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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Australis Cruise Expedition. Penguins in Magdalena Island

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, Pía 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.

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ITINERARY

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 – Pía Glacier & Glacier Alley

Navigation through the Beagle Channel

The expedition continues through isolated channels until arriving at Pía Fjord; where passengers disembark close to the striking Pía 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. With +20 years of expertise, 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.

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

The cruise fare includes:

  • Accommodation in comfortable cabins with ocean views

  • Daily shore excursions and zodiac landings

  • Open bar when the bartender is on duty

  • Onboard lectures and presentations by the expedition team

  • Whiskey and hot chocolate served during glacier visits

  • All onboard activities and entertainment

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%.

Port taxes are not included in the cruise fare and must be paid together with the ticket.

  • Punta Arenas → Ushuaia: USD 145 per passenger

  • Ushuaia → Punta Arenas: USD 145 per passenger

  • Punta Arenas → Ushuaia → Punta Arenas: USD 165 per passenger

  • Ushuaia → Punta Arenas → Ushuaia: USD 165 per passenger

Smoking is only permitted on the outside decks of the ship.

According to Chilean law No. 20.105, smoking is strictly prohibited in all enclosed areas inside the vessel.

During the voyage, the expedition guides present informative talks that complement the travel experience.

Topics may include:

  • Geography and navigation routes

  • Flora and fauna of Patagonia

  • Beagle Channel

  • Strait of Magellan

  • Glaciology

  • Marine mammals

  • Aboriginal cultures of Patagonia

  • Terra Incognita and early exploration

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.

Each passenger is free to decide how much to tip. Tips are shared among the crew.

A recommended guideline is USD 25 per person per day, which helps recognize the excellent service provided by the crew throughout the voyage.

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.

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.

Cabins are equipped with 220V power outlets.

Bathrooms include both 220V and 110V outlets for convenience.

Optional services such as bar purchases, souvenirs or other personal expenses can be paid on board.

The ship accepts the following payment methods:

  • Mastercard

  • Visa

  • American Express

  • Diners Club

  • U.S. dollars (cash)

  • Chilean pesos (cash)

Yes. Each cabin is equipped with a safety deposit box where passengers can store personal belongings.

No. According to regulations of the National Forestry Corporation (CONAF), the use of drones or any RPAS technology is prohibited in the protected areas visited during the expedition.

For safety and environmental reasons, drones are also not allowed on board the ship.

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