Fjords, Glaciers & Volcanoes await on Chilean Fjords cruise
Covering more than 1000 miles and offering imposing volcanoes, cascading waterfalls and stunning vistas from the magnificent Andes, the Chilean Fjords is a must-visit destination for those who are looking for a voyage that gives them the opportunity to venture off-the-beaten-path and into a region so dramatic and extreme, it could easily be from another planet.
If you’re thinking of visiting the Chilean Fjords on a cruise, then we’ve put together a handy guide to hope you make the most of your trip to this stunning part of the world.
When to visit the Chilean Fjords on a cruise
The best time to visit the Chilean Fjords is during the southern hemisphere’s spring and autumn months, which fall between September-November and March-April respectively. South America is prone to high temperatures during the summer season, but it is important to note that rapidly changing weather is common, particularly as your Chilean cruise heads further south towards Antarctica.
What to pack for a Chilean Fjords cruise
As you now know, the weather in the Chilean Fjords is notorious for its changeability – this can make packing a complicated task. The key to your cruising wardrobe should be layers that are easy to remove if the temperatures soar. Also, don’t forget to pack a waterproof in the event that the weather takes a turn for the worst. Whilst the climate during the summer months averages out to around 15 degrees, high-factor sun cream is also essential as the ozone layer above the Fjords is very thin.
Most importantly, remember your camera – and some extra memory cards! Your Chilean Fjords experience will present to you the opportunity to immerse yourself in one of earth’s most breathtaking landscapes and there’s no doubt you’ll want to capture it all.
Best ports of call on a Chilean Fjords cruise
The two most frequently visited ports of call on a Chilean Fjords cruise are Punta Arenas and Peurto Montt.
Punta Arenas is the largest port of call in Chile and is renowned world-wide for its sheep farming industry as well as being one of the main departure ports for expedition ships heading further south towards Antarctica. The town itself is set high up on a hilltop and from here you’ll be able to get some mightily impressive views of the Megellan Straits as well as visit Fuerte Bulnes, a replica of a wooden fort that was built in 1843.
Set against a picturesque backdrop, Puerto Montt is an ornate alpine-style village and offers a charming craft market where visitors can purchase ornate souvenirs for friends and family back home. There is much to enjoy in Puerto Montt, with a trip the Iglesia Cathedral highly recommended. Constructed in 1856 by German settlers, the Cathedral is one of the oldest buildings in the region and is situated close to a museum which houses lovingly preserved artifacts and serves as an excellent introduction to the region’s colourful history. Puerto Montt also acts as the gateway to Chile’s Lake District, a notable hot-spot for world-class fly-fishing and unique flora and fauna.
Other cruise itineraries may also include stops at the wonderfully quaint fishing village of Puerto Eden, situated in a remote region of Southern Patagonia.
Recommended Chilean Fjord’s shore excursions
Choose to cruise with Oceania Cruises‘ on their Mystical Andes and Majestic Fjords sailing and enjoy their Ancient Forest Eco-Walk and German Colonisation Museum Tour in Puerto Montt. This excellently-crafted shore excursion combines the regions’ natural beauty with a trip to the Lahuen Ñadi Forest alongside a tour of the German Colonisation Museum.
Regent Seven Sea’s offer the Highlights of Chacabuco and Surroundings for those stopping at Puerto Chacabuco on their Sunrise Sonata sailing. Here, you will get to enjoy a scenic drive that takes in the best of the Aysén District of Chile before visiting the Rio Simpson National Reserve where you’ll be able to explore one of South America’s most rugged landscapes at close quarters.
For those looking for a once-in-a-lifetime shore excursion, then Crystal Cruises offer a Helicopter Journey to the Humpback Whale Sanctuary on their Antarctic Holiday cruise.
Looking to visit the Chilean Fjords on a cruise? Try these luxury cruise offers
Antarctic Holiday
Crystal Cruises: 21st December 2013 (18 days): Buenos Aires to Valparaíso on Crystal Symphony
Cruise-only from £6758 per person – click here to view the full itinerary
Mystical Andres & Majestic Fjords
Oceania Cruises: 3rd Feburary 2014 (20 days): Lima to Buenos Aires on Regatta
Includes $350 onboard credit per stateroom
Cruise-only from £2555 per person – click here to view the full itinerary
Sunrise Sonata
Regent Seven Seas: 8th February (30 days): Lima to Rio de Janiero on Seven Seas Mariner
Includes flights, transfers and up to 78 free shore excursions
Deluxe Suites from £13659 per person – click here to view the full itinerary
If you would like more information on visiting the Chilean Fjords, please call one of our Cruise Experts on 0800 008 6677.
Copyright The Cruise Line. 2013.
