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Journey to Austral Lands & Valdes Peninsula ex Ushuaia | L'Austral

Available on 27 Feb 26 departure at the discretion of the cruise operator

Not available on Superior Staterooms or Owners Suites

Valid as of 1 Oct 24 - Deals are dynamic in nature and may withdrawn at any time

Contact us for the latest availability and pricing.

See Additional T&Cs below

20 Days
From CAD 24,459

STYLE: Small Ship Luxury Expedition Cruise

Trip Code: ACPOAUVP

DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)

Start: Buenos Aires, Argentina

Finish: Buenos Aires, Argentina

SHIP: L'Austral

DestinationDestination

Antarctica, Argentina, Falkland Islands, South Georgia

DestinationDeparture Date

27/02/2026 

MealsMeals

Dinner & Breakfast at Hotel, All Meals & Beverage Package Whilst On board the Ship

TransportTransport

Group transfers throughout & flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia

TransportAccommodation

Hotel & Cabin on board a ship



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map

Included SightseeingIncluded Sightseeing

Daily Antarctica Excursions in location, Zodiac Cruising, Onboard Expert Lectures & Briefings by the Experienced Expedition Team

 

NOTE: Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather & ice conditions 

OVERVIEW

Explore Antarctica, on this life changing voyage to the White Continent, where an expedition cruise promises unparalleled adventure amidst breathtaking landscapes. Witness the frozen shores adorned with icebergs, glaciers, and snow-capped mountains, while being among the privileged few to experience this legendary land and its diverse wildlife, including penguins, seals, whales, and seabirds.

Continue your journey to South Georgia, where history comes alive amidst towering glaciers and black-sand beaches. Encounter colonies of king penguins and seals, and explore the rugged coastline steeped in the legacy of Sir Ernest Shackleton's journey on the Endurance. Then, set sail for the Falkland Islands, where sei whales escort your vessel along dramatic coastlines and windswept moors, offering glimpses of remote beaches and towering cliffs.

As your exploration unfolds, venture into the desert landscapes of Patagonia's Chubut province, where the Valdes Peninsula awaits with its pristine wildlife sanctuary. Discover the rich underwater world and diverse flora amidst arid steppes, as orcas hunt seals and penguins while guanacos roam freely. Immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of this remote wilderness, where each moment offers a new marvel and a profound connection to nature's majesty.

 

ITINERARY

Arrive Buenos Aires

Your cruise includes a pre-embarkation night in Buenos Aires. You can check in in the late morning where you will be met at the hotel by our local representative. The rest of the afternoon will be spent at your leisure.

Buenos Aires, Argentina’s elegant, historic and cosmopolitan capital, is known as the “Paris of the South” due to its European atmosphere with glamorous avenues lined with fashionable shops and Parisian-style restaurants and cafes. Located on the western shore of the estuary of the Río de la Plata, Buenos Aires has many fascinating neighbourhoods to explore including the colourful and lively La Boca, home to art galleries and tango shows; San Telmo with its restored mansions and antique stores and Recoleta, the city’s most exclusive area.

Fly to Ushuaia & Embarkation

Capital of Argentina's Tierra del Fuego province, Ushuaia is considered the gateway to the White Continent and the South Pole. Nicknamed “El fin del mundo” by the Argentinian people, this city at the end of the world nestles in the shelter of mountains surrounded by fertile plains that the wildlife seem to have chosen as the ultimate sanctuary. With its exceptional site, where the Andes plunge straight into the sea, Ushuaia is one of the most fascinating places on earth, its very name evocative of journeys to the unlikely and the inaccessible…

At Sea - Day 3 & 4

Use your days spent in the Drake Passage to familiarise yourself with your ship and deepen your knowledge of the Antarctic. The Expedition Leader will first present the IAATO rules of conduct that must be observed during landings in the region and will explain everything you need to know about the zodiac outings. Lectures about the history and wildlife of the Antarctic will be an opportunity for you to learn more about this magical region, where every cruise is a unique experience. You will experience exceptional sailing moments on board and join the naturalist-guides on your ship’s exterior decks to look out for albatrosses, cape petrels, and other seabirds flying over the Drake Passage.

Antarctic Peninsula

Succumb to the magic of a place unlike any other. To this day, the mythical Antarctic Peninsula still holds real fascination and promises its visitors unforgettable moments. Throughout your adventure in this icy realm, you will find yourself in the heart of a spectacular decor in subtle shades of blue and white, surrounded by exceptional wildlife. Penguins, humpback whales, seals and giant petrels are at home here, as are elephant seals, fur seals, Antarctic minke whales, and orcas. Depending on which sites you will be lucky enough to visit, you may get the chance to observe them and share with them the beauty of these extreme parts.

Each day, based on ice conditions, the Captain and the Expedition Leader will suggest zodiac outings or landings to discover the infinite riches of the Antarctic Peninsula. Glaciers, ice floe, tabletop icebergs, mountain peaks that plunge straight into the sea, volcanic beaches, research stations, enchanting bays, and vestiges of the whaling industry: these are the faces of the Antarctic that will likely reveal themselves to you, in a hushed and surreal atmosphere. You will sail in the wake of Jean-Baptiste Charcot, Adrien de Gerlache and Sir Ernest Shackleton, great Antarctic explorers who, from the 19th century, set out to conquer these remote and uninhabited lands.

The Weddel Sea

Amidst the eerie stillness of the Weddell Sea, you'll wend your way through a veritable labyrinth of majestic table icebergs. Sweeping ice platforms sculpt a landscape unlike any other, populated by fur seals, penguins, wandering albatross and other imposing seabirds. The Weddell seal, king of this realm, will welcome you to his territory with a haunting cry that pierces the surrounding silence. You'll recognise him by his dark grey coat and spotted belly. Weddell seals have the impressive distinction of being able to stay underwater for more than an hour.

At Sea - Day 7 & 8

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the local photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

South Georgia - Day 9 to 11

Aboard your ship, discover South Georgia, a region formed by an underwater mountain chain that extends from the Andes to the Antarctic Peninsula. All the wildlife of the Far South can be found there: king and Gentoo penguins, elephant seals, fur seals… You might get the chance to discover the majestic glaciers of Gold Harbour and the vast plains of Fortuna Bay. If you are fortunate enough to land at Salisbury Plain, you can expect a wonderful spectacle: more than 300,000 king penguins, which you will recognise by the bright orange mark on their head and neck, have taken up residence there.

At Sea - Day 12 & 13

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the local photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Port Stanley

Situated at the far eastern end of the Falklands' largest island, Port Stanley, is the capital of this remote archipelago in the South Atlantic, composed of nearly 700 islands and islets. In 1764, Louis Antoine de Bougainville settled the first pioneers here and the port grew rapidly. Placed under the Spanish crown in 1767, then under British sovereignty since 1833, the town has retained some South American features fused with the Victorian style that punctuate the city, and the houses with their colourful roofs brighten the moorland landscapes with their windy and harsh climate reminiscent of the Scottish islands of Orkneys or Shetland. In front of the Cathedral, built in 1933, an arch made of whale jaw bones reminds us that Port Stanley was once a whaling port.

At Sea - Day 15 &16

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the local photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Puerto Madryn

On the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, in the Argentinian province of Chubut, stands the city of Puerto Madryn nestling in the Golfo Nuevo and surrounded by wild and abundant nature. You will be able to follow the narrow strip of land formed by the isthmus for a few kilometres, to reach the Valdes Peninsula nature reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its microclimate, protected from the extreme conditions of the Southern Atlantic, makes this an ideal breeding ground for southern right whales in winter, but also for southern elephant seals, southern sea lions, and orcas. You may get the chance to spot numerous birds, Magellanic penguins, guanacos and Patagonian maras living in this desert steppe.

At Sea -Day 18 & 19

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the local photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Disembark in Buenos Aires

A port city built on the south-western shore of the Rio de la Plata, between the Atlantic Ocean and the vast Argentine Pampas, Buenos Aires is a unique city in Latin America. Nicknamed “the Little Paris of South America”, the Argentine capital is a clever blend of architecture with European influences and a joyful Latin American atmosphere. Designed on an orthogonal grid plan, it has 48 districts, all of which are as charming as they are different, with a range of styles such as Belle Époque, gothic and baroque. With its markets overflowing with treasures, its legendary cultural and architectural heritage, and tango providing its background music, the Argentine capital will delight you on every street corner.

Please note: Cruise itinerary is subject to change depending on weather conditions, ice conditions and other factors.

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDF

WHY CHOOSE THIS CRUISE?

  • Discover South Georgia and the Falkland Islands, two subantarctic archipelagos of singular beauty, where the great variety of fauna and flora is astonishing.

  • Explore the wildlife rich Valdes Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage listed site. Home to a wide range of flora and fauna. Discover the delights on land and in the water with shore excursions and zodiac cruising with the expert expedition team onboard. 

  • Enjoy your comfortable and luxurious cruise ship, Le Austral. Most drinks and premium dining are included onboard your ship and you can relax in your well appointed stateroom when you get back from a day of exploring. 

  • You will see a wide array of wildlife on this trip such as black-browed and light-mantled albatrosses; Magellanic, Gentoo and southern rockhopper penguins in the Falkland Islands; king and macaroni penguins, elephant and fur seals in South Georgia; leopard seals, chinstrap penguins in the South Orkney Islands; humpback whales, Gentoo, Adelie, chinstrap penguins, leopard, crabeater and Weddell seals in the Antarctic Peninsula.

L'Austral

L'Austral

The French ship L’Austral is a sleek mega-yacht that offers a luxury experience. This is paired with an elegant ambience and refined personalised service combined with gastronomic cuisine. Chic yet casual, L’Austral accommodates up to 200 guests in 132 outside cabins ranging from staterooms to suites.

 

 WHY WE LOVE L’AUSTRAL 

  • Innovative, stylish design, combined with exceptional cuisine and wine, offers luxury travel to the polar regions. 
  • Book in for a wellness massage or soak in the hammam or pool after an invigorating morning on the ice. 
  • Under 200 guests means you’ll be able to get off the ship and enjoy everything that the polar regions have to offer, guided by the expert expedition crew onboard. 

 

 FEATURES OF L’AUSTRAL

 

Expedition cruising with the feeling of a private yacht

Harmonious design, muted hues, and French style will welcome you back onboard after a day of exploring. The ship has a small, intimate feeling, with exceptional attention to detail. But, that doesn’t mean you’ll miss out on the full Antarctic experience, with twice daily zodiac rides or shore landings. Guests can also enjoy kayaking as an optional activity. 

Fine French and international cuisine 

Guests can select from two restaurants, the Gastronomic Restaurant serving French and International cuisine, with the Grill Restaurant serving buffet lunches and themed dinners outside. All guests have room service included and you will be able to enjoy the finer things while onboard. An open bar is included on many sailings. 

Luxurious amenities and common spaces 

The ship has seven decks with elevators connecting all decks. Features of the ship include an open-air bar, sundeck, pool, library, panoramic lounge, spa, hairdressing salon and terrace, fitness centre, beauty corner and medical centre in addition to the main lounge and lecture theatre. In the evening, enjoy a range of entertainment and lectures.

 

Ice Class: Length: 142 m (466 ft)
Breadth: 18m (59 ft)Max
Draft: Cruising
Speed:
Electricity: Passenger
Capacity:
264

View Ship Details

Accommodation

We believe that appropriate accommodation should add to the authentic travel experience, as well as providing utmost enjoyment. For that reason our accommodation is scrutinised by our staff on the ground frequently, ensuring the properties adhere to our high standards. This key will help you understand the levels of accommodation available on this tour.

Standard

Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.

Superior

Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.

Deluxe

Luxurious properties with impeccable facilities and service.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES

Optional Activities vary for each itinerary. Limited spaces available. Contact your Destination Specialist for pricing & availability.

Day Paddling

If you are looking for another way to nurture your inner adventurer, our day paddle excursion might be the perfect fit! Absorb the majestic scenery from a more intimate vantage point as you paddle through the pristine waters of Antarctica on a sit-on-top kayak.Our expertly guided, one-time, Paddle Program gives you the rare chance to see Antarctica from the same perspective as most of the wildlife – at the surface of the sea.

Learn More

Pricing per person & date

Journey to Austral Lands & Valdes Peninsula ex Ushuaia | L'Austral from CAD 0
27/02/2026 

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Important Information

  • Single Supplement Offer*
    No Single Supplement available on 27 Feb 26 Departure
    Not available on Superior Staterooms & Owners Suite
    Offer is correct at the time of publishing however availability is strictly capacity controlled and only available until sold out
    This promotion may be withdrawn or varied without notice by the operator at any time 
     

    Prices from the operator are dynamic in nature. They are correct at time of publishing (1 October 2024) but are subject to change at any time until the time of booking. Please Contact us for the most current availability and up to date cabin pricing. 

    Pricing is subject to change based on currency fluctuation, selected cabin, availability at the time of booking and may be withdrawn or varied at any time without notice.
     

  • Prices are based on per person, twin share.

    Prices are correct at time of publishing but are subject to change at any time.

    Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions.

  • INCLUSIONS

    Cabin accommodation whilst on board L'Austral
    1-night accommodation in a hotel the night before embarkation
    Arrival Shuttle Transfer from Airport to Hotel in Buenos Aires
    Group Transfer from Hotel to Airport on Day of Embarkation
    Flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia in economy class
    Group Arrival & Departure Transfers in Ushuaia
    All meals whilst on board
    Open bar (no premium brands)
    Mini bar in your stateroom (Champagne additional fee)
    All scheduled landings and excursions, conditions permitting
    Guiding and lectures by expedition team 
    Complimentary Polar expedition jacket
    Free use of rubber boots for shore excursions
    All port taxes 
    Comprehensive pre and post voyage informational material 
    Free WIFI    

     

    EXCLUSIONS

    Airfares other than specified 
    Visa and reciprocity fees (if applicable) 
    Travel Insurance
    Personal expenses such as laundry
    Gratuities for the crew (recommend US$15 per person per day)
    Optional Activities not mentioned in itinerary

  • 2 (light adventure)
  • Available upon request, contact us for more details. 

  • Departure date, fuel surcharges, cabin category, currency fluctuations, seasonality and availability.

FROM PRICE & PROMOTIONAL DETAILS

  • From Price based on 27 Feb 26 Departure - Superior Stateroom Deck 3 
  • Includes Booking Bonus of 30% Discount 
  • Pricing is dynamic in nature and subject to change until booking is confirmed
  • Please enquire for solo cabin pricing - single supplements may be waived or discounted on selected voyages

Please Contact Us for the latest availability, pricing and details of your preferred voyage. Chimu Adventures are Antarctica experts and we will endeavour to find you the perfect Antarctica expedition cruise to ensure you have an unforgettable adventure!

See detailed promotional T&Cs below

NOTE: Pricing is subject to change, currency fluctuation and availability at the time of booking and may be varied without notice by us or any of the operators and partners we work with. It is only confirmed and guaranteed at the time of making a booking, agreeing to our terms and conditions and paying a deposit.