Our tip
You can finish off your cold weather shopping here, they have all the best stuff.
From Ushuaia to Punta Arenas
Patagonian Explorer
Call us for prices -
you'll never pay more than the price advertised by the cruise line.
From Ushuaia to Punta Arenas
Patagonian Explorer
Call us for prices -
you'll never pay more than the price advertised by the cruise line.
Voyage Itinerary
16 February
Setting sail from Ushuaia
Ushuaia is sometimes described as 'the city at the end of the world', though its rugged beauty is far from apocalyptic. Perched on the ragged southern edge of Argentina, where the snow-capped Andes fall away into the churning sea, the city has a frontier town feel to it, and serves as the base for expeditions into the icy waters of Antarctica. There are also plenty of outdoor pursuits on offer here, including hiking, skiing and fishing, and the Tierra del Fuego National Park is home to spectacular scenery and wildlife including penguins, guanacos, sea lions and condors.
17 February
Chile: Cape Horn
Surrounded by notoriously treacherous waters and battered by gale force winds known as the Furious Fifties, Cape Horn is the dramatic southernmost headland of the Tierra del Fuego archipelago. This is the point where the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans meet, watched over by a lonely lighthouse.
17 February
Chile: Wulaia Bay
This beautiful bay, on the west coast of Isla Navarino, was once an important settlement for the indigenous Yamana, a nomadic people who travelled between the islands of Tierra del Fuego by canoe. Past visitors include Charles Darwin, who went ashore here in 1833 during his voyage on board the HMS Beagle.
18 February
Chile: Pia Glacier (Glacier Alley)
18 February
Chile: Porter Glacier
19 February
Chile: Condor Glacier
19 February
Chile: Águila Glacier
The majestic Águila Glacier lies within the Agostini Fjord at the heart of the Cordillera Darwin in Tierra Fuego, where snow-capped mountains rise up above the watery channels of the Patagonian temperate rainforest.
20 February
Chile: Magdalena Island
Magdalena Island, situated in the Straits of Magellan to the north of Punta Arenas, is home to a huge colony of Magellanic penguins. There are some 150,000 penguins crowded on to this little island, along with various other seabirds including skuas, terns and cormorants.
20 February
Arriving in Punta Arenas
The weather-beaten city of Punta Arenas is a laid back and welcoming place, in spite of its inhospitable location on the shores of the Strait of Magellan. Nearby attractions include penguin colonies and the dramatic scenery of Torres del Paine National Park, while beyond the horizon lie the frozen wastes of Antarctica.
The ship
Ventus Australis
- Capacity:
- 200 Guests
- Style:
- A relaxed and informal atmosphere on board, with an emphasis on experiencing everything that Patagonia has to offer.
Immerse yourself in the fascinating landscapes and wildlife of Patagonia on board the small but well-equipped sister ships, Stella and Ventus Australis.
What we love
With daily excursions to explore the wild and the beautiful coast of Patagonia as your backdrop, life aboard the Australis ships is never dull. You'll be accompanied on these sorties by a team of expert guides, who will also give talks on board the ship about the wildlife, geology and history of the region. Cabins are comfortable and spacious, all with outside-facing windows, and there is also a restaurant and bar, three lounges and a gym.
inclusions
- All meals
- All drinks including wine and spirits (subject to bar opening hours)
- All shore excursions
- Onboard lectures and entertainment
Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Where to stay in Ushuaia
Los Cauquenes Resort and Spa is your best option, if you have time to stay.
Tours from Ushuaia
What you choose to do on tour will need to supplement whatever cruise you are taking. So if you are heading to Antarctica, whilst here you will want to go to the Tierra del Fuego National Park.
How can we help?
Our frequently asked questions
From expedition tips to travel protection, here are some of our most-asked questions.
visit our faqs
Can you help with pre and post-cruise arrangements?
Absolutely. Expedition cruises often start and end in remote destinations, and we're able to arrange everything from flights and transfers to hotels and tours. If you're keen to make the most of your time away with bespoke arrangements, we can help with all your travel needs to make sure your trip is exceptional. What's more, we are members of ABTA and we offer full ATOL protection, not to mention a 24-hour emergency contact, to give you complete peace of mind.
Will I save by booking with Mundy Adventures?
You'll save money and time by booking with us rather than directly with the cruise line, as well as enjoying more flexibility in your travel arrangements. We have access to preferential rates and exclusive offers, and we offer expert advice on how to get the best value.
How much time is spent ashore?
Itineraries are planned to deliver an unforgettable experience of the destination, so days are filled with landings ashore via the ship's fleet of Zodiacs (sturdy rubber boats) or exploration along the coastline. It will vary depending on itinerary and operators, so it's best to contact us to discuss but rest assured an expedition cruise is focused on the time you spend off the ship.
cruise news
Latest news and travel inspiration
News, trip reports, cruising advice and industry insight brought to you from our expert team.
Why Mundy?
Who we are
Mundy Adventures is the intrepid little brother of Mundy Cruising Ltd., the UK's very first cruise specialist, and one of the leading companies in its field.
We specialise in travel by ship and have been doing so for over 50 years. By providing expert, personal service, insightful ideas and fascinating add-ons we aim to make your adventure holiday truly unique and special.
We're happy to do all of that over the phone. But if you prefer to chat face to face, why not visit us at our comfortable offices on London's High Holborn - we'd be delighted to see you.
