Patagonian Dolphin
Sailing among Commerson’s dolphins
From the mouth of the Chubut River, the navigation heads into Atlantic waters in search of Commerson’s dolphins.
From US$ 150
The experience
The experience begins in Puerto Rawson, where we board for a navigation of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes through the mouth of the Chubut River and Atlantic waters. The first part of the route is dedicated to observing a small coastal colony of South American sea lions near the river mouth. From the boat, we can watch them in their natural environment before continuing towards more open water. We then begin the search for the stars of the experience: Commerson’s dolphins (Cephalorhynchus commersonii), also known locally as Patagonian dolphins. These small cetaceans are known for their social behaviour and agile, acrobatic movements, which may be observed whenever natural conditions and the animals’ presence allow. The navigation also offers opportunities to discover different marine and coastal birds. Species may include oystercatchers, imperial cormorants, neotropic cormorants, crested ducks, shovelers, kelp gulls and brown-hooded gulls. Depending on the season, terns, night herons, geese and skimmers may also appear, among other species. Throughout the outing, bilingual staff and a guide specialised in marine wildlife accompany the group, sharing information about the species and ecosystem being observed. At the end of the navigation, we return to Puerto Rawson.
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The place
The experience departs from Puerto Rawson, a picturesque fishing port at the mouth of the Chubut River. Here, river water meets the Atlantic Ocean, creating an environment frequented by different marine species. Near the mouth is a small coastal colony of sea lions and, farther offshore, Commerson’s dolphins—also known locally as Patagonian dolphins—can be found.
Why we love it
Because it reveals a species completely different from the large marine mammals for which Patagonia is usually known. Commerson’s dolphins are small, fast and highly active, and watching them move freely around the boat makes the navigation dynamic and spontaneous.
Small, fast and curious: Patagonia’s dolphins in the wild.
Included
- Wildlife-watching navigation from Puerto Rawson.
- Boat.
- Guide specialised in marine wildlife.
- Bilingual staff.
- Marine wildlife observation in its natural habitat.
Not included
- Transfer to Puerto Rawson.
- Lunch.
- Drinks.
- Personal expenses.
- Any other services not expressly mentioned.
What to bring
- Comfortable clothing.
- Warm layers.
- Waterproof, windproof jacket.
- Comfortable closed shoes.
- Warm hat or cap, depending on the season.
- Sunglasses.
- Sunscreen.
- Water.
- Camera or phone with sufficient battery.
Accessibility
Please consult in advance according to each guest’s specific needs.
Recommendations
The navigation lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes and departs from Puerto Rawson. As transfer is not included, it is important to arrange how to reach the boarding point in advance. Animal Travel indicates that sightings operate year-round, always subject to weather and operational conditions. Commerson’s dolphins and all other species observed are free-ranging wild animals. Their presence, number, proximity and behaviour cannot be guaranteed on any departure.
Weather policy
The navigation is subject to weather conditions and the operational status of the port. If conditions are unsuitable, the operator may reschedule the day or time of the activity. If the port closes and the sighting trip must be cancelled, the operator states that the amount paid for the navigation is refunded. If booked as part of a tour + boat programme, cancellation of the navigation results in a refund for the sighting trip but not for the land excursion. Because the experience works with free-ranging wildlife, sightings of Commerson’s dolphins or any other species cannot be guaranteed. The absence of wildlife during an operated departure does not constitute grounds for a refund.
Experience details
- Duration
- 1.5 hours
- Availability
- September, October, November, December
- Options
- Shared
- Activity level
- Low
- Subject to availability
- Dates depend on availability, the provider or prior confirmation.
Best time to visitAccording to operation and wildlife presence
LocationPuerto Madryn