TIERRA DEL FUEGO
EXPEDITION on yachts
Mon Coeur and Wind Dancer
To organize a full-fledged sea-going expedition along the famous Tierra del Fuego was our long-standing dream. Tierra del Fuego or Land of Fire is one of the most beautiful and little-explored corners of our planet. There are still plenty of places where no human has set foot before because the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, which is 73.7 thousand sq. km, includes about 40,000 islands!
For centuries, the mysterious Land of Fire amazed explorers with its snowy mountain peaks, glaciers, unusual forests, piercing wind, and the freezing breath of Antarctica.
The name «Tierra del Fuego» was first coined in 1520, when the ships of the expedition of the Portuguese navigator, Ferdinand Magellan, (1480-1521) went around the southern tip of South America. During the transition through previously unexplored territories, Magellan saw a lot of smoke and lights flickering on the banks in the night. Concluding that these were fires of volcanic origin, he named the area Tierra del Fuego.
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As it was discovered later, the great navigator was mistaken. The people native to this land hunted with bows and arrows, fished with fire-carved harpoons made from stone, and walked around nearly naked or wrapped in skins from their prey. The climate of this region was often cool in the evenings which caused the local indigenous population to actively burn bonfires for warmth.
More than 500 years have passed and the Tierra del Fuego archipelago is still poorly explored, nigh inaccessible, and still as incredibly beautiful as it was several hundred years ago.
Snow-capped mountains and mighty glaciers, dense forests and crystal-clear lakes, thousands of islands, fjords, foxes, beavers, birds, whales, seals, landscapes of fantastic beauty, and the almost complete absence of people - all of this will make the heart of any traveler who appreciates nature and solitude flutter with joy.
We look forward to showing you this amazingly beautiful corner of virgin nature during our expedition to Tierra del Fuego from the comfort and security of our sailboats.
CAPITANS
ROUTE
IN THE COST OF EXPEDITIONIT INCLUDES:
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Travel upon the sailboat for 12 days;
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Services of a Captain, First Mate, Sailor, and Cook;
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3 meals a day on board;
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Fuel according to the route;
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Necessary permits;
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Port dues, all necessary taxes;
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All current expenses to ensure the life of the ship;
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Life jacket (PSP), automatic type, with a harness;
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Accommodation, in a comfortable, heated cabin shared with 1 other individual;
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Bed linen, which includes a cozy duvet;
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Access to visual materials, such as nautical charts and an onboard thematic library;
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Limited access to a satellite phone. The yacht is connected by Iridium (telephone charges are not included).
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• Internet access in Starlink coverage areas
EXPEDITION COST DOES NOT INCLUDE:
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Air fare to Ushuaia, Argentina;
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Alcoholic drinks;
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Transfers to and from the airport;
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Hotel accommodation, if necessary, before and after the expedition;
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Supplement for single occupancy;
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Visa;
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Insurance and expenses related to personal evacuation;
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Expenses for the use of satellite communications;
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Personal clothing and equipment.
IMPORTANT!
Due to the fact that our expeditions do not include international flights to the starting point of the program, we cannot be held responsible for changes in flight conditions by airlines or airport requirements. Since our travelers fly from many different countries and cities, we never participate in the purchase of air travel and limit ourselves exclusively to advisory services in the selection of flights. Air agents or airlines from which tickets were purchased are responsible for the purchase and technical support.
ITINERARY
Day 1
08.03
The expedition starts in the capital of the Argentinean Tierra del Fuego and the southernmost city on the Planet – Ushuaia. Ushuaia, in the language of the Yámana people who lived there, means «Gulf looking west.» The city is located on the shores of the Beagle Channel, which was named after the Beagle, a ten-gun Cherokee-class brig-sloop, the second ship of the British Royal Navy. On this ship, Charles Darwin made his famous journey, during which, the ship circled South America and passed through the newly discovered strait.
The city of Ushuaia itself is a rather interesting place with museums, tours, and restaurants serving local dishes. Therefore, we recommend arriving here a couple of days earlier in order to take in the sites as well as to avoid being late for the expedition due to flight delays that often occur on the flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia. In the morning, we will meet in the Afasin Marina, where our ships are located. There we will have a briefing on the arrangement of life on the ship, cabins, usage of latrines and electricity.
After the briefing and introductions we immediately begin making all of the necessary and vital preparations for the trip. We will then go with the Captain to Customs where we arrange our departure from the Argentinian border. Afterwards, we head to the local market to pick up any last minute items, snacks, and drinks you may want while we navigate through these pristine and remote places.
When we return, towards the end of the day, we will have a barbecue and an evening meeting inside the cozy wardroom of the local yacht club.
After a delicious meal that our chef prepared for us, we pull up the anchor and begin our expedition! We disembark the safety of the harbor and make way for Puerto Williams, Chile. This will take about 3 to 4 hours and upon arrival we will spend the night in the marina at anchor in the yacht club of Puerto Williams.
Day 2
09.03
During the first half of the day, we will be engaged in registering our ship, crew, and passengers to enter Chile. We will begin by going directly to the passport office and upon receipt of all the necessary permits and documents, we then proceed to the Chilean side of the Beagle Channel. We should reach Ferrari Bay by late evening.
Anchor. Dinner. Rest.
Day 3
10.03
After a delicious breakfast prepared for us by our ship's cook, we disembark for our first short walk for an hour or two through Chilean territory. Ferrari Bay is known for its beauty. At one time there was a horse farm here, but now there is nothing but feral horses, which we will try to capture with you on our cameras or drones.
We will not stay in one place for a long time, and upon the return of the team from the shore, we raise anchor and set off to continue deeper into the Beagle Channel. Our next destination is Olla Bay where we will anchor for the night. Depending on the weather, we disembark for a walk or wait until the next day.
There is a chance to meet Chilean crab fishermen in this bay and if they are there we will try to buy the famous XL size snow crabs to cook for dinner.
Dinner. Evening conversations in the wardroom. Rest.
Day 4
11.03
Today we begin truly knowing the harsh and amazing features of Tierra del Fuego. We will have an early rise, breakfast, and then disembark for a hike to the nearly impregnable Honda Glacier…
At the beginning of 2021, our team landed here for the first time. We spotted a lake and glacier and attempted to reach them several times, but each foray led us into impenetrable swamps and fallen trees. That evening we studied satellite images of the area and the next day we returned and made our way to the lake.
Through a lot of bushwhacking we succeeded on arriving at the lake on our second attempt and were literally stunned by the landscape that opened up right in front of our eyes. We look forward to sharing with you this remote and beautiful spot.
While we are on our hike to Holanda Glacier, you may also meet the local family of beavers which are not native to the region.
Beavers were brought over for breeding from Canada in 1946, but a few escaped and they now thrive in Tierra del Fuego and Patagonia. There is also a good chance that we will run into the famous guanacos, which are the wild ancestors of the domesticated South American llamas.
While the 6 kilometer hike to the beautiful Holanda Glacier has relatively little elevation changes, there is difficult terrain present. Therefore, this will likely take us the entire first half of the day.
After we return from our hike we will then have lunch. We raise anchor and set off again to the west. Our second goal for today is to get into one of the branches of the Sinopia fjord, famous for its beauty. Nowadays, the passage (only 25 nautical miles long) is one of the most picturesque on our entire route. In this section of the Beagle Channel, several beautiful glaciers empty into it. There will be many opportunities for photos so have your cameras ready.
The Sinopia fjord consists of two branches, where we will be able to explore three majestic glaciers and will be able to get very close to one of them on the ship. You will see how huge ice cliffs slide into emerald waters in mighty splittings and here their new life begins in the form of icebergs.
Upon arrival in Sinopia we will be looking for a secluded place to spend the night.
Once we find a safe place to drop anchor we will then begin preparing dinner for the evening. After which we will analyze our numerous photographs and discuss the flora, fauna, ice, and geological features which we explored throughout the day.
Day 5
12.03
We wake up early and have breakfast. Then we start exploring all the secluded corners of the Sinopia fjord.
We will devote the first half of the day to the largest glacier of Sinopia, from behind which the highest point of Tierra del Fuego, Mount Darwin (2488 m), peers out.
After finding a place to land we will go for a walk along the glacier and admire its incredible beauty from up close. The microclimate which surrounds a glacier has a direct impact on the weather. At any moment it may start to snow, then the sun will come out, it will rain, and then it will snow again. Therefore, we use all types of clothing for the ever-changing weather in this Fuegian land.
We will take a lot of pictures, and admire the harsh, and at the same time, amazing glacially-wrecked landscape in all of its beauty and its brevity which only occurs in the Spring months of Tierra del Fuego. Next, we will return to the yacht and go to a very beautiful and peculiar glacier in the same arm of the fjord. With caution, we will get as close as is safe to view the glaciers from the water.
After that, we continue to the second branch of the fjord, where you will discover more incredibly beautiful landscapes. This section of the fjord is not always accessible due to ice conditions as two large glaciers converge into this small outlet.
However, during spring, when the melting of glaciers is still very small, the chances of seeing everything are very high.
After a delicious lunch prepared for us by our wonderful chef, we sail about 22 miles to another highlight of Tierra del Fuego, the beautiful and majestic Garibaldi Fjord.
In the fjord, there are great chances to see sea lions living here. We post an observer to watch for any interesting wildlife and he or she can call down to their crewmates below decks so that no opportunities to view the wildlife will be missed.
Upon arrival at Garibaldi Fjord, we will be looking for a secluded place for anchorage. The weather here is always in motiont: sun, wind, snow, rain… sometimes all at the same time. Our boat’s berth for the night will be well protected from the ever-changing elements.
In the evening, we will have dinner, discuss our impressions from the day, and talk about what to look forward to for the rest of the trip. This is followed by an analysis of photographs and finally, rest.
Day 6
12.03
Today's location, from which we will start our day, is one of the most picturesque on our entire route. The narrow Fjord Garibaldi impresses with a variety of landscapes.
After a short passage from our anchorage, we find ourselves in a narrow space, sandwiched between mountains, where a beautiful, majestic glacier flows.еличний льодовик.
If the ice conditions allow, we will cruise along it in our inflatable dinghy.
We take pictures of ourselves and our yachts from the water level against the backdrop of the eternal ice of Garibaldi.
Further, ours is waiting for a small sea crossing to Cook Island.
Why is this island interesting? Fueguino, the southernmost volcano in the Andes, is located here.
Day 7
14.03
Today we wake up in a cozy and closed bay of Cook Island. After breakfast, a disembarkation is planned and we will climb the volcano to admire the nature of Tierra del Fuego from above.
The most desperate Paganeli can even swim in the lake, which is located in the crater of the volcano.
Depending on the weather, after returning, we will continue our journey towards Gordon Island.
Day 8
15.03
Gordon Island divides the Beagle Channel into two branches - north and south. Having already explored the glaciers of the northern arm, we set off to explore the beauties and fjords of the southern channel. Our first stop today is the Thousand Falls Fjord, which is located on the western tip of Gordon Island.
Having admired the fabulous and wild nature, we go further along the southern channel to look for a comfortable cove for an overnight stay.
Day 9
16.03
The nature of the southern islands of the Tierra del Fuego archipelago is distinguished by the presence of evergreen impenetrable and cold subantarctic jungles.
In the morning after breakfast, we land on the island, walk through the local wilds, and then, upon returning to the yachts, we leave for the Beagle Channel.
In the evening we arrive at a cozy bay. Dinner. Relaxation.
Day 10
17.03
Seeing the pure, untouched nature of Tierra del Fuego, we managed to feel like real Paganels - pioneers. Having visited places that have hardly changed since the time of Darwin and Magellan, today we are returning to civilization.
Our goal is a small settlement in Puerto Navarino, where there will be a small landing and a walk. Who knows, maybe we'll get the famous snow crabs here. Upon returning to the yachts, we raise anchors and head for Puerto Williams, already known to us. We anchor in the marina of the local yacht club. Dinner. Relaxation.
Day 11
18.03
The first half of the day is devoted to paperwork for departing Chile. The whole team goes to the local administration to get their passports stamped. After lunch, we will leave Puerto Williams, go to the Argentinean portion of the Beagle Channel, and all the way back to the already familiar Ushuaia.
We will have a late arrival at the marina of the Afasin Yacht Club and a farewell dinner in the evening prepared by our chef.
Exchange photos and discuss the expedition. Rest.
Day 12
19.03
In the early morning we will be going through passport control. After this is finished we return to the yacht club. It is a sad day where we bid each other farewell after sharing such amazing and timeless experiences.
Self-transfer to the airport. Flight home.
NOTE:
Please note that this itinerary is preliminary. The weather always has the final say. The itinerary is designed in such a way as to leave enough time at the end of the Expedition in case of any delays due to weather conditions. If necessary, the route of the expedition can be changed by the captain depending on external conditions!
YACHTS
Mon Coeur
The yacht «Mon Coeur» (My Heart) is owned by Paganel Studio, which has been organizing and conducting trips around the world since the end of 2011. Since 2014, we have been conducting polar yachting expeditions, which have already become regular for us. Therefore, for these purposes, we have acquired our fleet, consisting of two ice-class yachts.
The two-masted motor-sailing yacht «Mon Coeur» was built in Germany at the shipyard DÜBBEL & JESSE. It has an aluminum hull with a long keel line equipped with an additional trimmer.
Yacht length: 20.40 meters (66.97 feet) Beam: 5.42 m
Draft: 4.0
Sailing rig: Ketch with the top rig.
It has 2 Perkins diesel engines, each with 130 HP/ 95.55 (kW) Extensive renovations were carried out in 2002, 2013, and 2018.
In 2017-18 it was insulated and completely re-equipped for expeditions in cold latitudes.
It has a large fuel supply: 2 tanks of 2000 liters each.
Freshwater supply 2000 liters + a water-maker
For a comfortable stay of guests and crew on board, there are:
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3 toilets with showers;
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four independent heaters for heating the interior;
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air conditioning system;
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television;
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modern audio system;
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washing machine with dryer;
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satellite connection;
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coffee machine;
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fully equipped kitchen with fridge and freezer,
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microwave and oven;
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on-board library.
An autonomous diesel generator, high-capacity batteries, and a powerful inverter provide all the premises of the yacht with 220 volts during long passages. Two 5-seater inflatable boats with outboard motors provide us transportation to and from the shore.
The yacht can comfortably accommodate 12 people: 8 passengers and 4 crew members. We accommodate guests of our yacht in comfortable and cozy cabins for 2 people.
Team composition: professional experienced Captain, First mate, Sailor, Cook.
Plan-scheme "Mon Coeur"
1,2,4,5 - guest cabins
3.6 - crew cabin
7 - cabin company
8 - navigation
9- kitchen
10, 11, 12 - toilet and shower
size of beds:
cabin 1, 2:195 cm headboard, 100 feet
cabin 4 upper berth 200 cm x 80 x 47 lower berth 200 cm x 96 x 50
cabin 5 upper berth 200 cm x 70 x 47 lower berth 195 cm x 80 x 47
cabin 6 upper berth 195 cm x 78 x 60 lower berth 195 cm x 80 x 60
Each will be provided with a duvet, pillow, bed linen, and towel.
A detailed video review of the yacht Mon Coeur can be viewed here:
Wind Dancer
Yacht «Wind Dancer» a 21-meter steel sail-motor Bermuda sloop was built by Viking Marine-Rahmi H. Koc by Sciomachen – Naval Architects and Yacht. The metal hull with a long keel line has excellent seaworthiness.
The yacht's equipment allows sailing of any complexity, including difficult ice conditions.
Fuel supply 2100 liters in two tanks.
Freshwater supply 1000 liters + distiller
For a comfortable stay of guests and crew on board, there are:
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4 toilets with showers;
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autonomous heating system for all residential interior spaces;
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independent air conditioning system for each room.
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television;
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modern audio system;
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washing machine with dryer;
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satellite connection;
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fully equipped kitchen with fridge and freezer,
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yacht library.
Two diesel generators, service batteries, and a powerful inverter provide all the premises of the yacht with 220 volts during long passages. An inflatable boat with an outboard motor allows for movement between ship and land.
The yacht can comfortably accommodate 12 people: 8 passengers and 4 crew members. Each cabin is comfortable and cozy with separate beds for 2 people.
The composition of the team is experienced professionals with the necessary experience of ice expeditions: Captain, First mate, Sailor, Cook.
Plan-scheme "Wind Dancer" (Dancing with the Wind")
1,2,3,4,5,6 - cabins
7,8,9,10 - toilet and shower
Each member of the expedition will be provided with a duvet, pillow, bed linen, towel.
A detailed video review of the Wind Dancer yacht can be viewed here:
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WHY WITH PAGANEL?
We are unique
For many years, we have been traveling the world to our small planet's most remote and unusual places. We do not use the services of domestic travel agencies. The trips we invent and carry out are always unique and have their unique zest, charm, and adventurous spirit.
Creation
The first thing that interests us is creativity in everything. During the expeditions, we shoot a lot of videos, take pictures, write stories, draw pictures. If you are interested in a creative approach to life and travel, then WELCOME... we are very happy to meet you!
Interest
By joining our team, you join a kind of club family, which already consists of several hundred people who are interested in discovering the world with us.
Since most of the expenses for organizing a trip – air tickets and travel documents for other modes of transportation, accommodation, excursions, services of local companies and guides, etc. – are made by us in advance, long before the trip, the prepayment or payment for the trip is non-refundable in the event of cancellation.
Since most of the expenses for the organization of the trip are air tickets and travel documents for other types of transport, accommodation, excursions, services of local companies and guides, etc. are not refundable in case of your cancellation of the trip. We simply have no way to return it.
Please note that this itinerary is tentative. The weather always has the last word. The itinerary is designed to allow sufficient time at the end of the Expedition in case of any weather-related delays. If necessary, the captain can change the expedition route depending on external conditions!
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