Navigation to Beagle Channel and Sea Lions Island with Transfers
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
In 1833, Charles Darwin set sail along the Beagle Channel. You can follow his course on a 2.5-hour catamaran cruise from Ushuaia. You'll capture sights of Ushuaia’s former prison, check out the End of the World Museum, and admire views of Five Brothers and Olivia mountains, among other sights. After reaching Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse and eyeing shipwreck ruins, come upon throngs of sea lions at Isla de Lobos and the winged residents of Isla de Pájaros. Enjoy guided commentary and round-trip hotel transport.
Available options
PM Departure
Check-in 2:30pm Departure 3pm: Beagle Channel and Sea Wolves Island Catamaran Cruise departing during the afternoon all year-round
AM Departure
Check-in 9:30am Departure 10am: Beagle Channel and Sea Wolves Island Catamaran Cruise departing during the morning
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Professional guide
Transport by coach or minivan
3 hours Navigation
Detailed itinerary
1
After hotel pickup, board a catamaran at Don Eduardo Arturo Brisighelli pier to begin your journey through the narrow strait dotted with the Tierra del Fuego islands.
Take a 2.5-hour cruise to admire rocky isles, glaciers, city landmarks and wildlife on the Beagle Channel, named in honor of Charles Darwin’s ship Beagle that traversed the gunmetal-gray waters in the 1830s.
2
As the boat heads east and hugs the coastline, enjoy views of Maritime Museum, housed in former prison buildings, and the End of the World Museum that specializes in the area’s natural and aboriginal history. Learn from guided commentary on board about the infamous old prison, now displaying a replica of Darwin’s ship, and Ushuaia’s origins as a penal colony. Pass by the serrated snow-covered peaks of the Olivia and Cinco Hermanos (Five Brothers) mountains looming behind the city’s industrial area.
Amid panoramas of water, sea and mountain, sail past the Tunnel and Fique Ranch, and the Encajonado River. The boat approaches the tiny promontory of Les Eclaireurs lighthouse, a candy-striped beacon surrounded by colonies of rock shags. Perhaps under a sky brooding with clouds, learn about the SS Monte Cervantes that met its fateful end here in 1930, parts of which poke through the water’s surface.
3
Heading to the center of the Beagle Channel, we will encounter the Les Éclaireurs lighthouse. Built in 1920, this iconic red-and-white striped beacon serves as a symbol of Ushuaia. On one of the islands, remnants of the 1930 shipwreck, Monte Cervantes, are still visible, adding a layer of history to the scenic beauty of the area.
4
On the way back west, your catamaran quietly approaches 'Isla de Lobos,' home to hundreds of sea lions, fur seals, and king cormorants that resemble small penguins. Delight in close-up views of the mammals as they grunt, bark, and maybe even jostle one another to claim territory.
5
Continue towards Bird Island, where you can marvel at the diverse bird species. Observe the seagulls, the majesty of the king cormorants, the beauty of petrels, steamer ducks, and giant albatrosses, encountering up to 20 fascinating bird species along the way.
6
Admire views of Martial Glacier as you sail through Paso Chico (Small Passage) to return to the pier in Ushuaia. From here, enjoy transport back to your hotel.
What's not included
Gratuities
Food and drinks
Boarding Fee
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.7
15 reviews
5★
7
4★
2
3★
3
2★
0
1★
3
Tripadvisor
4.3
48 reviews
5★
26
4★
16
3★
3
2★
0
1★
3
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
You may bring your own food and drinks
It is recommended that you bring binoculars
Cruise Passengers are not allowed to take this tour
Meeting point
Please indicate the hotel where you will be staying in Ushuaia. In case you are staying outside the pick up area, we will assign you a meeting point.
Important notes
The pick up transfer is only from selected centrally located hotels. If your hotel is outside the geographic area, we will confirm the closest meeting point. Indicate the name and complete address of your hotel.
We suggest you to confirm the booking details with us prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination.
We will leave a note at the hotel with the exact pick-up time. We suggest you reconfirm the pick-up time at the hotel reception the night before the tour as pick-up times may vary slightly.
OFFICE NUMBER: (+54 11) 11 3221 8400 (Mon to Fri from 9 to 18 Hs)
EMERGENCY MOBILE: (+54 911) 4991-4035 (After office hours)
About Ushuaia
Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world, located on the shores of the Beagle Channel. Known for its dramatic landscapes, adventure tourism, and as the gateway to Antarctica, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history. The city is a hub for outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and cultural exploration in the rugged Patagonian wilderness.
Top Attractions
Tierra del Fuego National Park
This stunning national park is located just outside Ushuaia and offers breathtaking landscapes, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing. It's a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Nature
Half day to full day
Moderate (Entrance fee around $10 USD)
Martial Mountain
Martial Mountain offers stunning views of Ushuaia and the Beagle Channel. The summit can be reached by hiking or taking the chairlift, which operates seasonally.
Nature/Adventure
2-3 hours for hiking, 30 minutes for chairlift
Moderate (Chairlift around $15 USD, hiking is free)
Museo Marítimo y del Presidio
This maritime museum is housed in a former prison and offers a fascinating look at the history of Ushuaia and the region. Exhibits include artifacts from the prison era, as well as displays on the city's maritime heritage.
Historical
1-2 hours
Moderate (Entrance fee around $5 USD)
Beagle Channel
The Beagle Channel is a stunning waterway that runs through Ushuaia and offers boat tours, wildlife viewing, and scenic views. It's a must-do activity for visitors to the city.
Nature
2-4 hours for boat tours
Moderate to Expensive (Boat tours range from $30-$100 USD)
End of the World Train (Tren del Fin del Mundo)
This historic train journey takes you through the Tierra del Fuego National Park, offering stunning views of the landscape and insights into the region's history. The train runs on a narrow-gauge track and is a unique and memorable experience.
Historical/Cultural
1.5 hours for the full journey
Moderate to Expensive (Around $25-$50 USD for the full journey)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Centolla (King Crab)
A delicacy of the region, king crab is typically served steamed or grilled, with melted butter for dipping. The sweet and tender meat is a highlight of any visit to Ushuaia.
Main Course
Gluten-free, low-carb
Cordero al Asador (Roast Lamb)
Patagonian lamb is a specialty in Ushuaia, often roasted over an open fire and served with chimichurri sauce. The meat is tender and flavorful, with a unique taste that reflects the region's rugged landscape.
Main Course
Gluten-free, high-protein
Merluza Negra (Black Hake)
A type of fish found in the cold waters of the Beagle Channel, black hake is typically grilled or fried and served with lemon and herbs. It's a light and flavorful dish that's popular with locals and visitors alike.
Main Course
Gluten-free, low-fat
Pan de Arbol (Tree Bread)
A unique bread from the Tierra del Fuego region, pan de árbol is shaped like a tree and has a crispy crust and soft interior. It's often served with butter or jam and is a delicious accompaniment to any meal.
Bread
Vegetarian, contains gluten
Popular Activities
Hiking
Skiing and snowboarding
Boat tours
Wildlife viewing
Mountain biking
Spa treatments
Scenic drives
Wine and beer tasting
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Summer)
Summer is the peak tourist season in Ushuaia, with the warmest temperatures and longest daylight hours. This is the best time for outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and exploring the city's attractions. However, it can be crowded, and accommodations are more expensive.
5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F)
41°F to 59°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken (in tourist areas, limited in rural areas)
Currency
Argentine Peso (ARS)
Time Zone
GMT-3 (Argentine Time, ART)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Ushuaia is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in tourist areas, so it's important to keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings
- • Avoid isolated areas, especially at night
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides
Getting there
By air
- Ushuaia International Airport • 4 km (2.5 miles) from city center
By bus
Ushuaia Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and efficient, with routes covering most of the city and connections to popular tourist destinations like Tierra del Fuego National Park. Buses are reliable but may have limited schedules outside peak hours.
Taxis
Available
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Ushuaia
Bahía Ensenada
Cerro Albatros
Day trips
Tierra del Fuego National Park
11 km (7 miles) • Half day to full day
This stunning national park offers breathtaking landscapes, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing. It's a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Estancia Harberton
80 km (50 miles) • Full day
This historic estate is one of the oldest in Tierra del Fuego and offers a fascinating look at the region's history. Visitors can explore the estate, museum, and surrounding natural beauty.
Cape Horn
100 km (62 miles) • Full day
Cape Horn is the southernmost tip of South America and one of the most remote and rugged places on Earth. It's a challenging but rewarding destination for adventurous travelers.
Festivals
Fiesta Nacional del Centolla • January
Festival Internacional de Cine de Ushuaia • August
Fiesta de la Nieve • July
Pro tips
- Visit during the shoulder or off-peak seasons to avoid crowds and save money
- Pack layers and waterproof outerwear, as the weather can be unpredictable
- Book accommodations and popular activities well in advance, especially during peak season
- Consider hiring a local guide or joining a group tour for a more immersive and informative experience
- Try the local cuisine, including king crab, lamb, and traditional Argentine dishes
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
