Beagle Channel Navigation: Sea Lions, Birds and Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse

A scenic navigation along the Beagle Channel, among islands, marine wildlife and the iconic Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse.

Half daySailing

From US$ 100

The experience

We depart from Ushuaia’s tourist pier, crossing the broad Bay of Ushuaia before entering the Beagle Channel through Paso Chico. We sail around Bird Island, where Fuegian birdlife includes skuas, black-browed albatrosses, steamer ducks, geese, kelp gulls and dolphin gulls. We then approach Sea Lion Island, home to colonies of South American sea lions and fur seals. Both islands form part of the Bridges Archipelago. At Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse, colonies of imperial and rock cormorants can be seen while the story of the SS Monte Cervantes, which sank here in 1930, is shared on board.

The place

The Beagle Channel offers one of Ushuaia’s most representative landscapes, surrounded by mountains, islands and southern waters. The navigation crosses the Bay of Ushuaia and Paso Chico before reaching the Bridges Archipelago. The route visits Bird Island, home to several species of seabirds, and Sea Lion Island, where colonies of sea lions can be observed.

Why we love it

It reveals the Beagle Channel from a privileged perspective, combining scenery, wildlife and history in an experience of approximately three hours. It is an excellent way to observe sea lions and southern seabirds, see the iconic Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse and enjoy a short walk in the Bridges Islands.

Included

Canal Beagle navigation.
Panoramic visit to Isla de los Pájaros and Isla de los Lobos.
View of the Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse.
Commentary and assistance from on-board staff.
Landing and guided walk at Puerto Karelo when operating and weather conditions allow.
Boarding fee.

Not included

Transfers to and from the accommodation.
Food and drinks.
Personal expenses.
Gratuities.
Services not expressly mentioned.

What to bring

Comfortable warm clothing, waterproof or windproof jacket, closed footwear with good grip, hat, scarf, gloves and sunglasses. We also recommend sunscreen, water and personal motion-sickness medication if needed.

Accessibility

Accessibility depends on the assigned vessel and dock conditions. The landing at Puerto Karelo includes a walk over natural, uneven terrain and may be difficult for guests with reduced mobility. Please advise in advance of any assistance needs, wheelchair use or limited mobility so conditions can be checked with the supplier.

Recommendations

Arrive at the dock at least 30 minutes early and carry valid identification. Dress in layers, as temperature and perceived temperature can vary during navigation. Wildlife watching takes place in a natural environment, so the number, proximity and behavior of animals cannot be guaranteed. Always follow the crew's instructions.

Restrictions

Minors must travel with a responsible adult.|Landing at Puerto Karelo is subject to weather and operating conditions.|Guests with reduced mobility should consult in advance.|Feeding or disturbing wildlife is not permitted.|Safety rules and crew instructions must be followed.|The itinerary, schedules and places visited may change for operational or safety reasons.

Weather policy

Navigation is subject to weather and sea conditions. For safety reasons, the supplier may modify the route, change the order of visits, suspend the Puerto Karelo landing, reschedule or cancel the departure. If the supplier cancels, rescheduling will be offered subject to availability or the applicable refund policy will apply. If a significant portion of the route is completed, any refund is subject to the operator's commercial conditions.