Navigation to the Penguin Colony of Isla Martillo in Ushuaia

5.0/5 Stars - Based on 5 Reviews

Beagle Channel sailing and penguin watching on Martillo Island

🐧 Penguin sighting on Martillo Island from the boat
🤍 Observing sea lions in their natural habitat
🦅 Sailing alongside Bird Island and its diverse birdlife
🚢 View of the emblematic Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse
🏔️ Landscapes of the Beagle Channel and the mountains surrounding Ushuaia
💙 Views of Puerto Almanza and Puerto Williams
⚓ Historical sites such as the Remolino and Túnel ranches and the remains of Mount Sarmiento

Enjoy a boat trip along the Beagle Channel from Ushuaia to Martillo Island , one of the main penguin-watching spots in Tierra del Fuego. During the journey, you'll observe marine wildlife and Fuegian birds, visit the Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse, and enjoy incredible Patagonian landscapes.

Noon
Every day
Ushuaia Tourist Port. Morning departure: Check-in: 08:00/08:15 h, Departure from sailing: 09:00 h Afternoon departure: Check-in: 2:00/2:15 pm, Departure from sailing: 3:00 pm
Ushuaia Tourist Port. Morning departure: Disembarkation: approx. 2:00 pm Afternoon departure: Disembarkation: approx. 7:30 pm

About this tour

The excursion begins at the Ushuaia Tourist Port , from where we will embark on a boat trip through the waters of the Beagle Channel . As we sail away from the city, we will enjoy panoramic views of Ushuaia and some of the main peaks that make up the Fuegian landscape, such as Mount Olivia and the Five Brothers .

The journey continues towards the Bridges Archipelago, where we will tour around Isla de los Lobos (Sea Lion Island ). From the boat, we will be able to observe South American sea lions and fur seals resting on the islets and swimming in the waters of the channel.

Next, we'll head to Bird Island , an important gathering point for seabirds. Depending on the day's conditions, we may be able to observe different species of Fuegian birds, including cormorants, albatrosses, gulls, skuas, upland geese, and steamer ducks.

One of the highlights of the tour will be the Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse , one of Ushuaia's most recognizable landmarks. As we sail around it, we'll learn about the maritime history of the Beagle Channel and be able to see the remains of the Monte Cervantes , a ship that sank in these waters in 1930.

We will continue sailing east, enjoying the scenery of the channel and the surrounding mountains. Along the way, we will be able to see Puerto Almanza on the Argentinian coast, while on the Chilean side we will see Puerto Williams , located on Navarino Island.

🐧 Isla Martillo: Ushuaia's penguin colony

The most anticipated point of the voyage will be the arrival at Martillo Island , where we will be able to observe from the boat a colony of Magellanic penguins during the nesting season.

With some luck, we may also find gentoo penguins , which share this space for part of the season.

The observation is done from the boat and without disembarking on the island , allowing you to see the penguins in their natural environment and watch them move along the coast or go in and out of the water.

Important: The number of penguins and other species that can be observed may vary depending on the time of year and natural conditions. Fewer penguins may be found at the beginning and end of the season.

🌊 Returning to Ushuaia

After visiting Isla Martillo we will begin our return journey to Ushuaia, sailing close to the northern coast of the Beagle Channel.

During the journey, we will be able to see different natural landscapes and historical sites, including the Túnel and Remolino ranches . At the latter are the semi-submerged remains of the Monte Sarmiento , an old steamship that ran aground in the area in 1912.

Finally, we will re-enter Ushuaia Bay , from where we can contemplate one last panoramic view of the city surrounded by its imposing mountains before ending the navigation at the tourist port.

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What's included

  • Navigation through the Beagle Channel .
  • Transfers to/from the port (by selecting the option with transfers)
  • Marine wildlife and bird watching from the boat.
  • Sailing around the Island of the Wolves .
  • Sailing around Bird Island .
  • View of the Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse .
  • Sailing to Martillo Island for penguin observation from the boat.
  • Crew and onboard services according to operation.

Not included

  • Landing on Hammer Island.
  • Food and drinks.
  • Personal expenses.
  • Services not mentioned in the program.

Please note that you will NOT disembark at the penguin colony at the beginning and end of the season, and fewer penguins may be seen. Schedules are subject to change. Please contact us to reconfirm.

Important: On December 28, 29 and 30, PM departure times may change.

Location

Rates

From ARS 277,000 ARS 235,450

Morning Boat Trip To The Penguin Colony - No Transfers

From ARS 277,000 ARS 235,450

Group Service. Includes: bilingual guide, navigation, port tax. Does not include transfers to the dock. Boarding begins 30 minutes prior to departure, so please arrive at least 45 minutes before departure.

Starts 09:00 5 hours Español, English, Portugues
Operates: Every day

Afternoon Boat Trip To The Penguin Colony - No Transfers

From ARS 277,000 ARS 235,450

Group Service. Includes: bilingual guide, navigation, port tax. Does not include transfers to the dock. Boarding begins 30 minutes prior to departure, so please arrive 45 minutes before departure.

Starts 15:00 5 hours Español, English, Portugues
Operates: Every day

Morning Boat Trip To The Penguin Colony - With Transfers

From ARS 298,333 ARS 253,583

Group Service. Includes transfers to/from hotels, bilingual guide, navigation, port tax.

Starts 08:00 5 hours Español, English, Portugues
Operates: Every day

Afternoon Boat Trip To The Penguin Colony - With Transfers

From ARS 298,333 ARS 253,583

Group Service. Includes transfers to/from hotel, bilingual guide, navigation, port tax.

Starts 14:00 6 hours Español, English, Portugues
Operates: Every day
CANCELACION
48hs Before The Trip
COSTO
Average
DIFICULTAD
Low

Frequently asked questions

The Martillo Island excursion includes an exciting guided catamaran tour through the waters of the Beagle Channel. The trip allows tourists to enjoy panoramic views of the Magellanic and Gentoo penguin colonies that inhabit the island. An expert guide is also included to provide interesting information about penguin life and the region's ecosystem. Transfers to and from the port of Ushuaia are often included, making this experience a practical and convenient option for tourists. Food is not included, so it is recommended to bring snacks.

The best time to visit the Martillo Island Penguin Colony is during the southern summer season, which runs from October to March. During these months, the weather in Ushuaia is milder, allowing for a more comfortable sailing experience. This is also the period when the penguins are most active, nesting and raising their chicks. Booking in advance is recommended, as this is one of the most popular excursions in Ushuaia and usually fills up quickly due to tourist demand.

Booking an excursion to the Martillo Island Penguin Colony can be easily done online through specialized web-based accommodations or local travel agencies in Ushuaia. Digital platforms offer the option to choose your preferred date and also select the available time. Payment methods commonly accepted include credit, debit, and bank transfer. It's important to verify that the platform offers a secure payment system to protect your financial information. You can also contact the agency directly to ensure the best service and resolve any questions.

To enjoy the cruise to the Martillo Island Penguin Colony, it's recommended to dress in layers due to the temperature fluctuations that can occur throughout the day in Ushuaia. Bring thermal clothing, a raincoat, and a windbreaker to protect yourself from the cold. Gloves, a hat, and a scarf are also essential, especially in the colder months. Comfortable, non-slip footwear is recommended. Don't forget a camera with enough memory and battery life to capture the stunning landscapes offered by this unique excursion.

Yes, the excursion to the Martillo Island Penguin Colony is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. The catamaran trip is safe and comfortable, allowing tourists to enjoy penguin watching from a short distance without excessive physical exertion. The boats are equipped to accommodate seniors and families with children. However, it is recommended to consult your doctor if you have any special medical conditions. Furthermore, the activities do not require any special skills beyond enjoying nature and taking photographs.
5.0 5 reviews
5.0

Incredible day in Ushuaia

if you are traveling to Ushuaia you shouldn´t miss the tour Navigation With Penguins. It is a unique experience!

Mike
5.0

Dia incrível em Ushuaia

Se você vai viajar para Ushuaia não perca o passeio Navegação Com Pinguins. É uma experiência única!

michelle
5.0

traversant Ushuaia

Excursion très complète: vous pouvez voir l'île des loups, celle des oiseaux, de vieux navires coulés, le phare, nous sommes passés par le canal de Beagle, nous voyons l'île Gable, pour finir de voir la colonie de manchots de Magellan. Il n'y a pas de gaspillage. Tous très intéressant!

Ulises Del Grosso
5.0

Segeln durch Ushuaia

Sehr kompletter Ausflug: Sie sehen die Insel der Wölfe, die der Vögel, alte versunkene Schiffe, den Leuchtturm, wir kamen am Beagle-Kanal vorbei, wir sehen die Gable Island, um die Kolonie der Magellanischen Pinguine zu sehen. Es gibt keine Verschwendung. Alles sehr interessant!

Ulises Del Grosso
5.0

navegando por Ushuaia

Muy completa excursion: se ve la Isla de los Lobos, la de los pájaros, antiguos barcos hundidos, el Faro, pasamos por el Canal de Beagle, vemos la Isla Gable, para terminar viendo la colonia de pingüinos magallánicos. No hay desperdicio. Todo muy interesante!

Ulises Del Grosso
From ARS 277,000 ARS 235,450

Price from, per person ARS 277,000.00 ARS 235,450.00

April 2028
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