Penguins & Patagonia

Punta Arenas, perched on the southern tip of Chile's mainland, serves as a crucial gateway to the Antarctic, drawing explorers from around the world. This city is steeped in maritime history and is the largest population centre in Patagonia, offering a fascinating mix of cultural influences evident in its architecture and local customs. The Nao Victoria Museum, featuring replicas of historic ships, and the poignant Monumento al Ovejero, celebrating the region’s sheep farming heritage, are key highlights.

The rugged, windswept landscapes surrounding Punta Arenas invite outdoor enthusiasts to explore. Nearby Torres del Paine National Park offers spectacular trekking opportunities, while the Strait of Magellan provides panoramic sea vistas and a chance to spot diverse marine wildlife, making this region a hub for natural and historical exploration.

Located at the southernmost end of South America, Ushuaia is is often called a doorway to Antarctica. The town boasts incredible natural beauty through its national parks like the Tierra del Fuego National Park with cultural institutions like the Museo del Fin del Mundo, or the End of the World Museum. Ships will dock at this port.

Top Things to Do in Ushuaia:

• ride the steam-powered End Of The World Train
• Spend the day walking the Tierra Del Fuego National Park
• Martial Glacier affords spectacular vistas from its 1,050-meter summit

The Antarctic Peninsula offers a dramatic tableau of sculpted glaciers, jagged peaks, and drifting icebergs. Towering ice cliffs calve into the sea, while pods of orcas and humpbacks often shadow the ship’s wake. Seals lounge on floating ice, and colonies of Adélie and gentoo penguins dot the snowy shores. Keep binoculars ready - this remote wilderness is alive with fleeting, unforgettable wildlife moments.

The trip to the Peninsula by ship is the shortest distance between Antarctica and South America, (usually Ushuaia in Argentina). The Antarctic Peninsula’s coastline unfolds in a panorama of towering icebergs, glistening glaciers, and serrated mountain peaks, offering one of the most visually arresting cruising experiences on Earth.

Wildlife is abundant - look for breaching humpback whales, leopard seals lounging on floes, and penguins in dense colonies along icy shores. This narrow finger of land reaching toward South America provides unparalleled access to the raw, untamed beauty of the White Continent.

The Falkland Islands, a remote South Atlantic archipelago, offer a unique blend of rugged landscapes and rich wildlife. Stanley, the capital, is known for its quaint British charm, with colorful houses, cozy pubs, and the historic Christ Church Cathedral. The Falkland Islands Museum provides fascinating insights into the islands’ history and culture.

For nature enthusiasts, the islands are a paradise. Visit Volunteer Point to witness one of the world’s largest king penguin colonies. Gypsy Cove offers excellent opportunities for spotting Magellanic penguins and other bird species. The pristine beaches and dramatic coastlines make the Falklands a perfect destination for hiking and wildlife photography.

Your ship will anchor in Port Stanley’s harbor and you'll be tendered ashore. The town center is just a short walk from the tender pier, allowing for easy exploration on foot. This charming capital of the Falkland Islands offers a glimpse into British heritage with its quaint streets and vibrant wildlife. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from visiting the historic Christ Church Cathedral and the Whalebone Arch to exploring the Falkland Islands Museum. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby Gypsy Cove, just 7 km (4.3 miles) away and home to Magellanic penguins and other seabirds.

Puerto Madryn, located on the shores of Golfo Nuevo along Argentina’s Patagonian coast, is a prime destination for observing unique wildlife. This city serves as a gateway to the Valdés Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its diverse fauna, including Southern Right whales, elephant seals, and orcas. The ecological importance of this region is highlighted at the EcoCentro, a museum dedicated to marine life and environmental education.

Puerto Madryn itself offers a pleasant urban experience with its waterfront promenade, ideal for leisurely strolls with views of the vast Atlantic. The city also boasts a range of local cuisine, particularly seafood, which reflects its coastal heritage. With its combination of natural wonders and a welcoming community, Puerto Madryn provides a captivating insight into Argentina’s wildlife and cultural richness.

Passionate and alive with an infectious energy, Buenos Aires is a breathlessly romantic city, which blends colonial architecture with a down-to-earth Latin American clamour. Famed for steamy tango interplays and expertly seared steaks, this city is a fiery fiesta for the senses.

Visitors can choose to visit Caminito, the colourful street museum, shop at San Telmo Market, stroll through Recoleta Cemetery or cruise the Tigre River delta. Ships will dock at the Terminal de Pasajeros Benito Quinquela Martin which is a 30 minute drive from the airport and a 10 minute drive to the city centre.

Punta del Este, situated on Uruguay's southeastern coast, is renowned for its stunning beaches, elegant seaside homes, and vibrant nightlife. The city divides the Rio de la Plata from the Atlantic Ocean, offering both gentle waters and energetic surf, ideal for various water activities. Its iconic sculpture, La Mano, a giant hand emerging from the sand, has become a symbol of the area.

For those interested in culture, Punta del Este also boasts a thriving arts scene with numerous galleries and the striking Ralli Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Latin American and European art. The city's harbour is bustling with yachts and is lined with upscale boutiques and gourmet restaurants, making it a centre for luxury and leisure.

In Rio De Janeiro endless buildings flow around densely-forested mountains that roll down to an evocative waterfront. Incredible natural attractions, spontaneity that transforms everything into a party and world-famous monuments all make this city an unforgettable destination. Ships will dock at Pier Maua.

Top Things to Do in Rio De Janeiro:

• Ascend Mt. Corcovado to get up close to the Christ the Redeemer statue
• Relax on Ipanema or Copacabana beach
• take a cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain
• explore Tijuca National Park