Wildlife Cruises
Both Patagonia’s Atlantic and Pacific coasts are teeming with wildlife, and the best way to put yourself in the action is by taking the water on an adventure cruise ship or a …
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Ship
National Geographic Explorer
Ship overview:
The Explorer spent her first 20 years of life scurrying along the coast and fjords of Norway as part of the 'Hurtigruten' (or the Coastal Express), so she's perfectly suited to exploring the glacial waters of Tierra del Fuego and the Chilean Fjords.
Prices per person
From $13,859
Prices based on two people sharing
Ship Capacity
148 passengers
Year built
Constructed in 1982
Expedition staff to guest ratio
1:12
Optional activities
Paddling
Bridge
Lounge
Dining Room
Gym
Lecture Theatre
Sauna
Library
Observation Lounge
National Geographic Explorer
Swoop says
From her stunning panoramic observation lounge to the retractable stabilisers, and even photo equipment which you can loan, they've thought of everything. Then throw in some of the best expedition staff in the business.
Peter StanleyJones Patagonia Specialist
Why we like this ship
- With capacity for 148 guests, this vessel combines all of the advantages of travelling on a small ship with the superior stability and facilities of a larger one
- Retractable gyroscopic stabilising fins help reduce roll by 70-80%, while the strengthened bows to the highest 1A categorisation maximise safety in icy waters
- A dedicated mudroom and dual zodiac loading areas ensure slick and speedy logistics and no waiting time during zodiac operations
- Superior onboard safety features, including ice radar and forward-scanning sonar help identify uncharted obstacles and the safest routes
- The panoramic Observation Lounge & library are very popular places with all guests
- An onboard ROV capturing rare underwater footage and photographic gear available for loan by guests are both unique to this ship
We think it's worth noting
- The ship doesn't offer a full kayaking programme for those who would like to paddle more than the single complimentary session
- On Deck 1, cabins 321, 322, 324 & 325 are worth avoiding as they are above the engine and noisy
Types of Patagonia Adventure Cruises
Whale Watching in Patagonia
Join a dedicated whale-watching cruise or boat trip with specialist guides to protected fjords and bays in either Chile or Argentina to observe Patagonia's whale up close.
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Glacier Cruises
Patagonia is home to the third biggest ice field in the world. Many of the most stunning glaciers are only accessible by boat, from where you can watch them dramatically calve into…
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Cape Horn Cruises
Steeped in maritime history and myth, Cape Horn lies off Tierra del Fuego at South America's southernmost tip, accessible only to adventurous travellers by cruise ship.
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