Here is undoubtedly the journey of a lifetime! Set sail for a fantastic adventure at the end of the world toward Cockburn Channel, far in the south of South America. Be captivated by the raw beauty of Patagonia. Navigate through the moving world of Chilean fjords, encounter preserved wildlife, and discover the history of ancient explorers and intrepid adventurers aboard an expedition vessel.

Discovering Cockburn Channel

Heading toward the southernmost reaches of the South American continent. Sharing the same entrance to the Pacific as Barbara Channel, Cockburn Channel winds between the Brecknock Peninsula, located far to the west of Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego, and the Clarence and Aracena islands (plus a few smaller islands). Past an access marked by two twin rocks, the channel extends roughly 65 km, then is continued by Magdalena Channel. It is a stretch of the waterway connecting the Strait of Magellan to the famous Beagle Channel.

The lands bordering the waterway on the Chilean southern part of Tierra del Fuego belong to Alberto de Agostini National Park. A few small border villages and cattle stations nestle in remote islands. Local wildlife consists mainly of aquatic creatures, including a large population of fish. While sailing on the channel, you may encounter sea lions and the adorable Magellanic and Humboldt penguins.

Journey into the Heart of Glaciers

Ocean swells arise from time to time as the boat progresses along the length of the channel. When navigation reaches Seno Agostini, a universe of fjords and glaciers opens before you. Admire the glaciers plunging into the sea from mountains in the background. Pia Fjord stands out in particular with its dozens of waterfalls that cascade down its slopes into glacial waters. Sometimes, gigantic blocks of ice tear away from the cliffs and the scene is simply breathtaking.

Many other discoveries await you during cruises aboard the Via Australis or Stella Australis. The journey lasts a few days from Punta Arenas or Ushuaia, passing through Cockburn Channel, islands of the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, and the majestic glaciers of Patagonia. Apart from Seno Agostini and Pia Fjord, Ainsworth Bay and Marinelli Glacier are two other popular spots. However, itineraries depend on weather conditions. It sometimes happens that icebergs or broken ice block passage through Cockburn Channel.

Punta Arenas is the Chilean gateway to the Glaciers of Patagonia. The city is accessible by plane from Santiago via Carlos Ibáñez del Campo International Airport. Upon arriving in town, book your place on Via Australis or Stella Australis cruises. Upon leaving the port located in the Strait of Magellan, the boats will skirt islands, bays, fjords, and more, before reaching Cockburn Channel. The journey may then continue toward Beagle Channel, Cape Horn, and finally the Argentine city of Ushuaia.

When to Visit?

Bring warm clothing; Patagonian winds have a reputation for being bitter. Two periods offer somewhat milder conditions: spring, which runs from September to November, and summer, which extends from December to March. This is the high tourist season in this part of South America. With the massive arrival of visitors, rates may increase. There are fewer crowds in winter, from June to August, but you will need to prepare yourself for harsh cold.