The Australis Patagonian Explorer sails between Ushuaia, Argentina and Punta Arenas, Chile in 5 days, covering the most remote section of the Fuegian channels: a weather-dependent landing at Cape Horn National Park, a guided walk through the beech forests of Wulaia Bay — once inhabited by the Yaghan people — Zodiac excursions to the hanging glaciers of Pía Fjord, and navigation through the Darwin Mountain Range past Porter, Águila, and Cóndor glaciers before the penguin colony stop at Magdalena Island on the approach to Punta Arenas. The cruise is operated by Australis with fixed departure schedules and onboard accommodation. Because it begins in Argentina and ends in Chile — two different countries, two different airports — Southwind coordinates the full land sequence: private transfers to the Ushuaia port, pre-cruise accommodation, and the onward connection from Punta Arenas to Torres del Paine, El Calafate, or international departure.
ross-Border Gateway Logistics: Arrival into Ushuaia (USH) via Buenos Aires and departure from Punta Arenas (PUQ) via Santiago — two countries, two airports, coordinated as a single itinerary without separate bookings or gaps between them.
Ushuaia Pre-Cruise Extension: A private Ushuaia tour of 2 to 3 days before embarkation covers Tierra del Fuego National Park, the Beagle Channel, and Estancia Harberton — the natural complement to the cruise's southern channel focus.
Fully Customizable: This Australis Patagonian Explorer itinerary connects naturally with El Calafate, El Chaltén, or a broader private Patagonia circuit combining both countries on either side of the cruise.