This route with the HANSEATIC inspiration reveals spectacular nature as far as the eye can see: from the breathtaking expanses of pristine steppe to imposing mountain and glacier landscapes. It is the most exciting time of the year to watch animals, with plenty of activity happening everywhere now. 

From the port city of Puerto Madryn, the gateway to Argentina’s south coast, set your sights on encounters with diverse species. Elephant seal and whale watching on the Valdes Peninsula* will take you to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the marine mammals give birth to their young. Alternatively, you can marvel at Magellanic penguins and the palaeontological museum* and see some of the largest penguin colonies outside Antarctica and unique dinosaur finds. Or, did you know that it is possible to go snorkelling with sea lions*? One of the excursions offers this special experience.

Numerous seabirds such as cormorants and herons soar around the Islas Vernaci, which you will visit by Zodiac if the local conditions permit. The small port of Puerto Deseado was once Magellan’s landing point and was later also used by the famous founder of the theory of evolution. Follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin* and explore the rocky landscape and birdlife. Alternatively, a nature safari to the Ria Deseado* takes you into a haven for dolphins, penguins and cormorants.

Stanley, the small and surprising capital of the Falkland Islands exudes British charm. One of the planet’s most remote archipelagos, this animal paradise boasts more than 60 species of bird, such as the black-browed albatross, as well as rockhopper and king penguins on Saunders Island. Magellanic and gentoo penguins make for an impressive picture on Carcass Island.

Following the route of the first person to circumnavigate the globe, cruising through the Strait of Magellan takes you to a land of 1,000 contrasts: Chile.

The colourful cityscape of Punta Arenas gives way to the panorama of snow-capped mountains on a flight to Torres del Paine National Park*. Or experience the glacier waters from an unusual perspective on a kayak trip in the Strait of Magellan*. A spectacular display in the sky awaits you with condor watching* as dozens of the giant birds circle above you. The following days are dedicated to the spirit of expedition as the HANSEATIC inspiration demonstrates its strengths as a small ship. Enjoy the drama of nature as you cruise through Chile’s southern island and fjord world. You’ll have fantastic views from the many open deck spaces and the glass balconies.

The Zodiacs are put to good use again here to take you towards the mighty foot of the gleaming blue Garibaldi Glacier. In Chile’s watery labyrinth, the captain and crew will demonstrate their nautical skill as the route takes you into the Beagle Channel with a passage through “Glacier Alley”. Several glaciers line the famous maritime route and with a little luck, you might spot humpback whales.

After these natural spectacles, you’ll chart a course for a fabled end of the world: Cape Horn. An exciting prospect awaits you at the legendary headland that most other ships can only pass by: if the weather permits a Zodiac landing, you can join the seasoned explorers who have set foot on the cape.

The rarely visited, uninhabited Isla de los Estados is another slice of true pioneering spirit. Thanks to special permission for the HANSEATIC inspiration, you can enjoy the privilege of going ashore by Zodiac to discover a dramatic landscape with Antarctic beeches and waterfalls. There are also more opportunities to see various seabirds and sea lions here. Although it might be hard to say goodbye to this amazing place, you’ll never forget the varied adventures of your cruise.