Australis Expedition Cruise: Punta Arenas to Ushuaia – 1 Night Free
Explore the fjords, glaciers, and remote landscapes of Tierra del Fuego on an expedition cruise sailing between Punta Arenas and Ushuaia.
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Best Season | Shoulder Season | Low Season | Not Available
Sail across the remote fjords, glaciers, and channels located at the southern tip of Patagonia.
This expedition cruise offers an extraordinary journey through the dramatic fjords and waterways of Tierra del Fuego; one of the most isolated and spectacular regions of southern Patagonia.
Traveling between Punta Arenas and Ushuaia, the route ventures deep into landscapes shaped by glaciers, rugged mountains, and pristine wilderness.
Throughout the voyage, the ship follows historic maritime passages such as the Strait of Magellan and the Beagle Channel while visiting protected environments within Alberto de Agostini National Park. Daily zodiac excursions bring passengers close to glaciers, allow walks through subantarctic forests, and reveal remarkable natural scenery.
The itinerary also includes stops at well known locations such as Ainsworth Bay, Tucker Islets, PÃa Glacier, and the iconic Cape Horn. Along the route, travelers may encounter wildlife such as penguins, seabirds, and marine mammals.
With experienced expedition guides and carefully organized landings, the cruise delivers a remarkable combination of exploration, nature, and adventure at the southernmost edge of South America.
ITINERARY
Australis Expedition Cruise: Punta Arenas to Ushuaia – 1 Night Free
Day 1 – Punta Arenas
Embarkation and Start of the Expedition Cruise
Arrival in Punta Arenas; one of the southernmost cities in Chile, located along the historic Strait of Magellan. During the afternoon, passengers check in at the port before boarding the expedition vessel.
Once aboard, the crew welcomes guests with a cocktail reception and introduces the captain along with the expedition team. Soon afterward, the ship begins navigating through the historic waters of southern Patagonia, crossing the Strait of Magellan and entering the remote channels of the Tierra del Fuego archipelago.
During the evening, the vessel continues sailing through an intricate network of fjords and channels that form part of one of the most remote navigation routes on the planet.
Day 2 – Ainsworth Bay & Tucker Islets
Wildlife and Subantarctic Forests
In the morning, the cruise reaches Ainsworth Bay, located within the impressive Admiralty Sound. This untouched environment offers panoramic views of the Darwin Mountain Range and the protected landscapes of Alberto de Agostini National Park.
Passengers go ashore to explore the subantarctic forest during guided excursions. Walking paths cross peat bogs, streams, and dense vegetation while offering views of Marinelli Glacier and the surrounding mountain scenery.
Later, the ship sails toward Tucker Islets. Zodiac boats approach the small islands where Magellanic penguins and various seabirds nest. This stop provides one of the best opportunities during the journey to observe wildlife in its natural habitat.
Day 3 – PÃa Glacier & Glacier Alley
Navigation through the Beagle Channel
The expedition continues through isolated channels until arriving at PÃa Fjord; where passengers disembark close to the striking PÃa Glacier.
A guided hike leads to a viewpoint overlooking the glacier; which descends dramatically from the mountains of the Darwin Ice Field into the sea. The landscape here combines towering peaks, deep fjords, and ancient ice formations.
After returning to the ship, navigation continues along the famous Glacier Alley; a remarkable section of the Beagle Channel where several tidewater glaciers flow directly from the mountains into the ocean.
Day 4 – Cape Horn & Wulaia Bay
The End of the World
In the morning, the cruise sails across Nassau Bay toward Cape Horn National Park. If weather conditions allow it, passengers may disembark to visit this historic landmark; long considered the maritime gateway between the Pacific and Atlantic oceans.
During the afternoon, the expedition proceeds to Wulaia Bay; a place known for its scenic landscapes and historical significance. The bay was once one of the main settlements of the Yámana people and was also visited by explorers such as Charles Darwin.
A guided walk through Magellanic forest leads to viewpoints surrounded by native vegetation and trees; offering exceptional views over the fjords and nearby mountains.
Day 5 – Ushuaia
Arrival at the End of the World
Early in the morning, the ship navigates through the Beagle Channel toward Argentina. After breakfast, the cruise reaches Ushuaia; the southernmost city on Earth.
Passengers disembark after completing an extraordinary expedition through the fjords, glaciers, and remote landscapes of Tierra del Fuego.
About Us
VisitUshuaia.com, a site by RipioTurismo, celebrates South America as the vibrant garden of our world, rich in colorful landscapes, cultural heritage, gastronomy, and warm hospitality. Working since year 2000, we craft custom trips across Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, and Paraguay. Our carefully selected hotels and local partners ensure the best service possible. We cater to FITs, groups, adventure seekers, and the 50+ age group with luxury tours.
GALLERY
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- Accommodation on board the expedition cruise
- Daily guided shore excursions
- Zodiac landings and exploration activities
- All meals during the cruise
- Onboard talks and presentations by expedition guides
- Open bar during navigation according to cruise policy
- Flights to Punta Arenas or from Ushuaia
- Port taxes and national park entrance fees when applicable
- Personal expenses and optional services
- Gratuities
FAQs
What does the cruise price include?
The cruise fare includes:
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Accommodation in comfortable cabins with ocean views
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Daily shore excursions and zodiac landings
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Open bar when the bartender is on duty
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Onboard lectures and presentations by the expedition team
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Whiskey and hot chocolate served during glacier visits
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All onboard activities and entertainment
Can I set foot on Cape Horn during the cruise?
Yes, when weather conditions allow it, passengers may disembark at Cape Horn National Park.
Please note that this landing depends entirely on weather and sea conditions. Historically, the success rate of landings is approximately 75%.
Are there any additional costs?
Port taxes are not included in the cruise fare and must be paid together with the ticket.
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Punta Arenas → Ushuaia: USD 145 per passenger
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Ushuaia → Punta Arenas: USD 145 per passenger
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Punta Arenas → Ushuaia → Punta Arenas: USD 165 per passenger
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Ushuaia → Punta Arenas → Ushuaia: USD 165 per passenger
Can I see penguins during the cruise?
Yes, penguins are migratory birds commonly found in the region between October and March.
Depending on the exact date of your cruise, you may have the opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat.
What is the weather like during the cruise?
During the cruise season, temperatures typically range between 5°C and 15°C (41°F to 59°F).
Weather conditions in this region can change quickly, so it is common to experience several climate variations within the same day.
Is there any insurance included?
The company provides civil liability insurance covering damage or loss of passenger property caused by the ship.
This coverage is governed by the cruise contract and applicable Chilean maritime law.
For additional protection such as health insurance, trip cancellation coverage or emergency evacuation, passengers are strongly advised to purchase travel insurance.
How are onboard expenses paid?
Optional services such as bar purchases, souvenirs or other personal expenses can be paid on board.
The ship accepts the following payment methods:
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Mastercard
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Visa
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American Express
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Diners Club
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U.S. dollars (cash)
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Chilean pesos (cash)
Where and when do I check in for the cruise in Punta Arenas?
The cruise documents will state the designated check-in location and deadline. Arrive in Punta Arenas with enough time for baggage or flight disruption and do not rely on the ship waiting for a delayed independent connection.
Which passports or entry documents are required for this route?
Requirements depend on nationality and travel date because the itinerary involves Chile and Argentina. Verify current rules through official authorities and ensure the passenger names supplied to the cruise line match the documents exactly.
How do I choose a cabin category?
Compare deck, window configuration, bedding and occupancy in the current ship plan. A cabin request is not confirmed until the booking identifies the exact category and applicable fare conditions.
What luggage limits apply on board?
The cruise line’s current policy controls size, quantity and storage. Pack expedition essentials and medication in hand luggage and check separate airline limits for travel to Punta Arenas and from Ushuaia.
How physically demanding are Zodiac landings?
Passengers may need to step between the ship, Zodiac and shore on wet or uneven surfaces. Describe mobility concerns before booking so the cruise operator can assess assistance and participation in each landing.
Are special diets accommodated on the ship?
Dietary requests should be submitted before departure and confirmed by the cruise line. Travelers with severe allergies should explain cross-contact risks and carry necessary medication.
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