Regions operating in: Chile and Argentina; Patagonia, Tierra del Fuego; Strait of Magellan, Beagle Channel, Cape Horn

Cruise through the southernmost tip of South America in expedition voyages through channels, fjords and islands, along the Darwin Mountains to visit its imposing glaciers as well as unexplored forests of incomparable beauty. Witness the same ‘creation’ process that impressed Charles Darwin in areas where the forest is born after glaciers retreat. Visit penguin and elephant seal colonies and marvel at the fauna, including different species of cold-water dolphins that sometimes swim along with our vessels. Sight numerous terrestrial, coastal and marine bird species (approximately 153 different species).

Our daily shore excursions and lectures are carried out by a team of bilingual naturalist guides, and represent the heart and soul of our experience. We combine small-ship comfort and coziness with a singular wilderness where glaciers share the scenery with the Magellanic subpolar forests – the world’s southernmost forest ecosystem.

We disembark at Horn Island (weather permitting) and visit the Cape Horn memorial albatross monument in honour of the sailors who died while attempting to ‘round the Horn’; the ‘end of the Earth’ and last confine before Antarctica.

Departures from Punta Arenas (Chile) or Ushuaia (Argentina) for 4- night or 3-night cruises. Four weekly cruise options. Our one-way cruises greatly complement any ground itinerary in Patagonia, and are an excellent option to combine both countries. Cruises with breathtaking scenery, and landings that offer direct contact with nature in an isolated environment, can certainly enrich any ground program. Operating since 1990, we specialise in this particular route.

ACCOMMODATION

All cabins have picture windows, private bathroom, heating, safety deposit box, closet, and hair dryer. Twin or double beds. MV Via Australis offers all cabins with 15m2. MV Stella Australis offers cabins with 16.5m2, and four superior cabins with 20.5m2. Fourth deck cabins on Stella Australis have floor-to-ceiling windows. Cabins are serviced daily.

DINING

We combine international cuisine with local recipes such as the Patagonian king crab and the Magellanic lamb barbecue. Chilean and Argentine wines are included. Breakfast and lunch are buffet style, and dinner offers a set menu with two options. We can cater for dietary restrictions. Our spacious dining rooms can seat all passengers at the same time.

FACILITIES

Fleet of Zodiac cruises / Explorer vessels, open-bridge policy, lecture room, library, spa and sauna on selected vessels, bar.

HIGHLIGHTS

New custom-built vessels (Via Australis 2005 / Stella Australis 2010). The only cruise ships that specialise in the remote fjords of Tierra del Fuego. Personalised small-ship service. All-inclusive. Natural wonders include: Glaciers of the Darwin Mountain Range; Magellan Forest; Cape Horn; Magellan penguin and elephant seal colonies.

FACT FILE

  • Vessels: Via Australis, Stella Australis
  • Passengers: 136-210
  • Entered service:  2005-2010
  • Months of operation: September to April

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

  • What’s included in the price:
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
  • All alcoholic/non-alcoholic beverages
  • All daily excursions (with English-speaking naturalist guides)
  • Lectures (with English-speaking naturalist guides)

Contact:

Cruceros Australis