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Australis Patagonian Explorer: Ushuaia to Punta Arenas Fjord Cruise

Australis Patagonian Explorer: Ushuaia to Punta Arenas Fjord Cruise

Patagonia
5 Days
From USD 1,955

Overview

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.

  • Punta Arenas Post-Cruise Connection: From Punta Arenas, Torres del Paine is 3 hours by private transfer — the most direct post-cruise extension for travelers wanting to combine the fjords cruise with the park's granite towers and glaciers.

  • 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.

Trip Highlights

The signature moments that make this journey unforgettable.

  • Sail from Ushuaia to Punta Arenas through Patagonia’s fjords

  • Visit the legendary Cape Horn (subject to weather conditions)

  • Explore historic Wulaia Bay and its cultural heritage

  • Witness glaciers such as Pía, Porter, Águila, and Cóndor Glacier

  • Navigate through the Beagle Channel and remote southern waterways

  • Observe wildlife including penguins, seabirds, and marine species

  • Experience guided Zodiac excursions and nature walks

  • Discover Magdalena Island and its large penguin colony

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival and embarkation in Ushuaia during the afternoon. After check-in at the port, passengers board the expedition vessel and attend a welcome briefing. The cruise begins sailing through the Beagle Channel, heading toward the remote southern fjords.

Day 2

The ship reaches Cape Horn, one of the most iconic maritime landmarks in the world. If weather permits, guests may go ashore to experience this legendary site. Later, the journey continues to Wulaia Bay, a historically significant area once inhabited by indigenous communities. A guided walk leads through forested terrain to scenic viewpoints.

Day 3

Navigation continues along the Beagle Channel toward Pía Fjord. Guests disembark for a guided hike to a viewpoint overlooking the glacier. In the afternoon, the expedition proceeds to Porter Glacier, offering another perspective on the region’s powerful ice formations.

Day 4

The day is dedicated to exploring Agostini Sound, where glaciers descend dramatically from the Darwin Mountain Range. Landings near Águila Glacier allow for short hikes through native forest, while nearby viewpoints reveal the imposing presence of Cóndor Glacier and surrounding peaks.

Before reaching Punta Arenas, the ship stops at Magdalena Island (seasonal), home to one of the largest Magellanic penguin colonies in the region. After this final excursion, the voyage continues to Punta Arenas, where disembarkation takes place.

Southwind Experience

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  • 4-night accommodation onboard the expedition vessel

  • Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)

  • Open bar during scheduled service hours

  • Daily guided excursions and Zodiac landings

  • Expert expedition team and onboard lectures

  • Access to expedition gear for shore activities

  • International and domestic flights

  • Airport transfers before or after the cruise

  • Travel insurance

  • Gratuities for crew and staff

  • Personal expenses (laundry, boutique, etc.)

  • Optional services not specified in the itinerary

To begin this journey, travelers should arrive at Ushuaia Airport (USH), located in Argentina’s southernmost city. Ushuaia is primarily connected through Buenos Aires, with frequent domestic flights operating from both Aeroparque (AEP) and Ezeiza (EZE).

  • Arrival Flight: Travelers fly from their origin city to Buenos Aires (EZE or AEP), and then connect to a domestic flight to Ushuaia (USH), where embarkation takes place.

  • Departure Flight: At the end of the cruise, passengers disembark in Punta Arenas, Chile. From Punta Arenas Airport (PUQ), flights are available to Santiago (SCL), where travelers can connect with international departures or continue their journey within Chile.

What our travelers say

S

Simon Phillips

Google review

Google
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Southwind from the planning stages to delivery of the trip in Patagonia were faultless and I really love the little reminders sent for each separate stage and really appreciated the added bits around passport checking and border crossing paperwork. The whole team was super friendly, and for our trip with Fernando he was great company and knew where to stop for refreshments and a view! We would strongly recommend southwind, they go the extra mile on service and have a permanent smile. Thank you guys you were faultless.

S

Sameer Phanse

Google review

Google
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I had a great experience with Southwind. They organized a tour for us to visit Monte Leon from El Calafate. Fernando & Laura organized the logistics and were very helpful. Martin accompanied us on the tour and doubled up as driver and tour guide, which was beyond our expectations. We saw a lot of wildlife en route, as well as in the park with Martin’s help. I highly recommend Southwind for your Patagonia experience.

F

Franco Peverelli

Google review

Google
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

The agency proved to be extremely professional. During the long transfer, in an impeccably clean and perfectly maintained vehicle, Mr. Fernando was very attentive to ensure that everything went smoothly. I highly recommend this agency for organizing your trips to South America. Only 5 stars because I can't give more!

J

Joanna Green

Google review

Google
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Maria and her team looked after us so well. I would recommend them in a flash. It was 20 years since I had been to El Calafate so I didn't know what to expect. It had changed so much! Maria was helpful, honest, well priced and a pleasure to work with. You could not ask for more. We had the best time thanks to Maria and her organisation. Fernando was our driver to a tour and a delight. Punctual, knowledgeable and all round wonderful. Gracias!!

R

Rosa Puech

Google review

Google
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

A fabulous company to travel with: the sequencing of the trip, the guides proposed, the suggestions for the area. We highly recommend this travel agency for Patagonia. Fernando is top+top.

M

Martin Bride

Google review

Google
★ ★ ★ ★

Gerardo drove us on a bespoke 8- day trip from Salta up into the wilderness where the 🦩 come to get pink. We had a great time in this spectacular region.

E

Esteban Riminucci

Google review

Google
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Exelente asesoramiento de Maria Laura , muy buen servicio y cordialidad de los coordinadores , muy recomendables !!

P

Paulo Fanti

Google review

Google
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Muy buena la atención tanto por WhatsApp como en las excursiones. Puntuales en las búsquedas en el hotel... De las excursiones que llevo hechas (todas excelentes) la atención, la coordinación y el conocimiento de los guías es muy bueno. Un excelente servicio, lo recomiendo!

A

Ana Zugarramurdi

Google review

Google
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Amazing company and experience. We did the Todo Glaciares boat tour in the Premium Lounge and it was beyond expectations! Great staff, great cruise and food! Highly recommended!

How to Customize This Itinerary

Enhance your Patagonian Explorer Australis journey by discovering even more of southern Chile and Argentina before or after your cruise.

  • Add a few nights in Punta Arenas to explore this historic gateway to Patagonia, visit the Strait of Magellan, and enjoy its unique blend of culture and nature.

  • Discover Puerto Natales, a charming town on the shores of Última Esperanza Sound, and the perfect base to prepare for your Patagonian adventures.

  • Visit Torres del Paine National Park to witness its iconic granite towers, turquoise lakes, and incredible wildlife in one of the world’s most spectacular landscapes.

  • Explore Tierra del Fuego National Park near Ushuaia, where forests, mountains, and the Beagle Channel create a dramatic end-of-the-world scenery.

  • Navigate the Beagle Channel and enjoy unforgettable views of remote islands, and diverse marine life.

  • Add a few nights in El Calafate to visit the Perito Moreno Glacier.

  • Explore El Chaltén and enjoy world-class trekking to Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre.

  • Stay in Torres del Paine National Park (Chile) to experience its breathtaking granite peaks and Patagonian wildlife.

  • Discover Tierra del Fuego National Park and hike through pristine forests, rivers, and coastal landscapes at the end of the world.

  • All Southwind itineraries are 100% customizable — we tailor travel dates, experiences, and accommodations to match your interests and travel style.

Let's plan your adventure!

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