Posted on

REMEMBERING 74-DAY CONFLICT

REMEMBERING 74-DAY CONFLICT (THE STORY OF 1982)

Embarking on a poignant four-hour driving tour together with your English-speaking guide, you will delve into the rich history of the Falklands War of 1982. This journey, reminiscent of the fierce hand-to-hand combat faced by British soldiers during the 74-day conflict, takes you through the rugged landscapes that witnessed pivotal battles. The tour begins with a scenic drive from Stanley, lasting around one hour and forty-five minutes, as you pass through the stunning mountain range where fierce confrontations occurred. You will witness the notable battlefields of Sapper Hill, Mt William, Mt Tumbledown, Mt Harriet, and the Two Sisters, with discussions highlighting the struggles endured by soldiers amidst conditions likened to World War I. As you make your way to Fitzroy and Port Pleasant, the remnants of history become palpable.

This area is particularly significant, for it was here that British logistics landing ships, Sir Galahad, and Sir Tristram, were tragically bombed by Argentine Skyhawk aircraft while they were transferring troops, ammunition, and equipment. Upon arriving in Fitzroy, you will take a brief pause to appreciate the landscape, which is primarily a sheep farm that is now diversifying. Here, you can enjoy traditional Falkland Islands “smoko”, a delightful assortment of homemade baked goods, accompanied by tea and coffee in the Hall, providing a perfect moment to reflect on the history surrounding you. After this refreshing stop, the journey continues with a return to Stanley, including stop at the Welsh Guards memorial near Mt Harriet, allowing for moments of contemplation and remembrance. The entire excursion wraps up with a scenic return to Stanley, encompassing rich historical insights and breathtaking views of the landscape that played such a crucial role in the past.
Please note: this tour involves walking over uneven terrain, so wearing sensible footwear is essential.

It is unsuitable for guests with mobility problems or using a wheelchair. It’s advisable to dress warmly in layers, including a waterproof outer layer, gloves, a warm hat, and a scarf to ensure you fully enjoy and participate in this meaningful excursion. Guests with any type of food intolerance are required to communicate it to the Shore Excursions Office at least three days before the call. This tour may have multiple departures throughout the ship’s time in port. You will receive all information about your specific departure the day before the excursion

Posted on

BATTLEFIELDS: A JOURNEY THROUGH HISTORY

BATTLEFIELDS: A JOURNEY THROUGH HISTORY

Embark on an unforgettable journey tailored for history enthusiasts and military buffs alike. This 2.5-hour tour offers an insightful glimpse into the battlefields of the Falklands War, where courage and sacrifice shaped the course of history.

You will begin your adventure at the pier, boarding your vehicle for a scenic hour-long drive from Stanley to Estancia Farm. Along the way, your English-speaking battlefield expert will share fascinating anecdotes and historical context, setting the stage for what you’re about to witness. Once you arrive, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of significant sites such as Sapper Hill, Wireless Ridge, and Mount William, each steeped in stories of valour and hardship.

It was here that, after days of relentless artillery fire, the Argentine forces surrendered on June 14, 1982, marking a pivotal moment in the conflict. This moving and memorable tour not only provides a deeper understanding of the events that unfolded but also invites reflection on the sacrifices made. After exploring these hallowed grounds, you’ll board your vehicle for the return journey to the port, leaving with a renewed appreciation for the historical significance of the Falklands. Join us for this unique opportunity to connect with the past and honour those who fought bravely on these battlefields.

Please note: This tour is unsuitable for guests with mobility problems or using a wheelchair. Sensible footwear, raincoat, sun hat, layered clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended. This tour may have multiple departures throughout the ship’s time in port. You will receive all information about your specific departure the day before the excursion

Posted on

DISCOVERING STANLEY: A SCENIC JOURNEY THROUGH HISTORY

DISCOVERING STANLEY: A SCENIC JOURNEY THROUGH HISTORY

Embark on a captivating two-hour sightseeing tour of Stanley, the charming capital of the Falkland Islands. As you set off from the ship, you’ll enjoy a narrated drive in Spanish only through this lovely town, where colourful houses and quaint farms dot the landscape against a backdrop of rolling, verdant hills. Your first stop will be the stunning Christ Church Cathedral, the southernmost Anglican cathedral in the world, with its striking architecture and welcoming atmosphere.

Just a short distance away, you’ll marvel at the Whalebone Arch, an impressive structure crafted from the jaws of two blue whales, symbolising the region’s rich maritime history. Continuing your journey, you’ll pass significant landmarks such as Government House, the official residence of the Governor, and the poignant Liberation Monument, which pays tribute to those who lost their lives during the 1982 Falklands War. Each site tells a story, inviting reflection on the history that has shaped this resilient community. As your scenic drive ends, you’ll have the option to disembark at the Historic Dockyard & Museum, a treasure trove of maritime relics and exhibits that showcase the islands’ storied past. Here, you can explore fascinating displays and learn more about the unique heritage of the Falklands. After your museum visit, feel free to return to the ship at your leisure with a pleasant five-minute walk, or if you prefer, you can opt for a direct return to the port.

On your way back, don’t miss the opportunity to catch a glimpse of the wreck of the Lady Elizabeth, a vessel built in England in 1869, which met its fate on a rock a short distance before entering Stanley Harbour in 1913, adding another layer to the area’s rich maritime narrative. Join us for this delightful exploration of Stanley, where history and stunning scenery intertwine to create an unforgettable experience.
Please note: Information available in Spanish only. Sensible footwear, raincoat, sun hat, layered clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended

Posted on

CITY TOUR: PUERTO MONTT

CITY TOUR: PUERTO MONTT

A break from the ship to see the best of two cities that are not only neighbors but also share a history of German colonization in the 19th century.

Excursion Details

The tour begins with a bus transfer to the small bay of Angelmó in Puerto Montt, where numerous craft and gift shops complement the main fishing activities.

After passing by the waterfront Plaza de Armas and its bronze statue of German immigrants in front of the Cathedral of Our Lady of Carmel, you will stop to take photos by the lake, to see the bay, the city, and the modern statue “Aurora” of a woman with outstretched arms. When you arrive in Puerto Varas, a much smaller city located on Lake Llanquihue and known as the City of Roses, enjoy a tour of the city.

Important Information:

Casual clothing and comfortable walking shoes are recommended. This excursion may have several departures throughout the day. Once on board, contact the shore excursion desk for information on the exact departure time. The tour is subject to weather conditions and may be canceled without prior notice and without similar options

Posted on

HISTORY & NATURE IN THE PUERTO MONTT AREA

HISTORY and NATURE IN THE PUERTO MONTT AREA

Immerse yourself in a unique journey through the essence of southern Chilean culture and nature: beginning with the charm of the Bohemian immigrants in Nueva Braunau and their traditions revealed in the Antonio Felmer Museum; strolling through an ancient forest of alerce trees that have stood for centuries in the Lahuen Ñadi Natural Monument; and ending with the aromas and colors of the Angelmó artisan and fish market in Puerto Montt.

Excursion Details

This varied half-day excursion begins with a bus transfer to nearby Nova Braunau, located west of Puerto Varas and founded by Bohemian immigrants in 1875.

Today, the town is a center for dairy and cheese production, but it is also home to the Antonio Felmer Niklitschek Museum, whose vast collection of artifacts traces the colonization process of the region, with exhibits detailing the new Germanic gastronomic practices, architecture, art, music, and clothing worn by 19th-century settlers. Next, you can stroll through a protected forest of larch, cinnamon, and coigüe trees, called the Lahuen Ñadi Natural Monument, where some of the trees are around 1,800 years old. Continuing on, you will pass through the industrial area of Panitao, where fish and seafood processing plants are located, before ending in Angelmó, in Puerto Montt. This small bay is known locally for its fishing industry, craft shops, and gift shops. The tour ends with the return to the ship.

Important Information:

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. This excursion is not suitable for wheelchair users. Cameras are not allowed inside the museum. Lunch includes 1 glass of water and 1 glass of wine per person. The tour is subject to weather conditions and may be canceled without prior notice and without similar options.

Posted on

OSORNO VOLCANO & PETROHUÉ

OSORNO VOLCANO and PETROHUÉ

Imagine waking up in Puerto Varas, with the majestic Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes, snow-capped, standing as silent guardians over the shores of Lake Llanquihue. Embark on this scenic experience that takes you directly into the heart of Patagonia’s lush nature.

Excursion Details

A day of breathtaking landscapes awaits you on this tour, which begins with a bus transfer to nearby Puerto Varas, also known as the City of Roses, located on the shores of Lake Llanquihue. Enjoy views of the snow-capped Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes as you head to Ensenada and then to Mount Osorno, which towers over the landscape at about 1,240 m. There is free time to take photos of the summit with its eternal glacial cover, Mount Calbuco, Lake Llanquihue, and the Pacific Ocean.

Alternatively, you can enjoy a cup of coffee or hot chocolate (not included) or take the cable car (at your own expense) to reach the Spring Station and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. As a final scenic highlight, the tour continues to the shores of Lake Todos los Santos, then along the Petrohué River to reach the Petrohué Waterfalls, where water gushes through crystallized lava into the lake below. After a lunch break, return to the ship.

Important Information:

Comfortable trekking shoes are recommended. Guests should be in good walking condition for this excursion. The route to Osorno Volcano includes winding roads, so it is not recommended for those prone to car sickness. To see the waterfalls, guests must walk about 250 meters over uneven terrain with some paved paths and steps. Layered warm clothing, brightly colored attire, non-slip shoes, and insect repellent are recommended.

This excursion is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and is not recommended for those with back/neck problems due to the long time spent on the bus. The tour is subject to weather conditions and may be canceled without prior notice and without similar alternatives

Posted on

PETROHUÉ, PUERTO VARAS & MALTA CHOCOLATE BREWERY

PETROHUÉ, PUERTO VARAS & MALTA CHOCOLATE BREWERY

Beautiful natural landscapes of volcanic mountains, Lakes Llanquihue and Todos los Santos, and the Petrohué River await you on this fun excursion.

Excursion Details

After a short bus transfer from Puerto Montt, you will arrive in Puerto Varas, also known as the City of Roses. Before leaving the town, enjoy views of its main landmark, the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, from the early 20th century, built in Baroque style and a replica of a church located in Germany’s Black Forest.

Following a route along Lake Llanquihue, you can enjoy superb views of Mounts Osorno and Calbuco on the way to Petrohué, on the shores of Lake Todos los Santos. Stretch your legs with a walk through a lush forest before visiting the Malta Chocolate Brewery, the town’s first brewery. Using naturally filtered local water, this renowned establishment produces a small selection of excellent beers, which you will have the opportunity to taste, as well as learn about traditional brewing methods. A short return transfer to the ship in Puerto Montt concludes the tour.

Important Information:

Guides in languages other than Spanish/English are limited. If a guide for your language is unavailable, the tour will be conducted in Spanish or English only. Sunglasses, hats, high-factor sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended. This excursion will not be canceled due to weather (rain).

Guests with any type of food intolerance should notify the onboard excursion office at least two days before the port call. The tour is subject to weather conditions and may be canceled without prior notice and without similar alternatives

Posted on

LLANQUIHUE, FRUTILLAR & PUERTO OCTAY

LLANQUIHUE, FRUTILLAR & PUERTO OCTAY

Like Puerto Montt, other towns in the area also bear witness to a period of German colonization in the mid-19th century, such as Llanquihue (where a German dialect is still spoken), Frutillar, and Puerto Octay – your destinations on this excursion.

Excursion Details

A scenic bus transfer will first take you to Llanquihue, famous for its sausages and the source of the Maullín River, before continuing along Lake Llanquihue toward Frutillar, founded by Bavarian German settlers in 1856.

With a townscape reminiscent of Germany and the Osorno and Puntiagudo volcanoes as a backdrop, Frutillar is a pleasant place for a stroll. After a chance to explore the exhibits at the German Colonial Museum, the tour continues to the Teatro del Lago on the lakefront, host of a two-week annual music festival that attracts thousands of visitors from around the world. Next is the nearby Puerto Octay, where you can admire the views of its historic German-style streets before enjoying lunch at a restaurant serving traditional German dishes. The return transfer to the ship concludes the tour.

Important Information:

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. This excursion is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those using a wheelchair. Lunch includes 1 glass of water and 1 glass of wine per person. The tour is subject to weather conditions and may be canceled without prior notice and without similar alternatives

Posted on

HISTORIC TOUR IN ANGRA DOS REIS

HISTORIC TOUR IN ANGRA DOS REIS

Discover Angra dos Reis’ oldest landmarks, colonial architecture, and local commerce on a guided walking tour through the city’s historic downtown, starting from Santa Luzia Pier and ending at the Artisan House.

Excursion Details

Your experience begins with a meeting at the pier, from where you will walk towards the Convento do Carmo and Church, one of the city’s most significant historical landmarks. The next stop will be the charming Church of Santa Luzia, followed by a visit to the Culture House, which features exhibitions and records of local history. Continuing the tour, you will reach the imposing Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição and, soon after, the Monastery of Saint Bernardino, a site of great religious and architectural importance, where you will have nearly 40 minutes to explore each. After this cultural immersion, the itinerary continues to City Hall Park and the Fish Market Square, where you can observe the city’s everyday life.

The walk then leads to the Church and Museum of Our Lady of Good Death, and afterward to Cannons Square and the Handcraft House of Angra dos Reis, the perfect place to admire and purchase typical souvenirs. The tour concludes with the return to the pier, wrapping up a truly enriching experience that blends history, culture, and tradition in one of the most charming destinations of the Costa Verde.

Important Information:

This excursion involves walking over uneven terrain. We recommend wearing comfortable walking clothes and shoes, as well as sunscreen and a hat. This excursion will not be canceled due to weather (rain). The number of guides in languages other than Portuguese is limited.

If a guide is not available in your requested language, the tour will be offered in Portuguese only. Food and beverages are not included, so it is recommended to bring local money, a Visa or Mastercard credit card for any purchases or consumption. Transfer times, free time, and duration of stay em each stop are approximate and may change without notice

Posted on

HISTORIC TOUR & PARADISE ISLANDS BY SPEEDBOAT

HISTORIC TOUR and PARADISE ISLANDS BY SPEEDBOAT

Explore Angra dos Reis’ historical highlights before a scenic speedboat tour of its paradise islands. This 4.5-hour excursion includes city landmarks, crystal-clear waters, time for swimming, and family-friendly beaches.

Excursion Details

The experience begins with a meeting at the pier, followed by a pleasant walking tour through the historic center of Angra dos Reis. During this journey of almost 1 hour and 45 minutes, you will pass by important cultural landmarks, including the Convento do Carmo and Church, the Church of Santa Luzia, the Culture House, the Saudade Fountain, City Hall Park, the Fish Market Square, the Church and Museum of Our Lady of Good Death, and the Handcraft House of Angra dos Reis. Once the historical portion is completed, the group will head to the Santa Luzia Pier to board a speedboat bound for the famous islands of the region. The first stop will be at Botinas Island, with nearly 40 minutes of free time to enjoy. The navigation continues to Piedade Beach, on Gipóia Island, where there will be 10 minutes for photos.

Next, the boat sails to Flechas Beach, where you will have 1 hour of free time to relax and enjoy the scenery. After this cultural and natural immersion, the return journey begins, sailing back to the Santa Luzia Station and, finally, arriving at the pier. A complete tour that combines history, culture, and the natural beauty of the islands of Angra dos Reis.

Important Information:

This excursion involves walking on uneven terrain. We recommend guests wear comfortable clothing and shoes for walking and bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a hat. On the speedboat, flotation devices will be available for swimming. This excursion will not be canceled due to weather (rain). The number of guides in languages other than Portuguese is limited.

If a guide is not available in your requested language, the tour will be offered in Portuguese only. Food and beverages are not included, so it is recommended to bring local money, a Visa or Mastercard credit card for any purchases or consumption. Transfer times, free time, and duration of stay em each stop are approximate and may change without notice