Patagonian Explorer Australis

Patagonian Explorer Australis

Patagonia
5 Days
From USD 1,955

Overview

This expedition voyage navigates some of the most remote and untouched waterways in southern Patagonia, linking Argentina and Chile through a spectacular journey at the edge of the world.

Departing from Ushuaia, the southernmost city on Earth, the cruise sails through the Beagle Channel and into a maze of fjords, islands, and glacial landscapes that define Tierra del Fuego. Along the way, travelers encounter dramatic contrasts: dense sub-Antarctic forests, massive glaciers descending into the sea, and open channels shaped by centuries of exploration.

The route follows historic paths once traveled by explorers such as Magellan and Darwin, offering both natural beauty and cultural significance. Daily landings and Zodiac excursions allow guests to step ashore in remote locations, walk through pristine environments, and observe wildlife in its natural habitat.

The journey concludes in Punta Arenas, after crossing the Strait of Magellan—one of the most iconic maritime routes in the Southern Hemisphere.

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

  • 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.

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Plan Your Trip

  • 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.

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 glaciers, 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 wildlif

  • 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.

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