Ushuaia: Beagle Channel Boat Tour and Penguin Experience

Tierra del Fuego, Argentina



Enjoy a unique adventure in Ushuaia and explore the stunning Fuegian landscape on a boat trip. Sail the Beagle Channel, visit Martillo Island, and walk among Magellanic and Gentoo penguins.

Beagle Channel Cruise with Penguin Encounter in Ushuaia

This full-day tour in Ushuaia combines a scenic Beagle Channel yacht cruise with a guided walk among penguins on Martillo Island, suitable for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Highlights

  • Beagle Channel Cruise
  • Penguin Encounter
  • Breathtaking Landscapes
  • Unique Adventure

Description

Begin your day with a three-hour yacht cruise on the Beagle Channel, observing Fuegian birdlife at Bird Island and Sea Lion Island, and viewing the Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse. After the cruise, travel along Route 3 towards Martillo Island, where you will take a semi-rigid boat to the island. Here, enjoy a one-hour guided walk on marked trails among Magellanic and Gentoo penguins.

Alternatively, the tour may start with the trip to Martillo Island by bus, traveling along Route 3 and Route J while passing Fuegian forest, ski resorts, and peat bog valleys. After the penguin walk, return to Ushuaia for the Beagle Channel yacht cruise.

Both itineraries offer a combination of navigation on the historic Beagle Channel and close wildlife encounters on Martillo Island.

Includes

  • Bilingual English and Spanish-speaking guide
  • Roundtrip transportation from Ushuaia port to Harberton Ranch
  • Roundtrip boat ride from Harberton Ranch to Martillo Island
  • 1-hour guided walking tour with penguins

Excludes

  • Harberton Ranch entrance fee (must be paid in cash locally)
  • Local port tax (must be paid in cash locally)
  • Food and drinks
  • Tips

Important Information

  • Harberton Ranch is closed on Tuesdays and from December 25th to January 2nd
  • Tour duration is approximately 8.5 to 9.5 hours
  • Flight departures on the same day are not recommended to avoid delays
  • Start time and activity order depend on availability and cannot be chosen

Easy Cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For the best experience, dress warmly, bring waterproof clothing, and carry local currency for entrance fees and taxes. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes a three-hour yacht cruise on the Beagle Channel and a guided walk to see penguins on Martillo Island in Argentina.
Penguins are observed on Martillo Island, where visitors can walk among Magellanic and Gentoo penguins.
The yacht cruise on the Beagle Channel lasts approximately three hours.
Yes, you can see sea lions, various bird species at Bird Island and Sea Lion Island, and the Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse during the cruise.
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for children, offering safe wildlife observation and manageable walking on Martillo Island.
The best time is during the Southern Hemisphere summer months, from November to March, when penguins are most active.
It’s recommended to dress in layers and bring waterproof clothing, sturdy walking shoes, sun protection, and binoculars for wildlife viewing.
The yacht departs from the port of Ushuaia, located on the southern coast of Argentina.
Participants should be able to walk moderate distances on uneven terrain during the guided Martillo Island visit.
Check the official tour website or local Ushuaia tourism sources for current departure times and availability.

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