Cruise to Patagonian fiords and hot springs
We cruise in style to the remotest parts of Patagonia.
We sail away from civilisation to watch sea lions play, to rest in thermal baths and enjoy the tranquillity of the water.
If you are looking for a longer trip, we also have a 6 day cruise.
Departures
Nov-April, the 7th of each month, plus Dec 30.
Itinerary details
Day 1
Hornopirén
This trip leaves Puerto Montt or Puerto Varas (or airport) by land and follows the Carretera Austral. This is the only road that travels south along the ocean and into the forests and mountains of Patagonia to the town of Hornopirén.
Just after mid-day we will meet Cahuella and her staff for a welcome lunch of the freshest products from the land and sea.
In the afternoon we’ll leave this outpost of civilization and cruise south. We enter the remote wilds of the Pumalin Park Project and the silent majesty of the Quintupeu Fjord. Waterfalls cascade from the steep walls while the white trunks of the Alerce trees that line the high ridges glow with the sunshine.
If the weather cooperates, we will spend the night tied to trees on the shore- necessary in a fjord so deep that anchors do not reach the bottom! In the evening we enjoy two new wonders: the Patagonian sunset and the fantastic pisco sours (national drink of Chile) that our local chef prepares.
Day 2
Cahuelmó
We’ll cruise south during the morning to visit a remote sea lion colony. Here there are hundreds of South American Sea Lions on a rocky outcrop below steep forested walls sunning themselves and napping.
In the afternoon we’ll arrive to the isolated fjord of Cahuelmó- a stunning area of waterfalls and majestic peaks where we will drop anchor and explore a land that has not changed for thousands of years. A zodiac ride will take us to the fjord’s hidden treasure: the Baños de Cahuelmó, a group of hot spring pools carved in the rock by pre-hispanic fishermen at the water´s edge. There are few things more magical than soaking in the hot soothing waters whose steam swirls in the impenetrable forests, amidst the perfect silence and beauty of a remote Patagonian fjord.
Another night of peace, beauty, fine food and true relaxation awaits us.
Day 3
Huinay & Hot Springs
Further south we’ll arrive at the small settlement of Huinay, where short walks in the massive valley are possible. The settlement has played an interesting role in the political history of the Pumalín Park Project and remains out of the park’s jurisdiction, effectively splitting the northern and southern sections of the park in two.
In the afternoon we’ll make our way to one of the region’s premiere treasures- a veritable stream of thermal water cascading through the ferns of the native forest and forming multiple pools. The experience and location of these hot springs are unforgettable. As usual, the comfort of Cahuella and her chef’s gourmet treats await us.
Day 4
Despedida
After a relaxing breakfast, Cahuella will navigate up the Cholgo Channel towards the perfect forested cone of the Hornopirén Volcano (4,800ft, 1,572 meters), at the base of which lies the town of the same name. We finish our Patagonian cruise at the ferry ramp, where the crew join us for a farewell lunch before bidding you goodbye.
Transport takes you up and over the mountains on the lovely journey back to Puerto Montt and the human hum of civilization- a 3 ½ hour drive amidst the rugged beauty of the Carretera Austral.
What’s included
Cruise, food and water on board, excursions as listed, park entry fees, tourist tax and transfers as listed
Not included
Domestic or international flights (please ask for prices), insurance, tips, meals not indicated, personal items, soft or alcoholic drinks
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