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Experience the Patagonian flora and fauna as never before in this spectacular 3-night journey, departing from and arriving into Punta Arenas. You will sail through beautiful bays in the southernmost part of Tierra del Fuego island, seeing marvelous South Antarctic magellanic forests and different types of glaciers, viewing native species of the region such as elephant seals, leopard seals and magellanic penguins.
Day 1: Punta Arenas
Check in at 990 Magallanes Street between 13:00 and 17:00. Board the M/V Via Australis cruise ship at 18:00. After a welcoming cocktail reception hosted by the Captain and his crew, the M/V Via Australis will depart for one of the remotest parts of the planet. Our trip will take us through the Strait of Magellan and the Fuegian-Patagonian channels to explore one of the most breathtaking wilderness regions in the world: Southern Patagonia, which includes the Tierra del Fuego archipelago.
Day 2: Brookes Glaciar - Ainsworth Bay
At dawn, we will be sailing to Brookes Fjord. The area is a natural amphitheatre shaped by glaciers in constant movement. We will take a short walk towards one of the glaciers, enjoying the breathtaking surroundings and the view of the Darwin Mountain Range.
Later, we will navigate our way through Almirantazgo Sound, arriving at Ainsworth Bay which is sited within Alberto De Agostini National Park. It’s the perfect spot from which to see the Marinelli Glacier descending from Darwin Mountain Range in the distance; and to appreciate how the land returns to life after glacial retreat. We will also take a walk to a beaver dam in the stunning sub-polar Magellan Forest. Whether on the beach or the island, there’s a good chance of sighting Southern Elephant Seals. But do bear in mind the fact that sightings cannot be guaranteed due to the colony’s unpredictable movements.
Day 3: Almirantazgo Bay - Parry Glacier
Early in the morning we will reach Almirantazgo Bay. We will take a walk from the mouth of a river going North, entering the sub-Antarctic forest and finally reaching a glacial waterfall. On our way back, we will see several beaver dams. Finally, we will take a ride on the Zodiac boats in order to observe elephant seals, cormorants and other birds while we go back to our cruise ship.
In the afternoon we will navigate Parry Fjord. From this area it will be possible to appreciate various glaciers that come down to the sea from the upper icefield. Onboard Zodiac boats, we will motor to the far end of the fjord to see an amphitheatre of glaciers in an area where sometimes it is possible to see leopard seals.
Day 4: Magdalena Island - Punta Arenas
Early in the morning, weather permitting, we will go ashore on Magdalena Island, located in the middle of the Strait of Magellan. The island used to be an essential source of supplies for navigators and explorers and is inhabited by an immense colony of Magellan Penguins that we will be able to see during our walk to the lighthouse. In September and April, this excursion is replaced by a ride aboard Zodiacs to Marta Island to observe South American Sea Lions.
Finally, disembarkation at Punta Arenas is scheduled for 11:30.
*Camera extension poles are prohibited on Magdalena Island
Recommendations
NOTE:
The excursions described in the itineraries can normally be carried out. Notwithstanding the above, Transportes Marítimos Terra Australis S.A., Transportes Marítimos Via Australis S.A., and Transportes Marítimos Geo Australis S.A reserve the right to reschedule, shorten, or alter all or part of the itineraries and/or excursions without prior notice, in order to safeguard the wellbeing and safety of passengers, preserve the environment, or due to any extraordinary circumstances, acts of God or force majeure. For the same reasons, the hours of departure or arrival of the vessels may be subject to change.
There is no guarantee of wildlife sighting because the precise location of these animals cannot be confirmed.
Equipment
FLEET:
Built in 2005, The Via Australis can hold up to 136 passengers while offering 64 comfortable cabins. With a deck, entertainment, and beautiful cabins, the Via Australis allows each tourist to have the best Chile Travel experience possible. Kick back and relax on your journey to an exciting and unforgettable adventure. You will not find another Patagonia cruise that will provide you with the exceptional customer service, entertainment, and sophisticated dining services that Australis offers.
Australis’ Patagonia cruises offer guests an exciting Chilean cultural experience. During your Chile travel enjoy world class gourmet cuisine, engaging activities, and remarkable Patagonia tours. Imagine waking up to an incredible ocean view every morning. Well onboard our cruise ships you can! Traveling on Via Australis gives you the most majestic views of snowcapped mountains, clear blue waters, and amazing sunsets. Choose Via Australis for exciting Patagonia expedition cruises and the best in Chile Travel.