Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship, allowing you to stay connected during your voyage.
Drinks
The Open Bar offers a selection of drinks, including mineral water, soft drinks, wine, beer, Henri Abelé Brut Champagne, spirits, coffee, and tea. Certain premium alcoholic beverages on the menu are not included in the Open Bar.
Excursions
Beginning this 2024/2025 winter season, one excursion per person, per port of call will be included in the price of your cruise(excluding any on board Le Paul Gauguin). You will be able to select the excursion of your choice, based on proposed programs by our destination experts.
There will also be paid excursions available, enabling you to explore the region in even more depth.
Entertainment
Choose from a variety of things to entertain yourself including restaurants, bars, theatre, pools and much more.
Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks from the buffet and main dining restaurants are all included. Meals from the specialty dining restaurants are additional.
Accommodation
Your cabin is included in the price of the cruise.
Port Fees & Taxes
No surprises. All port fees and taxes are included in the price.
Extras
Speciality Dining
Specialty restaurants allow travellers to enhance their dining experience during the cruise. This is a great way to add variety to your holiday or celebrate a special occasion. You can pay for meals in the special dining restaurants onboard.
Parking
Car parking at the port or airport for the duration of your trip is not included within the price of the cruise. Port/airport parking can’t currently be booked with us online but please contact us after you have made the booking if you would like to add this to your package. An approximate cost for parking is between £12 - £20 per car per day. Alternatively we can arrange transfers from your home to the departure airport/port.
Insurance
Insurance is not included in your package. We've partnered with Holiday Extras. They have 40 years of experience and offer excellent insurance cover for your holiday. Their flexible policies offer cruise-specific cover, so you can rest assured that you are completely covered when you go away. Get a Holiday Extras insurance quote
Transfers (home to port)
Transfers from your home to the port or airport aren't included but we can help organise coach transfers, taxis etc to make your life easier. Please contact us after you have made the booking if you would like to add these to your package.
Visa
Visas are not provided by us or the cruise operator. Visas and other travel documents have to be obtained by the individual passengers prior to sailing.
We've partnered with The Travel Visa Company for all your visa needs. They will be able to provide tailored advice and for a fee, assist with arranging your documents.
Ship Facilities
L'Austral - By Ponant Cruises
Good for couplesOver 50sExplorationFormalLuxury ShipSmall ShipUltra LuxuryYacht style
Year: 2011
·
Refurbished: 2018
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6 Decks
·
Max capacity: 264 people
All offers and prices are subject to change and availability at time of enquiry. Prices are based on two passengers sharing unless otherwise stated and are subject to the Tour Operator's terms and conditions. Cabin and Flight supplements may apply. Other supplements may apply in addition to the price shown above. Flight details, timings and routing may be subject to alteration. Other tour operator charges may also apply. Any Onboard Spending money or drinks package value shown will be per cabin, again based on two sharing.
Supplier Reference:
AU181126
Talk to a Cruise Expert
Our cruise experts will help you pick the perfect cruise line, ship and destination.
We can tailor any package to suit your holiday needs: Add or extend hotel stays, arrange flights and find the best cabin location for you.
Nicknamed the “End of the World”, Ushuaia is a charming windswept city on the southernmost tip of South America and an important port of call for cruise adventures to Antarctica. In the heart of the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, this port is surrounded by some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world, boasting sensational sightseeing opportunities for everyone who travels here. From vibrant coastal forests and dramatic waterfalls to stunning glaciers and unique polar wildlife, Ushuaia really is somewhere where you’ll be able to bask in the sheer beauty of nature, and soak up some sensational panoramic views from the vantage points found here. This city, though, while being famous for being (arguably) the most southernmost city in the entire world, is also something of a gateway to Antarctica and the smaller islands that make up the Tierra del Fuego archipelago. So, despite being rather quaint in comparison to other Argentinian cities and South American holiday hotspots, what you’re met with in Ushuaia is just a taste of what’s to come – if you’re continuing onto Antarctica, anyway. That doesn’t mean you should be too eager to leave Ushuaia, though, as this port of call does offer a lot more than just breathtaking natural beauty. Ushuaia is also home to a unique collection of museums and some fantastic food; so, while the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the region is a major highlight, this is one destination that will prove to be just as memorable as everything else on your itinerary.
Things to do in Ushuaia:
Tierra del Fuego National Park
An expansive national park that protects nearly 70,000 hectares of land, the Tierra del Fuego National Park combines marine areas, forests, and mountains to create a truly fascinating place worth exploring if you have the time while visiting Ushuaia. Here, you’ll find everything from luscious woodland and tumbling waterfalls to dramatic mountains and serene lakes. Throughout, you’ll also find evidence of the Yámanas, the first inhabitants of these lands, which serves to remind everyone who spends some time here that this region has been inhabited for more than 10,000 years. With so much to see, this is easily the best place to visit if you’re looking to switch off and embrace the great outdoors.
Museo del Fin del Mundo
If you want to learn more about the city of Ushuaia, Museo del fin del Mundo is the perfect place to go. A living heritage museum that explores the history and culture of Ushuaia and the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, the End of the World Museum (which is its name in English) is home to numerous exhibitions that explore the native history of this region, the local fauna and flora, the traditions and customs of the people here, and even some of the shipwrecks that have happened here over the centuries. Found in parts of the National Bank building and Old Government House, these impressive buildings only serve to highlight the importance of the museum and its contents.
Museo de la Ciudad
Also known as Casa Pena, this former private residence has served as the City Museum in Ushuaia since 2009; with an interesting selection of informative exhibits and historic items, this museum offers visitors a fantastic insight into what ordinary life was like in this city throughout the 20th century – which is when it was originally occupied by the Pena family.
Puerto Williams
DAY 1
18 Nov 2026
Time at Port: TBD
On the southern shores of the Beagle Channel, and by some definitions the southernmost city in the world, Puerto Williams is a fascinating destination on cruises around South America and adventurous expeditions to Antarctica. With a permanent population of just a few thousand people, this destination is surrounded by stunning scenery; jagged mountain peaks stretch up into the sky from sprawling forest-covered slopes to afford this fairly small settlement with an impressive backdrop. An interesting place to explore as a tourist, you’ll also find Puerto Williams acting as the main port and major hub for scientific research linked with Antarctica. So, while there is a buzz of activity to be found here, Puerto Williams is metaphorically far from nearby cities like Ushuaia, a bustling haven of activity on the northern shores of the Beagle Channel. When visiting, you’ll be met with a charming, laid-back atmosphere and be afforded the opportunity to enjoy some peace at the end of the world – wonderful moments that are always unforgettable.
Things to do in Puerto Williams:
Day Hikes
While venturing into the rough terrain of Dientes de Navarino, the mountain range sitting south of Puerto Williams, will take you several days, this destination is home to several remarkable hiking routes that can be completed in a day. One of the most popular places to hike is Cerro La Bandera; day-long hikes here will afford you excellent views across the Beagle Channel, a chance to appreciate the Cascada Los Bronces waterfall, and endless panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Museo Antropológico Martin Gusinde
Home to impressive exhibits exploring the Yaghan, an indigenous group who have populated the region around you for tens of thousands of years, Museo Antropológico Martin Gusinde is a highlight of any visit to Puerto Williams. Created in 1974 and named after an Austrian priest and scientist who lived among the Yaghan and Selk’nam peoples, this is the southernmost museum in the world and somewhere offering a fascinating insight into what life is like for native populations in such harsh conditions.
Kayaking
While the waters of the Beagle Channel are too exposed to the elements for kayaking, Puerto Williams is a fantastic port of call for kayaking excursions – thanks to the rough coastline of Navarino Island, where Puerto Williams is located. With an abundance of sheltered spots all along the coastline of this impressive island, you’ll have no trouble organising a kayaking experience here, provided the weather conditions are agreeable. When kayaking, you may have the chance to encounter some of the local wildlife and uncover impressive archeological sites. With so many incredible secrets to uncover, this is an experience definitely worth considering when you’re spending time in Puerto Williams
Drake Passage - Cruising
DAY 2-3
19 Nov 2026
Time at Port: TBD
The Drake Passage is an iconic body of water between the southern tip of South America and Antarctica, connecting parts of the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific Ocean. Despite this stretch of water being discovered by Spanish navigator Francisco de Hoces in 1525, the passage is named after Sir Francis Drake, an English explorer who utilised this body of water during his Raiding Expedition in the mid-16th century. While rough seas are something you’ll come across quite frequently when cruising the Drake Passage, you can rest assured knowing that the modern expedition-style ships you’ll be sailing on are well-equipped to deal with any troublesome weather. In 2019, a team of six explorers were actually able to row across the entirety of the Drake Passage; though, while you’re unlikely to see anyone rowing while you’re cruising, you will have the chance to observe a variety of seabirds, whales, and dolphins – all of which are often spotted by sailors crossing the Drake Passage. With this journey often being a two-day event, you’ll also have plenty of time to enjoy all the excellent amenities available onboard your cruise ship – which is definitely a win-win!
Drake Passage - Cruising:
Seabirds
When the weather is agreeable, the Drake Passage is a hotspot for spotting seabirds, particularly species of albatross and petrel – both of which are among the largest species of flying birds in the world, with petrels known particularly for their wide wingspan. While the sightings you’re able to enjoy will vary, and there’s no guarantee when it comes to which species of seabird you’ll be able to spot, the Drake Passage provides you with a fantastic opportunity to see these birds hunting; albatross, in particular, are known to hunt both during the day and at night.
Whales
Cruising the Drake Passage is a fantastic opportunity to see several species of whale in the wild, with finback whales, sei whales, humpback whales, sperm whales, and blue whales all among the species that have been spotted in this body of water before. Although, it’s important to keep in mind that there’s no guarantees when it comes to the wildlife sightings you’ll have the chance to enjoy while onboard, and the success of whale-watching in the Drake Passage can vary depending on things like the weather conditions and the time of year you’re travelling.
Dolphins
When cruising the Drake Passage, you may be able to spot pods of dolphins from your cruise ship. While there’s no guarantee, as sightings can be unpredictable and are affected by the weather and the time of year you’re travelling, hourglass dolphin and southern right whale dolphin are among the aquatic mammals that have been spotted in this body of water before.
Antarctica - Overnight onboard
DAY 4-8
21 Nov 2026
Time at Port: TBD
The southernmost continent, Antarctica is a fascinating destination that's often on people's bucket lists. The majority of ships that visit the continent go to the Antarctic Peninsula, which is known for its breathtaking scenery, including dozens of icebergs. Because of the peninsula's remote location, a variety of species, including numerous penguins, can be found there.
Things to do in Antarctica - Overnight onboard:
Sightseeing
There's no denying that Antarctica is a fantastic place to sightsee, and with the numerous penguins, whales (of which there are 8 different species inhabiting the continent) and other wildlife, you'll have an unforgettable time capturing pictures and taking in the sights.
Paradise Harbour
Between Duthiers Point and Leniz Point, on the west coast of Graham Land, Antarctica, lies a broad embayment known as Paradise Harbour. Named in 1920 by whalers, this captivating area is a must see when on an Antarctic voyage.
King George Island
The largest of the South Shetland Islands, this magical island takes its name after King George III. Known as the gateway to the continent, you'll find glaciers, rugged scenery and the fascinating Trinity Church.
Drake Passage - Cruising
DAY 9-10
26 Nov 2026
Time at Port: TBD
The Drake Passage is an iconic body of water between the southern tip of South America and Antarctica, connecting parts of the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific Ocean. Despite this stretch of water being discovered by Spanish navigator Francisco de Hoces in 1525, the passage is named after Sir Francis Drake, an English explorer who utilised this body of water during his Raiding Expedition in the mid-16th century. While rough seas are something you’ll come across quite frequently when cruising the Drake Passage, you can rest assured knowing that the modern expedition-style ships you’ll be sailing on are well-equipped to deal with any troublesome weather. In 2019, a team of six explorers were actually able to row across the entirety of the Drake Passage; though, while you’re unlikely to see anyone rowing while you’re cruising, you will have the chance to observe a variety of seabirds, whales, and dolphins – all of which are often spotted by sailors crossing the Drake Passage. With this journey often being a two-day event, you’ll also have plenty of time to enjoy all the excellent amenities available onboard your cruise ship – which is definitely a win-win!
Drake Passage - Cruising:
Seabirds
When the weather is agreeable, the Drake Passage is a hotspot for spotting seabirds, particularly species of albatross and petrel – both of which are among the largest species of flying birds in the world, with petrels known particularly for their wide wingspan. While the sightings you’re able to enjoy will vary, and there’s no guarantee when it comes to which species of seabird you’ll be able to spot, the Drake Passage provides you with a fantastic opportunity to see these birds hunting; albatross, in particular, are known to hunt both during the day and at night.
Whales
Cruising the Drake Passage is a fantastic opportunity to see several species of whale in the wild, with finback whales, sei whales, humpback whales, sperm whales, and blue whales all among the species that have been spotted in this body of water before. Although, it’s important to keep in mind that there’s no guarantees when it comes to the wildlife sightings you’ll have the chance to enjoy while onboard, and the success of whale-watching in the Drake Passage can vary depending on things like the weather conditions and the time of year you’re travelling.
Dolphins
When cruising the Drake Passage, you may be able to spot pods of dolphins from your cruise ship. While there’s no guarantee, as sightings can be unpredictable and are affected by the weather and the time of year you’re travelling, hourglass dolphin and southern right whale dolphin are among the aquatic mammals that have been spotted in this body of water before.
Ushuaia
DAY 11
28 Nov 2026
Time at Port: TBD
Nicknamed the “End of the World”, Ushuaia is a charming windswept city on the southernmost tip of South America and an important port of call for cruise adventures to Antarctica. In the heart of the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, this port is surrounded by some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world, boasting sensational sightseeing opportunities for everyone who travels here. From vibrant coastal forests and dramatic waterfalls to stunning glaciers and unique polar wildlife, Ushuaia really is somewhere where you’ll be able to bask in the sheer beauty of nature, and soak up some sensational panoramic views from the vantage points found here. This city, though, while being famous for being (arguably) the most southernmost city in the entire world, is also something of a gateway to Antarctica and the smaller islands that make up the Tierra del Fuego archipelago. So, despite being rather quaint in comparison to other Argentinian cities and South American holiday hotspots, what you’re met with in Ushuaia is just a taste of what’s to come – if you’re continuing onto Antarctica, anyway. That doesn’t mean you should be too eager to leave Ushuaia, though, as this port of call does offer a lot more than just breathtaking natural beauty. Ushuaia is also home to a unique collection of museums and some fantastic food; so, while the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the region is a major highlight, this is one destination that will prove to be just as memorable as everything else on your itinerary.
Things to do in Ushuaia:
Tierra del Fuego National Park
An expansive national park that protects nearly 70,000 hectares of land, the Tierra del Fuego National Park combines marine areas, forests, and mountains to create a truly fascinating place worth exploring if you have the time while visiting Ushuaia. Here, you’ll find everything from luscious woodland and tumbling waterfalls to dramatic mountains and serene lakes. Throughout, you’ll also find evidence of the Yámanas, the first inhabitants of these lands, which serves to remind everyone who spends some time here that this region has been inhabited for more than 10,000 years. With so much to see, this is easily the best place to visit if you’re looking to switch off and embrace the great outdoors.
Museo del Fin del Mundo
If you want to learn more about the city of Ushuaia, Museo del fin del Mundo is the perfect place to go. A living heritage museum that explores the history and culture of Ushuaia and the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, the End of the World Museum (which is its name in English) is home to numerous exhibitions that explore the native history of this region, the local fauna and flora, the traditions and customs of the people here, and even some of the shipwrecks that have happened here over the centuries. Found in parts of the National Bank building and Old Government House, these impressive buildings only serve to highlight the importance of the museum and its contents.
Museo de la Ciudad
Also known as Casa Pena, this former private residence has served as the City Museum in Ushuaia since 2009; with an interesting selection of informative exhibits and historic items, this museum offers visitors a fantastic insight into what ordinary life was like in this city throughout the 20th century – which is when it was originally occupied by the Pena family.