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Around Cape Horn With Viva Expeditions

Wednesday 28 March 2018, 3:10PM

By Beckie Wright

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Viva Expeditions have a blog on their website enthusiastically recounting the writer’s experiences during their trip around Cape Horn, or the ‘uttermost part of the earth’ which can be read at http://www.vivaexpeditions.com/blog/mel-and-francos-journey-around-cape-horn some of which is recounted here.

“We were amazed to get off and into the zodiacs twice a day (weather permitting).  This allows you to get up close and personal to glaciers and hike through some of the sub-Antarctic forest areas.  We also explored Wulaia Bay, an area with historic importance regarding the indigenous Yamana people.

“When the ship was moving we were entertained with presentations and documentaries about Darwin, Shackleton and the variety of flora and fauna we were seeing along the way.  Experienced crew were also available for informative explanations not only about where we were but about life on the ship and personal expeditions they may have been involved in.

“Of course, the highlight of our cruise was the early morning arrival at Cape Horn.  With 150km winds unfortunately we were unable to go ashore and walk up to the lighthouse and the Cape Horn monument.  We did navigate up and down the east coast of the island and were able to clearly see the powerful influence of the winds coming off the Drake Passage.

“If you have ever wanted to sail the high seas but prefer luxury and comfort to walking the plank then this cruise is a great experience of what the end of the world has to offer.”

Viva Expeditions runs a 4-day and 5-day cruise to this seldom visited part of the world, and their spectacular 4-day cruise leaves from the Ushuaia, the most southerly city in the world, around Cape Horn and through the Southern Fiords to Chiles Punta Arenas. Passengers cruise through the Straits of Magellan, which separates the large island of Tierra del Fuego from continental Chile and Argentina, taking in the massive glaciers of southern Patagonia, and visiting Cape Horn at the southern tip of the South American continent.

While on board passengers can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner and an open bar during the whole journey. They can also partake of the exquisite food and famous Chilean wines from a menu that includes international food and typical local dishes, alternating a la carte menus and buffet.

The only difference with the 5-day cruise is that it leaves from the Chilean port of Punta Arenas, sailing through the Southern Fiords to arrive in Ushuaia. For more information please go to http://www.vivaexpeditions.com/south-america-tours/patagonia-travel/cruceros-australis-3/ .

http://www.vivaexpeditions.com/south-america-tours/patagonia-travel/cruceros-australis-4/ .

To find out more about Patagonia trips, Latin America tours and Antarctic tours please go to www.vivaexpeditions.com .