A sense of freedom and great pioneering spirit are in the air as the HANSEATIC inspiration sets a course for a wonderful array of Chile’s natural spectacles. Isolated, untouched, unspoilt – your small expedition ship will thoroughly explore the northern and southern fjords. But first, you’ll visit Niebla. Once a 17th-century hotspot for pirates and corsairs, it is now a popular beach town. A city tour of Valdivia* traces historic footprints and takes you into the lively hustle and bustle of the market. A hike in the natural reserve of Oncol National Park* will introduce you to the natural treasures of the Valdivian rainforest, such as the radal and meli trees.

Chile’s landscape presents the visual proof of the unbelievable energy in the Earth’s core where several tectonic plates meet. You’ll be fired with enthusiasm by the three volcanoes in Chaiten that exemplify this primeval world. You can get up-close to the countless passages and nautical challenges on the many outside decks, the glass balconies and the deck tour at the bow. Let your yearning for adventure run wild, surrounded by snow- and ice-covered hills. There is no limit to the awe-inspiring sights on your flexible expedition in Chile’s northern fjords. As you cruise, the captain and crew will select the most fascinating routes to stunning experiences. The picturesque route to Caleta Tortel – connected by walkways made of cypress wood that are 7.5 km (4.7 mi.) long – is very special. Meet the little more than 90 inhabitants in Puerto Eden, who live in the middle of “nowhere”. The excitement on board will mount as you glide past majestic glaciers and enjoy the vast panoramas from the many open deck areas. There are phenomenal views in store as you pass the Pio XI Glacier. Marvel at one of South America’s biggest ice masses with its bizarre craggy surface sparkling in blue and white.

Travelling in the wake of the first person to circumnavigate the globe, you will reach the seldom-visited Tucker Islands via the famous Strait of Magellan. They are the ideal expedition territory for an exciting Zodiac ride, where you can keep a lookout for Magellanic penguins and cormorants.

The pioneering spirit of the golden age of seafaring will bowl you over in Punta Arenas, too. From there, a hike through Magallanes National Reserve* will take you into a world of diverse flora. The fauna, on the other hand, will be the focus on a trip to see the Magellanic penguins on Isla Magdalena*. Thousands of the creatures congregate here at this time of year. Those who like to discover nature in a more active way will be in their element on a kayak tour of the Strait of Magellan*.

Cruising through the Beagle Channel with a passage through “Glacier Alley” also reveals natural beauty in all its glory. Cruising off the Garibaldi Glacier with its blue, shimmering tongue of ice will be a definite highlight of this cruise. Your curiosity has brought you to Chile’s wonderland of creation, and you will return home with deep insights.