Who doesn’t secretly long for an unforgettable penguin encounter? Luxury expedition line Australis is offering new five- and six-night Gauchos, Penguins & Glaciers voyages that depart and return to Punta Arenas, Chile. These intimate itineraries combine wildlife viewing, rugged landscapes and authentic Patagonian culture.
The itineraries include two main options (one that visits the Pia Glacier and one that does not). Both cross the Strait of Magellan to visit Tierra del Fuego, where travelers can observe the region’s famed King Penguin colonies. Guests can also take a land excursion to experience a traditional Patagonian barbecue hosted by local gauchos, with optional guided horseback riding for those who want a closer connection to the landscape.
Further highlights include a visit to Cape Horn with opportunities to go ashore and explore the island’s windswept forests and coastal scenery, plus a stop at Magdalena Island to see Magellanic penguins up close. Onboard enrichment includes lectures from regional experts who provide context on the environment, wildlife and history of southern Patagonia and the waterways of the Fuegian Archipelago.
These departures run through April 2014 on the Stella Australis for the five-night program and through March 2014 on the Via Australis for the six-night option. Cruise fares are seasonal and vary by itinerary; sample starting rates are listed at $3,536 per person based on double occupancy, with reduced rates for groups. The price includes accommodations, all meals, open bar, onboard entertainment and guided shore excursions.
Multiple departure dates are available, making it easy to find a sailing that fits your schedule. Whether you’re drawn by penguins, glaciers, remote islands or gaucho traditions, these short expeditions offer a compact, well-organized way to experience the dramatic scenery and wildlife of southern Chile.
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