The waters around Cape Horn and the great southern ocean are universally recognized as having some of the most intimidating seas on the planet. History supports this infamous reputation, but has also made the Cape Horn's unique geography both awe inspiring and worthy of admiration.

South of the Strait of Magellan lurks one of the world’s most pristine regions: the Tierra del Fuego Archipelago, whose namesake island lies among a labyrinth of channels and fjords.

All around the world there are fascinating places: The immensity of Machu Picchu, the mystery of the moai on Easter Island, or the ancient wisdom you breathe just walking by the Acropolis in Athens, just to mention a few. All one of them boast a huge amount of “fascinans” that captures the imagination of visitors.

Sailing the fjords and channels of Tierra del Fuego is a unique and unforgettable experience. And while it sometimes feels like we are the first to discover these incredible places, others were the true pioneers.

It’s only natural that a biology student would develop admiration for Charles Darwin. His theory of evolution continues as a base for much current research and is still a source of debate among those who accept its tenets and those who do not. Likewise, it’s only natural that what we learn academically of Darwin are his scientific achievements. Yet other aspects of his life remain unfamiliar to us.

During our walks around Wulaia Bay we highlight the flora, the history and the unique beauty of this very special place, and some of our passengers enjoy bird watching.

When Australis began to pioneer new routes several years ago, a new alliance was formed with the New York-based Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), because for the first time we were going to visit a southern elephant seal (Mirounga leonina) colony in Karukinka Natural Park along the western shore of Tierra del Fuego. As part of the partnership, Australis agreed to transport and expedite the work of WCS researchers and scientists working on wildlife conservation studies in the region. But there was mutual benefit: Having them onboard allowed us to arrange special presentations for our passengers on local flora and fauna from people who were experts in their fields.

It wasn’t the first time that I had disembarked at Cape Horn. Actually, I’ve lost count of how many times I have visited Isla Hornos. Even more, I have been lucky enough to celebrate my birthday on this mythical place more than once in the last ten years. But even if it sounds cliché, each new time is unique.

“Winter in Punta Arenas resembles a giant cetacean that rests on the tide. It is my city. I was born and raised in it. Many times I’ve traveled to other latitudes but I always return to my place, like strengthening a preterit yet revealing ritual. Sometimes I realize that to stare at her is also to invent her […] 

In order to reach the different shore landing points that we visit on our routes, our expedition cruise ships are equipped with a small fleet of Zodiacs. These rubber boats are versatile, very safe and able to navigate even among the icebergs that we encounter at some of our landing points.