Antarctica

Antarctica & Patagonia Expedition

Name: Antarctica & Patagonia Expedition
Brand: HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions)
Price: 12601 USD
Availability: InStock

18-day all-inclusive Antarctica expedition cruise from Valparaíso to Buenos Aires

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Route Map

Gallery

14 photos

Voyage Overview

18-day all-inclusive Antarctica expedition cruise from Valparaíso to Buenos Aires

Voyage Highlights

Wonders of Patagonia Fjords

From Valparaíso, you’ll sail to rustic Castro with its colorfulpalafitoshouses. From there, weave through the Chilean fjords and scenic waterways of Patagonia that offer stunning glacial views and abundant wildlife sightings. Along the way, we’ll visit small, isolated communities, offering a glimpse into life in a remote corner of the world.

Icescapes and penguins

Guided by your Expedition Team, you’ll spend four incredible days exploring Antarctica’s immense, pristine icescapes. Springtime is courting season, meaning you will be able to observe penguins’ mating rituals. There's no set schedule – we adapt our itinerary to take every opportunity to get closer to nature and enjoy unique experiences on ice cruises and landings.

Destinations

Antarctica Drake Passage Patagonia

Language Services

English

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Before the cruise

Day-by-day stops

After the cruise

Please Note

All planned activities are subject to weather and ice conditions Excursions and activities are subject to change Please make sure you meet all entry and boarding requirements  Depending on your flight times, an additional overnight stay might be needed (not included)

Flights

Flight in economy class from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires after the expedition cruise

Transfers

Transfer from the ship to the airport in Ushuaia after the expedition cruise

Expedition Cruise

A stay in a cabin of your choice
Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Wine, beer, and spirits available at meals and throughout the day and evening (subject to licensing laws; excludes premium drinks)
All day coffee, tea, and soft drinks
Fine dining in restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests
A complimentary water bottle to refill on board and take home
Wind and waterproof expedition jacket
Professional photos from your trip taken by our onboard photographer
Complimentary Wi-Fi. Please note that streaming is not supported.
Use of sauna, hot tubs, pool, fitness room, lounges, and more
Gratuities included. Fantastic service is standard at HX (though if you’d like to leave something extra, it’s always appreciated).
Range of included activities

Onboard Activities

In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by our knowledgeable Expedition Team
Use of our Science Centre, including the library and advanced biological and geological equipment
The Citizen Science Program allows guests to assist with ongoing scientific research
An onboard professional photographer will give tips and tricks for taking the best landscape and wildlife photos
Informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings
Daily briefing with the Expedition Team about the plans for the next day

Landing Activities

Escorted landings with small expedition boats
Loan of rubber boots, trekking poles and other necessary equipment for activities. Your HX travel documents will have a recommended packing list.
Expedition photographers on hand to assist you

International flights
Additional overnight stay(s) may be required due to international flight schedules
Travel insurance
Luggage handling
Optional shore excursions with our local partners
Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team
Optional treatments in the on-board wellness and spa area

Ship

MS Fridtjof Nansen

HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions)

The newest addition to our fleet honors the heritage of her namesake – the Norwegian explorer, scientist, humanitarian and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Fridtjof Nansen. Known for his innovations in Arctic expeditions, Nansen led the first crossing of Greenland on cross-country skis. He is perhaps most famous for his attempt to reach the geographical North Pole during the Fram Expedition (1893-1896). Interestingly, after Nansen's Fram expedition, the ship was passed on to another great explorer who secretly planned an expedition to the South Pole - Roald Amundsen.

Passengers490

Tonnage20,889 GT

Built2020

Ice ClassPolar Class 6

Decks9

View Ship Details

Deck Plans

Onboard Facilities

Onboard Life

Live Position

Extend your trip with Pre & Post-Trip Programmes

1 of 1

Tortel Community Visit

Discover the isolated community of Tortel and sample local empanadas. Explore Tortel Remote communities seldom visited by travellers don’t have the typical tourist-related infrastructure common in bigger ports.  We may get the chance to enjoy a singing or dance performance, a taste of local food, or a craft demonstration, visit a small museum, enter a church, see the social centre, or stroll through the local market. Whatever they prepare for us, be sure that it will be a unique experience prepared from the bottom of their hearts. *While we're excited to share the unique flavours of this region with you, it’s important to note that allergy awareness and hygiene standards can vary widely across the world. The local community providing food for this tour may not be as familiar with allergy concerns or preparation standards as suppliers in your home country or the expert chefs onboard our ships. As a precaution, we advise anyone with a severe food allergy to contact a member of the onboard Expedition Team before booking this excursion. Duration: 1h Difficulty: Level 2: Moderate - some mobility needed Booking code: INCL-ATOR1, CLTOR-IN01 Highlights: • Explore the small and isolated village of Tortel and learn how people live here • Join us on a ride in our expedition boats and land in remote village Tortel • Enjoy a community visit with traditional music and local empanadas Practical information: Practical information: • Language: English and Spanish. • Included: Traditional music, handicraft stalls, empanadas. • Remarks/requirements: It is recommendable to wear layered clothing, a windbreaker, rain jacket and good walking shoes. Rain showers are common and unpredictable. • Walking information: Walking over unpaved terrain and boardwalks. • Wheelchair accessible: No.

Included

Castro - Trek at Chiloe National park

Take a slow scenic ride to Chiloe National Park. Stop at the visitors centre for vast information and then a 450m trail up to an observation point, and continue on the trek on Tepual path. A park with a view Chiloe National Park is located by the Pacific Ocean, 58 km South from Castro town. The road is paved, however with many curves, so the driving is quite slow. Leave the pier to head south passing next to Chonchi town. Only 9 km before reaching the Park, we will drive along Huillinco and Cucao Lakes. Throughout this trip, we will learn about the local flora, fauna and the history of the primitive settlements visited by Charles Darwin in the 1800s. Upon arrival to the Park, which has 43.000 hectares, we will visit its Visitor's Center, where we will receive the first instructions and get ready to start the wonderful trek. Our first portion of the trail consists of 450 meters of easy walk up to the first view point, from where we will observe Cucao Lake and also the Pacific Ocean. After some minutes, we will continue other 500 meters to reach the start point to the “Educational El Tepual Trail”. This trail is a circuit of 770 meters on mostly flat terrain but with many wooden gangplanks and steps along the path. Along the walk, we will see many different species of trees, such as coihües, mañios and cipreses. Drive back to the pier to join the ship. Walking information: Total walking is nearly 2.8 km at a slow pace, with around 80 steps in total and many wooden gangways along the trail. *While we're excited to share the unique flavours of this region with you, it’s important to note that allergy awareness and hygiene standards can vary widely across the world. The local community providing food for this tour may not be as familiar with allergy concerns or preparation standards as suppliers in your home country or the expert chefs onboard our ships. As a precaution, we advise anyone with a severe food allergy to contact a member of the onboard Expedition Team before booking this excursion. Duration: 6 hours Difficulty: Level 3: Active - good mobility needed Booking code: A-WCA2 Min. number: 20 traveller(s) Highlights: • Learn about the local flora and fauna, and the history of the primitive settlements • Chiloe National Park has an area of 43,000 hectares • Enjoy great views over Cucao Lake and the Pacific Ocean Practical information: Practical information • Booking code: A-WCA2 • Included: 2 bottles of water and light lunch at local restaurant (1 mini milcao or mini potato tortilla, 1 mini empanada, 1 chilean stuffed potato, 1 mini sandwich, 1 sweet treat and 1 pisco sour, 1 natural juice) • Remarks/requirements: We recommend waterproof non-slippery trekking shoes and a water resistant coat in case of rain. • Weather in Chiloe is unpredictable; guests should be prepared for possible showers during the day. 3h total driving time • Walking information: Total walking is nearly 2.8 km at a slow pace, with around 80 steps in total and many wooden gangways along the trail.

$194

Castro - Castro Walking Tour

Join this walking tour of Castro and see Plaza de Armas and the Neo-Gothic Church of San Francisco. Exploring Castro Your tour begins with a short walk from the pier to Plaza de Armas. Here you’ll find the Neo-Gothic Church of San Francisco, the city’s main Catholic church. This striking wooden church with a vibrant yellow façade contrasts with the island's typical style and is a UNESCO-listed site. We’ll then continue to the Plazoleta de Gamboa to enjoy the panoramic views of the local palafitos, or stilt houses. A walk downhill brings us to the rich handicraft market where you can shop and admire the local artisanal work before your tour ends back at the pier. Duration: 2h30 Difficulty: Level 4: Challenging - good mobility and fitness needed Booking code: INCL-WCA2 Min. number: 0 traveller(s) Highlights: • See the striking wooden Church of San Francisco • Shop for souvenirs at the local craft market • Learn about the history of Castro and the evolution of Chiloé's towns Practical information: Practical information • Language: English. • Remarks/requirements: It is recommendable to wear layered clothing, a windbreaker, rain jacket and good walking shoes. Rain showers are common and unpredictable. • Walking information: Walking tour over steep paved sidewalks. • Wheelchair accessible: This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or guests with walking difficulties.

Included

Guided Sea Kayaking Adventure (Only Bookable Onboard)

Our experts will lead you on this sea kayaking adventure. Paddle into Wonder There’s truly no better way to feel the scale, silence, and raw beauty of this landscape than from the seat of a kayak. Guided by seasoned experts, you’ll glide across the water with your fellow adventurers, experiencing your surroundings in a uniquely intimate and peacefully immersive way. Duration: 3h00 Difficulty: Level 3 – Active – good mobility needed Highlights: • Explore from a rare water-level perspective • Encounter wildlife up close, without the noise of a motor. • Each outing is led by expert guides who ensure the utmost safety and share insights, and you’ll be provided with all the top-quality gear you need. Practical information: • This is an optional, add-on activity, available at an additional cost. • This activity can only be booked on board. • Top-quality kayaking gear is provided, including a two-person hard-shell sea kayak, paddle, boots, life jacket, drysuit, and pogies. • Please note that this kayaking activity only uses two-person kayaks. Solo guests will be paired with another guest. • Participants must have basic swimming skills and be able to get in and out of the kayak on the water independently. • While we aim to offer this activity on every voyage, its operation is subject to weather and ice conditions. • A reasonable level of fitness is required to participate. • Wheelchair accessible: No • Language requirements: A basic level of English is needed to understand the guide’s instructions.

$229

Discovery Kayak (Only Bookable Onboard)

Enjoy the freedom of paddling at your own pace, with no set route, on this inflatable kayak experience. Paddling in Peace Designed for close-up exploration, there’s no better way to take in the raw beauty of your surroundings, and the quiet possibility of a wildlife encounter. Unlike our guided sea kayaking excursions, this experience gives you the freedom to paddle at your own pace within a defined perimeter. There’s no fixed route to follow, just time to absorb the soul-stirring scenery, before returning to the ship whenever you’re ready. Please note that while we aim to offer this activity on every voyage, its operation is subject to snow, ice and weather conditions, which may result in changes or cancellations. Duration: 1-1.5h00 Difficulty: Level 3 – Active – good mobility needed Booking code: N/A Min. number: N/A traveller(s) Highlights: • Paddle at your own pace – no set route, no rush, just freedom within the designated perimeter. • Glide in silence through the wilderness with only your paddle breaking the stillness. • Get up close to the majesty of nature, from drifting icebergs to wildlife and glacier-carved coastlines. Practical information: This is an optional add-on activity which comes at an additional cost. The activity can only be booked onboard. • Included: Top quality inflatable kayak gear (inc. paddle, paddle jacket, boots, life jacket, whistle or signalling device) • Remarks/requirements: Guests must have basic swimming skills and be able to get themselves in and out of the kayak on water. Please wear waterproof trousers. Excursion is subject to weather and ice conditions. • Walking or Activity information: A reasonable level of fitness is required to participate in this activity. • Single guests are welcome to paddle on their own as long as there are sufficient kayaks available on the day. • Wheelchair accessible: No • Language availability: English proficiency is not required for this activity

$148

Camping – Tent (Only Bookable Onboard)

Spend the night in a tent amid the Antarctic wilderness for a once-in-a-lifetime camping experience. Sleep like an Antarctic explorer We’ll venture ashore after dinner to pitch the tents and prepare for a night in the wilderness. Zip into your tent and drift off to the sounds of shifting ice, distant penguin calls, and the sea lapping the shore. It’s just you and the elements. Early risers can step outside and watch the first light spread across the ice before returning to the ship for breakfast. Please note that while we aim to offer this activity on every voyage, its operation is subject to snow, ice, and weather conditions, which may result in changes or cancellations. Duration: Late evening to early morning. Approx 9–10 hrs total experience Difficulty: Level 3 – Active – good mobility needed Highlights: • Sleep under the Antarctic sky with only the thin wall of your tent separating you from the elements. • Experience Antarctica up close in a unique way few get to experience. • Stay warm and comfortable with top-quality camping gear. Practical information: This is an optional add-on activity which comes at an additional cost. The activity can only be booked onboard. • Remarks/requirements: Optional, add-on activity at extra cost. Book on board only. • Included: Tent, Antarctic-standard mats, sleeping bag & liner, headlamp, portable toilet (emergency), emergency camping food, special onboard breakfast, completion certificate. • Pre-camp briefing and waiver required; IAATO rules enforced. • Subject to weather, snow, and ice conditions. • Walking/activity information: Involves physical activity on snowy terrain - the surface at the camp site is relatively level, and terrain getting there can be varied uphill/downhill. Guests will be pulling the pulkas with gear themselves and are also responsible for raising and dismantling their tent. Short hikes may also available if conditions allow. • Wheelchair accessible: No. • Language availability: English. • Activity level: 2–3.

$505

Castro - Dalcahue, Curaco de Velez & Achao

This excursion provides a glimpse into the history of the small villages in the Castro to Dalcahue area. Village vistas Leave the pier to proceed to Dalcahue, a picturesque village located 20 km north from Castro. Along the way, glimpse the colourful hamlet of Llaullao where we will appreciate the "tejuelas"-roofed houses and a beautiful chapel in a nice setting. Arrive at the ferry boat terminal in Dalcahue, board a ferry for 8-minute crossing to the Island of Quinchao. Upon arrival, head towards Achao, passing through Curaco de Velez. This very small village of approximately 500 inhabitants saw its best times back in the 1850s when cattle ranchers and whalers lived there, and the beautiful houses you will see today remain as witness of the past times. Also highlighting the village are the black-necked swans, which will be visible mainly along the Coastal Avenue. About 16 km ahead, we will find the town of Achao, founded as a Jesuit Residency in 1743. With almost 2,500 inhabitants, today Achao is alive with boats from all the surrounding islands, making it one of the busiest ports in the area. Highlighting the town is its church, built in 1730, which contains beautiful baroque imagery. At agreed time, head back to Dalcahue, a town that emerged to its present state as a result of the booms in the cattle and timber industries in the late 19th century. Dalcahue boasts one of the largest and oldest (1750-1790) churches in the area. Following a visit of the church, commence the return drive to Castro. *While we're excited to share the unique flavours of this region with you, it's important to note that allergy awareness and hygiene standards can vary widely across the world. The local community providing food for this tour may not be as familiar with allergy concerns or preparation standards as suppliers in your home country or the expert chefs onboard our ships. As a precaution, we advise anyone with a severe food allergy to contact a member of the onboard Expedition Team before booking this excursion. Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes Difficulty: Level 2: Moderate - some mobility needed Booking code: A-WCA3 Min. number: 25 traveller(s) Highlights: • Explore the small, charming, and historic villages of the area • • Learn about the ranchers and whalers in Curaco de Vélez, who were prominent during the town's glory days • Visit some of the oldest churches in the area • Spot the black-necked swans along a coastal avenue Practical information: Practical information • Language: English / German (Subject to Availability) • Remarks: It is recommended to wear layered clothing, a windbreaker or rain jacket, and good walking shoes. Weather in Chile is unpredictable, guests should be prepared for possible showers during the day. The bus journey is approximately 2 hours. • Walking information: Guests will be walking no more than 1.5 hours, the specific distance may vary. Paved surfaces at Curaco de Velez, Acao and Dalcahue. A few steps to enter churches. • Wheelchair accessible: Yes, as long as they can navigate a few steps. Note that no ramps are available at churches or towns.

$232

Camping – Bivvy Bag (Only Bookable Onboard)

Spend the night under the stars amid the Antarctic wilderness on this once-in-a-lifetime camping experience. Just us and nature at its purest After a pre-camp briefing and dinner onboard, we’ll head ashore to set up camp. Depending on the landing site, we may take walks to nearby viewpoints. Engage in conversations with the Expedition Team or simply slide into your cosy bivvy bag and enjoy the stillness. The next morning, after packing up, we’ll enjoy a special breakfast back on board the ship as we reflect on the unique experience we’ve just shared. Please note that while we aim to offer this activity on every voyage, its operation is subject to snow, ice and weather conditions, which may result in changes or cancellations. Duration: Late evening to early morning. Approx. 9-10 hrs total experience Difficulty: Level 2: Moderate - some mobility needed Booking code: N/A Min. number: N/A traveller(s) Highlights: • Sleep under the Antarctic sky with nothing separating you from the elements. • Experience Antarctica up close in a unique way few get to experience. • Truly connect with nature while staying warm and comfortable in Antarctic standard camping gear. Practical information: This is an optional add-on activity which comes at an additional cost. The activity can only be booked onboard. • Included: Antarctic standard camping gear (bivvy bag, foam mat, inflatable sleeping mat, sleeping bag, sleeping bag liner, head torch). Portable toilet for emergency use, emergency camping food, special onboard breakfast, and completion certificate. • Remarks/requirements: Guests must complete the pre-camp briefing and sign a waiver. We encourage guests to adhere to IAATO regulations. Bringing food ashore is not permitted, and nothing must be left behind. • Walking or Activity information: Involves physical activity on snowy terrain - the surface at the camp site is relatively level, and terrain getting there can be varied uphill/downhill. Short hikes also available if conditions allow. • Wheelchair accessible: No • Language availability: English

$402

Current Offers

2 promotions apply to this voyage. Click any offer for full terms.

Booking & Cancellation Policies

Children Policy

Children: 5–15 years Child discount: 20%

Third Person Policy

Child discount: 50%

Cancellation Policy

120+ days before departure: 25% penalty 90–119 days before departure: 40% penalty 58–89 days before departure: 70% penalty 44–57 days before departure: 90% penalty 0–43 days before departure: 100% penalty For departures from 1 April 2027 onwards: 90 or more days | 15% 60-89 days | 50% 30-59 days | 75% Less than 30 days | 100%

Wi-Fi & Communications

See General Terms & Conditions PDF (guestAgreementPdf) — HX consolidates all specific policies (cancellation / name change / children / third person / onboard charges) into a single T&Cs document.

Your booking is made with Gvoya — the terms shown above are the Gvoya platform terms applied to this voyage. Full details: Booking Terms·Cancellation Policy

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Get a 360-degree look at our destinations with our blog articles.

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Get a 360-degree look at our destinations with our blog articles.

AI PickActive promotion on this HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) departure to Antarctica

Antarctica & Patagonia Expedition

Route Map

Gallery

Voyage Overview

Voyage Highlights

Wonders of Patagonia Fjords

Icescapes and penguins

Destinations

Language Services

Day-by-Day Itinerary

International flights

Valparaíso, a UNESCO Gem

Preparing for Adventure

Preparing for Adventure

Castro’s Chilotan Charm

The Waters of Patagonia

Charming Caleta Tortel

Expedition Days

Expedition Days

Expedition Days

Sailing the Drake Passage

Sailing the Drake Passage

Antarctica: Another World

Antarctica: Another World

Antarctica: Another World

Antarctica: Another World

Sailing toward Ushuaia

Sailing toward Ushuaia

Ushuaia and Buenos Aires

Transfer

Charter flight

International flights

Please Note

Flights

Transfers

Expedition Cruise

Onboard Activities

Landing Activities

Ship

MS Fridtjof Nansen

Deck Plans

Onboard Facilities

Onboard Life

Live Position

Extend your trip with Pre & Post-Trip Programmes

The Iguazú Experience (Post)

Optional Extras

Tortel Community Visit

Castro - Trek at Chiloe National park

Castro - Castro Walking Tour

Guided Sea Kayaking Adventure (Only Bookable Onboard)

Discovery Kayak (Only Bookable Onboard)

Camping – Tent (Only Bookable Onboard)

Castro - Dalcahue, Curaco de Velez & Achao

Camping – Bivvy Bag (Only Bookable Onboard)

Current Offers

Free Suite Upgrade

Save up to 25% with our 130th Anniversary Offers

Booking & Cancellation Policies

Children Policy

Third Person Policy

Cancellation Policy

Wi-Fi & Communications

Cabin Categories

MA | Extra-Large Suite

MB | Extra-Large Suite

MC | Corner Suite

MD | Large Suite

ME | Suite with balcony

MF | Corner suite

XT | Outside cabin with balcony

TT | Outside cabin

XTD | Outside cabin with balcony

XY | Wheelchair-accessible outside cabin with balcony

XTJ | Outside cabin with balcony

TY | Wheelchair-accessible outside cabin

RR | Outside cabin

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