We chose this to enhance our experience of South America and because it was an expedition boat. We have only been on small expedition boats carrying 40 passengers one in the Galapagos and the True North in the Kimberley Australia. For this reason we were worried that the Stella Australis was too large at 200 passengers. We need not have worried because the whole experience was brilliant. The cabins were a decent size, the food was good, the waiting staff and the guides were excellent and the daily expeditions were most enjoyable.There were also some interesting presentations on board including an amazing film about Shackleton. We saw some very interesting wildlife including whales. The ship was well constructed and it coped well with heavy seas. We were also very lucky to be able to disembark at Cape Horn even though it was a little stormy which was a real bonus. We would certainly recommend the Stella Australis for those wanting an expedition experience in comfortable surroundings