This week, we catch up with Frederic Guillemard, General Manager for Europe and Asia at Australis Cruises.
Tell us about your company.
With a presence in Patagonia since the mid-19th century, we not only know these lands, seas, and the wildlife who inhabit them, but understand what it takes to provide a true once-in-a-lifetime experience for every one of our guests.
On our 4-night cruises, sailing between our ports of Punta Arenas in Chile, and Ushuaia in Argentina, our guests have the unique possibility to see untouched, pristine nature, experience large colonies of Magellan penguins, be stunned by the calving of glaciers , and finally live the intense atmosphere on and around Cape Horn. Patagonia does not only offer incredible views and wildlife at hand – Guests can follow into Darwin´s footsteps, when he navigates the fjords 200 years ago along with Fitzroy on the MS Beagle. Our vessels of only 100 cabins make sure that every experience is personal, far away from mass tourism.
Our mostly local expedition guides, many of which educated in sustainable tourism, complete an unforgettable journey along the Chilean fjords with their passion, knowledge and command of many different languages.
What are your unique selling points?
With a long history navigating the waters of Tierra del Fuego, the Magellan Strait, the Beagle Channel; the smallest most southern fjords of Patagonia and finally Cape Horn, we feel at home in the pristine natural landscapes and with the abundant wildlife.
Our fleet of expedition cruise vessels do not compromise comfort in exchange for this adventurous approach, so exquisite Chilean food, spacious lounge areas and comfortable cabins await you between exciting excursions, zodiac boat tours and wildlife walks while on an Australis adventure.
What is your most popular itinerary/destination?
We are only operating Patagonia, Tierra del Fuego & Cap Horn, from September to April !
What is new for 2024/25?
We do have a Photographical trip for February 2024, and also some new promotions, one will start mid august 2023 for the entire 2023/2024 season.
Meet the team.
Frederic Guillemard
General Manager Europe and Asia
Originally born in France, Frederic had early the passion of travelling.
With Australis he started on 1996, as an expedition guide onboard the first cruise, The Terra Australis.
Since 2023 Frederic is a general manager for Europe and Asia, at Australis office based in Barcelona Spain.
Enjoyed a Patagonia cruise several years ago. Highly recommended. www.expeditioncruising.com/search/label/Australis%20Cruises