Looking for a really different and exotic yachting vacation? Try Southern Chile for your next yachting adventure.
Best time of year is summer in the Southern hemisphere, which is, of course, mid-winter here in the United States and Europe. February and March are the best times of year. This is a region that is very similar to the areas around Juneau, Alaska. Except that the seasons are upside down.
The island of Chiloe is rich in legends and mythology that is based on a mixture of indigenous religions (the Chonos and Huilliches) that live in the Archipelago of Chiloé, and the legends and superstitions brought by the Spanish Conquistadors who in 1567 began the process of conquest in Chiloé and with it the fusion of elements that would form a separate mythology.
The mythology of Chiloe flourished, isolated from other beliefs and myths in Chile, due to the separation of the archipelago from the rest of the Spanish occupation of Chile. Most of the mythology is related to the sea and La Pincoya, one of the more important deities is represented by a mermaid like creature who keeps the waters fertile with fish and other sea creatures.
On a yachting expedition through the wondrous waters of Southern Chile, the Chonos archipelago and Patagonia, be enchanted by friendly people, fascinated by a rich history and mythology, and captivated by a dramatic landscape. Visit remote islands and picturesque villages, where modern civilization has barely made an impression. Many of the most extraordinary places are only accessible by sea, which makes yachting in this region a unique privilege. Abundant wildlife thrives in the channels, ancient forests drape the mountains, and village churches are World Heritage sites. Your view from the deck of every sunrise and each sunset is unforgettable. Everywhere you cruise, an amazing discovery awaits.
Puerto Montt
The capital of the Lakes District and the region’s commercial and transportation hub is Puerto Montt. This colorful, working-class city offers a purity of Chilean charm that that will tantalize the culturally curious. Walk along the chaotic Av Angelmó, a jumble of vendors selling everything from artifacts and magic talismans to street food. The port of Angelmó, just past the downtown frenzy, offers excellent shopping for local crafts and fine seafood restaurants. Visit the Museo Juan Pablo II for a window on regional history and the Casa del Arte for inspired works by local artists. For evening entertainment the Sherlock has live music and the romantic Boule Bar attracts a late night crowd.
Oxxean Marina – http://www.marinaoxxean.cl
Quehui Island
Located in the Chiloé archipelago, near Castro, the friendly population of farmers, fishermen and craftsmen, warmly welcomes visitors. Dock in the well-organized port to visit an oyster hatchery and photograph marvelous traditional architecture. Serene and unspoilt, this is a destination where you can get lost in the beauty of nature and totally unplug from the world. There are beautiful paths for hiking and horseback riding, and excellent beaches for swimming. The island is, and has always been, populated by the Chono and Huilliche people. When the Jesuits arrived in the 17th century they tried to organize their ancestors into Christian communities, centered around wooden churches, now famous for their architectural style. History buffs will enjoy a visit to the church on Chelín Island, declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2001.
Quintupeu Fjord
The spectacular Quintupeu Fjord is located south of Puerto Montt. Cruise up the narrow entrance beneath steep cliffs soaring 600 meters high, ribboned with cascading waterfalls and covered by the ancient Valdivian Forest, fragrant wild flowers and exotic, plant species. Drop anchor and launch the kayaks to paddle across smooth, emerald green waters in a spectacular setting. Hiking enthusiasts will be rewarded with amazing views of volcanoes Yates and Hornopiren. Depending on your custom itinerary, the Porcelana hot springs are at the end of Comau fjord on the western slope, and reached only by boat. The Llancahué hot springs, south of Ciervo’s Island, feature covered and open-air swimming pools. In the evening, take cocktails on the sundeck with magnificent views of the Llanchid Archipelago at sunset.
Cahuelmó Fjord
Dine on deck, keeping a lookout for sea lions on the short cruise to Cahuelmó Fjord. This is an area of spectacular beauty, where colonies of sea lions can be observed and photographed at play. Numerous hot springs that offer a delightfully soothing respite can be reached by yacht, kayak and hiking trails. The most popular and organized are the Termas de Cahuelmó. This fjord forms part of the vast Pumalin National Park, a Mecca for international kayakers and a natural gem for fishing, horseback riding and trekking through the Chilean Lake District.
Porcelain
Divers will want to visit the Scientific Diving Research Station Huinay, either to explore their facility and fascinating exhibitions, or to embark on a snorkeling excursion or a dive expedition. Diving is appropriate for advanced divers with proper certification due to heavy currents, low visibility, slopes, and frigid water. Arrangements must be made at least a day in advance. A trip to the Vodudahue River offers fishing enthusiasts the opportunity to catch a record salmon or trout and photographers to capture the endearing Chilean Dolphin colony, likely to playfully accompany the boat. In the evening, unwind in the thermal waters of the Porcelain spa pools.
Research Station Huinay – www.fundacionhuinay.cl/scientifice.html
Rio Negro
The village of Rio Negro is a picturesque setting of shingled houses surrounded by lush greenery, and is a delightful place to explore. The region is known for the dramatic presence of Andean Glaciers, geological faults and glacier erosion that has created a rich landscape unlike anyplace else on earth. The headwaters of the river itself emerge from the range of spectacular snow covered volcanoes. Serious kayakers will not want to pass up the extreme adventure of a downstream run, considered one of the best in Chile. Fishing for monstrous salmon is spectacular.
Dramatic volcanoes, magnificent fjords, river rapids, celestial glacial lakes, and mountainous national parks tantalize the explorer, the sportsman, and the adventurer. A yacht charter through Southern Chile and Patagonia offers a unique experience in a destination unlike anywhere else on earth.
Contact us here at American Yacht or give us a call at 877-759-8263
My grand-daughter visits Chiloe frequently. It’s a place that grows on you – kind of mysterious. I was there myself a few years ago.