🇨🇱🇦🇷 Australis Cruise: The Ultimate Journey from Punta Arenas to Ushuaia

Written by Peter Lauffer

July 16, 2024

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Patagonia with the Australis Cruise, the only direct route connecting Punta Arenas in Chile to Ushuaia in Argentina. This expedition cruise unveils the breathtaking beauty of South America's southern tip, offering a chance to witness the legendary Cape Horn (weather permitting) and immerse yourself in the mesmerizing fjords of Tierra del Fuego.

The Australis cruise ship rests in Ushuaia's port, framed by snow-capped mountains and a colorful cityscape. Passengers disembark, ready to explore Patagonia's wonders.

Why Choose the Australis Cruise?

Explore Untamed Wilderness: Venture into secluded landscapes, witness majestic glaciers up close, and navigate the historic Strait of Magellan and Beagle Channel.
Luxury Expedition Ships: Sail aboard the Stella or Ventus Australis, purpose-built for comfortable and eco-conscious exploration, with only 100 cabins each.
Expert-Led Excursions: Our experienced team will guide you through Patagonia's rich history, glaciology, wildlife, and more, with daily onshore explorations.

The Australis cruise ship rests at anchor in Ainsworth Bay, dwarfed by the surrounding snow-capped mountains and glaciers.

Experience the Patagonian Rail & Cruise Tour

Elevate your journey with our exclusive "Patagonian Rail & Cruise" tour, featuring the Australis Cruise as a highlight. This comprehensive adventure combines the thrill of rail travel with the awe-inspiring beauty of Patagonia's waterways.

What to Expect on the Australis Cruise

Your voyage begins in Punta Arenas, where you'll board your vessel and set sail for an immersive experience. Highlights include:

The Australis cruise ship rests in the tranquil waters of Ainsworth Bay, a thin layer of ice coating the sea's surface, reflecting the majestic surrounding mountains and glaciers.

Agostini National Park: Discover the stunning landscapes of this pristine park, including its dramatic glaciers.
Ainsworth Bay: Explore the bay's diverse wildlife and picturesque surroundings.
Darwin Cordillera: Admire the towering peaks of this mountain range.
Tierra del Fuego's Flora and Fauna: Encounter unique plant and animal life during guided excursions.
Glacier Alley: Cruise through narrow fjords surrounded by untouched forests and glaciers that cascade into the sea.

Each day offers Zodiac boat excursions and guided hikes of varying difficulty, allowing you to tailor the adventure to your preferences.

Your Journey Ends in Ushuaia

The Australis Cruise culminates in Ushuaia, the final destination of our unforgettable "Patagonian Rail & Cruise" tour.

From the bridge of a ship, Ushuaia's harbor bustles with activity. A white catamaran ferry stands out among the docked vessels. The city nestles against a backdrop of mountains under an overcast sky. Inside the bridge, the ship's controls are ready for departure or arrival.

Alternative Travel Options

For those not taking the cruise, there are limited options between Punta Arenas and Ushuaia. A daily flight exists from Punta Arenas to Puerto Williams, followed by a chartered boat across the Beagle Channel to Ushuaia. Alternatively, a weekly ferry connects Punta Arenas and Puerto Williams, but it lacks private cabins. We'll delve deeper into these alternatives in a future blog post.

Don't Miss Out!

Ready to experience the magic of Patagonia? Check the latest departure dates and availability for the Australis Cruise, and secure your spot on our "Patagonian Rail & Cruise" tour today!

Get inspired by some photos of this amazing trip:

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