fram antarctic peninsula cruise

Penguins, Patagonia & Poetry

  • Overview
    If you like diversity and want to visit the most intriguing spots in Patagonia and Antarctica, this expedition is for you. Starting in Ushuaia, we cross the ocean to explore the wonders of the Deep South in Antarctica. Come ashore on isolated beaches, get close to huge colonies of penguins, hike in the haunting landscapes and enjoy kayak trips in untouched waters with icebergs floating by. We continue to Cape Horn and the wild fjords of Chile to visit one of the most scenic national parks in the world. This wild and remote area seems almost untouched by humans, with mountains plunging into icy waters. The steep valleys with snow-capped mountains make a striking contrast to an otherwise green area that is rich in wildlife. Enjoy spending time ashore, kayaking, hiking and close encounters with penguins, birds and seals, and the rich wildlife of Patagonia, before the voyage ends in Valparaíso Chile.
    Duration: 18 days
    Passengers: 318 passengers
    Embarkation Point: Buenos Aires, Argentina
    Disembarkation Point: Santiago, Chile
    Physical rating: Soft Adventure
    Fly/Cruise: Mandatory extra flight
    Single Supplement: 0.0x twin rate or share options
  • Itinerary
    • Day 1 - Buenos Aires

      Your voyage starts with an overnight stay in stunning Buenos Aires. Join our optional City Tour or explore the city on your own.

    • Day 2 - Buenos Aires/Ushuaia; Embarkation Day

      Our flight leaves Buenos Aires in the morning which gives you a few hours to explore Ushuaia, the southernmost town in the world. You are invited to join the optional excursion to Tierra del Fuego National Park before embarking MS Fram in the afternoon. Once onboard there will be a welcome meeting and chance to meet the Expedition team and crew who will outline the programme for the coming days.

    • Day 3 - Drake Passage

      Enjoy life on board and keep a lookout for wildlife or join our Expedition Team as they start our onboard lecture series

    • Day 4/7 - Antarctica

      As we reach Antarctica you will be overwhelmed by this endless white wilderness full of vistas of nature and wildlife. We will attempt to land on several sites as weather, wind, and ice conditions will determine our program and schedule. On land, our Expedition team will explain what you see and help you avoid disturbing nature and wildlife.

      Staggeringly photogenic and blessed with some of the most spectacular Antarctic scenery imaginable, Half Moon Island is a glittering gem amongst these island treasures. Cuverville Island boasts the largest known colony of gentoo penguins in the Antarctic Peninsula. We will sail through the narrow Errera Channel, to and from Cuverville, and see the icebergs that have become trapped and grounded in the nearby shallows. Danco Island lies peacefully amongst the icebergs in the Errera Channel, just a few hundred yards from the Antarctic mainland, and is a breeding site for gentoo penguins.

      Come ashore and explore with us, go kayaking to see the ice up close or take a trip on one of our small boats. Port Lockroy is a British station from the Second World War that was turned into a museum in 1996. It is one of the most popular sites in Antarctica and offers a peek into life on an Antarctic base in the 1950s. Pleneau is situated just south of the Lemaire Channel and is a beautiful landing site, with many stranded icebergs in the bay area.

    • Day 8 - Drake Passage

      After four unforgettable days in Antarctica, MS Fram takes us safely back across the famous Drake Passage.

    • Day 9 - Cape Horn

      At almost 56 degrees south, Cape Horn is the southernmost point of South America, and one of the most mythical places on Earth. Before the Panama Canal, seafarers had to pass this infamous rocky island in order to cross from one side of the Americas to the other. We will do our best to land on Cape Horn, an area known for high seas and challenging conditions. Landing on Cape Horn will be a true highlight of your voyage.

    • Day 10 - Chilean fjords in Patagonia

      During the next two days we will sail through the Magellan Strait and the Beagle Channel, with channels, fjords and mountains plunging into the icy water. This wild and remote area seems almost untouched by humans. The ice has scoured its way between the mountains, creating the isolated islands and hidden bays that form the unique fjord landscape of Chile.

      Nature enthusiasts will be excited by the Chilean fjords. The snow-capped mountains and steep valleys make a striking contrast to an otherwise very green area that is rich in wildlife. Come ashore and you might be lucky enough to spot sea lions, Andean condors and several bird species that can only be found here.

    • Day 11 - Puerto Natales, Torres del Paine National Park

      Puerto Natales is the gateway to the world-renowned Torres del Paine National Park, one of the most attractive national parks in Chile. Its main attraction, the "towers" themselves, is the impressive rock formation, both colossal and unique, called "Torres del Paine" (Towers of Paine). The towers are made up of the Torre Central (9,186 feet high), Torre Sur (9,350 feet) and Torre Norte (7,375 feet). Enjoy hiking, glacier traversing, kayaking and landings in these amazing surroundings.

    • Day 12 - Puerto Natales, Torres del Paine National Park

      This diversity of environments here has led to a very rich fauna and flora. While we are here you might see llamas, pumas, chilla foxes and skunks in addition to more than 100 species of birds like the Andean condor and black-chested buzzard eagle.

    • Day 13 - Puerto Edén, Chile

      After an unforgettable cruise through the Patagonian archipelago, you will be enchanted by the unique village of Puerto Edén. Known for its geographical isolation, its population of 250 includes the 15 remaining members of the Kawéskar people. Stroll among the laneways or join the Expedition Team for hiking, mountain climbing or kayaking.

    • Day 14 - Chilean fjords

      Enjoy another day in the Chilean fjords. From the deck or the panorama lounge you have orchestra seats to the majestic mountains and beautiful scenery.

    • Day 15 - Puerto Montt

      Puerto Montt boasts great views of the ocean and the towering peaks of the Andes. Coming ashore on one of our excursions will give you a great overview of the scenery, culture and architecture of this area. You can also explore this city on your own.

    • Day 16 - South Pacific Ocean

      Enjoy a day at sea. Relax on deck or join the lectures from the Expedition Team.

    • Day 17 - Valparaíso; Disembarkation

      Poets, painters and philosophers have long been drawn to Chile's most unusual city, described as both colourful and poetic.­ After disembarking, join us on a sightseeing tour before we take you to your hotel in Santiago de Chile.

    • Day 18 - Santiago de Chile

      After a breakfast in the hotel your expedition comes to an end. We invite you to extend your holiday with a post programme in Santiago de Chile and surrounds.

    Please consider that our voyages are expeditionary in nature. This means, that there are no concrete itineraries, your Captain and Expedition Leader will utilise their vast experience to chart the best course for your expedition depending on the climatic and environmental conditions. Mentioned highlights and wildlife cannot be guaranteed.

  • Adventure Activities

    Penguins

    Taking centre stage on your Antarctic Peninsula expedition, are the Brushtail penguin species. These photogenic and intriguing species include, Gentoo, Chinstrap and Adelie penguins. The species are in abundance across Peninsula and are always performing.

    On board voyages in our other details you may come across Rockhopper, Macaroni, Magellanic, King and Emperor penguins.

    Experience Patagonia at close range

    Experience Patagonia at close range. Explore the narrow fjords and shallow bays of Fuegian Archipelago discover secluded waterfalls, tidewater glaciers, pristine beaches and rocky shorelines, hike through primeval sub-Polar forest, thousands of penguins, elephant and leopard seals, Andean condors and Caracara falcons.

    Whales

    Whale numbers swell in Antarctica over the southern summer. Arriving in Antarctica from November onwards, whale numbers reach their peak around December and January. Sightings and particularly breachings reach a pinnacle in February and March, when the Krill is closer to the surface. Some 10 species of whales are found in Antarctic water each summer, with the most abundant species being the Humpack.

  • Inclusions

    Transfers, Accommodation & Tour

    Pre-cruise accommotion in Buenos Aires is provided, as well as transfers in Ushuaia with an orientation tour.

    Expedition Gear

    Expedition boots are provided on board, as is a wind/waterproof expedition jacket.

    Charter Flights

    Return flights from your itinerary starting city to Ushuaia are included in your expedition

    Dynamic Cabin Pricing

    Cabin prices on board the Fram are dynamic, that is the cabin pricing fluctuates with changes in bookings and exchange rates. Cabin prices below are not guaranteed and are subject to change and availability at the operators discretion. Please feel free to contact us for the most accurate pricing on this voyage.

    Inclusions / Exclusions

    Included in your Expedition

    - Hot beverages
    - Excursion ashore and lectures
    - Expedition jacket
    - Flights where stated in the itinerary
    - Transfers where stated in the itinerary
    - One night hotel stay pre-cruise
    - Accommodation while on board

    Not included in your Expedition

    - Optional excursions and activities
    - Luggage handling
    - International flights
    - Mandatory waterproof gear not provided
    - Baggage / cancellation / interruption and medical travel insurance
  • Map
    Screen shot 2017 07 04 at 5.31.30 pm
  • Gallery
  • Vessel

    FRAM

    The ship is purpose-built as an expedition vessel with a higher ice-class, chart drawing tools,ship depth sounding database, extractable forward sounding sonar, iceberg search lights, autonomous tracking system, oversized oil retention system for self-sufficiency, and a full ‘expedition tools-deck’ equivalent to a car-deck that holds 25 vehicles. We believe that as an explorer you need an ‘expedition base-camp’ that is comfortable – something that combines ‘all oceans capabilities’ with safety, flexibility and environmental friendliness. That’s Fram – simply the best expedition ship imaginable. The observation lounge, with comfortable sitting areas at the top of the ship and large panoramic windows, gives you incredible views of nature. A pair of binoculars is installed for spotting wildlife and details of the ever changing landscape. In the restaurant on deck 5, you can enjoy the finest cuisine. The floor has different levels, so no matter where your table is placed; there are views to the outdoors. The restaurant is located in the aft of the ship, on your way there you walk through an exhibition of original artefacts from the historic expeditions of Amundsen and Nansen. At the far end of the restaurant there is a balcony for taking pictures when wildlife show up during a meal. On deck 7 you will find a well-equipped fitness room, with its panoramic ocean view there is no better place to exercise. On top of the ship you can get warm and cosy in the sauna or bathe in one of the outdoor Jacuzzis. Let the warm water surround you while the icebergs float silently past the side of the ship. With 127 cabins on Fram, you have a choice of comfortable cabins and a number of superior suites to choose from. Our suites are named after Norwegian polar heroes, MS Fram travels in the wake of these great explorers. We are very proud of the art commissioned for MS Fram – local artists from the Arctic have contributed to making her a modern masterpiece. The ‘tender pit’ is where we embark, fully dressed in suitable expedition and excursion gear, on our sturdy Polarcirkel boats to take you safely from ship to shore. The original Fram was a ship for broadening the understanding of the world – let the new MS Fram do the same for you.

    Features & Facilities
    • Enhanced expedition vessel
    • Superior accommodation
    • Observation lounge with panoramic windows
    • Restaraunt
    • Gym with panoramic windows
    • Sauna
    • Outdoor Jacuzzies
    • Internet/Wifi
    Key Facts
    Luxury star rating: 4
    Guests #: 318
    Crew #: 75
    Ice Class: 1B
    Speed: 16
    Refurbished:
    Technical Specs
    Year built:
    Length: 113m
    Width: 20
    Draft:
    Tonnage: 11647
    Registry: Norway
    Elec Outlets: 220V / 2 Round Pin
Check Voyage Dates, Pricing and Availability
All available dates
Ready to book your expedition?

We understand that the trip of a lifetime takes planning, so we make the financial commitments easy to manage.

  • Confirm your booking today with just USD$ 1,000 per passenger.
  • Pay your 25% deposit 5 day later.
  • Final payment due 120 days prior to departure.

Arctic Superior - Upper Deck Twin

22 Feb 2018 - 11 Mar 2018
Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of our Arctic Superior cabins.
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Expedition Suite

22 Feb 2018 - 11 Mar 2018
Our Expeditions Suites are the most exquisite cabins on the ship.
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Expedition Grand Suite

22 Feb 2018 - 11 Mar 2018
Our Expeditions Suites are the most exquisite cabins on the ship.
USD$ $POA
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Polar Inside Middle Deck - Quad

22 Feb 2018 - 11 Mar 2018
Our cosy Polar Inside cabins can be found on all decks. All cabins include bathrooms with shower/WC.
USD$ $POA
USD$ $POA

Polar Inside Middle Deck - Twin

22 Feb 2018 - 11 Mar 2018
Our cosy Polar Inside cabins can be found on all decks. All cabins include bathrooms with shower/WC.
USD$ $POA
USD$ $POA

Polar Outside Upper Deck

22 Feb 2018 - 11 Mar 2018
Our Polar Outside cabins are situated mostly on middle or lower deck and all have bathrooms with shower/WC.
USD$ $POA
USD$ $POA

Arctic Superior - Middle Deck Twin

22 Feb 2018 - 11 Mar 2018
Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of our Arctic Superior cabins.
USD$ $POA
USD$ $POA

Polar Outside Middle Deck - Twin

22 Feb 2018 - 11 Mar 2018
Our Polar Outside cabins are situated mostly on middle or lower deck and all have bathrooms with shower/WC.
USD$ $POA
USD$ $POA

Polar Outside Middle Deck - Quad

22 Feb 2018 - 11 Mar 2018
Our Polar Outside cabins are situated mostly on middle or lower deck and all have bathrooms with shower/WC.
USD$ $POA
USD$ $POA