10 reasons you need to go on a Patagonia fjord cruise

A Patagonia fjord cruise is an experience you’ll never forget. From the majestic blue glaciers to the vast array of marine life, there is a breathtaking encounter around every corner. After all, where else in the world can you retrace the footsteps of Charles Darwin whilst getting up close and personal with thousand-strong penguin colonies? What’s more, with Australis, you can see the Patagonian fjords at their finest – all from the comfort of one of our luxury vessels. Below, we run through ten reasons why a Patagonia fjord cruise is a vacation for your bucket list.

1. It’s the end of the world

OK, so we don’t mean that you have to go to Patagonia because the end is nigh – but it is the end of the world. The Patagonian fjords are located at the very tip of the South American continent, comprising the world’s most southerly inhabited locations. For instance, Australis’ Darwin’s Route cruise sets off from Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city.

2. Penguins!

Who doesn’t love penguins?! These adorable creatures abound in the Patagonian fjords, with colonies of thousands in several locations. Furthermore, there is the opportunity to see various different species, including Magellanic, king, and the tiny southern rockhopper penguin.

3. Seals!

However, cute animal spotting doesn’t stop at penguins. For example, on a Patagonia fjord cruise, there’s plenty of chances to see seals. These cuddly ocean-going critters can be found lazing en masse on beaches throughout Patagonia. That said, if you’re more interested in the impressive over the cute and cuddly, then keep an eye out for the enormous, four-ton male elephant seal.

4. Dolphins!

Dolphins ply the waters of the Patagonian fjords all year round. Onboard an Australis cruise, you’ll be able to see dolphins playfully leaping alongside the ship at any time of the year.

5. Whale-watching

Patagonia is incredibly rich in wildlife. However, some animals are a rarer sight than others. For example, from December to May, travelers can spot migrating humpback whales. Furthermore, an even rarer sight is the majestic orca. During the month of December, you may have the opportunity to see a killer whale hunting in the fjords’ icy waters.

6. Witness the majesty of the glaciers

Although the wildlife is truly spectacular, the biggest attraction of a Patagonia fjord cruise is the glaciers. For instance, Glacier Alley alone boasts five enormous tidewater glaciers that calve giant icebergs into the crystal clear water. Moreover, aboard an Australis cruise, our expert guides will be able to share a wealth of knowledge about the cultural and natural history of this epic landscape.

7. Follow in Darwin’s footsteps

Speaking of the rich history of the area, a Patagonia fjord cruise gives you the opportunity to retrace the steps of one of history’s most important scientific expeditions – Darwin’s voyage aboard the HMS Beagle. Including visits to the Tierra del Fuego and the Beagle Channel, travelers can witness the spectacular sights discovered by Darwin and his crew.

8. See pristine greenery

However, Patagonia isn’t all snow and ice – there are lush forests as well. Grown as a result of humid winds blown from the Pacific Ocean, these forests feature many similar plant species to the lush woodlands found in New Zealand and Australia.

9. See it all aboard a luxury ship

Cruise ship is undoubtedly the best way experience all the rugged majesty of the Patagonian fjords. For instance, after a day’s intrepid exploring, you can kick back and relax with a glass of Argentinian Malbec in one of our fleet’s fine dining restaurants.

10. Disembark and explore

However, just because a cruise with Australis is a luxury experience, doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of chances to disembark and explore. There are various hikes suitable for all ages and abilities which allow travelers to get to the heart of the Patagonian wilderness.

Book a Patagonia fjord cruise with Australis

Australis offer several routes of various durations. Embarking from Punta Arenas or Ushuaia following round trips or port-to-port routes, every voyage allows travelers to experience the best of Patagonia in luxury. For more information, download our brochure here.