Explore Antarctica, Patagonia and the Chilean Fjords aboard the MS Fram

Please note the following itinerary is for the southbound journey in Oct 2022 and Oct 2023

Day 1 - Valparaiso, Chile

This expedition cruise starts in colourful Valparaíso. One of the best ways to see this town is by riding its funiculars for sweeping views. Explore the port to get a feel for Chile’s seafaring side. We also recommend a visit to the Historic Quarter before embarking on MS Fram.

Days 2-3 - Cruising at Sea - sailing south

As you make your way along the Pacific coast of Chile, the Expedition Team will start the lecture programme to prepare you for the experiences ahead. Make sure to also spend some time on deck to look out for wildlife.

Day 4 - Castro, Chiloé Island, Chile

Castro, set among windswept hills and green vegetation, is known for its colourful `palafitos´ - wooden houses mounted on stilts along the water's edge, as well as the UNESCO World Heritage Site Iglesia San Francisco.

Optional excursions:

• Castro Walking Tour (included)

Walk from pier to Plaza de Armas for a short visit and proceed to San Francisco church, the main Catholic church of Chiloé’s capital and rather than the typical style of the other churches of the island, it is Neo-Gothic style.

• Castro - Dalcahue, Curaco de Velez & Achao

This excursion provides a glimpse into the history of the small villages in the Castro-Delahue area. You will visit three towns by coach and ferry.

• Trek at Chiloe National park

Trek through Chiloe National Park, where hiking trails take you to a great viewpoint with views over Cucao Lake and the Pacific Ocean. Learn about local flora and fauna and the history of the primitive settlements. You will also drive by the village of Cucao and hear about the tsunami that swept through this town in 1960.

Day 5 - Cruising at sea in Patagonia waters

Sail south through the fabled waters of Patagonia and to one of the world’s most remote and beautiful places: the province of Ultima Esperanza, meaning Last Hope. You'll voyage through iconic Andean seascapes for views of a glorious expanse of undisturbed nature.

Day 6 - Puerto Edén, Chile

The village of Puerto Edén in Bernardo O’Higgins National Park will enchant you. It's known for its geographical isolation, situated at the end of a deep fjord and surrounded by mountains. With a population of only 250 includes the 15 remaining members of the Kawéskar tribe.

Days 7-8 - Puerto Natales (full day) - Torres del Paine National Park

Puerto Natales is the gateway to the Torres del Paine National Park, world famous for the impressive “Torres del Paine” (Towers of Paine) rock formation. Explore the park on our optional excursion to discover a landscape of stunning variety, from the vast open steppe to rugged mountain terrain topped by looming peaks that host a wide variety of wildlife. Watch for llamas, pumas, and foxes in addition to more than 100 species of birds like the Andean condor.

Optional excursions:

• Puerto Natales - Scenes of Puerto Natales (included)

This excursion combines the highlights of the charming town of Puerto Natales with the interesting Milodón Cave, just a few kilometres away.

• Torres del Paine - Overnight

This excursion includes an overnight inside the park - ‘the eighth wonder of the world' - with its impressive scenery and incomparable views. The Torres del Paine National Park covers an area over 242,000 hectares and features a rich geographical diversity of lakes, lagoons, waterfalls, glaciers, hills and peaks. There is always the possibility of seeing varieties of native wildlife in their natural habitat.

• Puerto Natales: Torres del Paine National Park

Visit Torres del Paine National Park with stunning scenery and amazing views! Admire the natural beauty of this area, which offers great photo opportunities.

• Torres del Paine – Grey Hike

Spectacular views abound in every direction. Torres del Paine National Park covers an area of 242,000 hectares and features an outstanding combination of lakes, lagoons, waterfalls, glaciers, hills, and peaks, as well as the possibility to observe various kinds of wildlife in their natural habitat.

• Puerto Natales - Hiking in Torres del Paine

This programme is designed to give you the best of both worlds. Explore Torres del Paine by both coach and foot. The eighth wonder of the world, Torres del Paine National Park, covers an area over 242.000 hectares and consists of a rich combination of lakes, lagoons, waterfalls, glaciers, hills and peaks. It is possible to observe many different forms of life here in their natural state.

Day 9 - Chilean Fjords

Deep fjords and tall mountains plunging into the icy water characterise this wild area that seems almost untouched by humans. Glacial ice has scoured its way between the mountains, creating the lovely isolated islands and hidden bays that form this unique fjord landscape.

Days 10-11 - Cruising at Sea - Cape Horn and the Drake Passage

In the morning we will sail through the scenic Beagle Channel before we continue into open waters, and if conditions allow, we will make an attempt to land on Cape Horn – the southernmost tip of South America.

Next, we sail the legendary Drake Passage while our lecture series prepares you for Antarctica’s fantastic wildlife and history. You’ll learn how to make your visit as safe and as sustainable as possible and you’ll join Citizen Science programmes to help collect data for current scientific research.

Days 12-18 - Antarctica

Antarctica never ceases to amaze and astound. 90% of the world´s ice is here, and the continent virtually doubles in size of due to sea ice in the winter. In summer, it is a cradle of life, a vital 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 that has evolved through millenniums without human interference. Therefore, we adhere to very strict environmental guidelines. We want to leave nothing but footprints and take nothing but pictures!

The elements rule in Antarctica, and our experienced Captain will create the best itinerary possible for your adventure. We will attempt landings at several sites in the South Shetlands and on the Antarctic Peninsula and aim to show you the diversity of the region´s wildlife and landscape.

Our expert Expedition Team will take you out for ice-cruising and exciting landing activities. There may also be the chance to kayak in the company of whales and icebergs, hike in amazing scenery and perhaps camp on the world´s most isolated continent.

Days 19-21 - Cruising at Sea - Crossing the Drake Passage

After seven days expedition cruising in Antarctica, it’s time to head back. Your mind will be full of lasting sights and sounds – and your camera’s memory cards loaded with impressive images as well.

It’s sad to leave, but recapping your experiences with your Expedition Team and fellow guests brings a pleasure all its own – whether you’re satisfying your curiosity in the Science Center, relaxing in the Explorer Lounge, or sharing a delicious meal as the waves roll by.

You can also unwind from all the excitement with some pampering in our Wellness Centre. Make the most of the sauna, pool and hot tubs too before we arrive in Punta Arenas.

Day 22- Punta Arenas/ farewell

Your Antarctica and Patagonia expedition cruise comes to an end in Punta Arenas. You'll catch a flight back to Santiago de Chile, taking with you a wealth of fantastic memories that will no doubt endure.

If you're not ready to end your adventures just yet, why not extend your trip and join our Post-Programme to Easter Island. Enjoy a tour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its mysterious statues of giant heads in Rapa Nui National Park.

Please note itinerary is subject to change.

Please note prices are subject to availability at time of booking and may change or sell out at any time.

the 13 October 2023 cruise prices start from $15,735 per person twin share. in a Polar Inside cabin.

interested in travelling this year?Ask about the 16 October 2022 cruise - limited space is available.

Call our local travel team on 1300 414 198 to book your bucket list adventure to Antarctica!

Your cruise will be on the MS Fram. The original Fram was the most famous explorer ship of its time, and the achievements of her expeditions are unparalleled. MS Fram brings on the heritage of the original Fram, using the most advanced technology to make her exceptionally well suited for expedition voyages in Polar Regions.

POLAR INSIDE CABINS

Our cosy Polar Inside cabins can be found on all decks. All cabins include bathrooms with shower/WC. Most of the cabins have separate beds where one doubles as a sofa, while some are equipped with a double bed or upper and lower berths. All the cabins have individual specifications.

• Middle deck for up to 4 travellers

Relax in these comfortable, standard inside cabins with separate beds where one can be turned into a sofa. This cabin can fit up to four people.

POLAR OUTSIDE CABINS:

Our Polar Outside cabins are situated mostly on middle or lower deck and all have bathrooms with shower/WC. Some have double beds, others offer separate beds (where one is a sofa bed) or upper and lower berths. All the cabins have individual specifications.

• Middle deck for 2 travellers

Enjoy these standard outside cabins with separate beds found on middle decks. This cabin can fit two people - 1 bed / 1 couch

• Middle deck for 2 travellers

Enjoy these comfortable cabins, situated on middle and upper decks, suitable for up to two people. These cabins have double beds, a seating area, TV and private bathroom/shower. Some have limited view.

ARCTIC SUPERIOR CABINS:

Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of our Arctic Superior cabins. Situated on both upper and middle deck, they all have bathrooms with shower and WC. They are also equipped with tea and coffee -making facilities. Most of them have separate beds, where one doubles as a sofa, and some have double beds. All the cabins have individual specifications.

• Upper deck for 2 travellers

Enjoy these comfortable outside cabins, situated on top/upper decks. These cabins have separate beds where one doubles as a sofa.

• Middle deck for 2 travellers

Enjoy these comfortable cabins, situated on middle and upper decks, suitable for up to two people. These cabins have double beds, a seating area, TV and private bathroom/shower. Some have limited view.

EXPEDITION SUITES:

Our Expeditions Suites are the most exquisite cabins on the ship. Situated on upper deck, you can enjoy the most comfortable suites on board. Inside you will find seating areas with TV, bathrooms with shower/wc and most of them have double beds. All of the suites offer cabin kits, which contains bathrobe, slippers and other beauty articles. Some of the suites do have more facilities than others.

• Grand Suite

Enjoy these exclusive suites with one or two rooms, seating area, TV, kettle, tea/coffee, stereo and mini-bar. Some of them also have bathtub. Most of these suites have a private balcony or bay window.

• Mini suite

These elegant suites are situated on upper deck with one or two rooms, seating area, TV and mini-bar.

Do I need to bring my passport?

Yes. Please ensure that your passport is valid for more than six months after you return to your home country. Remember to check if you require a visa.

What currency should I bring on the trip?

On the Expedition ships, the currency used is Euros.

Argentinian pesos are used in Argentina, Chilean pesos are used in Chile. US dollars may be exchanged into local currency at either banks or Money Exchange kiosks, at the open market exchange rate of the day. Some shops might accept US cash, though this is not a common practice. You can also withdraw cash from ATM's using your credit card and PIN code.

When visiting the Falkland Islands, local pounds (FIP) are used as well as pound sterling. When landing in Antarctica, some bases do accept USD cash only. In Port Lockroy, the following currencies are accepted: GBP, USD, Euro, and major credit cards (for purchases above 100 USD).

Can we pay with cash and credit card on board?

We accept Visa, American Express, Diners or MasterCard and regret that our system does not support Maestro Card.

How do the landings operate in Antarctica?

All landings are dependent on the weather and ice conditions. Unfortunately, with the unpredictable weather in these polar zones, we can make no guarantees that landings will occur each and every day of your voyage.

What if there is a medical emergency?

In case of a medical emergency in Antarctica, the only method of evacuation is by plane to the city of Punta Arenas, Chile, as there are no hospital facilities in Antarctica. This is very expensive and dependent on favourable weather conditions. Therefore, comprehensive travel/health insurance policy that also covers medical evacuation is obligatory.

Are your ships wheelchair accessible?

We are happy to welcome guests who are not fully mobile and all ships (except MS Lofoten) have at least one cabin equipped for travellers using a wheelchair.