adventure travelers wearing life jackets riding in a black skiff watch and take pictures of a whale sticking its head out of the water on a cloudy day in patagonia
While on the Patagonia Explorer from Ushuaia to Punta Arenas you will have the opportunity to see the wild open spaces hiking
While on the Patagonia Explorer from Ushuaia to Punta Arenas you will get to see Cape Horn and the famous monument looking over it all
group of black and brown patagonia elephant seals fight with their mouths open with fangs showing
While on the Patagonia Explorer from Ushuaia to Punta Arenas you will have a chance to see many types of bird life on the shore
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South America Patagonia Cruise

Patagonian Explorer – Ushuaia to Punta Arenas

The 5-day Patagonian Explorer cruise aboard the 200-guest Stella Australis or Ventus Australis sister ships begins in Ushuaia, Argentina, and ends in Punta Arenas, Chile. Behold some of the planet’s most remote landscapes and incredible wildlife and discover the pristine beauty of Patagonia. Highlights of this Patagonia cruise include the huge and rarely visited Cóndor Glacier in Agostini Sound and Cape Horn, the “End of the Earth” and a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.

The Stella Australis and Ventus Australis cruise Patagonia, bringing you luxury and comfort only surpassed by their activities. Visit fabled spots like Cape Horn and Wulaia Bay before cruising down the Beagle Channel. Continue through the maze of islands and glaciers, including Pia Glacier, Porter Glacier, Agostini Sound, Águila Glacier and Cóndor Glacier before entering the legendary Strait of Magellan. Search for condors and other wildlife by Zodiac, hike through Magellanic forest to glacial waterfalls and panoramic views of bays, and walk to a lighthouse on stunning Magdalena Island and its immense penguin colony before disembarking in Punta Arenas.

The Australis sister ships are the only small expedition vessels in the world to visit the Cóndor Glacier regularly. This spectacular but remote glacier at the southernmost tip of South America is guarded by and takes its name from the world’s largest flying bird, the Andean condor, which can weigh up to 33 pounds and have a wingspan of over 10 feet.

The 5-day Patagonian Explorer cruise can be combined with the 5-day Fjords of Tierra del Fuego cruise to create a round-trip, 9-day/8-night itinerary.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Patagonia cruises and Patagonia trips.



Itinerary

Patagonian Explorer - Ushuaia to Punta Arenas Itinerary

The 5-day Patagonian Explorer – Ushuaia to Punta Arenas cruise operates from Ushuaia, Argentina to Punta Arenas, Chile, moving south to Cape Horn and then north past glaciers and the Strait of Magellan.

Route map of Patagonian Explorer Ushuaia to Punta Arenas 5-day small ship Patagonia cruise, operating from Ushuaia, Argentina to Punta Arenas, Chile with visits to Cape Horn & Wulaia Bay, Pia Glacier & Porter Glacier, Agostini Sound, Águila Glacier, Cóndor Glacier & Magdalena Island.
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Day 1
Embark Ushuaia, Argentina

Check in at 409 San Martín Ave. in downtown Ushuaia, Argentina, between 10:00am and 5:00pm on the day of departure. Board the ship at 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. Sail through the mythical Strait of Magellan and the Beagle Channel, traveling through Patagonia and the fjords of Tierra del Fuego.

Accommodations

Stella Australis, Ventus Australis

Meals

dinner

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Day 2
Cape Horn & Wulaia Bay

Sail through the Murray Channel and Nassau Bay, arriving at Cape Horn National Park, where you will disembark, if weather conditions permit, to experience the magic of walking through one of the southernmost points of the world, surrounded by charm and legends.

In the afternoon, disembark at Wulaia Bay, a historic site of one of the largest settlements of the native Yagans canoeists. Reach a viewpoint, walking through the Magellanic forest, where lengas, coigües, canelos and ferns grow, among other species.

Accommodations

Stella Australis, Ventus Australis

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 3
Pia Glacier & Porter Glacier

In the morning, navigate the northwest arm of the Beagle Channel to enter and disembark in Pia Fjord. Take a short hike to a lookout from where you can see Pia Glacier extending from the top of the mountain range all the way down to the sea.

In the afternoon, aboard Zodiac boats, sail between high rocky walls to reach Porter Glacier. Stop to observe its colors, listen to its sounds and if you are lucky, even witness some calving. Stay here for a moment to discuss this incredible ice mass and take some photographs before returning on board.

Accommodations

Stella Australis, Ventus Australis

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 4
Agostini Sound, Águila Glacier & Cóndor Glacier

Early in the morning, sail through the Cockburn Channel and enter Agostini Sound, where it is possible to see the glaciers that descend from the middle of the Darwin Mountain Range, some of which reach the water.

After breakfast, disembark for an easy walk around a lagoon, which was formed by the melting of the Águila Glacier. Reach a spot right in front of that glacier with stunning views. In the afternoon, approach the Condor Glacier via Zodiac and hope to see some of the abundant Andean Condors in the area. Learn about the formation of glaciers and their influence on the abrupt geography of the Fuegian channels.

Accommodations

Stella Australis, Ventus Australis

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 5
Magdalena Island & Disembark Punta Arenas, Chile

After an overnight cruise back into the Strait of Magellan, 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, 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 Aprilwhen the penguins dwell elsewherethis 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, arrive in Punta Arenas, disembarking at approximately 12:30pm.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

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Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Accommodation; sea transportation; all meals; open bar at set times (beer, wine and liquor, including premium brands); shore excursions and onboard entertainment.

Exclusions

Airfare; excess baggage charges; items of a personal nature; insurance of any kind; gratuities; optional tours and transportation; port transfers and visa fees; national park fees, port fees and taxes ($135 per person for the 2025-26 season, but subject to change).

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of $300 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
119 to 60 days – 100% of deposit
59 to 50 days – 25% of total trip cost
49 to 40 days – 50% of total trip cost
39 to 30 days – 75% of total trip cost
29 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Patagonian Explorer Cruise begins in Ushuaia, Argentina (USH) and ends in Punta Arenas, Chile (PUQ). Plan to arrive to Ushuaia in time for check in between 10:00am and 5:00pm, with embarkation at 6:00pm on Day 1. Disembarkation is in Punta Arenas at 12:30pm on Day 5. Verify all arrival and departure details upon booking your sailing. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include hiking, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, land treks, glacier viewing and wildlife observation. Note that camera extension poles are prohibited on Magdalena Island.

Room Configuration

Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 150% of the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. Special single cabin rates may available in cabin categories A or B.

Families & Children

Children are welcomed aboard all departure dates. Infants between 0 and 3 years old receive a 100% discount when sharing the bed with their parents. Kids between 4 and 12 years old receive a 50% discount when sharing a cabin with an adult. An extra bed can be added to double cabins; contact us for rates & availability.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. Sighting of birds and other species cannot be guaranteed as their exact location is variable by nature. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

In addition to the rates and dates listed below, a longer 9-day Australis Patagonia Expedition Cruise is available by combining this itinerary with the 5-day Fjords of Tierra del Fuego cruise. Contact AdventureSmith Explorations for pricing and more information.

Sep 26 - Sep 30, 2025
Ventus Australis • 5 days
From $1695USD
Per Person
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Oct 04 - Oct 08, 2025
Ventus Australis • 5 days
From $2466USD
Per Person
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Oct 12 - Oct 16, 2025
Ventus Australis • 5 days
From $2466USD
Per Person
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Oct 20 - Oct 24, 2025
Ventus Australis • 5 days
From $2466USD
Per Person
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Oct 24 - Oct 28, 2025
Stella Australis • 5 days
From $2466USD
Per Person
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Oct 28 - Nov 01, 2025
Ventus Australis • 5 days
From $2466USD
Per Person
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Nov 01 - Nov 05, 2025
Stella Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Nov 05 - Nov 09, 2025
Ventus Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Nov 09 - Nov 13, 2025
Stella Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Nov 13 - Nov 17, 2025
Ventus Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Nov 17 - Nov 21, 2025
Stella Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Nov 21 - Nov 25, 2025
Ventus Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Nov 25 - Nov 29, 2025
Stella Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Nov 29 - Dec 03, 2025
Ventus Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Dec 03 - Dec 07, 2025
Stella Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Dec 07 - Dec 11, 2025
Ventus Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Dec 11 - Dec 15, 2025
Stella Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Dec 15 - Dec 19, 2025
Ventus Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Dec 19 - Dec 23, 2025
Stella Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Dec 23 - Dec 27, 2025
Ventus Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Dec 27 - Dec 31, 2025
Stella Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Dec 31 - Jan 04, 2026
Ventus Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Jan 04 - Jan 08, 2026
Stella Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Jan 08 - Jan 12, 2026
Ventus Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Jan 12 - Jan 16, 2026
Stella Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Jan 16 - Jan 20, 2026
Ventus Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Jan 20 - Jan 24, 2026
Stella Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Jan 24 - Jan 28, 2026
Ventus Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Jan 28 - Feb 01, 2026
Stella Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Feb 01 - Feb 05, 2026
Ventus Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Feb 05 - Feb 09, 2026
Stella Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Feb 09 - Feb 13, 2026
Ventus Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Feb 13 - Feb 17, 2026
Stella Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Feb 17 - Feb 21, 2026
Ventus Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Feb 21 - Feb 25, 2026
Stella Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Feb 25 - Mar 01, 2026
Ventus Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Mar 01 - Mar 05, 2026
Stella Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Mar 05 - Mar 09, 2026
Ventus Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Mar 09 - Mar 13, 2026
Stella Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Mar 13 - Mar 17, 2026
Ventus Australis • 5 days
From $3357USD
Per Person
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Mar 17 - Mar 21, 2026
Stella Australis • 5 days
From $2466USD
Per Person
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Mar 21 - Mar 25, 2026
Ventus Australis • 5 days
From $2466USD
Per Person
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Mar 25 - Mar 29, 2026
Stella Australis • 5 days
From $2466USD
Per Person
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Mar 29 - Apr 02, 2026
Ventus Australis • 5 days
From $2466USD
Per Person
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Apr 06 - Apr 10, 2026
Ventus Australis • 5 days
From $1695USD
Per Person
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Accommodations

Choose the Small Ship that Fits Your Travel Style

Expedition Ship
Stella Australis

The deluxe, 200-guest Stella Australis is one of the top vessels sailing around Chile's Cape Horn and Patagonia region. Enjoy her comfortable cabins with large windows, open bar and delicious dining.

Expedition Ship
Ventus Australis

The comfortable 200-guest Ventus Australis small ship cruises Chile's pristine Patagonia region and features three lounges, spacious cabins with view windows, an all-inclusive bar and gourmet dining.

Testimonials

Hear It from Travelers Who Have Explored with Us

"Ship & Staff Were Great"

Ship and staff were great. Everyone very friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. All were top notch. Great knowledge, friendly and extremely helpful.

Overall
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Accommodations
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Meals
3 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
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"INCREDIBLE"

This trip was INCREDIBLE. We are a retired, yet active couple and we are always looking for trips that are adventurous and truly unique. Patagonia was on our bucket list and Adventuresmith made it happen.

Overall
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Accommodations
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Meals
4.5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
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"Guides Were Terrific"

All trip leaders were top-notch, professional and worthy of the highest praise.

Overall
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Accommodations
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Meals
4.5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
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A single conversation with us is worth hours of internet scrolling. Find your next best trip with ease, then book with the confidence of our 20+ year experience.

Extend Your Trip

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Cruise

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5 Day Cruise
Fjords of Tierra del Fuego - Punta Arenas to Ushuaia

The 5-day Fjords of Tierra del Fuego cruise aboard the 200-guest Stella or Ventus Australis begins in Punta Arenas, Chile, and ends in Ushuaia, Argentina. Explore Glacier Alley, Darwin Mountains, Magellanic penguins in Tucker Islet, elephant seals in Ainsworth Bay, plus Wulaia Bay, Cape Horn and more.

From $3357USD
Jan Feb Mar Apr Sep Oct Nov Dec
Add to Wishlist
5 - 7 Day Land Tour
Explora Torres del Paine

This 5-, 6- or 7-day lodge-based trip in the center of Torres del Paine National Park offers over 40 unique explorations to choose from, including Base Torres and Grey Glacier. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Paine Massif and Salto Chico waterfall from home base.

Special Offer
From $2850USD
Year Round
Add to Wishlist
5 - 7 Day Land Tour
Patagonia Wildlife Safari

Discover the magic at the end of the world on a 4- to 7-day Patagonia Wildlife Safari! No matter the length of your stay, you will be blown away by the unlimited beauty of the world heritage site Torres del Paine National Park.

From $1671USD
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Sep Oct Nov Dec
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Patagonian Explorer – Ushuaia to Punta Arenas

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