South America

Darwin’s Route from Ushuaia

9 Days aboard Ventus Australis. From AUD $4,767pp.
Small Ship Expeditions
Details

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable expedition through the wild beauty of Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego, sailing legendary waters like the Beagle Channel and the Strait of Magellan. From towering glaciers and lush sub-Antarctic forests to encounters with penguins, sea lions, and the mythical Cape Horn, each day offers awe-inspiring moments in one of the world’s last true frontiers.

Itinerary Highlights

  • Stand at the edge of the world with a rare landing at Cape Horn, where epic seas and legends meet.
  • Marvel at the immense Pia and Porter Glaciers, stretching from mountain peaks to the sea.
  • Walk among thousands of Magellanic penguins on Magdalena Island at sunrise, a truly magical wildlife encounter.

Itinerary in Brief

  • Day 1: Ushuaia
  • Day 2: Cape Horn - Wulaia Bay
  • Day 3: Pía Glacier - Porter Glacier
  • Day 4: Cóndor Glacier - Águila Glacier
  • Day 5: Magdalena Island* - Punta Arenas
  • Day 6: Ainsworth Bay - Tuckers Islets**
  • Day 7: Pía Glacier - Glacier Alley***
  • Day 8: Cape Horn - Wulaia Bay
  • Day 9: Ushuaia

* In September and April, this excursion is replaced by a ride aboard Zodiacs to Marta Island. ** In September and April, this excursion is replaced by a short walk to a nearby glacier at Brookes Bay. *** Not an excursion Excursions are subject to weather conditions.

Ship Information

For more information on the Australis please view the ship page.

View Australis

Travelling with Eclipse

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  • No currency surcharges. Once your deposit is paid, your price is guaranteed.
Specialists
  • Our consultants are true destination experts, with firsthand experience and extensive travel in the regions we offer.
  • Expect quick, professional responses and dedicated service from our knowledgeable team.
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Authentic Travel
  • Tailor-made itineraries designed around your unique requirements.
  • Freedom to select your preferred style and standard of accommodation.
  • Unique itineraries that take you beyond the major highlights, immersing you in each location.
  • Committed to responsible travel: we reinvest in the environment and local communities across our destinations.

Day 1: Ushuaia

Between 10:00 and 17:00 hrs, we will check-in at the office of Tolkeyen Patagonia Turismo, to embark at 6:00 PM.

After boarding, we will gather on the fifth deck for a welcome toast and to meet the Captain and his crew.

The ship will sail to the far south immediately after. Through the mythical Beagle Channel and the Strait of Magellan, we will travel through Patagonia and the channels of Tierra del Fuego.

Dinner included.

Day 2: Cape Horn - Wulaia Bay


We will sail through the Murray Channel and Nassau Bay, arriving at Cape Horn National Park, where we 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, we will disembark at Wulaia Bay, a historic site of one of the largest settlements of the native Yagans canoeists. We will reach a viewpoint, walking through the Magellanic forest, where lengas, coigües, canelos, and ferns grow, among other species.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 3: Pía Glacier - Porter Glacier


In the morning, we will sail along the northwest arm of the Beagle Channel to enter and disembark in the Pia Fjord. We will arrive to the viewpoint from where we can see the homonymous glacier, whose main peak extends from the top of the mountain range to the sea.

During the afternoon, we will embark on a Zodiac boat navigation excursion, without disembarking. We will advance between high rocky walls to reach, at the end of them, the imposing Porter Glacier and be able to contemplate it face to face.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 4: Cóndor Glacier - Águila Glacier

In the morning, we will navigate the Cockburn Channel to enter the Agostini Sound, where we can appreciate the glaciers that descend from the
center of the Darwin Mountain Range, some of them reaching the sea.

After breakfast, we will disembark via Zodiac boats for a walk around a lagoon formed by the melting of the Aguila Glacier. In the afternoon, we
will navigate in Zodiac without disembarking, to approach the Condor Glacier at a privileged distance. We will learn about the formation of glaciers and their influence on the abrupt geography of the Fuegian channels.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 5: Magdalena Island* - Punta Arenas

At first light, if weather permits, we will disembark on Magdalena Island, a mandatory stop for the provisioning of ancient navigators and explorers. During our walk to the lighthouse, we will be able to appreciate a colony of Magellanic penguins. In September and April, this excursion is replaced by a landing on Marta Island, where South American sea lions can be spotted from Zodiac boats. Finally, we will arrive in Punta Arenas, disembarking at 12:30 hrs. to explore the city and enjoy its restaurants, shops, and museums, among other things.

Boarding at 18:00 hours once again followed by a welcome toast and presentation of the Captain and crew. Subsequently, the ship will set sail towards the southernmost point of the region. Through the legendary Strait of Magellan and the Beagle Channel, we will continue exploring Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 6: Ainsworth Bay - Tuckers Islets**

We will reach in the vicinity of the Marinelli Glacier in Ainsworth Bay to learn how life resurfaces after the ice has melted and hike through the wonderful sub-Antarctic Magellanic forest.

We will visit the Tuckers Islets, where we can see Magellanic penguins and cormorants from the Zodiacs. Due to the migratory cycle of the penguins, in September and April, this excursion is replaced by a short walk to a glacier at nearby stunning Brookes Bay.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 7: Pía Glacier - Glacier Alley***

We will sail along the northwest arm of the Beagle Channel to enter and disembark in the Pia Fjord. We will arrive at the viewpoint from where we can see the homonymous glacier, whose main peak extends from the top of the mountain range to the sea. After this unforgettable experience, we will continue our navigation under the majestic gaze of the “Glacier Alley” to enjoy spectacular panoramic views from the ship.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 8: Cape Horn - Wulaia Bay

Early in the morning we will sail through the Murray Channel and Nassau Bay, arriving at Cape Horn National Park, where if weather conditions permit, we may disembark via Zodiac boats. In the afternoon, we will disembark at Wulaia Bay, where various types of excursions take place, ensuring that each
visit is a unique experience.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 9: Ushuaia

Finally, we will sail back into Argentine waters and dock in Ushuaia, the world's southernmost city, disembarking at 8.30.

Breakfast included.

Next Departure Date: 23 Dec 2025
DatesCabinFromAdditional
15 Dec 2025 - 23 Dec 2025 AUD$9442ppExpand to view prices
B TwinAUD$9442ppContact us
A MatrimonialAUD$12958ppContact us
AA MatrimonialAUD$13802ppContact us
AAA MatrimonialAUD$14927ppContact us
AA SuperiorAUD$18020ppContact us
AAA SuperiorAUD$19483ppContact us
23 Dec 2025 - 31 Dec 2025 AUD$9442ppExpand to view prices
31 Dec 2025 - 08 Jan 2026 AUD$9442ppExpand to view prices
08 Jan 2026 - 16 Jan 2026 AUD$9442ppExpand to view prices
16 Jan 2026 - 24 Jan 2026 AUD$9442ppExpand to view prices
24 Jan 2026 - 01 Feb 2026 AUD$9442ppExpand to view prices
01 Feb 2026 - 09 Feb 2026 AUD$9442ppExpand to view prices
09 Feb 2026 - 17 Feb 2026 AUD$9442ppExpand to view prices
17 Feb 2026 - 25 Feb 2026 AUD$9442ppExpand to view prices
25 Feb 2026 - 05 Mar 2026 AUD$9442ppExpand to view prices
05 Mar 2026 - 13 Mar 2026 AUD$9442ppExpand to view prices
13 Mar 2026 - 21 Mar 2026 AUD$9442ppExpand to view prices
21 Mar 2026 - 29 Mar 2026 AUD$6936ppExpand to view prices
29 Mar 2026 - 06 Apr 2026 AUD$6936ppExpand to view prices
06 Apr 2026 - 14 Apr 2026 AUD$4767ppExpand to view prices
25 Sep 2026 - 03 Oct 2026 AUD$5498ppExpand to view prices
03 Oct 2026 - 11 Oct 2026 AUD$8623ppExpand to view prices
11 Oct 2026 - 19 Oct 2026 AUD$8623ppExpand to view prices
19 Oct 2026 - 27 Oct 2026 AUD$8623ppExpand to view prices
27 Oct 2026 - 04 Nov 2026 AUD$8623ppExpand to view prices
04 Nov 2026 - 12 Nov 2026 AUD$11242ppExpand to view prices
12 Nov 2026 - 20 Nov 2026 AUD$11242ppExpand to view prices
20 Nov 2026 - 28 Nov 2026 AUD$11242ppExpand to view prices
28 Nov 2026 - 06 Dec 2026 AUD$11242ppExpand to view prices
06 Dec 2026 - 14 Dec 2026 AUD$11242ppExpand to view prices
14 Dec 2026 - 22 Dec 2026 AUD$11242ppExpand to view prices
22 Dec 2026 - 30 Dec 2026 AUD$11242ppExpand to view prices
30 Dec 2026 - 07 Jan 2027 AUD$11242ppExpand to view prices
07 Jan 2027 - 15 Jan 2027 AUD$11242ppExpand to view prices
15 Jan 2027 - 23 Jan 2027 AUD$11242ppExpand to view prices
23 Jan 2027 - 31 Jan 2027 AUD$11242ppExpand to view prices
31 Jan 2027 - 08 Feb 2027 AUD$11242ppExpand to view prices
08 Feb 2027 - 16 Feb 2027 AUD$11242ppExpand to view prices
16 Feb 2027 - 24 Feb 2027 AUD$11242ppExpand to view prices
24 Feb 2027 - 04 Mar 2027 AUD$11242ppExpand to view prices
04 Mar 2027 - 12 Mar 2027 AUD$11242ppExpand to view prices
12 Mar 2027 - 20 Mar 2027 AUD$11242ppExpand to view prices
20 Mar 2027 - 28 Mar 2027 AUD$8623ppExpand to view prices
28 Mar 2027 - 05 Apr 2027 AUD$8623ppExpand to view prices
05 Apr 2027 - 13 Apr 2027 AUD$5498ppExpand to view prices

**Prices are per person based on twin / shared accommodation.
**Single supplements may apply

Cabin Details

B Twin

Twin / 16,5 m2 / 177 sq.ft

B Twin
B Twin
A Matrimonial

Matrimonial / 16,5 m2 / 177 sq.ft

A Matrimonial
A Matrimonial
AA Matrimonial

Matrimonial / 16,5 m2 / 177 sq.ft

AA Matrimonial
AA Matrimonial
AAA Matrimonial

Matrimonial / 16,5 m2 / 177 sq.ft

AAA Matrimonial
AAA Matrimonial
AA Superior

Superior / 20,5 m2 / 220 sq.ft

AA Superior
AA Superior
AAA Superior

Superior / 20,5 m2 / 220 sq.ft

AAA Superior
AAA Superior
AA Twin

Twin / 16,5 m2 / 177 sq.ft

AA Twin
AA Twin
AAA Twin

Twin / 16,5 m2 / 177 sq.ft

AAA Twin
AAA Twin

Ventus Australis Deckplan

deck plan

Specifications

  • Guest Capacity: 200
  • Total Number of Cabins: 100

What's included?

  • Accommodation
  • Sea transportation
  • All meals
  • Open bar at set times (wines, drinks and spirits are free of charge)
  • Shore excursions
  • Available onboard activities

What's not?

  • Gratuities (US$ 25 per person per night is recommended)
  • Purchases from the onboard store
  • Optional tours or activities outside the itinerary
  • Transfers in Punta Arenas or Ushuaia and any immigration fees
  • Also not included in the price are government port fees, taxes and national park fees (boarding taxes) which for the 2025-2026 season are as follows:
    • Punta Arenas to Ushuaia to Punta Arenas route: US $150 per person.
    • Ushuaia to Punta Arenas to Ushuaia route: US $150 per person.

These government port fees/taxes and national park fees may change at the discretion of port authorities.

Important notes and additional information

* Port Taxes & National Park Fees
Port taxes and national park fees are not included in the price of the voyage and will be charged during the booking process. Additional costs per person for each season are:

  • 2025 / 2026 Season: US$150 per person
  • 2026 / 2027 Season: US$165 per person

IMPORTANT: The excursions described in the itineraries are typically feasible. However, the Ship Operator reserves the right to modify, alter, or omit parts of this itinerary without prior notice, whether for the welfare and safety of passengers, the preservation of the environment, or in the event of any extraordinary circumstance, fortuitous event, or force majeure. The departure or arrival of vessels may be subject to potential changes. Bird and animal sightings cannot be guaranteed, as their precise locations are variable.

Price Assurance

At Eclipse Travel, our expert destination knowledge and decades of travel planning experience come at no extra cost to you. While many think booking through a tour operator is more expensive than planning a trip independently, that’s not the case. We’re paid by our travel partners—such as hotels, activity operators, and cruise providers—via commissions, not by our clients.

Our team negotiates the best rates for you and ensures you receive unbiased advice, with no preference for any particular supplier. In fact, where we secure higher commissions, we often pass the savings on to you, giving us a competitive price edge.

Additionally, we lock in exchange rates at the time of your deposit, ensuring no surprise costs when it’s time for final payment. You can rest easy knowing we’ll handle the details with our suppliers. The only exceptions are national park fee increases or fuel surcharges imposed after your booking, though these are rare.

Take advantage of our team’s expertise and let us help you plan the perfect holiday—hassle-free!

Destination: South America

The vivid sights and sounds of South America offer something for everyone. Stretching from the Caribbean to Patagonia, the variety of cultures, climates and landscapes has to be experienced firsthand to be believed. The memories you take home will leave you wanting more – we’re sure you’ll want to return again and again, just like us!

Downloadable travel guide

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Darwin’s Route from Ushuaia

9 Days aboard Ventus Australis. From AUD $4,767pp.