insurance

It is a condition of your participation in this expedition that you shall have comprehensive medical insurance in place which is sufficient to cover all medical risks and exposure, including emergency medical and evacuation coverage. Trip cancellation insurance is optional but highly recommended. 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

Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Antarctica expedition. Visits to research stations depend on final permission.

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