Ushuaia: Beagle Channel Boat Tour and Penguin Experience

Patagonia, Argentina, Chile



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 and Martillo Island Penguin Tour in Ushuaia

This full-day tour in Ushuaia combines a yacht cruise on the Beagle Channel with a guided walk among Magellanic and Gentoo penguins on Martillo Island.

Highlights

  • Beagle Channel Cruise
  • Penguin Encounter on Martillo Island
  • Breathtaking Patagonian Landscapes
  • Wildlife Observation

Description

The itinerary starts either with a three-hour yacht cruise along the Beagle Channel, observing birdlife on Bird Island and Sea Lion Island, and viewing the Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse. After the cruise, the tour continues by road along Route 3 to Martillo Island. At Martillo, a semi-rigid boat transports you to the island for a one-hour guided walk among native penguin colonies.

Alternatively, the day may begin with transport by bus through Fuegian forests and valleys to Martillo Island, followed by the penguin walk. Afterwards, the tour returns to Ushuaia for the Beagle Channel cruise. The sequence depends on availability and cannot be selected in advance.

Note that Harberton Ranch is closed on Tuesdays, and from December 25th to January 2nd. The tour duration is approximately 8.5 to 9.5 hours. Booking a flight on the same day is not recommended to avoid delays.

Includes

  • Bilingual English and Spanish guide
  • Roundtrip transportation from Ushuaia’s tourist port to Harberton Ranch
  • Roundtrip boat transfer from Harberton Ranch to Martillo Island
  • One-hour guided penguin walk

Excludes

  • Harberton Ranch entry fee (payable in cash at the ranch)
  • Local port tax (payable in cash in local currency)
  • Food and drinks
  • Tips

Important Information

  • Harberton Ranch is closed on Tuesdays and from December 25th to January 2nd
  • The start time and order of activities depend on availability and cannot be chosen
  • Tour duration: 8.5 to 9.5 hours
  • Do not schedule flights on the same day to avoid potential delays

Cancellation Policy

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

For the best experience, bring waterproof clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and sun protection. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during the high season from November to March.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can see Magellanic and Gentoo penguins on Martillo Island, as well as sea lions and various bird species near Bird Island and Sea Lion Island in Chile.
The yacht cruise lasts approximately three hours, departing from Ushuaia and exploring key natural sites along the Beagle Channel in Chile.
The guided penguin walk takes place on Martillo Island, known for its colonies of Magellanic and Gentoo penguins in Chile.
The tour is typically available during the Southern Hemisphere's spring and summer months; check the website for current availability in Chile.
No special equipment is required, but comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended for the outdoor conditions in Chile.
Yes, the cruise offers views of Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse and the surrounding Fuegian landscapes near Ushuaia, Chile.
Yes, the boat tour and penguin walk are family-friendly activities suitable for children interested in wildlife and nature in Chile.
You can book this full-day tour through various online platforms; check the official tour website for the latest booking options and schedules in Chile.
Food and drinks policies vary by provider; check the tour details on the website for information about meals in Chile.

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