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Darwin's Passage: Cockburn Channel Zodiac Expedition

Venture deep into the raw, seldom-visited Cockburn Channel aboard an expedition Zodiac — the same remote fjords Charles Darwin described as 'the uttermost part of the earth,' virtually unchanged since the Beagle's 1830s passage.

What to expect

Suited up in expedition drysuits provided on board, you speed through channels flanked by vertical granite walls draped in hanging glaciers. The guide — a marine biologist with deep regional expertise — calls stops for orca and dolphin sightings and explains the Yaghan people's extraordinary survival in this climate. You land on a deserted pebble beach to hear nothing but wind, water, and the occasional condor wingbeat. Hot soup and Patagonian chocolates are served before the exhilarating return run.

Book it with
Ushuaia Boating (official Ushuaia expedition operator)
USD 180–250 per person for specialist channel navigation expeditions — confirm current rates and availability directly
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Good to know

This is a weather-dependent, semi-expedition experience — dress for cold and wind even in summer. Confirm the specific Cockburn Channel routing with the operator at time of booking. Minimum fitness level required for Zodiac boarding. Best booked 3–4 weeks in advance.

Sail there

Luxury cruises that call at Cockburn And Beagle Channels — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.

Princess · Majestic Princess
15 nights · calls at Cockburn And Beagle Channels
from $1,392
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Holland America · Nieuw Amsterdam
15 nights · calls at Cockburn And Beagle Channels
from $1,924
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Holland America · Oosterdam
14 nights · calls at Cockburn And Beagle Channels
from $2,399
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Holland America · Zaandam
70 nights · calls at Cockburn And Beagle Channels
from $15,614
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