Explore Patagonia aboard the Stella Australis

Patagonia undoubtedly has some of the most breathtaking landscape in the world. Located on the southern tip of South America, the region’s mighty glaciers and rolling plains are truly a sight to behold. Furthermore, the straits and seas of Patagonia have played host to some of history’s most significant events. From the scientific discoveries of Charles Darwin to Captain Cook’s passage to the Antarctic, Patagonia has seen some the greatest feats of human endeavor.

Therefore, there’s no better way to experience Patagonia than following in the footsteps of great explorers and going by boat. Australis have been taking adventurers to the ends of the Earth in our vessels for 25 years. Owned and operated by Chileans, our fleet consists of two ships manned by expert guides. In this article, we introduce you to the Stella Australis and its journey along our comprehensive Patagonia Explorer route.

The Stella Australis: A compact luxury cruise ship

Small enough to navigate all the hidden corners of the Patagonian fjords, a trip aboard the Stella Australis is certain to be an unforgettable cruise. The Stella was built in 2010 and contains just 100 cabins. Combining intrepid adventuring with luxurious surroundings, the Stella offers passengers the chance to explore in style. With spacious cabins, three comfortable lounges, and a fine dining restaurant, the Stella is the perfect environment within which to relax after an excursion. Furthermore, the ship is manned by our friendly, knowledgeable guides. On every Australis cruise, passengers are accompanied by our multi-lingual, multi-disciplinary team who can share their extensive knowledge of science, natural history, and Patagonian culture.

The Patagonia Explorer: Our comprehensive one-way route

One of the most popular routes aboard the Stella is the Patagonia Explorer. A five-day, four-night, one-way cruise from Ushuaia to Punta Arenas, the cruise takes passengers to some of the most astonishing landscape in South America.

Once we set sail from Ushuaia, the vessel traverses the famed Beagle Channel before crossing from Argentina into Chilean territory. On day two, the Stella Australis makes land at Wulaia Bay on Cape Horn. Here, the ship drops anchor so passengers can explore. Overnight, the journey continues to the end of the Tierra del Fuego towards the Pía Glacier. Here, travelers can board the Stella’s Zodiac boats to get up close and personal with the mighty glacier. Later, the ship moves on to the Garibaldi Glacier, where passengers who feel capable of undertaking a demanding hike can trek to a beautiful glacial waterfall.

The final two days of the cruise include more incredible views of Patagonia’s glaciers. From the Garibaldi Glacier, the ship sails through the narrow Cockburn Channel to the Agostini Sound. Here, the ship approaches the Águila and Cóndor Glaciers, where passengers can catch sight of Andean condors. On the last day of the cruise, the ship navigates the Strait of Magellan towards Magdalena Island. Here, travelers can see more fascinating wildlife, including sea lions and Magellanic penguins. Finally, the ship travels south along the strait towards Punta Arenas, where the adventure concludes.

Begin your voyage to the ends of the Earth

A voyage through the Chilean fjords is certainly the trip of a lifetime. With so many breathtaking views, fascinating facts, and amazing wildlife, a cruise aboard the Stella Australis is no regular vacation. To find out more about our fleet, routes and offers, download our brochures and book your journey to the ends of the Earth.