Stella + Ventus Australis
Expedition Ship, Argentina
Highlights
- Purpose-built for Patagonia: Designed specifically for the narrow fjords and exposed channels of southern Chile and Argentina, Australis’ sister ships combine comfort with exceptional manoeuvrability in one of the world’s wildest cruising regions.
- An intimate expedition experience: Carrying a maximum of 210 guests, the ships strike the perfect balance between comfort and exploration, allowing for efficient Zodiac landings and a relaxed atmosphere on board.
- Explore Cape Horn: Weather permitting, step ashore at the legendary Cape Horn, one of the world’s most iconic and least-visited headlands, where the Atlantic and Pacific oceans meet.
- Daily Zodiac excursions: Venture ashore with expert guides to explore remote glaciers, sub-Antarctic forests and wildlife-rich islands that are inaccessible by road.
- Exceptional wildlife encounters: Spot Magellanic and gentoo penguins, elephant seals, sea lions, dolphins, albatross and a wealth of seabirds as you sail through the Beagle Channel and Patagonian fjords.
- Panoramic comfort: Spacious outside cabins, elegant lounges and panoramic observation decks ensure you never miss the spectacular scenery, whether cruising past glaciers or navigating the dramatic channels at the end of the world.
The route
Australis sails between Ushuaia in Argentina and Punta Arenas in Chile, following one of the world’s most spectacular cruise routes through the remote fjords and channels of Tierra del Fuego. Along the way, you’ll navigate the Beagle Channel, explore glacier-lined bays by Zodiac, and, weather permitting, step ashore at legendary Cape Horn. The voyage also visits secluded islands and pristine forests that are inaccessible by road, with opportunities to encounter penguins, sea lions, dolphins and a wealth of birdlife. It’s a remarkable journey through the wild landscapes at the southern tip of South America.
Why we love the Australis cruises
These mini-expedition cruises have been running for decades, and although there are now new boats with much better facilities, the route and landings along the way carry the same charm and majesty as ever. It really is an incredible route through territory only accessible by water; one of the best ways to travel between Chile and Argentina.
Start to planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our specialists
Gallery
Sunset at the bottom of the world
A view from onboard
A twin cabin
The observation lounge
Boarding a zodiac ahead of a shore landing
Sail past magnificent scenery
Take in the views from your bed
A hike from the Australis cruise
Walk where very few others have before you
Magellanic penguins in Tierra del Fuego
Land at Cape Horn (weather permitting)
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Good to know
Are children welcome?
Yes, children are welcome on board MS Sjøveien, but it is best suited to older children and teenagers with an interest in wildlife and adventure rather than young families.
Giving back
MS Sjøveien offers a naturally low-impact way to explore the Arctic. With just 12 guests, responsible wildlife viewing and carefully managed shore landings, the focus is on preserving Svalbard’s fragile ecosystems. The ship itself has been thoughtfully refurbished rather than replaced, while expert guides help foster a greater understanding of Arctic conservation throughout the voyage.
