Pacific coast explorer
Set sail through the legendary Panama Canal as we head off on a South American adventure. From the jungles of Central America to the high-altitude Andean Plateau of the Altiplano, you’ll visit the community where Panama hats are made, as well as the intriguing ruins of ancient Chan Chan. After a week at sea exploring the highlights of the Pacific coast, your adventure turns inland.

Mysteries of the Andes
Flying to the ancient Inca capital of Cusco, you’ll discover the region’s enigmatic treasures including Machu Picchu before continuing to high altitude Lake Titicaca. Here, you’ll be welcomed by the Uru people who live upon floating islands, and visit the tombs of Sillustani. A final stop in Lima gives you the chance to find out all about South America’s hottest culinary destination.

Highlights


• Panama Canal: Experience the iconic engineering feat of the Panama Canal as you journey from the Atlantic to the Pacific.

• Machu Picchu: Explore the ancient ruins of the Inca city of Machu Picchu, nestled high in the Andes mountains and shrouded in mystery.

• Lake Titicaca: Visit the highest navigable lake in the world and meet the indigenous Uru people who live on floating islands made of reeds.

• Lima: Discover the vibrant and delicious food scene of Peru's capital city.

Get ready to start your adventure Your South American expedition cruise begins in Colón, which stands at the entrance to the Panama Canal on the Atlantic coast. It's a bustling cosmopolitan centre with hot springs, a thriving handicraft scene and wonderful local restaurants.    If you’d like to explore more of Panama you can join one of our optional Pre-Programmes. However you choose to spend your time in Panama, your expedition ship will be ready and waiting. Once boarded, locate your cabin, explore the ship and get to meet your Expedition Team.
Navigate one of the world's greatest engineering marvels Early in the morning, we'll enter the Panama Canal, a complex network of huge, ingenious locks stretching 50 miles through natural and man-made waterways. If weather allows, our Expedition Team will invite you on deck and tell the story of this ambitious project.  Halfway through our transit, we'll enter the Gatun Lake section, which is one of the world's largest artificial lakes and is surrounded by verdant rainforest. Keep an eye out for crocodiles, alligators, monkeys and even sloths.  After around twelve hours, we'll emerge into the Pacific, passing from one great ocean to another.
Enjoy a day at sea As we sail towards Ecuador take time to relax and get to know the ship better. Go out on deck and look out for wildlife – whales can often be seen in these waters. Your Expedition Team can be found in the Science Center, and they’ll be giving some interesting talks on a range of topics.  While you’re there, why not find out about the Citizen Science projects we’re running. Or if you’d simply like to relax and enjoy the journey, try out a hot tub or settle into the comfort of the Explorer Lounge & Bar and watch the world pass by. Later, a spot of stargazing from the deck is a lovely way to wind up your day.
Discover the birthplace of Panama hats... in Ecuador It's not every day that you get the opportunity to seek Neptune's blessing. We'll do just that in a traditional – and somewhat fun – ceremony as we cross the Equator in the early morning.  Later, we'll dock at the port of Manta and set foot on South American soil as we visit the town of Montecristi. Known for its handicrafts, you can buy a stylish genuine Panama hat here, expertly handwoven from the leaves of the jipijapa tree.   Wander around this smart town and take a look at the imposing white church, or take in the colourful street art and murals. Returning to Manta, we’ll pay a visit to the archaeological museum.
A bustling port with a charming atmosphere We have a fruitful day ahead exploring Puerto Bolívar, a port in the city of Machala that exports coffee, cocoa, shrimp and masses of bananas. Shipping more of Ecuador’s ‘green gold’ than anywhere else in the country, Puerto Bolívar is dubbed ‘Banana Capital of the World’.  Machala itself has all the charm you’d expect from a small coastal city, including friendly locals, cosy plazas and striking monuments. You can try delicious fresh seafood at the harbour restaurants, taking in views of the mangrove swamps of Isla Jambeli. Then explore on foot the local markets, plazas and the Casa de la Cultura museum.
Relaxation, research – or a bit of both Your Pacific coast cruise continues as we head towards Peru. As we sail, you might want to soak up the scenery on deck, dine on delicious food or just enjoy the onboard facilities.  The Expedition Team will continue their talks in the Science Center, sharing insights on all kinds of topics. You might learn about Indigenous communities and cultures, local geology and pre-Columbian history, among other things.  Out on deck, they’ll help you identify the seabirds that like to follow our ship, as well as other wildlife. Our onboard photographer will be on hand with tips.
Discover Trujillo's ancient kingdoms Salaverry is the gateway port to Peru’s third largest city, Trujillo, and some fascinating archaeological sites. Colourful Trujillo boasts a Baroque cathedral, colonial churches and Neoclassical mansions, as well as one of the longest mosaic murals in the world.  Nearby, the vast ancient ruins of the Chimú city of Chan Chan date back to at least 900 CE. On the other side of Trujillo, the mysterious Mochican pyramids of the Sun and the Moon pre-date even that.  Back on the ship, there will be a performance of traditional Peruvian dances.
Inland towards Cusco and the Sacred Valley After a week cruising the Pacific coast, we arrive in Callao around noon. Here we'll say goodbye to the expedition ship and embark on the next exciting stage of our South American adventure. From Lima, we fly to beautiful Cusco, the old capital of the Incas, which is situated at around 11,100 feet above sea level. While you’re in the Imperial City, you’ll be able to see some its most historical monuments, like the Santa Domingo church and the Sacsayhuamán fortress. Seek out the famed 12-angled stone just off the city plaza. Your day ends with an overnight in Cusco, where you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner and a restful night before your visit to Machu Picchu tomorrow.
Journey to the Lost City of the Incas You’ll start your day with a transfer to Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley. Then we’ll board the deluxe Hiram Bingham train to Machu Picchu, enjoying brunch while the breathtaking Andean scenery rolls past. Estimated to have been built around 1450, Machu Picchu was abandoned during the Spanish conquest. It was hidden by jungle for centuries, and only rediscovered in 1911. The Incas left no written records, so mystery surrounds this magnificent stronghold. Enjoy the trails around the ruins, admire the precision Inca stonework and maybe meet some of the friendly resident llamas. After the day’s adventures, we’ll head back to Cusco for another relaxing overnight stay.
Cross the awe-inspiring Andean Plateau Enjoy an unforgettable journey by bus across the Northern Andean Plateau, or the Altiplano as it's known. The Altiplano is one of the world’s largest high plateaus and it sits at over 12,000 ft above sea level. The vast plateau extends into Bolivia, northern Peru and southern Chile. During this full day of adventure, you’ll pass through breathtaking scenery and be awed by the imposing Andes. There will be many opportunities to photograph this remarkable landscape and you’ll enjoy a delicious picnic lunch en route. At the end of your journey, you can rest and get ready for Lake Titicaca with a comfortable overnight stay in Puno.
Floating islands on South America's largest lake The sheer beauty of Lake Titicaca will amaze you. You'll visit the rural community of Llachón, which has spectacular views over the lake. You’ll enjoy a guided kayaking tour on the peaceful, deep blue waters. You’ll also join a guided walk before joining a local family for a typical lunch. Next, we'll go on a boat tour to reach the Uro people on their floating islands, shimmering golden in the sun. These otherworldly islands are woven from the reeds that grow in the lake. At the end of the day, relax and reflect back at your hotel in Puno.
Visit the Sillustani tombs Before heading to the airport to catch your flight to Lima, there’ll be time to stop at the Sillustani tombs, a pre-Inca burial place that’s surrounded by Lake Umayo. The tombs or chullas are tower-like structures built above ground by the ancient Colla people, some as tall as 39 feet and big enough to hold entire families. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the shores of the lake in this peaceful and enigmatic place. After exploring this archaeological marvel, we’ll continue to the local airport for our flight to Lima. Once we arrive in Lima, your local guide will transfer you to your hotel and you can enjoy the evening at your leisure.
End your adventure in Peru's gastronomic capital Your expedition ends in Lima, once known as 'The City of Kings'. It's well worth taking a day or two to explore this exciting city. Lima's historical centre is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's a jewel of Spanish architecture, from colonial-era churches and monasteries to elegant mansions. You'll also see Lima's Inca heritage in the ruins of ceremonial pyramids Huaca Pucllana and Huaca Huallamarca. Known as the food capital of South America, you can choose from gourmet restaurants to unmissable street food. We recommend trying Peru's national dish ceviche, fish marinated in lime juice, onion and chilli. It’s the perfect note on which to end your adventure.
Itineraries are subject to change.

Polar Outside. From

$11,176 AUD pp
Polar Outside. From
The Polar Outside cabins are primarily on the middle decks with windows, most are spacious, have flexible sleeping arrangements and TV for excellent and high standard accommodation. Can accommodate two to four passengers.

Arctic Superior. From

$11,723 AUD pp
Arctic Superior. From
Arctic Superior class cabins are comfortable and roomy accommodation and most have balconies. Flexible sleeping arrangements, sofa beds, TV and other features make this one of our most popular categories. Our Arctic Superior concept includes a kettle, tea and coffee. Can accommodate two to four passengers.

Expedition Suite. From

$13,514 AUD pp
Expedition Suite. From
These suites are large, well-appointed cabins with expansive windows and most have balconies. Some have a private outdoor hot tub. The suites feature flexible sleeping arrangements with comfortable sofas, sitting areas and TV. They can accommodate up to four passengers. Expedition suites are exclusively in upper and mid-deck locations. Our Expedition Suite concept includes a bathrobe, espresso maker, and more. An exciting welcome gift awaits all suite guests in their cabin.

Vessel Type: Expedition Ship

Length: 140 metres

Passenger Capacity: 530

Built: 2019

In 2019, Hurtigruten adds a brand new ship to its fleet: the MS Roald Amundsen. The state of the art vessel features new and environmentally sustainable hybrid technology that will reduce fuel consumption and show the world that hybrid propulsion on large ships is possible.

MS Roald Amundsen is the first of two hybrid ships Hurtigruten will add to its fleet over the next few years, cutting emissions by sailing with electrical propulsion. Hybrid technology, combined with the advanced construction of the hull and effective use of electricity on board will reduce fuel consumption and CO2-emissions on the ships by 20 percent. The build of these two ships represents the largest single investment in the history of Hurtigruten. 

The future of shipping will be silent and emission free. MS Roald Amundsen will lead the way towards an even more sustainable way of traveling. Sailing on electrical power is not only a great benefit for the environment, but it will also enhance the impact of experiencing nature for the guests. The ship will be specially constructed for voyages in polar waters and serve as a comfortable basecamp at sea – bringing adventurers from all over the world to the most spectacular destinations in the most sustainable way.

Facilities on board

One of the most eye-catching exterior design features of the ships will be the two-level indoor/outdoor Observation Deck wrapped around the top of the ships’ raked bow. In a vast area behind it, you’ll find the core of the onboard experience: Amundsen Science Center.  

Packed with state of the art technology and high tech gadgets such as touch screens and science equipment, the immersive edutainment area will be the place guests and staff/crew meet, mingle and create a deeper understanding for the areas they explore. The flexible venue will feature lecture spaces, a small library, and speciality areas for workshops in photography, biology, and more. The area, featuring large windows, will also be the onboard HQ for Hurtigruten’s hand picked Expedition Team.  

The stunning scenery will be reflected in a rich and comfortable interior design. Scandinavian materials from nature, such as granite, oak, birch and wool will be used to create relaxed and stylish cabins and public areas. All cabins are outside, 50 % will have private balconies, aft suites will feature private outdoor Jacuzzis with spectacular views. 

MS Roald Amundsen will feature three restaurants inspired by Nordic and Norwegian heritage:

Aune Main Dining, named after the Norwegian ship chandler and polar expedition supplier Tinus Aune.

Fredheim - the ships’ informal and social meeting place – named after a 1900s hunting station on Svalbard.

Lindstrøm, a speciality restaurant named after Adolf Lindstrøm, the favorite chef of the Norwegian polar heroes.

Artwork on board

When the world’s first hybrid powered expedition ship embarks on her maiden voyage, every piece of art on board will be handpicked by HM Queen Sonja of Norway’s art foundation - the Queen Sonja Print Award. Read more about the exciting collaboration here.

 

Cabin layout for Roald Amundsen

Inclusions


• Voyage on board in selected cabin category
• All meals while on board
• On board lectures
• Escorted landings with small expedition boats
• Loan of boots, trekking poles and all equipment for activities
• Complimentary wind and water-resistant expedition jacket
• Expedition photographers on hand to assist you

Exclusions


• International and domestic flights unless otherwise stated
• Passport and visa costs where applicable
• Travel insurance
• Transfers unless otherwise stated
• Optional Excursions
• Pre and Post voyage accommodation
• Beverages on board unless otherwise stated
• Meals while ashore
• Optional treatments in the onboard wellness and spa area

Notes
• All planned activities are subject to weather conditions
• Excursions and activities are subject to change
• Please make sure you meet your entry and boarding requirements 
• No gratuities expected
Roald Amundsen
Central America ExpeditionExpedition
13 Days from
$11,176 AUD pp

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