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HANSEATIC inspiration

FROM VALPARAISO TO USHUAIA

Valparaiso - Ushuaia

Expedition Chilean fjords - humankind dwarfed by the scale of nature

  • Offers in the SILVER fare
  • 05.12.25 to 20.12.25|15 days

  • HANSEATIC inspiration

  • INS2518

  • Bilingual cruise

Valparaiso - Ushuaia

05.12.2025 to 20.12.2025|15 days

from € 9.490

15 days Cruise incl. charter flight p.p.

What to expect

The highlights of this cruise

  • In-depth explorations in Chile’s water labyrinth with gigantic glaciers and diverse fauna
  • Demanding, spectacular route through Chile’s northern and southern fjords
  • XXL landscapes – such as the Torres del Paine National Park1 with its iconic mountain backdrop
  • Experience glaciers up-close from the ship and the Zodiacs
  • Off the beaten track – hikes with experts
  • At anchor

  • Over millions of years, where multiple tectonic plates converge, the northern and southern fjord regions of Chile were formed. The intricacies of this watery labyrinth can be most vividly experienced aboard a small expedition vessel like the HANSEATIC inspiration. With expert judgement, the captain and crew navigate fascinating passages through the intricate fjord system. Framed by colossal glaciers and majestic granite mountains, unparalleled natural wonders and unique ecosystems await you at the end of the world. These hidden treasures are waiting to be discovered, promising unforgettable experiences with each day of your expedition.

    The journey begins in the charming town of Puerto Montt, nestled amidst snow-capped volcanoes. Here, the awe-inspiring natural phenomena surrounding the area are exemplified by the Petrohué Waterfalls and the Osorno Volcano, with its distinctive snow-covered cone. For the adventurous, white-water rafting on the Petrohué River provides an exhilarating experience. A kayak tour in the La Poza Lagoon transports you to the habitat of southern beeches and kingfishers. The towns of Puerto Varas and Frutillar showcase their German heritage, with the renowned Teatro del Lago and even Black Forest gâteau as a testament to the Chilean-German partnership.

    The Isla Chiloé is famous for its wooden churches, designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites, and "Palafitos," the stilt houses of fishermen. The colourful villages and churches make striking impressions against the rugged coastline. Nature enthusiasts can explore the Chiloé National Park by hiking or cycling. Navigating through the northern fjords, you'll enjoy the finest views from the Inspiration Walk and the many open deck spaces. In the off-the-beaten-path settlement of Puerto Edén, you'll meet the remaining 60 inhabitants, including the last descendants of the Kawésqar, an indigenous seafaring people. Surrounded by pristine wilderness, you can immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty on a walking trail.

    From here, the following days will be dedicated to the awe-inspiring glaciers. The excitement builds as the ship performs complex nautical manoeuvres to bring you to breathtaking sights, including the passage by the Pio XI Glacier. Marvel at the imposing ice mass, one of South America’s largest, as you observe its bizarrely crevassed, blue-white splendour from a Zodiac boat.

  • Discover the untouched wonders of the southern fjords of Chile, a world where the icy blue of the glaciers and the dramatic wilderness meet. Admire the majestic Bernal Glacier, proudly adorning the backdrop in silent grandeur, and visit the picturesque town of Puerto Natales, the gateway to the famous Torres del Paine National Park. Experience the exciting journey through the Kirke Narrows, which with its narrowness and unpredictable currents presents a challenging passage, before immersing yourself in the Strait of Magellan, known for its historical significance and as a natural gateway to the Antarctic continent. Crossing between the Tucker Islands and through the fjords surrounded by the sublime Andes, you will be presented with unforgettable impressions and encounters with the unique flora and fauna of this remote part of the world.

  • Punta Arenas is a vibrant metropolis at the southern tip of Chile and is considered the gateway to the wild beauty of Patagonia. As one of the southernmost cities in the world, it presents itself with a mix of colonial architecture, colorful houses, and a history closely linked to navigation and Antarctic expeditions. Punta Arenas enchants its visitors with a spacious charm, wind-swept shores, and a panorama that hints at the infinity of the nearby Southern Ocean.

  • The Garibaldi Glacier, an impressive mass of ice in the remote wilderness of Chile, is a highlight of the Patagonian fjords. This glacier, pouring into the sea with its shimmering ice and breaking icebergs, offers a dramatic natural spectacle. Surrounded by steep mountains and untouched nature, the sight of the Garibaldi Glacier is an unforgettable experience and symbolizes the rugged beauty of southern Patagonia. It is a magnet for nature and photography enthusiasts seeking the raw power and silence of this pristine landscape.

The itinerary depends on official approval. The natural experiences and wildlife sightings described are possibilities on this expedition and are not guaranteed.

Arrival and departure | optionally bookable

    • Thu, 04.12.2025

      Scheduled flight from Germany to Santiago de Chile

    • Fri, 05.12.2025

      Journey to Valparaiso/Chile

    • Sat, 20.12.2025

      Overnight stay with breakfast

    • Sun, 21.12.2025

      City tour
      Scheduled flight from Buenos Aires to Germany

    • Mon, 22.12.2025

      Arrival in Germany

Extend your trip

  • Our popular before and after programmes include a wide range of excursions and are usually accompanied by experienced Hapag-Lloyd Cruises tour guides. Recommended for travelers who like to share their experiences with a group of like-minded people. Experience selected highlights of your holiday destination and enjoy the amenities of a group trip - we take care of transfers, excursions and overnight stays.

  • Our travel concierge will be happy to put together tailor-made travel arrangements for you according to your wishes. From design hotels to luxurious beach resorts to ticket reservations for theater visits or restaurant recommendations for the most exciting cities. The Travel Concierge is available to you before your trip and of course on board.

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chilean fjords

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chilean fjords

Discover 1,000 new contrasts of an entire country with the new expedition class: Chile's natural treasures along the coast of the Pacific Ocean invite you to explore and marvel. The natural wonders at the end of the world inspire with majestic glaciers and mighty volcanoes, picturesque fjords and paradisiacal islands as well as a rich variety of flora and fauna.

Price special

Limited offer: Travel for the best price with the SILVER fare

For this cruise, offers in the SILVER fare are available. You will find these under "Prices & Booking" after selecting the respective cabin/suite.

Attractive combination discount

Extend your stay with the previous cruise INS2517 and save € 900 per person (gilt für den PLATIN-Tarif). Extend your stay with the subsequent cruise INS2600 and save € 1,500 per person (applies to PLATINUM fare).

Please note: These combinations cannot be booked online, please contact your travel agency or our customer service by e-mail at service@hl-cruises.com or by telephone on +49 40 3070 3070 (Mon - Fri 9.00 - 18.30, Sat 9.00 - 14.00). 

Included Services

Expedition and knowledge
  • All landings and rides in the ship’s own Zodiacs (Use of the Zodiacs depends on the destination and on official permits)
  • Experienced experts from various disciplines accompany every cruise, give presentations and multimedia lectures, provide well-informed answers to questions about the cruising area and take part in the Zodiac landings/rides and hikes from/to ship
  • Use of the interactive Ocean Academy with individual knowledge formats
  • Comprehensive information before the cruise – for example about the Arctic, Antarctic, the South Seas and the Amazon, as well as expedition maps
Cabin
  • In every cabin: champagne to welcome you, mini bar restocked daily with non-alcoholic beverages (additional selection in Grand Suites and Junior Suites), coffee machine (tea on request), 24-hour cabin service
  • Equipment for loan: one pair of binoculars and two sets of Nordic Walking poles in the cabin itself, furthermore warm parkas, rubber boots, snorkelling equipment
  • Flat-screen TV with information and entertainment programme, personal email account and Internet access via Wi-Fi (free of charge for one hour per guest and day, satellite-dependent especially in polar areas)
  • Information about harbours and destinations (where available) in the cabin
Restaurants
  • International gourmet cuisine – full board: breakfast (early-bird and late riser breakfast), bouillon, afternoon coffee/tea time, lunch and dinner (three restaurants to choose from in the evening with flexible opening hours)
For all cases
  • German ship and expedition management as well as a mostly German-speaking service crew
  • Harbour and airport fees
  • Cancellation fee insurance (20% excess) in the PLATINUM and GOLD fares
Spa and fitness
  • Extensive sports programme: fitness area with ocean view, course programme, additional sports activities on shore depending on the destination (Personal training for an additional charge)
  • OCEAN SPA with Finnish sauna with an ocean view, steam sauna, indoor and outdoor relaxation area (spa treatments and hairdresser at a surcharge)