Penguin Navigation: Beagle Channel and Martillo Island
A journey along the Beagle Channel to discover seabirds, sea lions and the penguin colonies of Martillo Island.
From US$ 180
The experience
We depart from Ushuaia’s tourist pier, crossing the broad Bay of Ushuaia before reaching 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, and then around Sea Lion Island, where South American sea lions and fur seals can be observed. Both islands are part of the Bridges Archipelago. At Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse, we can see colonies of imperial and rock cormorants while hearing the story of the SS Monte Cervantes, which sank here in 1930.
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The place
The experience begins at Ushuaia’s tourist port and travels through the waters of the Beagle Channel, surrounded by mountains, islands and southern landscapes. The route visits Bird Island, home to cormorants and other seabirds, and Sea Lion Island, where colonies of sea lions can be observed. The journey continues toward historic Estancia Harberton.
Why we love it
It brings together the landscapes of the Beagle Channel, marine wildlife and the history of Tierra del Fuego in a single day. Encountering penguins in their natural environment makes this one of Ushuaia’s most memorable experiences.
Included
- Canal Beagle navigation.
- Visit to Isla de los Pájaros.
- Sea-lion watching at Isla de los Lobos.
- Boat transfer toward Isla Martillo.
- Penguin watching.
- Guide during the excursion.
- Port fee.
Not included
- Lunch.
- Drinks.
- Transfers between the hotel and tourist port unless otherwise stated.
- Personal expenses.
- Services not mentioned.
- Gratuities.
What to bring
- ID or passport.
- Waterproof and windproof jacket.
- Warm layered clothing.
- Hat, scarf or thermal neck warmer and gloves.
- Closed, comfortable, non-slip footwear.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen.
- Water and a packed meal or money to purchase food.
- Waterproof protection for cameras and electronic devices.
Accessibility
The experience is not recommended for guests with reduced mobility due to the boat, possible uneven surfaces and the conditions on Isla Martillo. It is also not recommended during pregnancy. Guests with medical conditions or physical limitations should consult before booking.
Recommendations
Arrive at the tourist port at least 30 minutes before departure. Bring warm clothing even in summer, as wind and perceived temperature can be intense during navigation. We recommend bringing food or checking available options in advance, since lunch is not included. The experience lasts approximately five hours. To protect wildlife, keep your distance, do not feed or touch animals, and always follow the guide's instructions.
Restrictions
The activity operates during penguin season, generally from October to March.|Not recommended during pregnancy or for guests with reduced mobility.|Minors must remain accompanied by an adult.|Touching, feeding or approaching animals outside the guide's instructions is not permitted.|Access to Isla Martillo is subject to quotas and conservation regulations.|The landing and observation format must be confirmed when booking.|The order of the route may change for operational or safety reasons.
Weather policy
Navigation is subject to weather and sea conditions. For safety reasons, the supplier may change the order of the route, replace areas or cancel the activity in whole or in part. If the excursion is cancelled due to external factors, rescheduling will be attempted according to the guest's availability. When this is not possible, the supplier's applicable refund policy will apply.
Experience details
- Duration
- 5 hours
- Availability
- January, February, March, October, November, December
- Options
- Private, Shared
- Activity level
- Low
- Suitable for children
- Yes
- Weather dependent
- Yes
Best time to visitOctober to March
LocationUshuaia