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Expedition Cruises Through Southern Patagonian Waters
Introduction
If you look at the map of the tip of the South American continent you will see thousands of islands, channels, fiords and inlets. Especially on the Chilean side there are several thousand islands, whereupon the Pacific Ocean is filtered through a series of narrow passages in-between. Equally, at the southern-most tip of the South American continent the land is broken into small and even smaller islands where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Pacific Ocean.
These islands, and the straits separating them, are among the remotest areas on Earth. On these islands wildlife is, fortunately, undisturbed my man; and in sea channels in many places Humpback whales come to feed on the nutrient-rich waters. And, on the larger islands with higher ground, glaciers slowly slide down to the water’s edge where they crack open into icebergs.
This combination of remoteness, and of being in the heart of where the natural world is still thriving is one of those “incredible” experiences in life for the lucky few.
If you have the time, the budget and the desire we whole heartedly recommend that you include one of the following Patagonia Expedition Cruises in your travel itinerary when you come to South America.
Below, we will describe the different navigational routes available in the southern Patagonian waters of Chile and Argentina.
And, as always, ExperienceChile.Org is here to help you work in the logistics of building in a Patagonia Cruise into the rest of your itinerary in the best way possible.
The maritime areas
The maritime areas covered by the ships that navigate these waters can be divided into these sectors:
Western Archipelago (Navigated by Navimag and Skorpios)
Navimag
- The Navimag operates the route between Puerto Montt to Puerto Natales.
Skorpios II
- MV Skorpios II operates the Chonos route from Puerto Montt to San Rafael Glacier and back to Puerto Montt.
Interior Archipelago (Navigated by Skorpios)
Skorpios II
- The Skorpios III ship covers the route from Puerto Natales and back to Puerto Natales, visiting many glaciers in the fiords and channels.
Southern Archipelago (Navigated by Australis)
This is the area between Punta Arenas and Ushuaia, including Cape Horn, navigated by two Australis Ships.
Vantus Australis and Stella Australis
- Both the Ventus and Stella Australis ships operate out of Punta Arenas in Chile and Ushuaia in Argentina exploring the numerous channels, fiords and inlets throughout the Southern Archipelago waters of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
The Ships
The Navigation Routes
Skorpios III, Kaweskar Route from Puerto Natales and back to Puerto Natales
Introduction
The Skorpios III is the sister ship to the Skorpios II, which navigates the sea channels from Puerto Montt, further north than Puerto Natales.
Skorpios III was built in 1995. Like its sister ship, it is a small cruise ship offering only 45 cabins, on five decks, accommodating 90 passengers. This makes a Patagonian cruise aboard Skorpios III a personal experience, one where you can “get to know” other passengers and be close to the sights and wildlife that will be seen on the trip.
MV Skorpios III navigates the channels, fiords and inlets just north of Puerto Natales. The trip is short, only 3 nights, but long enough to get to see numerous glaciers that come down from the Southern Ice Shelf, carving out gullies and valleys as they do, until they calve off into icebergs that then float in the still, Pacific waters.
Skorpios III will navigate a total distance of around 611km. during the Kaweskar route.
One of the great advantages to joining a Skorpios III Kaweskar route voyage is that it can be easily combined with a trip to Torres del Paine either pre or post the Patagonian Cruise. Should you decide to do this, you will be able to see Patagonia both from the sea, getting into some of the remotest places on Earth, as well as the “jewel” of Patagonia, Torres del Paine National Park.
Click above for larger image
Routes Available
From Puerto Natales
Skorpios III Kaweskar Route: 3 Nights
Puerto Natales / Visiting Glaciers / Puerto Natales
There are TWO days of the week when the Skorpios III sets sail from Puerto Natales. These are on a TUESDAY and on a FRIDAY.
Check-in Info
- Check-In for both departures is at 15:30hrs at the Skorpios terminal located at Puerto Bories a few kms north of Puerto Natales village.
- For the TUESDAY departure this means check-in on the MONDAY before Tuesday.
- For the FRIDAY departure this means check-in on the Friday.
TUESDAY Departure / Return to Natales Friday
Monday night is ON BOARD the ship. Sailing time is between 17:30hrs – 18:00hrs.
FRIDAY Departure / Return to Natales Monday
Thursday night you need to be in a hotel in Puerto Natales (ExperienceChile.Org will arrange this).
From 16:00hrs passengers are welcomed aboard. Sailing time is between 17:30hrs – 18:00hrs.
About Skorpios III
The Skorpios III was constructed in 1995. The ship has 45 cabins with capacity for 90 passengers, plus crew. The cabins are finished in natural wood, decorated with pastel colours and illuminated with soft, warm lighting combining to create a warm and cosy ambience.
The Length of the ship measures 70m, with a beam (width) of 10m and a draft of 3.3m.
It also offers two bar lounges and one dining hall and these facilities, along with the cabins are distributed on five decks.
Voltage on board is 220 volts.
The food on board is at a very high level with local, Chilean produce a key part of the offering including:
Salmon, sea bass, conger-like eels, lobsters from Juan Fernández island, king crab, giant mussels (Mitilus), cholga mussels, mussels, oysters, sea urchins and picorocos (Austromegabalanus psittacus), red and white meats, all complimented by the best Chilean wines.
Cabin Categories
Cabins are distributed on these decks, running from the top down to the bottom. Cabins from and including deck 2 upwards, have exterior-facing windows. All cabins have private, en-suite bathrooms.
Beds
Most cabins offer twin beds (ie two beds), with some offering the matrimonial bed configuration.
Athos Deck 5:
3 cabins with windows.
2 Jr Suite cabins with queen beds: 503 and 504.
1 Cabin, with two single beds in an “L” configuration: 502.
Olympus Deck 4:
12 cabins with windows. Access to sun deck area.
2 Cabins with king beds: 401 and 402.
10 Cabins with matrimonial beds: 403/4/5/6/7/8/9/10/11/12
Parthenon Deck 3:
12 cabins with windows. Access to lounge bar Zeus on one side and bar Apolo on the other side.
6 Cabins with twin beds: 302/4/6/8/10/12
5 Cabins with matrimonial beds: 301/3/5/9/11
1 Cabin with three beds (matrimonial plus a single): 307
Acropolis Deck 2:
11 cabins with windows. Access to the dining room.
9 Cabins with twin beds: 203/4/6/7/8/9/10/11/12
1 Cabin with a matrimonial bed: 202
1 Cabin with 2 single beds end to end: 205
Athens Deck 1:
7 cabins with no windows. The engine room is on this deck but separated from the passenger cabins by crew cabins.
4 Cabins with twin beds: 105/7/8/10
1 Cabin with 2 single beds in an “L” configuration: 106
2 Cabins with a matrimonial plus single bed: 109 / 112
Skorpios II, Chonos Route from Puerto Montt to Glacier San Rafael and back to Puerto Montt
Introduction
The Skorpios II ship was built in 1988 in Chile. It is a small ship for cruises, which makes it very personal, with maximum passenger capacity set at only 106 people distributed among 53 cabins. This is the kind of cruise that opens up remote Patagonia on board a “cosy” and personal cruise vessel.
MV Skorpios II navigates the sector named the “Chonos” route, which departs from Puerto Montt in the southern Lake District of Chile, and then visits places on Chiloe Island as well as remote channels and inlets within the western archipelago of Patagonia. During the cruise the ship will cover 1,287km, weaving through the network of narrow channels and islets and passing by forested fiord sides where man has never set foot.
In this part of Patagonia there are still huge ice fields that give birth to large, frozen, glaciers that move millimetre-by-millimetre towards the waters of the Pacific. One of the largest of these glaciers is called San Rafael and the Skorpios II will visit the lagoon where this glacier breaks into numerous icebergs.
Click above for larger image
From Puerto Montt
Check-in Info
- Check-in from 18:00hrs on the Friday before departure, at the Skorpios terminal located at Camino Chinquihue km. 6, Puerto Montt.
- Dep Sat 12:00hrs / Return Thurs 10:00hrs
- Apart from the stipulated number of nights in the cruise booking, there is an option for an extra first night on board the ship on the Friday, prior to departure the next day Saturday. This will enable passengers to relax and be ready, on the ship well in time for the departure the next day. Dinner is served on board.
- Please mention that you want this extra first night in your reservation request to us.
About Skorpios II
The Skorpios II was constructed in 1988. The ship has 53 cabins with capacity for 106 passengers, plus crew. The cabins are finished in natural wood, decorated with pastel colours and illuminated with soft, warm lighting combining to create a cosy and warm ambience.
The Length of the ship measures 70m, with a beam (width) of 10m and a draft of 2.87m.
It also offers two bar lounges and one dining hall and these facilities, along with the cabins are distributed on five decks.
Voltage on board is 220 volts.
Cabin Categories
Beds
Most cabins offer twin beds (ie two beds), with some offering the matrimonial bed configuration.
Athos Deck 5:
The top deck, and where the bridge is located.
3 cabins with windows, number sequence 501/2/4– access to open air top deck area.
Olympus Deck 4:
10 cabins with windows, number sequence 401/2/3/4/5/6/7/8/9/10 - access to sun deck area.
Parthenon Deck 3:
14 cabins with windows, number sequence 301/2/3/4/5/6/8/9/10/11/13/14/15/16 – bar lounges each end of cabin block.
Acropolis Deck 2:
14 cabins with windows, number sequence 203/4/5/6/7/8/9/10/11/12/13/14/15/16 – dining room at one end of the cabin block.
Athens Deck 1:
8 cabins no windows, number sequence 107/9/10/11/12/13/14/16 – engine room, at a distance away, from one end of the cabin block.
Skorpios II Continued Information
There are two lounge bars where passengers can relax and enjoy the views as well as mingle.
The food on board is at a very high level with local, Chilean produce a key part of the offering including:
Salmon, sea bass, conger-like eels, lobsters from Juan Fernández island, king crab, giant mussels (Mitilus), cholga mussels, mussels, oysters, sea urchins and picorocos (Austromegabalanus psittacus), red and white meats, all complimented by the best Chilean wines.
Ventus Australis, Patagonia Expeditions between Punta Arenas and Ushuaia
Introduction
Ventus Australis is the sister ship of the Stella Australis. Punta Arenas, in southern Chile, is their home port, however, each navigates through the thousands of channels in between the southern archipelago of South America.
The largest island in this area is the Tierra del Fuego (the land of fire), and surrounding it are thousands of smaller islands, separated by numerous channels, fiords, inlets and straits, including two, historically significant stretches of water.
It was through the Beagle Channel that Charles Darwin sailed upon his ship HMS Beagle, the narrow stretch of water in front of Ushuaia. And, then there is the Magellan Strait, in front of Punta Arenas, in Chile, named after the Spanish explorer Ferdinand Magellan.
The Ventus Australis is a moderately-sized vessel, built in 2017. It offers 100, well-appointed cabins, each one with an exterior-facing window. The ship is of a size whereby the on board ambience still retains an element of things being “personal”. This is in contrast to the enormous, impersonal floating hotel cruise liners that dominate the Caribbean.
The objective of the Ventus and Stella ships, is to offer passengers comfortable accommodation, combined with high-level on-board food along with educated guides, who will show you the secrets of Patagonia from the sea.
There are two ways to visit and experience Patagonia. One is to use whatever road network is available, but this is restrictive because there are so few roads; and the other is to penetrate the remotest areas on Earth from the sea. Sailing past uninhabited islands, penetrating into isolated fiords and visiting pristine inlets can only be done by a maritime navigation.
These are the exact same waters where European explorers ventured into and since those times nothing has changed, except for glaciers receding. When aboard the Ventus or Stella Australis ships navigating the waters the experience is just like that of the early explorers and that is a unique experience to be able to enjoy. However, the big difference is that when you go to bed at night you have a comfortable bed, and heated cabin to sleep in.
Click above for larger image
Check-In
Check-In Info from Ushuaia
- Darwins Route: 8 Nights Ushuaia – Punta Arenas – Ushuaia
- Fiords of Tierra del Fuego Route: 4 Nights Ushuaia to Punta Arenas
Check-In Times
- Check-in is from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM at Avenida San Martín 409, Ushuaia.
- Afterwards, the boarding takes place at 6:00 PM.
- Sailing starts at 8:00 PM from Ushuaia.
Check Info from Punta Arenas
- Darwins Route: 8 Nights Punta Arenas – Ushuaia – Punta Arenas
- Fiords of Tierra del Fuego Route: 4 Nights Punta Arenas to Ushuaia
Check-In Times
- Check-In starts at 1:00 PM and runs until 5:00 PM, on Av. Costanera del Estrecho 1398 (Muelle Arturo Prat), Punta Arenas.
- The boarding starts at 6:00 PM.
- The sailing is at 8:00 PM from Punta Arenas.
About Ventus Australis
The Ventus Australis was constructed in 2017. The ship offers 100 cabins and can accept a total passenger capacity of 210 people, plus crew.
The Length of the ship measures 89m, with a beam (width) of 14.6m.
Cabin Categories
All cabins have exterior facing windows, heating, en-suite bathrooms with hair dryers and a safe deposit box in the cabin.
Voltage on board is 220 volts.
The cabins are equipped with plugs for 220 volts. The bathrooms have 220- and 110-volt outlets.
Bed Sizes:
- Twin Beds: Each is 1.05mt wide x 1.9m long.
- Matrimonial Bed: 1.6m wide x 1.9m long.
- Matrimonial Bed Superior Cabin: 1.8m wise x 2m long.
The Decks and Cabins
- Cabins are the Following Decks Running Top to Bottom
- Fifth, Top Deck: Darwin – No Cabins
Fourth Deck: Cabo de Hornos
- AAA: 23 Standard Cabins / 16m2 / Bed Configuration: Twin or Matrimonial
- AAA: 2 Superior Cabins / 20m2 / Bed Configuration: Matrimonial
Third Deck: Tierra del Fuego
- AA: 36 Standard Cabins / 16m2 / Bed Configuration: Twin or Matrimonial
- AA: 2 Superior Cabins / 20m2 / Bed Configuration: Matrimonial
Second Deck: Magallanes
- A: 34 Standard Cabins / 16m2 / Bed Configuration: Twin or Matrimonial
- B: 3 Standard Cabins / 16m2 / Bed Configuration: Twin Only
Click above for larger image
First Deck: Patagonia
- No Cabins
Ventus Australis Continued Information
Food
Various breakfast, lunch and dinner options, along with a 24/7 cafeteria service, combining the best local ingredients in an international gastronomic proposal that prioritizes variety, quality and excellence.
Spaces
The spectacular landscapes of Patagonia that can be appreciated through panoramic windows are complemented in harmony with careful decoration and ample and cosy spaces. Everything comes together in an intimate and casual atmosphere, so that our guests can share their experiences, read a book from our library, have their favourite appetizer or simply enjoy the view.
All-Inclusive
Once onboard, you will only need your wallet if you want to get yourself a souvenir from the onboard store. At Australis when we say all-inclusive, we mean ALL-INCLUSIVE. Enjoy our unlimited wine, liquor and beverage menu during lunch and dinner or at our bar, open from 10 am to midnight.
Guides and Crew
The passion of our Expedition Guides and the warmth and friendliness of our crew, give the voyage a unique atmosphere that stands out as one of the great hallmarks of the Australis Experience. Our passengers often say goodbye, heartfeltly thanking the professionalism of all our team on board, who made them feel at home.
Educational Experience
Our guides will pass on their knowledge of glaciology, flora and fauna, geography, history, and the evolution of the landscapes we travel through. Daily, they will share this knowledge with our passengers on board through thematic lectures that complement and deepen what is discovered and experienced during the expeditions.
Offline
Deep in Patagonia, between fjords and glaciers, connectivity disappears, and the Digital Detox begins. Far from civilization, the most unspoiled landscapes of the planet invite you to take your eyes off your phones, replace screens with windows, and discover the colours and contrasts of nature without a filter.
Safety
The safety on board and during excursions is a priority at every moment of our operation. That is why we are governed by the highest standards in terms of infrastructure and equipment, as well as implementing strict protocols that safeguard the safety of passengers and crew members. To ensure that all these protocols are properly complied with, we carry out periodic audits and training of our guides and crew, as well as deploy different information systems on board to ensure that all our passengers are properly informed and understand the measures and conduct, they must adhere to.
Sustainability
Australis understands that the charm of the routes depends on its preservation. Knowing landscapes that have remained intact for centuries is a luxury, and their commitment is to make every effort to keep them that way. Guided by international standards and motivated by a deep conviction of respect for the environment, the company implements and promotes a series of measures, and behaviours on board, to care for the environment in which the ships navigate through.
FAQ's
What does the cost include?
- Breakfasts, lunches, and meals.
- Open bar when the bartender is on duty.
- Daily shore excursions, as scheduled by the Company.
- Whiskey and hot chocolate during excursions.
- Activities inside the ship.
Is there an internet connection on board the ship?
We do not have internet service onboard. However, on our cruises, you can connect from electronic devices to a digital information system called AustralisNet, with exciting content about Patagonia and everything you need to know to enjoy your trip.
Is a landing on Cape Horn always possible?
No, it depends on the local weather conditions. However, historically there is a 75% likelihood of a landing on the Cape.
What are the main sights on the cruise?
- The legendary Strait of Magellan and the Beagle Channel.
- Glaciers and fjords of the Darwin Range.
- Flora and fauna of great beauty: sub-Antarctic forests, sea lions, southern dolphins, albatrosses, and cormorants, among a great diversity of seabirds.
- One of the largest Magellanic penguin colonies in the Southern Hemisphere.
- The mythical Cape Horn.
What are the usual landing locations?
- Ainsworth Bay
- Tuckers Islets
- Cape Horn
- Wulaia Bay
- Pia Glacier
- Aguila Glacier
- Condor Glacier
- Porter Glacier
- Magdalena Island
- Punta Arenas
- Ushuaia
Can you smoke on board?
- Smoking is only allowed on the outside decks of the ship. Smoking is prohibited in any enclosed space inside the ship.
Are there lifts (elevators) on board?
No, the ships do not have elevators.
Is there a hair dryer in the cabin bathrooms?
Yes
Is there a first aid service on board?
Yes. There are staff prepared to provide first aid care to passengers on board if required.
Are there any educational lectures given during the cruise?
- Yes. During the voyage, the following types of presentations are given:
- Geography and navigation route.
- Flora.
- Birds in Patagonia.
- Beagle Channel.
- Strait of Magellan.
- Glaciology.
- Marine Mammals.
- Aborigines of Patagonia.
- Penguins.
- Terra Incognita.
- Cape Horn.
Is it possible to always see penguins?
No. Penguins are migratory birds and are usually found in the region between the months of October to March.
Is there a shop (store) on board?
Yes, you will find sportswear, as well as souvenirs, gift items and personal use.
What is the tipping policy?
Each passenger is free to decide how much to tip. Those who wish to reimburse the service onboard must deliver the gratuity at the ship's reception desk on the last day of the voyage. We suggest US $15 per person in your party, per day, which will be distributed equally among all the crew that has made the trip an unforgettable experience.
What is the weather going to be like?
In the cruise months, the temperature fluctuates between 5 and 15 degrees Celsius (equivalent to 41- and 59-degrees Fahrenheit). It is important to note that weather conditions are very unpredictable and could change constantly during the day.
Are pets allowed on board?
No, pets are not allowed on board.
Is there a safe in the cabin?
Yes, each cabin has a safe deposit box to store items.
Is insurance included?
The Australis company has civil liability insurance to respond to losses or damages that passengers and/or their property may experience onboard the ship. This liability is governed by the conditions of the passenger contract and the relevant rules of Book Three of the Chilean Commercial Code. If the passenger wishes to have additional coverage for health risks, death, travel assistance, or other events or contingencies that he/she and/or his/her luggage may experience during the trip, he/she must purchase travel assistance insurance at the insurance company of his/her choice.
What is the electricity voltage on board?
- Voltage on board is 220volts
- The cabins are equipped with plugs for 220 volts. The bathrooms have 220- and 110-volt outlets.
What is the official language on board?
The official languages on board are Spanish and English, but it is also possible to find guides who speak French, German, Italian or Portuguese.
How are payments made on board?
Voluntary gratuities (suggested US$15 per passenger in your group, per night) and personal expenses at the onboard store, such as souvenirs, sportswear or other items, may be paid with Mastercard, Visa, American Express, Diners, US dollars, Euros, Chilean pesos or Argentine pesos.
Is swimming allowed at any of the landings, or a jump into the water?
No! For the safety of our passengers and the environment, no swimming in the sea is allowed at any time during the voyage.
Stella Australis, Patagonia Expeditions between Punta Arenas and Ushuaia
Introduction
The Stella Australis is the sister ship of the Ventus Australis. Each ship operates out of Punta Arenas in southern Chile, and navigate the channels, and fiords around the large island of Tierra del Fuego, passing by, and often visiting, the fabled Cape Horn landmark. This part of the world comprises thousands of islands, fiords, channels, inlets and straits. It includes two famous stretches of water: the Beagle Channel, in front of Ushuaia; and the Magallanes Stretch in front of Punta Arenas. Stella Australis, as with its sister ship, will navigate both these legendary channels during their respective itineraries.
Stella Australis is a moderately-sized vessel. With 100, well appointed cabins, each one with an exterior-facing window, it is of a size whereby the ambience on board still retains an element of things being “personal”. Very different to the enormous, impersonal floating hotel cruise liners that dominate the Caribbean. No, the Stella Australis is the antipathy of THAT type of product.
The objective of the Stella ship, as well as the Ventus vessel, is to offers passengers comfortable accommodation, combined with high-level on-board food as well as educated guides, who will show you the secrets of Patagonia from the sea.
Unlike visiting Patagonia by land, which is, in its own right, an incredible experience, being able to visit remote areas of Patagonia only accessible by water, permit the visitor to see and experience places that very few people ever get to see. On board the Stella Australis is like being a pioneer explorer, with the exception that you will be able to enjoy a warm and comfortable night’s sleep in a comfortable cabin at the end of each day.
Routes Available
Check-In
Check-In Info from Ushuaia
- Darwins Route: 8 Nights Ushuaia – Punta Arenas – Ushuaia
- Fiords of Tierra del Fuego Route: 4 Nights Ushuaia to Punta Arenas
Check-In Times
- Check-in is from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM at Avenida San Martín 409, Ushuaia.
- Afterwards, the boarding takes place at 6:00 PM.
- Sailing starts at 8:00 PM from Ushuaia.
Check Info from Punta Arenas
- Darwins Route: 8 Nights Punta Arenas – Ushuaia – Punta Arenas
- Fiords of Tierra del Fuego Route: 4 Nights Punta Arenas to Ushuaia
Check-In Times
- Check-In starts at 1:00 PM and runs until 5:00 PM, on Av. Costanera del Estrecho 1398 (Muelle Arturo Prat), Punta Arenas.
- The boarding starts at 6:00 PM.
- The sailing is at 8:00 PM from Punta Arenas.
About Stella Australis
The Stella Australis was constructed in 2010. The ship offers 100 cabins and can accept a total passenger capacity of 210 people, plus crew.
The Length of the ship measures 89m, with a beam (width) of 14.6m.
Cabin Categories
All cabins have exterior facing windows, heating, en-suite bathrooms with hair dryers and a safe deposit box in the cabin.
Voltage on board is 220 volts.
The cabins are equipped with plugs for 220 volts. The bathrooms have 220- and 110-volt outlets.
Bed Sizes:
- Twin Beds: Each is 1.05mt wide x 1.9m long.
- Matrimonial Bed: 1.6m wide x 1.9m long.
- Matrimonial Bed Superior Cabin: 1.8m wise x 2m long.
- The Decks and Cabins
- Cabins are the Following Decks Running Top to Bottom
- Fifth, Top Deck: Darwin – No Cabins
Fourth Deck: Cabo de Hornos
- AAA: 23 Standard Cabins / 16m2 / Bed Configuration: Twin or Matrimonial
- AAA: 2 Superior Cabins / 20m2 / Bed Configuration: Matrimonial
Third Deck: Tierra del Fuego
- AA: 36 Standard Cabins / 16m2 / Bed Configuration: Twin or Matrimonial
- AA: 2 Superior Cabins / 20m2 / Bed Configuration: Matrimonial
Second Deck: Magallanes
- A: 34 Standard Cabins / 16m2 / Bed Configuration: Twin or Matrimonial
- B: 3 Standard Cabins / 16m2 / Bed Configuration: Twin Only
Click above for larger image
First Deck: Patagonia
- No Cabins
Stella Australis Continued Information
Food
Various breakfast, lunch and dinner options, along with a 24/7 cafeteria service, combining the best local ingredients in an international gastronomic proposal that prioritizes variety, quality and excellence.
Spaces
The spectacular landscapes of Patagonia that can be appreciated through panoramic windows are complemented in harmony with careful decoration and ample and cozy spaces. Everything comes together in an intimate and casual atmosphere, so that our guests can share their experiences, read a book from our library, have their favorite appetizer or simply enjoy the view.
All-Inclusive
Once onboard, you will only need your wallet if you want to get yourself a souvenir from the onboard store. At Australis when we say all-inclusive, we mean ALL-INCLUSIVE. Enjoy our unlimited wine, liquor and beverage menu during lunch and dinner or at our bar, open from 10 am to midnight.
Guides and Crew
The passion of our Expedition Guides and the warmth and friendliness of our crew, give the voyage a unique atmosphere that stands out as one of the great hallmarks of the Australis Experience. Our passengers often say goodbye, heartfeltly thanking the professionalism of all our team on board, who made them feel at home.
Educational Experience
Our guides will pass on their knowledge of glaciology, flora and fauna, geography, history, and the evolution of the landscapes we travel through. Daily, they will share this knowledge with our passengers on board through thematic lectures that complement and deepen what is discovered and experienced during the expeditions.
Offline
Deep in Patagonia, between fjords and glaciers, connectivity disappears, and the Digital Detox begins. Far from civilization, the most unspoiled landscapes of the planet invite you to take your eyes off your phones, replace screens with windows, and discover the colours and contrasts of nature without a filter.
Safety
The safety on board and during excursions is a priority at every moment of our operation. That is why we are governed by the highest standards in terms of infrastructure and equipment, as well as implementing strict protocols that safeguard the safety of passengers and crew members. To ensure that all these protocols are properly complied with, we carry out periodic audits and training of our guides and crew, as well as deploy different information systems on board to ensure that all our passengers are properly informed and understand the measures and conduct, they must adhere to.
Sustainability
Australis understands that the charm of the routes depends on its preservation. Knowing landscapes that have remained intact for centuries is a luxury, and their commitment is to make every effort to keep them that way. Guided by international standards and motivated by a deep conviction of respect for the environment, the company implements and promotes a series of measures, and behaviours on board, to care for the environment in which the ships navigate through.
FAQ's
What does the cost include?
- Breakfasts, lunches, and meals.
- Open bar when the bartender is on duty.
- Daily shore excursions, as scheduled by the Company.
- Whiskey and hot chocolate during excursions.
- Activities inside the ship.
Is there an internet connection on board the ship?
We do not have internet service onboard. However, on our cruises, you can connect from electronic devices to a digital information system called AustralisNet, with exciting content about Patagonia and everything you need to know to enjoy your trip.
Is a landing on Cape Horn always possible?
No, it depends on the local weather conditions. However, historically there is a 75% likelihood of a landing on the Cape.
What are the main sights on the cruise?
- The legendary Strait of Magellan and the Beagle Channel.
- Glaciers and fjords of the Darwin Range.
- Flora and fauna of great beauty: sub-Antarctic forests, sea lions, southern dolphins, albatrosses, and cormorants, among a great diversity of seabirds.
- One of the largest Magellanic penguin colonies in the Southern Hemisphere.
- The mythical Cape Horn.
What are the usual landing locations?
- Ainsworth Bay
- Tuckers Islets
- Cape Horn
- Wulaia Bay
- Pia Glacier
- Aguila Glacier
- Condor Glacier
- Porter Glacier
- Magdalena Island
- Punta Arenas
- Ushuaia
Can you smoke on board?
- Smoking is only allowed on the outside decks of the ship. Smoking is prohibited in any enclosed space inside the ship.
Are there lifts (elevators) on board?
No, the ships do not have elevators.
Is there a hair dryer in the cabin bathrooms?
Yes
Is there a first aid service on board?
Yes. There are staff prepared to provide first aid care to passengers on board if required.
Are there any educational lectures given during the cruise?
- Yes. During the voyage, the following types of presentations are given:
- Geography and navigation route.
- Flora.
- Birds in Patagonia.
- Beagle Channel.
- Strait of Magellan.
- Glaciology.
- Marine Mammals.
- Aborigines of Patagonia.
- Penguins.
- Terra Incognita.
- Cape Horn.
Is it possible to always see penguins?
No. Penguins are migratory birds and are usually found in the region between the months of October to March.
Is there a shop (store) on board?
Yes, you will find sportswear, as well as souvenirs, gift items and personal use.
What is the tipping policy?
Each passenger is free to decide how much to tip. Those who wish to reimburse the service onboard must deliver the gratuity at the ship's reception desk on the last day of the voyage. We suggest US $15 per person in your party, per day, which will be distributed equally among all the crew that has made the trip an unforgettable experience.
What is the weather going to be like?
In the cruise months, the temperature fluctuates between 5 and 15 degrees Celsius (equivalent to 41- and 59-degrees Fahrenheit). It is important to note that weather conditions are very unpredictable and could change constantly during the day.
Are pets allowed on board?
No, pets are not allowed on board.
Is there a safe in the cabin?
Yes, each cabin has a safe deposit box to store items.
Is insurance included?
The Australis company has civil liability insurance to respond to losses or damages that passengers and/or their property may experience onboard the ship. This liability is governed by the conditions of the passenger contract and the relevant rules of Book Three of the Chilean Commercial Code. If the passenger wishes to have additional coverage for health risks, death, travel assistance, or other events or contingencies that he/she and/or his/her luggage may experience during the trip, he/she must purchase travel assistance insurance at the insurance company of his/her choice.
What is the electricity voltage on board?
- Voltage on board is 220volts
- The cabins are equipped with plugs for 220 volts. The bathrooms have 220- and 110-volt outlets.
What is the official language on board?
The official languages on board are Spanish and English, but it is also possible to find guides who speak French, German, Italian or Portuguese.
How are payments made on board?
Voluntary gratuities (suggested US$15 per passenger in your group, per night) and personal expenses at the onboard store, such as souvenirs, sportswear or other items, may be paid with Mastercard, Visa, American Express, Diners, US dollars, Euros, Chilean pesos or Argentine pesos.
Is swimming allowed at any of the landings, or a jump into the water?
No! For the safety of our passengers and the environment, no swimming in the sea is allowed at any time during the voyage.
Stella Australis, Ushuaia to Punta Arenas, Patagonian Explorer, 4 Nights
About
Cost of the Cruise
About Patagonian Explorer 4 Nights
Departure Dates
Patagonian Explorer 4 Nights
Introduction
There are two Australis 4-night Patagonian Expedition Cruises. One operating Punta Arenas to Ushuaia and the other operating Ushuaia to Punta Arenas. Here we offer the Cruceros Australis navigating from Ushuaia in Argentina to Punta Arenas in Chile, for a 4-night Patagonian Expedition Cruise called Patagonian Explorer.
In order to see information about the ship and cost please click through below to the Australis Ship pages below.
There are two Australis ships that navigate these channels. One is called the Stella Australis and the other is the Ventus Australis. Below is a link to a video presentation for each vessel.
There are 8 night and 4 night excursions aboard these ships with set, date departures and these are also shown further below.
Initially the navigational route passes through the Beagle Channel, named after the ship upon which scientific botanist and explorer Charles Darwin sailed upon when he visited these shores. The cruise will end in anther, equally famous stretch of water called the Strait of Magallanes, where Punta Arenas is located on its northern shore.
In addition to the famous waterways, this navigation will also circumnavigate the most iconic of all land masses in the world, which is Cape Horn – however, please note that the ship maintains a distance close to shore in this area and is not far out to sea.
And, in addition to tracing these famous nautical routes, passengers will be able to get closer to remarkable, natural sights such as gigantic glaciers as well as local fauna such as penguins, seals, dolphins and whales by shore landings during the trip.
Below you will find a short presentation video, followed by a route map, below which is the itinerary of the trip.
Offer
Our offer will be one of the following:
- Free return flights from Santiago to Punta Arenas
- Free hotel night with one of our partner hotels in Chile
- Free private transfer if required for another part of your itinerary
Stella Australis Ship
Please follow this link for information about the Stella Australis Ship.
Ventus Australis Ship
Please follow this link for information about the Ventus Australis Ship.
The per person cost will depend on the type of cabin you select and the date of departure.
Please follow this link to the Skorpios Kaweskar Itinerary dates and cabin costs.
Please note that the video here shows a 4 night navigation. The 8 night trip is, essentially, the 4 night one way, that then includes the 4 night return journey.
Click on map for larger image
Ushuaia Fixed Departure Dates for both the Stella Australis and Ventus Australis Ships (note, the calendars show 4 night trips, the same dates are used for the 8 night navigations):
Ushuaia to Punta Arenas
Summary of Itinerary (full itinerary further below)
Day 1
Depart from Ushuaia
Day 2
Cape Horn and Wulaia Bay
Day 3
Pia and Porter Glaciers
Day 4
Agostini Sound, Condor and Aguilar Glaciers
Day 5
Arrive to Punta Arenas
Full Itinerary (information supplied by Australis)
Day 1 Ushuaia:
Check in at the Australis travel center at 409 San Martín Ave. in downtown Ushuaia between 10:00 and 17:00 (10 AM-5 PM) on the day of your cruise departure. Board at 18:00 (6:00PM). After a welcoming toast and introduction of captain and crew, the ship departs for one of the most remote corners of planet Earth. During the night we traverse the Beagle Channel and cross from Argentine into Chilean territorial waters. The lights of Ushuaia disappear as we turn into the narrow Murray Channel between Navarino and Hoste islands.
Day 2 Cape Horn and Wulaia Bay:
By early morning, the ship is cruising across Nassau Bay into the remote archipelago that includes Cape Horn National Park. Weather and sea conditions permitting, we shall go ashore on the windswept island that harbors legendary Cape Horn (Cabo de Hornos). Discovered in 1616 by a Dutch maritime expedition -- and named after the town of Hoorn in West Friesland -- Cape Horn is a sheer 425-meter (1,394-foot) high rocky promontory overlooking the turbulent waters of the Drake Passage. For many years it was the only navigation route between the Pacific and Atlantic, and was often referred to as the "End of the Earth." The park was declared a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2005. The Chilean navy maintains a permanent lighthouse on the island, staffed by a lightkeeper and his family, as well as the tiny Stella Maris Chapel and modern Cape Horn Monument. Sailing back across Nassau Bay, we anchor at fabled Wulaia Bay, one of the few places in the archipelago where the human history is just as compelling as the natural environment. Originally the site of one of the region’s largest Yámana aboriginal settlements, the bay was described by Charles Darwin and sketched by Captain FitzRoy in the 1830s during their voyages on the HMS Beagle. This area is also renowned for its mesmerizing beauty and dramatic geography. After a visit to the Australis-sponsored museum in the old radio station -- which is especially strong on the Yámana people and European missionaries in the area -- passengers have a choice of three hikes (of increasing degrees of difficulty) that ascend the heavily wooden mountain behind the bay. On all of these you will be strolling through an enchanted Magellan forest of lengas, coigües, canelos, ferns, and other endemic fauna to reach a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the bay. Before leaving Wulaia Bay, drop something into the wooden mail barrel inside the museum – letters or postcards meant to be hand delivered by future travelers – an ancient mariner tradition revived by Australis.
Day 3 Pia and Porter Glaciers:
In the morning we will navigate the northwest arm of the Beagle Channel to enter and disembark in Pia Fjord. We will take a short hike to a lookout from where we can see Pia Glacier extending from the top of the mountain range all the way down to the sea. In the afternoon and aboard our Zodiac boats, we will sail between high rocky walls until we reach Porter Glacier. We will stop to observe its colors, listen to its sounds and if we are lucky, even witness some calving. We will stay here for a moment to discuss this incredible ice mass and take some photographs before returning on board.
Day 4 Agostini Sound, Condor and Aguilar Glaciers:
Early in the morning, we will sail through the Cockburn Channel and enter Agostini Sound. From there it is possible to see the glaciers that descend from the middle of the Darwin Mountain Range -- some of them reaching the water. This morning, we will disembark and go for an easy walk around a lagoon, which was formed by the melting of the Águila Glacier. We will reach a spot right in front of that glacier with stunning views. In the afternoon, we will approach the Condor Glacier via Zodiac -- and hopefully see some of the abundant Andean Condors in the area.
Day 5 Arrive to Punta Arenas:
After an overnight cruise that takes us back into the Strait of Magellan, we anchor off Magdalena Island, which lies about halfway between Tierra del Fuego and the Chilean mainland. Crowned by a distinctive lighthouse, the island used to be an essential source of supplies for navigators and explorers and is inhabited by an immense colony of Magellanic penguins. At the break of dawn, weather permitting, we go ashore and hike a path that leads through thousands of penguins to a small museum lodged inside the vintage 1902 lighthouse. Many other bird species are also found on the island. In September and April -- when the penguins dwell elsewhere -- this excursion is replaced by a ride aboard Zodiacs to Marta Island to observe South American sea lions. After a short sail south along the strait, disembarkation at Punta Arenas is scheduled for around 11:30 AM.
NOTE: The excursions described in the itineraries can usually be carried out without any problems. Nevertheless, the shipowner holds the right to alter, change or skip certain portions of the itinerary without prior notice, whether motivated by the passengers’ well-being and safety, by the appropriate protection of the environment, or in case of any extraordinary event, unforeseeable circumstance, or force majeure. For this reason, departures or arrival may be subject to change. Furthermore, sighting of birds and other species cannot be guaranteed as their exact location is variable by nature.
Stella Australis, Ushuaia to Punta Arenas to Ushuaia, Darwins Route, 8 Nights
About
Cost of the Cruise
About Darwin's Route
Departure Dates
Darwin’s Route 8 Nights
Introduction
Here we offer the Australis Patagonian cruise navigating from Ushuaia in Argentina to Punta Arenas in Chile and back to Ushuaia, for an 8-night Patagonian Expedition trip.
Like the shorter 4-night navigation between the two cities, this trip is basically a return navigation offering twice the amount of time on board, and also double the time to see the incredible scenery of remote, southern Patagonia from the sea.
There are two Australis ships that navigate these channels. One is called the Stella Australis and the other is the Ventus Australis. Below is a link to a video presentation for each vessel.
Both the 8 night and 4 night excursions aboard these ships with set, date departures and these are also shown further below.
Departing from Ushuaia the navigational route initially “sails” along the famous Beagle Channel and passes historically famous land points where people such as Charles Darwin navigated aboard the HMS Beagle, in the days of pioneering exploration and scientific research, and then during the middle of the trip the ship will be in the equally famous Magallanes Strait.
The navigation will also include, not once, but twice, one of the best-known points on the World Map – Cape Horn where the Pacific Ocean meets the Atlantic Ocean. And, in addition to tracing these famous nautical routes, passengers will be able to disembark into smaller boats in order to get closer to remarkable, natural sights such as huge, white and blue glaciers as they move down from the mountains to meet their demise in the ocean waters. In addition, there is a lot of marine fauna to see such as seals, whales, dolphins, and penguins.
Below you will find a short video highlighting this trip, followed by a route map, below which is the itinerary.
In order to see information about the ship and cost please click through below to the Australis Ship page.
ExperienceChile.Org can include this navigation in your overall Patagonia itinerary, or as a standalone. Should you ask us to include it we will add an offer too. The offer will be subject to the rest of your itinerary and how many people (minimum 2 people) we are making arrangements for.
Offer
Our offer will be one of the following:
- Free return flights from Santiago to Punta Arenas
- Free hotel night with one of our partner hotels in Chile
- Free private transfer if required for another part of your itinerary
Stella Australis Ship
Please follow this link for information about the Stella Australis Ship.
Ventus Australis Ship
Please follow this link for information about the Ventus Australis Ship.
The per person cost will depend on the type of cabin you select and the date of departure.
Please follow this link to the Skorpios Kaweskar Itinerary dates and cabin costs.
Please note that the video here shows a 4 night navigation. The 8 night trip is, essentially, the 4 night one way, that then includes the 4 night return journey.
Click on map for larger image
Ushuaia Fixed Departure Dates for both the Stella Australis and Ventus Australis Ships (note, the calendars show 4 night trips, the same dates are used for the 8 night navigations):
Ushuaia to Punta Arenas to Ushuaia
Summary of Itinerary (full itinerary further below)
Day 1
Depart from Ushuaia
Day 2
Cape Horn
Day 3
Pia and Porter Glaciers
Day 4
Agostini Sound, Condor and Aguilar Glaciers
Day 5
Magdalena Island and Arrival to Punta Arenas
Day 6
Ainsworth Bay and Tuckers Islets
Day 7
Pia Glacier and Glacier Alley
Day 8
Cape Horn and Wulaia Bay
Day 9
Arrive to Ushuaia
Full Itinerary (information supplied by Australis)
Day 1 Ushuaia:
Check in at 409 San Martín Ave. in downtown Ushuaia between 10:00 and 17:00 (10 AM-5 PM) on the day of your cruise departure. Board the Australis at 18:00 (6 PM). After a welcoming toast and introduction of captain and crew, the ship departs for one of the most remote corners of planet Earth. During the night we traverse the Beagle Channel and cross from Argentina into Chilean territorial waters. The lights of Ushuaia disappear as we turn into the narrow Murray Channel between Navarino and Hoste islands.
Day 2 Cape Horn:
By early morning, Stella Australis is cruising across Nassau Bay into the remote archipelago that includes Cape Horn National Park. Australis is the only expedition cruise ship company with permission from Chilean authorities to navigate the Murray Channel to Cape Horn, and because of its concession the only travel company allowed to land passengers at Wulaia Bay. Weather and sea conditions permitting, we shall go ashore on the windswept island that harbors legendary Cape Horn (Cabo de Hornos). Discovered in 1616 by a Dutch maritime expedition -- and named after the town of Hoorn in West Friesland -- Cape Horn is a sheer 425-meter (1,394-foot) high rocky promontory overlooking the turbulent waters of the Drake Passage. For many years it was the only navigation route between the Pacific and Atlantic, and was often referred to as the "End of the Earth." The park was declared a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2005. The Chilean navy maintains a permanent lighthouse on the island, staffed by a lightkeeper and his family, as well as the tiny Stella Maris Chapel and modern Cape Horn Monument. Sailing back across Nassau Bay, we anchor at fabled Wulaia Bay, one of the few places in the archipelago where the human history is just as compelling as the natural environment. Originally the site of one of the region’s largest Yámana aboriginal settlements, the bay was described by Charles Darwin and sketched by Captain FitzRoy in the 1830s during their voyages on HMS Beagle. This area is also renowned for the mesmerizing beauty and dramatic geography. After a visit to the Australis-sponsored small museum in the old radio station -- which is especially strong on the Yámana people and European missionaries in the area -- passengers have a choice of three hikes (of increasing degrees of difficulty) that ascend the heavily wooden mountain behind the bay. On all of these you will be strolling through an enchanted Magellan forest of lengas, coigües, canelos, ferns, and other endemic fauna to reach a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the bay.
Day 3 Pia and Porter Glaciers:
In the morning we will navigate the northwest arm of the Beagle Channel to enter and disembark in Pia Fjord. We will take a short hike to a lookout from where we can see Pia Glacier extending from the top of the mountain range all the way down to the sea. In the afternoon and aboard our Zodiac boats, we will sail between high rocky walls until we reach Porter Glacier. We will stop to observe its colors, listen to its sounds and if we are lucky, even witness some calving. We will stay here for a moment to discuss this incredible ice mass and take some photographs before returning on board.
Day 4 Agostini Sound, Condor and Aguilar Glaciers:
Early in the morning, we will sail through the Cockburn Channel and enter Agostini Sound. From there it is possible to see the glaciers that descend from the middle of the Darwin Mountain Range -- some of them reaching the water. This morning, we will disembark and go for an easy walk around a lagoon, which was formed by the melting of the Águila Glacier. We will reach a spot right in front of that glacier with stunning views. In the afternoon, we will approach the Condor Glacier via Zodiac -- and hopefully see some of the abundant Andean Condors in the area.
Day 5 Magdalena Island and Arrival to Punta Arenas:
After an overnight cruise through Magdalena Channel and back into the Strait of Magellan, we anchor off Magdalena Island, which lies about halfway between Tierra del Fuego and the Chilean mainland. Crowned by a distinctive lighthouse, the island used to be an essential source of supplies for navigators and explorers and is inhabited by an immense colony of Magellanic penguins. At the break of dawn, weather permitting, we go ashore and hike a path that leads through thousands of penguins to a small museum lodged inside the vintage 1902 lighthouse. Many other bird species are also found on the island. In September and April -- when the penguins dwell elsewhere -- this excursion is replaced by a ride aboard Zodiacs to Marta Island to observe South American sea lions. After a short cruise south along the strait, disembarkation at Punta Arenas is scheduled for around 11:30 AM.
Board at 6 PM. After a welcoming toast and introduction of captain and crew, the ship departs for one of the remotest corners of planet Earth. During the night we cross the Strait of Magellan and enter the labyrinth of channels that define the southern extreme of Patagonian. The twinkling lights of Punta Arenas gradually fade into the distance as we enter the Whiteside Canal between Darwin Island and Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego. *Camera extension poles are prohibited on Magdalena Island.
Day 6 Ainsworth Bay and Tuckers Islets:
By dawn the ship is sailing up Admiralty Sound (Seno Almirantazgo), a spectacular offshoot of the Strait of Magellan that stretches nearly halfway across Tierra del Fuego. The snowcapped peaks of Karukinka Natural Park stretch along the north side of the sound, while the south shore is defined by the deep fjords and broad bays of Alberto de Agostini National Park. We go ashore at Ainsworth Bay, which harbors copious bird life and a colony of southern elephant seals which can sometimes be spotted from the Zodiacs. Two guided excursions are available: one is along the edge of a stream, peat bog and beaver habitat to a waterfall-and-moss-covered rock face tucked deep inside a pristine sub-polar forest; the other is a more strenuous hike along the crest of a glacial moraine. Both afford views of Marinelli Glacier and the Darwin Mountains. Leaving Ainsworth Bay behind, we sail west along the sound to the Tucker Islets. After lunch, we board the Zodiacs again for a close-up view of the Magellan penguins that inhabit the tiny islands. More than 4,000 penguins use Tucker as a place to nest, give birth and nurture their chicks. Many other bird species also frequent the area including king cormorants, oystercatchers, Chilean skuas, kelp geese, dolphin gulls, eagles and even the occasional Andean condor. In September and April -- when the penguins live elsewhere -- this excursion is replaced by a short walk to a glacier at nearby stunning Brookes Bay.
Day 7 Pia Glacier and Glacier Alley:
Overnight we sail around the western end of Tierra del Fuego via the very narrow Gabriel Channel, Magdalena Channel and Cockburn Channel. After rounding the remote Brecknock Peninsula, Stella Australis tacks eastward and enters the Beagle Channel again. By morning we are entering Pia Fjord and boarding the Zodiacs for a shore excursion to Pia Glacier. After disembarking we take a short hike to gain a panoramic view of the spectacular glacier, which extends from the mountaintops down to the sea or a longer much more difficult walk up a lateral moraine of the old Pia Glacier.
No one knows for certain how the hulking mass of snow and ice got its feminine moniker, but one theory says it was named for Princess Maria Pia of Savoy (1847-1911), daughter of the Italian king. Back onboard the ship, we continue east along the Beagle Channel through an area called Glacier Alley. Living up to its name, the passage features a number of impressive tidewater glaciers flowing down from the Darwin Mountains and Darwin Ice Sheet on the north shore. Most of them named after European countries -- Holland, Italy, Germany, Spain and France.
Day 8 Cape Horn and Wulaia Bay:
During the morning we will be sailing through Murray Channel, going ashore at historical Wulaia Bay, originally the site of one of the region’s largest Yamana aboriginal settlements. Charles Darwin landed there in 1833 during his voyage on the HMS Beagle. This area is also renowned for the mesmerizing beauty of its vegetation and geography. We will take an enchanted walk through the Magellan Forest of lengas, coigües, canelos, ferns, and other endemic vegetation, to reach a panoramic viewpoint.In the afternoon we will go South through Nassau Bay to reach Cape Horn National Park, where, weather permitting, we shall go ashore. The legendary Cape Horn was discovered in 1616 and is a sheer 425-meter (1,394-foot) high rocky promontory. For many years it was an important navigation route between the Pacific and the Atlantic, and is referred to as the ‘End of the Earth’. The park was declared a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2005.
Day 9 Arrive to Ushuaia:
Arrival in Ushuaia, Argentina’s most important city in Tierra del Fuego, and the southernmost city in the world. Disembarking is scheduled at 8:00 a.m
IMPORTANT: The itinerary of the 8-night route, Ushuaia - Punta Arenas - Ushuaia repeats excursions on days 2 and 8 landing on Cape Horn and Wulaia Bay.
NOTE: The excursions described in the itineraries can usually be carried out without any problems. Nevertheless, the shipowner holds the right to alter, change or skip certain portions of the itinerary without prior notice, whether motivated by the passengers’ well-being and safety, by the appropriate protection of the environment, or in case of any extraordinary event, unforeseeable circumstance or force majeure. For this reason, departures or arrival may be subject to change. Furthermore, sighting of birds and other species cannot be guaranteed as their exact location is variable by nature.
The Skorpios III Kaweskar Route, from Puerto Natales,
3 Nights
About
Cost of the Cruise
About the Kaweskar Route
Key Points Along the Route
Skorpios Kaweskar Route 3 Nights
Introduction
Close to Puerto Natales is the magnificent UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve of Torres del Paine. In addition, to the west of Torres del Paine, there is even more remarkable geographic scenery, especially the land sculptured by rivers and glaciers leaving behind fiords and islands interwoven by a network of inlets and channels.
This is where the Southern Ice Field, an area of permanent snow and ice covering 13,900km2, sits on top of the Andes. In length it measures 350km north to south. The ice cap is also the third most important reserve of freshwater on the planet. From this “small-country size” area of frozen water is the origin of close to 50 glaciers, that slowly move downward carving out new valleys as they do so, before finally meeting their end when they convert back to their former, liquid water state, as they join with the tranquil waters in the fiords.
Apart from the views the Skorpios ship offers an opportunity to experience some nostalgia of being on board a “cruise ship” (which used to be an ice breaker). The Skorpios cabin interiors are finished with wall-covered wood and decorated in a cosy style. In addition, the common areas of the ship emit a “personal vibe”, a place where you can mingle with other guests and enjoy the overall cruise.
The Skorpios III Ship
Please follow this link for more information and pictures of the Skorpios III ship.
The per person cost will depend on the type of cabin you select and the date of departure.
Please follow this link to the Skorpios Kaweskar Itinerary dates and cabin costs.
Click on map for larger image
This cruise will cover a total distance of around 611km., navigating through water channels and fiords that were also once occupied by massive glaciers, enabling a water-borne access into the heart of natural, virgin parts of Patagonia without roads, buildings, and people.
This navigation penetrates the natural wilderness, revealing, among other natural aspects, numerous glaciers. Along the route passengers will be introduced to 15 glaciers, whereupon at some locations there will be an option to disembark and get closer to the ice.
For most people the experience of seeing a large, frozen river of ice at close quarters is a jaw-dropping moment, and rewards those who love to explore, like the pioneers used to, to know pristine places, walk on glacial moraine and pass by floating icebergs.
During the Skorpios navigation there will be numerous, natural geological sights as well as wild fauna to see. However, the following are places of note.
Amalia Glacier
This is a large glacier that comes down from the Andes and then “hugs” Mount Reclus before revealing a glacial face of up to 90m in height and 3km in width.
El Brujo Glacier
There is a rock, named “Gorbo Rock” with an exposed smooth surface to the left of the glacier, and here is a disembarkation point where passengers can stand on land and yet very close to the glacier.
Calvo Fiord
Among the fiords that will be navigated are the Calvo Fiord, where numerous glaciers come down from the mountain summits like long, white-blue fingers creating an effect like an “arena of millennial ice”. In this fiord are the glaciers – Fernando, Capitan Constantine, Alipo, Piloto Marcelo and Mongalve.
Las Montañas Fiord
In the Las Montañas Fiord there are five glaciers. These are the Zamudio, Alsina, Paredes, Bernal and Herman. Here, passengers will be able to walk to the glacial face of Bernal in the morning and visit Glacier Herman in the afternoon.
