Shore excursion Frutillar Petrohue and Puerto Varas

Nestled on the shores of Lake Llanquihue—Chile’s largest lake. With its distinctive German-influenced architecture, Puerto Varas is known for its quaint streets, cozy cafés, and stunning views. On clear days, you’ll see not only Osorno Volcano, but also Calbuco and the sharply peaked Puntiagudo in the distance, making for truly postcard-worthy scenery.

This stop is perfect for a bit of leisure and exploration. You’ll have free time to stroll through the town, visit local artisan shops, and take in the beauty of the lakefront.

To make your visit even more special, we include a complimentary snack break featuring a taste of Chile: freshly made beef empanadas paired with a glass of red or white Chilean wine. Since most of our guests are cruise ship passengers, we’ve learned that a sit-down lunch isn’t usually needed—so we offer something light and delicious, perfect for enjoying the view without missing a moment of your adventure.

Our first stop is the stunning Petrohué Falls, located within the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park. Here, the emerald-colored Petrohué River winds its way through ancient volcanic rock, creating a series of cascading waterfalls. Though the falls themselves are not towering in size, their beauty lies in the contrast between the vibrant waters and the dark basalt rock formations shaped by past eruptions.

On clear days, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking view of Osorno Volcano, rising majestically in the background. It’s just a 15-minute drive from this spot, and its snow-capped peak provides a postcard-perfect backdrop to the scene. This stop is not just about the waterfall—it’s about taking in the raw, natural beauty of southern Chile and imagining the powerful forces that shaped this landscape.

Our last stop before heading back to the port is the picturesque town of Frutillar.

Here, you’ll have some free time to enjoy the lake views, the masjestic “Theater of the Lake” and walk along the waterfront promenade, or simply soak in the atmosphere of this storybook town.

To end the day on a sweet note, we offer you a complimentary slice of traditional German Kuchen (cake), served with your choice of tea or coffee. It’s the perfect treat to enjoy while reflecting on the day’s adventures.

And rest assured: we always return to the port with plenty of time to spare. We know how important it is for cruise ship passengers to feel safe and on schedule—and in all our years of operation, we’ve never missed a ship.