Australis expedition ships, Ventus Australis and Stella Australis, explore the wild icy fjords of Patagonia, taking guests on all-inclusive 4-night cruises into this remote wilderness region, travelling between Punta Arenas in Chilean Patagonia and Ushuaia – the world’s southernmost city - in Argentine Patagonia.
The 100-cabin ships have been purpose-built to navigate Patagonia’s narrow fjords and channels. They are spacious, comfortable and modern, with observation decks offering amazing views of the surrounding scenery, and each cabin has a huge window so that the ever-changing landscapes can be seen at all times. Guests will enjoy gourmet cuisine and fantastic guiding. The crew is excellent and there are guest lecturers and photography guides onboard to ensure guests get the most out of their Patagonian adventure.
Small-group zodiac excursions (max 20 per guide) led by expert local guides give guests extraordinary access to unchartered territory, both on land and water, to discover the wonders of Patagonia’s flora, fauna, geology, glaciology and history, such as landing on remote islands to spot endemic wildlife, hiking hidden trails through native forests to reach stunning panoramic viewpoints, or visiting important historical sites such as Wulaia Bay, once home to one of the region’s largest Yámana aboriginal settlements.
Much of Patagonia remains pristine and the scenery is incredibly dramatic throughout the voyage. Highlights include the icy fjords of Tierra del Fuego, the giant glaciers of Glacier Alley in the Beagle Channel, the Strait of Magellan, the rocky promontory of Cape Horn (a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve nicknamed the ‘End of the World’), labyrinths of channels, the snowcapped peaks of Karukinka Natural Park, the Darwin Mountains, the broad bays of Alberto de Agostini National Park, the remote elephant seal colonies of Ainsworth Bay and Isla Magdalena penguin colony.
The wildlife viewing here is spectacular, with opportunities to spot elephant seals, sea lions, penguin colonies, king cormorants, oystercatchers, Chilean skuas, kelp geese, dolphin gulls, eagles and Andean condor.
Australis cruises endeavour to promote sustainable tourism within the region, working on conservation initiatives to ensure their voyages have a minimal impact on the environment.
Every time I explore a new destination, whether it’s on an adventure holiday in Peru or a luxury beach escape in the Indian Ocean, I return home full of excitement to share the amazing sights I have seen. Through my own experiences I have developed a love of helping others experience the great wonders of the world; truly getting under the skin of the extraordinary destinations that are at your fingertips. Getting the details right, from which hotel is perfectly located for exploring away from the crowds, to which local guide is most knowledgeable on history or culture or art, is of paramount importance to me. I am constantly seeking out new and exciting experiences and exploring off the beaten track to ensure my clients are receiving the best and most honest first-hand advice.
Take a look at my travel diaries for food for thought on your next trip...