TORONTO — Ensemble Travel Group and Australis Cruises have signed a new partnership that will expand members’ ability to provide experiential travel adventures for their clients, while growing the Chile-based expedition cruise line’s presence in the North American market.

Australis ships explore the southernmost regions of South America, including Patagonia, Tierra del Fuego and Cape Horn, one of the few unspoiled destinations in the world. From September to April of each year, both the Stella Australis and Via Australis offer a variety of itineraries between Punta Arenas, Chile and Ushuaia, Argentina. Each cruise is an all-inclusive experience including all meals and drinks, Chilean and Argentinean wines, and shore excursions on Zodiacs to view the wildlife and glaciers.

“With a sector that represents a $345 billion industry, the adventure market is truly ‘on fire’, and it’s critical that Ensemble aligns itself with partners that can deliver in this profitable travel segment,” said Chris Lackstrom, director of supplier and market development, Ensemble Travel Group. “Our new partnership with Australis Cruises does just that and helps connect our members to a part of the world that’s showing great promise from a travel destination perspective.”

Jorge Rodriguez, general manager in North America of Australis, said, “We are pleased and proud to partner with Ensemble. Their members are exactly the kind of agencies who understand how to sell our unique expeditions.”

Ensemble members will be introduced to their new cruise partner at the 2014 Ensemble Travel Group International Conference, set for Oct. 26-30 in Palm Springs, in addition to receiving comprehensive product training during a future webinar session.