Ushuaia Penguin Tour: Boat Trip to Martillo Island

At the southern tip of Argentina, the city of Ushuaia invites you to join a unique adventure: a boat trip along the Beagle Channel to Isla Martillo and its penguin colony. During the journey you will discover seabird colonies, sea lions and the history of the Beagle Channel, surrounded by breathtaking Patagonian landscapes.

Tour Itinerary

1. Departure from Ushuaia’s port. The tour begins at the tourist pier, sailing through the Bay of Ushuaia before entering the Beagle Channel, with panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.

2. Bird Island. First stop at this islet of the Bridges archipelago, home to albatrosses, skuas, upland geese, steamer ducks and gulls, offering a close-up view of Fuegian birdlife.

3. Sea Lion Island. Navigation continues around the island inhabited by South American sea lions, easily spotted as they rest on the rocky shores.

4. Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse. Symbol of the Beagle Channel, this lighthouse is surrounded by colonies of imperial and rock cormorants. Here the guides share the story of the Monte Cervantes shipwreck in 1930.

5. Eastern Beagle Channel. Sailing further east reveals impressive mountain landscapes, along with views of Puerto Almanza on the Argentine side and Puerto Williams on the Chilean coast.

6. Isla Martillo – Penguin Colony. The highlight of the trip: Isla Martillo, home to Magellanic penguins and some gentoo penguins. From the boat you can watch them walking, swimming and nesting along the shore.

7. Return along the northern coast. On the way back, the boat follows the north shore of the Beagle Channel, passing historic sites like Estancia Túnel and Estancia Remolino, where the remains of the Monte Sarmiento ship still lie. The tour ends with one last panoramic view of Ushuaia and its surrounding mountain range.

Why choose Argentina4u

• Local expertise: tours operated by licensed companies with in-depth knowledge of the region.
• Authentic experiences: small groups and guides specialized in wildlife and nature.
• Trusted service: over a decade of experience offering tours at the End of the World.

Explore the Beagle Channel and enjoy a unique view of the penguins of Isla Martillo. Book your penguin tour with Argentina4u and secure your spot on this unforgettable Ushuaia experience.

• What is the best season to visit the penguin colony on Martillo Island?

Penguins can be seen on the island between October and March, when they nest and raise their chicks. Outside these months, the colony migrates.

• Does the tour include walking among the penguins?

On this excursion, penguin watching is done from the boat, sailing around the island. For those who want the walking experience, there are specific tours that can be booked separately.

• How long does the navigation to Martillo Island last?

The tour lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, including stops at Bird Island, Sea Lion Island, and Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse.

• Is the tour canceled in case of bad weather?

If there are strong winds or adverse conditions in the Beagle Channel, the departure may be rescheduled for safety reasons. It is advisable to book with flexible dates.

• What should I bring for the penguin tour?

The weather in Ushuaia is unpredictable, even in summer. We recommend bringing layered clothing, hat, gloves, sunscreen, and a camera.