Australis Cruise

Days

5+

Activity Level

Easy

Host City

Punta Arenas

From

$2,466 USD

Learn more Customize This Trip

Through the Remote Fjords of Patagonia: Chile & Argentina by Cruise

Join The Explorer’s Passage (TEP) and Australis on a remarkable 5-day voyage through the remote waterways and pristine wilderness of Patagonia’s southernmost frontier. Depart from Punta Arenas, Chile, and journey through the legendary Strait of Magellan and the Beagle Channel, where dramatic landscapes and rich biodiversity await. Explore the sub-Antarctic forests of Ainsworth Bay, encounter penguin colonies at Tuckers Islets, and witness the awe-inspiring Pía Glacier before cruising Glacier Alley. Then, step foot on the fabled Cape Horn and wander through the historic Wulaia Bay, once home to the native Yagan people. This extraordinary expedition offers an intimate look at one of the most untouched corners of the Earth, blending breathtaking scenery, rare wildlife, and deep cultural history.

Explore Chile with TEP

Trip Highlights

With a guided landing in the fjord, where you’ll hike to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the glacier’s dramatic descent from mountain peak to sea.

For an unforgettable wildlife encounter, where you’ll observe Magellanic penguins and cormorants thriving in their natural island habitat.

One of the world’s southernmost points, and walk among legendary landscapes steeped in nautical history and rugged, untamed beauty.

With a guided hike through dense Magellanic forest, culminating in sweeping views and a glimpse into the life of the indigenous Yagan people.

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Let’s Plan Your Trip Today:

TRIP COST

From $2,466 USD per person

Our Chile trips are all-inclusive, crafted with the intent of providing you with an unforgettable adventure travel experience.

*More info. on pricing

More questions? Read more about pricing here

Start dates

Custom dates are available September to April.

To inquire about a custom date,
please contact us!

Duration

Starts at 5 Days / 4 Nights

 Please note that the trip can start in either Punta Arenas or Ushuaia.

Accommodations

Relax in comfort & luxury aboard the Ventus Australis or the Stella Australis

Various Options

Choose between 4 ranges of comfort and luxury.

Read more about your accommodations with Australis

max. group size

No minimum or maximum

All Private Groups

ACTIVITY LEVEL

Moderate

Primary activities:

Hiking & Trekking, Mountain Biking, Fly Fishing, Kayaking, Whitewater Rafting, & Birdwatching

*Please refer to our Trip Activity Level Guide for more information

5 Day / 4 Night Trip Daily Overview

Sample Trip Itinerary

Custom trip itineraries are available for any size group. Please contact us for a complete detailed itinerary.

Want more information? Download a detailed itinerary.

Itineraries include detailed descriptions of each day, tips on travel arrangements, regional highlights, and more. It’s the perfect resource to help you choose!

Learn More

Day 1: Board Ship in Punta Arenas, Chile

Upon boarding the ship and checking in, everyone will gather atop the fifth deck to participate in a warm-welcoming toast and meet the Captain of their ship. Upon departure, you will travel through Patagonia and the fjords of Tierra del Fuego by going through the legendary Strait of Magellan and the Beagle Channel.

Day 2: Ainsworth Bay and Tuckers Islets

Today, we’ll arrive in Ainsworth Bay, near the Marinelli Glacier, and set out on a guided hike through the lush Magellanic forest, where you’ll learn how life returns after glacial retreat. Later, enjoy a Zodiac excursion to the Tuckers Islets for a close-up view of Magellanic penguins and cormorants. In September and April, this visit is replaced by a scenic glacier walk in nearby Brookes Bay due to the migratory cycle of the penguins.

Day 3: Pia Glacier and Glacier Alley

Today, you’ll sail into the breathtaking Pía Fjord and disembark for a guided hike to a scenic viewpoint overlooking the towering Pía Glacier as it flows from the mountains to the sea. After taking in the incredible views, return to the ship and continue your journey through Glacier Alley, where you’ll admire a series of dramatic glaciers from the deck.

Day 4: Cape Horn and Wulaia Bay

Today, arrive at Cape Horn and, weather permitting, disembark for a memorable walk at one of the southernmost points on Earth, surrounded by wild beauty and maritime legend. In the afternoon, continue to Wulaia Bay for a scenic hike through native Magellanic forest to a stunning viewpoint. Here, you can observe lengas, coigües, canelos and ferns grow, among other species.

Day 5: Departure in Ushuaia

In the morning, we sail into Argentine waters and dock in Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city. After this, you will be free to explore the city, dine like the locals, and spend your remaining time as you please.

Create your OWN Unique Experience

Customizing Your Adventure

Are you interested in another activity or destination in Chile? Planning to spend extra time in the region, or interested in specific travel dates? Prefer to start and end your trip in Santiago, Atacama, or Torres del Paine? No problem. As experts in tailored trip planning, we can weave your interests and your timeframe into our customizable itineraries so that every detail of your extraordinary trip unfolds precisely the way you want it to. Click the options below to learn more:

With The Explorer’s Passage, you can choose between a variety of destination options in Chilean Patagonia:

  • Torres del Paine National Park
  • Punta Arenas
  • Isla Magdalena and Isla Marta Penguin Tour
  • Puerto Natales
  • Bernardo O’Higgins National Park
  • Patagonia National Park (Parque Nacional Patagonia)
  • Laguna San Rafael National Park
  • Cerro Castillo National Park

With The Explorer’s Passage, you can choose between a variety of destination options in Argentinean Patagonia:

  • El Chalten
  • Laguna de los Tres (Fitz Roy Trek)
  • Laguna Torre
  • El Calafate
  • Perito Moreno Glacier
  • Bariloche
  • Ushuaia

In addition to their time in the Lake District, many travelers choose to add in other destinations to their trips, including (but not limited to) some of the following:

  • Santiago
  • Wine Country
  • Valparaíso
  • Atacama
  • Easter Island
  • Chiloé Island

Contact us today to get started customizing your dream trip to Chile!

Hear what travelers are saying:

5-Star Review Average on TripAdvisor! Read More >
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“Just book with these guys, they are the best and I work in the industry! Had an amazing trip with Explorers Passage. Everyone from the start was so friendly and courteous and this got even better when we arrived in Chile. Guides, drivers and hotel staff were out of the world.
Couple this with the stunning scenery and it’s one of my top vacation ever!”
– Richard B.
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“Explorer’s Passage made our W trek adventure not only possible but seamless and amazing. It was clear from the start that they had thought of everything – from the transfers to tickets to gear. We were very prepared from all their detailed checklists and training guide. And we knew what to expect from all our pre-trip calls and emails. The level of detail in all they do is remarkable. We were able to enjoy the adventure that much more because we had so much trust in their guidance as well as execution of all those details.”
– Kate W.
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“My wife and I just got back from Patagonia after completing the W Trek that Explorers Passage had arranged for us. From our first contact with Jeff Bonaldi to our last transfer, our experience was stellar. Jeff guided us through the rather complicated logistics and was very responsive to concerns before and during the adventure. His focus was always on how to make the adventure memorable not on the bottom line for his company. I rarely write reviews but felt compelled to do so because our experience was beyond 5 stars.”
– Steve B.
relax in comfort and luxury

Trip Accommodations

Enjoy the comfort of a warm, inviting room to come back to upon the ship after a day of exploration.

Ship Accommodations

On both the Ventus Australis and the Stella Australis, you will be able to choose your cabin type. All cabins have windows, two twin beds or one double bed, independent heating, a safe, a closet, and a bathroom equipped with a hairdryer.

we’re always happy to help

Frequently Asked Questions

Looking for something?

Check here for our Frequently Asked Questions for the Australis Cruise, and if you can’t find the answer you are looking for then send us a message.

Click the button below to access our general FAQ section!

SEE ALL FAQS

Pack for a range of weather conditions, including cold, rain, and wind. Essential items include moisture-wicking base layers, a waterproof shell, warm layers, durable hiking boots, and a daypack. Bring sun protection, reusable water bottles or a filter, personal toiletries, and medications. Trekking poles, gloves, and extra socks are also highly recommended. A full packing list will also be provided before your departure.

Yes, it’s recommended to exchange some currency before arriving or upon arrival in larger cities like Punta Arenas. While credit cards are accepted in many places, some remote areas and smaller businesses—especially in Patagonia—may only accept local currency (Chilean pesos or Argentine pesos). ATMs are available in major towns, but having cash on hand for tips, small purchases, or emergencies ensures smoother travel throughout your adventure. Always notify your bank of international travel in advance.

The “Glacier Alley” is a majestic passage along the Beagle Channel that offers spectacular panoramic views from the boat. It is not an excursion where passengers disembark, but rather a scenic navigation after visiting the Pía Glacier.

No, the excursions described in the itineraries are usually possible, but the Ship Operator reserves the right to alter, change, or omit parts of the itinerary without prior notice. This can be motivated by the welfare and safety of passengers, environmental preservation, or extraordinary circumstances. Additionally, bird and animal sightings are not guaranteed as their precise location is variable.

Wulaia Bay is a historic site that was home to one of the largest settlements of the native Yagans canoeists. When disembarking in the afternoon, visitors can reach a viewpoint by walking through the Magellanic forest, which features lengas, coigües, canelos, and ferns among other species.

You only pay once! The fare covers five days and four nights aboard the Ventus or Stella Australis, departing from Punta Arenas on board and disembarking in Ushuaia. It includes full board meals, an open bar, daily Zodiac and land expeditions, and onboard expert-led presentations.

Departure will be from Muelle-Prat, Punta-Arenas, Chile and the ship will reach Ushuaia, Argentina for arrival.

we’re Here every step of the way

Trip Support

chile TRIP Support

There is no other operator in the travel industry that will provide the same level of personal attention to your travel experience.

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Personal Attention & Preparation Before Every Trip

We get very involved with our travelers before each trip by offering a series of pre-planning calls in the months and weeks before departure. This provides you with an opportunity to hear directly from us on preparation, trip experience, and training. It also gives you the platform to ask questions about any aspect of the trip. We also provide comprehensive packing lists, pre-adventure checklists, and other detailed information.

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Staff Support & Logistics

We go above and beyond our competitors in handling every aspect of your trip, so that you can focus exclusively on experiencing all that Patagonia has to offer. Our knowledgeable support staff takes care of the details of your in-country ground transportation, lodging, meals, tours, park fees, and activities. We’ve even scheduled a bit of free time for you to explore, relax, shop, or eat on your own.

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Additional Trip Information

Check out our detailed educational content on the destinations that we explore, written by our adventure team. These articles provide a complete overview of everything that you need to explore the world with The Explorer’s Passage.

More Trip Inspiration:

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We look forward to helping you plan your next big adventure!

Call Us

(855) 208-6800

Email Us

info@explorerspassage.com