Ushuaia: Puerto Almanza & Penguin Colony Boat Tour
Ushuaia Department, Argentina
Sail through the Beagle Channel on a boat tour. Go from Ushuaia to Puerto Almanza with beautiful landscapes and get up close to penguin colonies on Martillo Island.
Beagle Channel Boat Tour and Wildlife Viewing from Ushuaia
This tour departs from Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, and suits travelers interested in marine wildlife and scenic landscapes.
Highlights
- Get close to sea lions and penguins
- Sail the Beagle Channel on a semi-rigid inflatable boat
- Explore Tierra del Fuego’s valleys and forests
- Visit the fishing village of Puerto Almanza
- Discover marine life of the Guarani Passage
Description
Begin your tour at Ushuaia’s tourist pier, then travel north on National Route 3, crossing valleys with views of Mount Olivia, an iconic peak in Tierra del Fuego. Take National Route J east through forests of coihue, ñire, and lenga trees until you reach Puerto Almanza, a small fishing village with around thirty families, many dedicated to artisanal king crab fishing.
At Puerto Almanza, board a semi-rigid inflatable boat with an eight-person capacity. Its shallow draft allows close marine encounters as you sail the Beagle Channel. Cross Brown Bay and the Guarani Passage, known for its rich marine wildlife including giant petrels, albatrosses, Antarctic terns, and occasionally whales. The passage lies between Gable Island and Route J.
Stop at a rock in the Mackinlay Passage to observe imperial and rock cormorants. Continue around Gable Island to Martillo Island, where the boat will land for close observation of Magellanic and gentoo penguin colonies. The tour includes multiple stops on the island to attempt spotting king penguins.
Includes
- Guide
- Van transport
- Boat tour on the Beagle Channel
- Visit to Martillo Island
- Observation of penguin colonies
Excludes
- Meals and drinks
- Personal expenses
- Hotel pickup
Important Information
- The tour involves travel by van and boat
- Includes close encounters with marine wildlife
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
For best experience, dress warmly, bring waterproof gear, and book during calm weather months to maximize wildlife sightings.
