Connecting Fjords: Chilean Science Unites Patagonia and Greenland

From August 18 to 28, 2025, Marine Biologist and Scientific Coordinator Andreas Schmider-Martínez of Costa Humboldt participated, alongside Professor and Physical Oceanographer Dr. Iván Pérez-Santos (Universidad de Los Lagos), in the scientific expedition NG-LEX, aboard the NG Endurance, as part of the Visiting Scientist Program Onboard the LEX–NG Fleet.

Within the framework of the NG-LEX visiting scientist program aboard the Endurance vessel, these two Chilean researchers were selected through an international call for applications from among various scientific projects during the 2025 Arctic season.

In this project, entitled: “Turbulence and microstructure features from Greenland fjords: Comparing oceanographic processes in high-latitude fjords (Patagonian-Greenland),” oceanographic processes were compared between the fjords of Greenland and Patagonia, focusing on turbulence and dissolved oxygen—key data for understanding marine deoxygenation and strengthening the Global Ocean Oxygen Network (GO2NE).

Thus, the research focused on the physical parameters of the water column in Greenland’s fjords. For this purpose, the Microprofiler VMP-250, a free-falling instrument that records high-resolution vertical profiles, was used.

Additionally, onboard meteorological conditions were recorded to analyze the interaction between atmospheric and oceanic variables. Data was collected in several sectors, including Skjoldungen Fjord, Christian Prins Sund, Tasermiut Fjord, the fjords around Quqortoq, Paamiut, Kuannersooq Fjord, and the Nuuk canal system.

This voyage not only generated high-resolution oceanographic data but also promoted the dissemination of knowledge about marine ecosystems. Andreas Schmider-Martínez provided a perspective centered on Patagonia, based on research conducted with Costa Humboldt related to biodiversity, oceanographic dynamics, and the role of communities in coastal management.

The scientists were able to witness firsthand how climate change affects the pristine fjords of Greenland, accelerating glacier retreat. By comparing these results with the fjords of Patagonia, where glaciers have been more exposed to human and productive activity, they gained a better understanding of oceanic processes under different environmental change scenarios.

The expedition was also a space for interaction with the crew and passengers onboard, where they evidenced people’s interest in science and the care of marine ecosystems.

For the Executive President of Costa Humboldt, Luciano Hiriart-Bertrand, “advancing comparative studies between the regions of Patagonia and Greenland is fundamental for the progress of scientific knowledge about ecosystems that, despite their geographical distance, share similar complexities and challenges. By joining forces and sharing experiences, not only are research and conservation strategies enriched, but the role of science as a driving force for the effective protection of these sister ecosystems is also strengthened.”

The researcher Andreas Schmider-Martínez of Costa Humboldt highlights the importance of raising awareness about the biodiversity of the Chilean Patagonian fjords and their crucial role in the trophic chain, as a large part of the food for numerous species and organisms is concentrated there. “The interior sea of Chiloé and the fjords of Northern Patagonia are a global biodiversity hotspot, where you can find blue whales, dolphins, elephant seals, and even leopard seals. Also, a great diversity of marine invertebrates, birds, and fish.”

National Geographic – Lindblad Expeditions have collaborated for over 20 years to connect curious travelers with transformative experiences. Together, they offer more than 100 expedition cruises worldwide, in over 70 countries and on all seven continents. Travelers who are part of this exclusive cruise are part of a modern expedition with immersive and enriching voyages, where every element of the experience inspires genuine discovery, and every sailing contributes to the preservation of the planet, accompanied by renowned scientists who share their expertise onboard.