This premiere route combines natural spectacles and shipping passages from Uruguay to Chile’s fjord world via Argentina. It is also the most exciting time of year to watch the wildlife, which is particularly active in spring in the southern hemisphere: Magellanic penguins, elephant seals, whales, fur seals, sea lions, alpacas, condors, cormorants and many more.

The HANSEATIC spirit will begin by spending two days in Puerto Madryn, the gateway to Argentina’s south coast, for intensive experiences of biodiversity. Elephant seal and whale watching on the Valdes Peninsula* will take you to a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the marine mammals give birth to their young off the coast. Alternatively, marvel at the penguins of Punta Tombo*. The nature reserve is the largest colony of these flightless seabirds outside the Antarctic. Snorkelling with sea lions* in their natural habitat promises to be a very special experience.

The small port of Puerto Deseado was once Magellan’s landing point and was later also used by the famous founder of the theory of evolution. Follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin* and explore the rocky landscape and birdlife. Alternatively, a nature safari to the Ria Deseado* takes you into a haven for dolphins, penguins and cormorants.

The rarely visited, uninhabited Isla de los Estados is a slice of true pioneering spirit. Thanks to special permission for the HANSEATIC spirit, you can enjoy the privilege of going ashore by Zodiac to discover a dramatic landscape with Antarctic beeches and waterfalls.

Capital of Tierra del Fuego, the world’s most southerly city and a former penal colony: in Ushuaia, your relationship with nature will grow even closer. Feel the power and scale of the landscape on a hike in the nature reserve* through dense forests and deep valleys, with rivers and picturesque mountain ranges. Alternatively, embark on a riding excursion into Argentina’s natural world* in the style of the gauchos.

After these spectacular experiences, your ship will chart a course for a fabled point at the end of the world: Cape Horn. An exciting prospect awaits you at the legendary headland that most other ships can only pass. If the weather permits a Zodiac landing, you can join the seasoned explorers who have set foot on the cape.

On the days that follow, the HANSEATIC spirit will perfectly demonstrate its strengths as a small expedition ship. As you cruise through Chile’s southern fjords, the captain and crew will display their nautical skills again and again – for example, when they take you to the mighty foot of the gleaming blue Garibaldi Glacier. Your route also includes a cruise through the Beagle Channel. Several glaciers line the famous maritime route and with a little luck, you might spot humpback whales. Follow the life story of the first person to circumnavigate the globe as you cruise through the Strait of Magellan. The colourful cityscape of Punta Arenas gives way to the panorama of snow-capped mountains on a flight to Torres del Paine National Park*. Or experience the glacier waters from an unusual perspective on a kayak tour in the Strait of Magellan*. If you’d prefer, take a hike in Magellanes National Reserve* and explore the lenga and coihue forests on foot. Your explorer’s heart will beat faster as the HANSEATIC spirit cruises through Chile’s southern fjords. Experience the thrill of passing the Amalia Glacier. Your experts on board will explain what makes it so beautiful and sensitive.