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Discover the frozen wonders of Antarctica and the stunning Chilean fjords on this all-inclusive 18-day expedition cruise, with flights and transfers arranged for you
- Explore the frozen continent of Antarctica in late spring
- Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites and the beautiful Chilean fjords
- Experience vibrant Valparaíso, Castro's colourful stilt houses, and Patagonian cultures
Trip Details
- Departs
- 26 October 2027
- Returns
- 12 November 2027
- Ship
- MS Fridtjof Nansen
- Operator
- HX Expeditions
18-day all-inclusive Antarctica expedition cruise from Valparaíso to Buenos Aires
The 17-night Antarctica voyage aboard MS Fridtjof Nansen sails from Valparaiso to Ushuaia, calling at Castro, Tortel, Puerto Eden, Pia Glacier & Glacier Alli, Penola Strait, Antarctica Sound and South Shetland, with 5 days at sea.
Beyond the expedition cruise itself, this package includes:
- Flight in economy class from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires after the expedition cruise
- Transfer from the ship to the airport in Ushuaia after the expedition cruise
- Explore the frozen continent of Antarctica in its late spring, when penguin colonies start nesting
- Visit stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites and explore deep into the maze of the beautiful Chilean fjords
- See vibrant Valparaíso, the colourful stilt houses of Castro, and the unique cultures of small, isolated communities of Patagonia
You sail aboard MS Fridtjof Nansen. One of two revolutionary hybrid-powered expedition vessels with battery packs that store electric power. The ship has more efficient engines, lower fuel usage, reduced C02 emissions, and the ability to sail almost silently. On board: All cabins and suites enjoy outside views; Science Center with advanced microscopes; Wellness Center with massage and spa treatments; Expedition Team; Three restaurants; Indoor and outdoor gyms with on-deck running track; Outdoor infinity pool and two hot tubs; Sauna with a panoramic outside view.
Departures & Pricing
- 26 Oct 2027 - 12 Nov 2027
from $18,750 pp twin share / $26,739 pp sole use *
- Polar Outside from $18,750 pp twin share
- Arctic Superior from $20,703 pp twin share
- Expedition Suite from $25,837 pp twin share
* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.
Upgrades, transfers, accommodation and more can be quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.
MS Fridtjof Nansen
One of two revolutionary hybrid-powered expedition vessels with battery packs that store electric power. The ship has more efficient engines, lower fuel usage, reduced C02 emissions, and the ability to sail almost silently.
- Guests
- 490
- Gross tonnage
- 20,889
- Speed
- 15 knots
- Length
- 140 m
- Launched
- 2020
- Beam
- 23.6 m
- Deck plans
- 9
Deck 11
Source: HX Expeditions, captured 16 September 2026. Deck plans are provided by the cruise line and are subject to change at any time.
Itinerary
- 1
Valparaíso, a UNESCO gem
Your Antarctica and Patagonia expedition cruise begins in vibrant Valparaíso. Known as the 'Jewel of the Pacific', it’s built on steep hillsides overlooking the ocean and you'll love discovering this friendly UNESCO-listed city.
Filled with enticing scents and sounds, it’s an exhilarating maze of alleyways, colourful houses and mercados packed with local produce – take it all in on a funicular ride up to Cerro Alegre and Concepción.
You can explore more of the region on one of our optional Pre-Programmes.
- 2
Preparing for adventure
Days 2–3Get into expedition mode
Over the next two days at sea, you'll learn more about the wonders we'll encounter during our trip.
Members of the Expedition Team will be experts in anything from oceanography and geology to ornithology and history. Drop in on their fascinating lectures, as well as hands-on presentations in the Science Center.
Grab your binoculars and scan for rare wandering albatrosses and petrels. Make the most of your onboard facilities, and spoil yourself with a spa treatment in the wellness area, or enjoy the infinity pool, hot tubs, running track, sauna and gym.
- 4
Castro's Chilotan charm
See stilt houses and historic churches
Set among the lush vegetation of Chiloé Island, Castro is Chile’s third oldest city. It’s home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, namely Iglesia San Francisco and Iglesia Nuestra Señora de Gracia de Nercón.
From various vantage points you can get great views of the city’s colourful palafitos, which are stilt houses situated along the waterfront. For some culture, head to the Regional Museum and the Museum of Modern Art.
Bring your binoculars as Chiloé is an important habitat for bird species such as Green-backed Firecrowns and Chilean Flamingos, along with penguins, Black-necked Swans, Ringed Kingfishers and Silvery Grebes.
- 5
The waters of Patagonia
Witness unforgettable seascapes
Your expedition cruise continues south through the waters of Patagonia. The seas here are captivating, with a whole palette of shades of blue, from the brightest aquamarine to the deepest midnight hues.
As we sail, there's a good chance you’ll see whales, seabirds, seals and more. Take in the scenery from the panoramic sauna or on-deck hot tubs and infinity pool, or just enjoy the onboard cuisine, before relaxing in the Explorer Lounge & Bar.
Your Expedition Team will be on hand with fascinating lectures on a range of topics, and our onboard photographer can help with tips on expedition photography.
- 6
Charm of Caleta Tortel
Receive a warm welcome in Caleta Tortel
We continue off the well-trodden path to visit isolated Caleta Tortel. Lying at the mouth of Río Baker, Chile's largest river, this charming village is home to around 500 inhabitants.
Instead of streets, a maze of boardwalks connects the close-knit community, spreading over the water and around the mountain base. If conditions permit, you'll be able to investigate the milky blue waters here by kayak.
While exploring the village, you'll come across locals selling handicrafts and you may even be treated to a performance by folk dancers.
- 7
Expedition days
Days 7–9Wild Patagonia: Fjords, Culture and Glaciers
We continue our adventure deep into the Chilean fjords with fantastic opportunities for scenic cruising aboard the ship and in our small expedition boats too. Adventure awaits in this wild and stunning landscape!
As we sail through the maze of the Patagonian waterways, depending on tidal conditions, we hope to visit Puerto Edén, an enchanting village only accessible by sea. The 250-strong community here are some of the last remaining members of the Indigenous Kawésqar people, offering a fascinating insight into Patagonian culture.
Continuing further south, we will cruise the majestic fjords, taking in the incredible scenery along the way. Enjoy the fresh sea air as we glide past untouched isles, glaciers and green mountains, looking out for marine wildlife who often swim alongside the ship.
Our exploration continues within Alberto de Agostini National Park, all the way up to glaciers such as Garibaldi or Pia. Here, the Andes tumble into the Pacific and great glaciers calve ice into the beautiful fjords. If conditions allow, we'll reach the glacier at the head of the fjord for some of the most breathtaking glacial scenery.
- 10
Sailing the Drake Passage
Days 10–11Get set for Antarctica
Over the next two days, we'll navigate the legendary Drake Passage towards Antarctica. En route, you'll find out what lies ahead and how to make your visit as safe and as sustainable as possible.
In the Science Centre, the Expedition Team will give lectures about Antarctica’s fauna, history and geology, as well as the impact of climate change and plastic pollution. You can also get involved in our Citizen Science projects.
- 12
Antarctica: another world
Days 12–15Experience Antarctica in all its natural majesty
Nothing prepares you for your first sight of Antarctica’s immense, frozen beauty. Surrounded by looming glaciers, and icebergs the size of floating cathedrals, Antarctica will fill you with wonder. Perhaps the most surprising part of Antarctica is the silence. It's a stillness that's broken every so often by the locals – the wildlife.
Here, nature is king, and we are mere observers. Our experienced Captain will continually monitor conditions to create the best possible itinerary for your adventure. Rest assured, each day will offer something different and thrilling.
You'll join the Expedition Team on landings and ice-cruises and may even get a chance to go kayaking among the icebergs.
Back on board, the Expedition Team will continue their lectures, helping you grow in your insights of the frozen continent. Over five magical days, you'll experience this amazing world in a way that will stay with you for a lifetime.
- 16
Sailing towards Ushuaia
Days 16–17Relax and learn as we cruise to Argentina
After incredible days in Antarctica, we sail back across the Drake Passage towards warmer weather in Argentina, giving you an opportunity to enjoy the onboard facilities.
You can take part in art workshops, or perhaps enjoy a treatment in the spa. Get active in the gym or admire the views from the panoramic sauna. Relax in the outdoor pool or soak in the on-deck hot tubs.
Visit the Science Centre and find out more about the things you've seen or use the time to sort through your photos. Enlist the help of the Expedition Team to help identify species captured in your photos.
- 18
Ushuaia and Buenos Aires
From Ushuaia to Buenos Aires
Your expedition cruise ends in Ushuaia, the main city in Tierra del Fuego, Argentina’s southernmost province. From here, you’ll take a flight back to Buenos Aires, but it doesn’t have to be the end of your adventure.
Why not join one of our optional Post-Programmes before heading home.
Inclusions & exclusions
What’s included
- Flight in economy class from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires after the expedition cruise.
- Transfer from the ship to the airport in Ushuaia after the expedition cruise.
- A stay in a cabin of your choice.
- All day coffee, tea and soft drinks.
- Fine dining in restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests.
- A complimentary Ocean Bottle water bottle to refill on board and take home.
Not included
- International flights
- Additional overnight(s) if required due to international flight timings
- Travel insurance
- Luggage handling
- Optional shore excursions with our local partners
- Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team
- Optional treatments in the onboard wellness and spa area
Accommodation
MS Fridtjof Nansen
One of two revolutionary hybrid-powered expedition vessels with battery packs that store electric power. The ship has more efficient engines, lower fuel usage, reduced C02 emissions, and the ability to sail almost silently.
On board: All cabins and suites enjoy outside views; Science Center with advanced microscopes; Wellness Center with massage and spa treatments; Expedition Team; Three restaurants; Indoor and outdoor gyms with on-deck running track; Outdoor infinity pool and two hot tubs; Sauna with a panoramic outside view; Explorer Lounge and Bar; Indoor and outdoor observation decks; Expedition launch/Tender pit; On board shop; Lecture hall and group room; 50% of all cabins are suites with a private balcony.
Polar Outside
- RR – Outside cabin: window, double bed, optional twin, sofa bed, 19–23 m².
Arctic Superior
Arctic Superior cabins are comfortable and spacious.
These cabins feature a double bed that can be divided into two single beds in some cabins on request at the time of booking. Some also have a sofa bed, and many have a private balcony.
All have a private bathroom with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, a minibar (charges apply), European two-pin plug sockets, and tea- and coffee-making facilities. A bathrobe and slippers are also available free of charge.
- XT – Outside cabin with balcony: private balcony, double bed, optional twin, sofa bed, 18 m².
- TT – Outside cabin: window, double bed, optional twin, 27 m².
- XTD – Outside cabin with balcony: private balcony, double bed, 15–19 m².
- XY – Wheelchair-accessible outside cabin with balcony: private balcony, double bed, 19 m².
- XTJ – Outside cabin with balcony: private balcony, limited view, double bed, optional twin, sofa bed, 18 m².
- TY – Wheelchair-accessible outside cabin: window, double bed, optional twin, 24–26 m².
Expedition Suite
Add some indulgence to your voyage aboard MS Fridtjof Nansen and reserve one of our Expedition Suites.
Spacious, serviced, and with bed combinations for up to four people, these well-appointed apartments offer special features such as private balconies, expansive windows, and hot tubs.
Suites feature a double bed that can be divided into two single beds on request at the time of booking, and some have a sofa bed.
All have a private bathroom with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, a single-serve coffee machine, and tea- and coffee-making facilities.
Naturally, the accommodation includes a full range of premium facilities as well as a minibar (charges apply), daily turn-down service, and laundry.
Complimentary fine dining in our Lindstrøm restaurant is part of the experience, and a takeaway service means you can also enjoy dinner exclusively. Champagne on ice and a platter of delicacies are provided for your enjoyment as you set sail.
- MA – XL Suite with balcony: private balcony and large windows, double bed, optional twin, 46–48 m².
- MB – XL Suite: large windows, double bed, optional twin, 44 m².
- MC – Corner Suite with balcony: private balcony, double bed, optional twin, sofa bed, 20–30 m².
- MD – Large Suite with balcony: private balcony and large windows, double bed, optional twin, 35 m².
- ME – Suite with balcony: private balcony, double bed, optional twin, sofa bed, 22–28 m².
- MF – Corner suite: large windows, double bed, optional twin, 22 m².
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Book this cruise
Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.
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