Chonos Route Cruise Skorpios

Chonos Route Cruise Skorpios

Patagonia
6 Days

Overview

Discover the untouched beauty of southern Chile on a Patagonia fjords cruise through the Chonos Archipelago, one of the most remote and pristine regions in South America. This immersive expedition departs from Puerto Montt and navigates through a labyrinth of channels, islands, and glaciers shaped by ancient ice fields and powerful natural forces.

Throughout this journey, you will explore hidden villages, sail across quiet inland waterways, and witness the spectacular San Rafael Glacier, one of the most iconic and active glaciers in Chile. The itinerary blends scenic navigation with guided landings, allowing travelers to experience both the vast scale and the intimate details of Patagonia’s wild landscapes.

From the cultural richness of Chiloé Island to the thermal waters of Quitralco Fjord, this Chonos Route cruise itinerary offers a unique balance of nature, culture, and relaxation. Expect encounters with remote communities, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking scenery at every turn.

Ideal for travelers seeking an authentic and comfortable expedition, this route showcases the essence of Chilean Patagonia—where glaciers meet the sea, forests remain untouched, and every day reveals a new and unforgettable landscape.

Trip Highlights

The signature moments that make this journey unforgettable.

  • Navigate through the Chonos Archipelago and Chilean fjords

  • Visit the majestic San Rafael Glacier, one of Patagonia’s most famous лед fields

  • Explore authentic villages like Quemchi, Dalcahue, and Puerto Aguirre

  • Relax in the natural hot springs of Quitralco Fjord

  • Sail through islands, channels, and untouched ecosystems

Itinerary

Day 1

Your Patagonia fjords cruise begins in Puerto Montt with departure at 12:00 hrs, sailing through the Llanquihue Archipelago with views of Calbuco and surrounding coastal landscapes. Crossing the Gulf of Ancud, the ship arrives in Quemchi at 16:30 hrs, where guests disembark to explore this traditional Chilote village. At 18:30 hrs, navigation continues south through the Chiloé Archipelago, crossing the Corcovado Gulf around midnight.

About the location:
Quemchi is a picturesque village on Chiloé Island known for its wooden architecture and strong cultural identity. This region introduces travelers to the traditions of southern Chile, blending maritime heritage with local crafts and literature, including the legacy of writer Francisco Coloane.

Day 2

At 08:00 hrs, navigation continues through Moraleda and Ferronave Channels. Arrival at Puerto Aguirre is scheduled for 11:00 hrs, where guests explore this remote fishing village surrounded by lush rainforest. At 13:30 hrs, the journey continues through narrow channels toward Islote Barrientos, arriving at 16:00 hrs for a zodiac excursion among rocky islets rich in marine wildlife. At 17:00 hrs, the ship sails south, anchoring near San Rafael Lagoon around 22:00 hrs.

About the locations:
Puerto Aguirre offers an authentic glimpse into life in the Chonos Archipelago, where isolation and nature define daily routines. Islote Barrientos is one of the richest wildlife areas in the region, home to seabirds such as cormorants and gulls, as well as sea lions resting on rocky outcrops, making it a highlight for nature lovers.

Day 3

At 07:30 hrs, the ship navigates through Témpanos Channel toward San Rafael Lagoon. Arrival is around 09:00 hrs, anchoring near the glacier. Guests embark on small boats to navigate among floating icebergs. At 14:30 hrs, the vessel approaches the glacier wall for panoramic views before departing at 16:00 hrs toward Quitralco Fjord.

About the glacier:
San Rafael Glacier is one of the most iconic glaciers in Chile and part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Known for its active calving, massive ice blocks break into the lagoon, creating a constantly changing landscape of floating ice and deep blue tones.

Day 4

At 08:00 hrs, the ship docks in Quitralco Fjord. Guests enjoy thermal hot springs, nature walks, and optional boat excursions within the fjord. The experience includes a full day surrounded by dense vegetation and mountains. At 17:00 hrs, departure begins toward Chiloé via Moraleda and Pérez Norte Channels.

About the location:
Quitralco Fjord is a secluded natural sanctuary featuring geothermal hot springs between 32°C and 38°C. Surrounded by lush rainforest and steep mountains, it offers a rare combination of relaxation and wilderness deep within Patagonia.

Day 5

During early navigation, the ship crosses the Corcovado Gulf, where sightings of blue whales may occur depending on conditions. At 11:00 hrs, arrival at Islote Conejos allows guests to explore this small island by boat, observing Magellanic penguins and seabirds. At 13:00 hrs, navigation continues between Lemuy and Chelín Islands. Arrival in Dalcahue is scheduled for 16:30 hrs, with time to explore before departure at night, including a farewell dinner onboard.

About the locations:
Islote Conejos is a key wildlife stop, known for seasonal colonies of Magellanic penguins and abundant birdlife. Dalcahue, located in the heart of Chiloé, is famous for its handicraft markets and historic wooden church, reflecting the island’s strong cultural heritage.

Day 6

At 08:00 hrs, the ship arrives at Puerto Montt. After breakfast onboard, disembarkation takes place at 09:00 hrs, marking the end of this immersive journey through the fjords, glaciers, and archipelagos of Patagonia.

About the journey:
The Ruta Chonos cruise covers approximately 800 miles through one of the most remote regions in Chile, combining glaciers, wildlife, traditional villages, and thermal fjords into a unique expedition experience.

South Wind Experience

Talk with a local travel specialist

Plan your perfect Argentina adventure with personalized guidance

(+54)-9-2966539220

or fill out our quick form below

Contact a destination specialist, who will take the time to fully understand your preferences and ideas and turn them into the perfect itinerary for you according to your budget. The itinerary can be modified as many times as you want until you are completely happy with the result.

Plan Your Trip
  • Accommodation onboard the Skorpios vessel (5 nights / 6 days)

  • Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the cruise)

  • Navigation through fjords, channels, and archipelagos of southern Chile

  • Excursions and landings included in the itinerary

  • Boat excursions among icebergs in San Rafael Lagoon (weather permitting)

  • Access to Quitralco hot springs facilities (thermal pools and nature walks)

  • Onboard activities and navigation experience through Patagonia’s remote channels

  • Medical assistance onboard and accident insurance

  • Flights (international and domestic)

  • Port taxes / embarkation fees (charged separately)

  • Transfers (airport ↔ Skorpios terminal, optional service)

  • Optional pre-cruise night onboard (available at additional cost)

  • Optional excursions or services not specified in the itinerary

  • Entrance fees to parks, museums, or reserves (unless explicitly included)

  • Personal expenses (bar drinks, souvenirs, laundry, etc.)

  • Tips and gratuities

  • Travel insurance (medical or cancellation)

To begin this Patagonia cruise, travelers should arrange their arrival into Puerto Montt Airport (PMC), also known as El Tepual International Airport, located just outside the city and the main gateway to southern Chile.

This airport is well connected with daily domestic flights from Santiago (SCL), as well as international connections via Santiago’s main airport.

  • Arrival Flight: TTravelers fly from their origin city to Santiago (SCL), and then connect with a domestic flight to Puerto Montt (PMC). Upon arrival, transfers can be arranged to the Skorpios terminal for embarkation.

  • Departure Flight: At the end of the itinerary, the cruise concludes in Puerto Montt. Travelers will take a domestic flight from Puerto Montt (PMC) back to Santiago (SCL), where they can connect with international flights to their final destination.

How to Customize This Itinerary

Enhance your Patagonia fjords cruise experience by adding extra destinations before or after your journey, creating a more complete exploration of southern Chile and Argentina.

  • Add a few nights in Puerto Montt, the starting point of your cruise and gateway to Chile’s Lake District. Enjoy scenic views of volcanoes, visit nearby towns like Puerto Varas, and explore local markets and cuisine before embarking on your expedition.

  • Discover the Chilean Lake District, a region of crystal-clear lakes, snow-capped volcanoes, and lush forests. Visit Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, where waterfalls, hiking trails, and panoramic viewpoints showcase the natural beauty of northern Patagonia.

  • Extend your journey to Chiloé Island for a deeper cultural experience. Explore its UNESCO-listed wooden churches, traditional palafito houses, and vibrant handicraft markets while learning about the island’s unique mythology and heritage.

  • Travel along the Carretera Austral, one of the most scenic routes in South America. This remote highway connects national parks, rivers, and glaciers, offering opportunities for trekking, kayaking, and wildlife observation in untouched landscapes.

  • Visit the Chilean National Parks in the Aysén Region, a conservation success story featuring vast valleys, mountains, and diverse wildlife. It’s an ideal plan for nature lovers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Let's plan your adventure!

Customize your adventure!

Share your trip plans, and we'll tailor it to your needs and budget. Our local experts are ready to craft the perfect journey for you.

Contact Us
Trusted Agency
Local Experts
5-Star Reviews

Discover Your Next Adventure!

Ready to Start Planning Your Trip?

Tell us about your dream journey and our local travel specialists will craft a tailor-made itinerary just for you. No commitment, no fees — just expert advice.