These Punta Arenas boat excursions let travelers experience southern Chile’s dramatic coastline and wildlife up close. From my years exploring this region, the standout trips focus on the penguin colonies. The Magdalena Island Penguin Tour, while occasionally hit-or-miss with service, offers prime morning viewing of Magellanic penguins in their natural habitat. I’m particularly fond of the Isla Magdalena Navigation Tour for its reliable penguin sightings and bonus sea lion encounters, plus you can bundle it with Torres del Paine for better value.
For active travelers, I recommend the Cape Froward sailing and trek – it’s strenuous but rewards you with untouched wilderness views. The Regular City Cruise provides a comfortable introduction to local waterways, while the Half Day Penguin Colony trip packs the essentials into a shorter timeframe.
Let’s look at my top-rated boat tours in detail:
Key Points
- The Isla Magdalena Navigation Tour offers a highly-rated wildlife encounter to see thousands of Magellanic penguins, with an optional discounted Torres del Paine tour.
- The Cape Froward Guided Sail and Trekking excursion provides a boat cruise through the Strait of Magellan and a challenging three-hour trek with panoramic views.
- The Regular City Cruise Tour offers a comprehensive introduction to Punta Arenas landmarks, though it may not be suitable for individuals with mobility issues.
- The Half Day Sailing to Penguin Colony tour allows for observation of penguins in their natural habitat, with a scenic boat journey across the Magdalena Strait.
- The Magdalena Island Penguin Tour, while providing an opportunity to observe Magellanic penguins, has mixed reviews due to reliability issues and long wait times.
Magdalena Island Penguin Tour by Boat From Punta Arenas
A morning boat tour from Punta Arenas takes visitors to the protected nature reserve of Magdalena Island, home to thousands of Magellanic penguins.
The 45-minute bus ride to the departure point is followed by a powerboat trip. Travelers can spend an hour on the island observing penguins’ nesting habits and behaviors, including nurturing and swimming, and may spot sea lions and elephant seals.
While the tour offers a unique wildlife experience, it has received mixed reviews, with some reporting reliability issues and long wait times for customer service.
Priced at $160, the tour may be more expensive than local alternatives, though guides are generally praised for their friendliness and knowledge.
Read our full review: Magdalena Island Penguin Tour by Boat From Punta Arenas Review
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Walk With Thousands of Penguins on Isla Magdalena and Sail Around Isla Marta
Visitors seeking an immersive encounter with Punta Arenas’ iconic wildlife can embark on the Magdalena Island Navigation tour. Priced at €194, this highly-rated 5.0 experience allows travelers to witness thousands of Magellanic penguins in their natural habitat.
The navigation also offers the chance to spot sea lions around Isla Marta. With a discounted full-day Torres del Paine tour available for €123 and a value excursion to Punta Arenas and Strait of Magellan Park for €193, travelers have diverse options to explore the region’s stunning scenery and diverse wildlife.
Read our full review: Walk With Thousands of Penguins on Isla Magdalena and Sail Around Isla Marta Review
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Punta Arenas: Cape Froward Guided Sail and Trekking Day Trip
Exploring the remote and rugged landscapes of Punta Arenas, the Cape Froward Guided Sail and Trekking Day Trip offers an immersive adventure.
Priced from $420 per person, the 12-hour excursion takes travelers on a boat cruise through the Strait of Magellan to Cape Froward, South America’s southernmost point.
Highlights include a picnic lunch, wildlife sightings, and a challenging three-hour trek.
While the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, the panoramic views of Tierra del Fuego and the Darwin range make it a popular choice.
However, some past participants have expressed concerns about inconsistencies between the advertised and actual experiences.
Read our full review: Punta Arenas: Cape Froward Guided Sail and Trekking Day Trip Review
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Regular City Cruise Tour
The Regular City Cruise Tour provides travelers with a comprehensive introduction to Punta Arenas’ key landmarks and attractions.
Lasting around 3 hours, the tour is operated by Turismo Viento del Sur and can accommodate up to 30 guests.
Travelers will meet their knowledgeable guide at the passenger lounge, then embark on a journey that includes visits to notable city sights.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, strollers and infant seats are available.
Feedback on the tour is mixed, with some praising the guide’s performance and local knowledge, while others reported poor weather conditions and inadequate commentary.
At $65, the tour is competitively priced and bookable through Viator.
Read our full review: Regular City Cruise Tour Review
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Half Day Sailing Magdlena Island Penguin Colony P.Arenas October to March Only
Travelers visiting Punta Arenas can easily book a half-day sailing excursion to the renowned Magdalena Island Penguin Colony, running from October through March.
This approximately 4-hour tour offers the opportunity to observe thousands of penguins in their natural habitat. Adventurers can access instant mobile tickets and choose from English, Portuguese, or Spanish language options.
The experience includes a scenic boat journey across the Magdalena Strait to the island, followed by a guided foot tour of the coastal scenery.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is designed to avoid large crowds typically found on land-based tours.
Cancellations are permitted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, though limited flexibility is available post-booking.
Read our full review: Half Day Sailing Magdlena Island Penguin Colony P.Arenas October to March Only Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Times to Visit Punta Arenas for Cruises and Tours?
The best times to visit Punta Arenas for cruises and tours are during the summer months of November to March. This is when the weather’s milder, and many operators offer a range of excursions to nearby islands and glaciers.
What Are the Safety Precautions for the Penguin Tours?
Penguin tours in Punta Arenas require proper safety gear like waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear. Visitors must stay on designated paths, maintain a safe distance from the animals, and follow the guide’s instructions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Tours?
Most boat tour operators allow passengers to bring their own food and drinks on the tours. However, it’s best to check with the specific tour company beforehand to ensure their policies align with your plans.
What Is the Difference Between a Sail and a Cruise Tour?
A sail tour uses wind power to propel the boat, while a cruise tour is powered by an engine. Sail tours generally offer a more peaceful, eco-friendly experience, while cruises often provide more amenities and activities on board.
Are the Tours Suitable for Children and Elderly Passengers?
Most cruises and boat tours cater to passengers of all ages, including children and the elderly. Many offer amenities and activities suitable for families and those with limited mobility, making them an accessible option for a wide range of travelers.
The Sum Up
Punta Arenas offers a variety of engaging cruise and boat tour options for visitors. From the Magdalena Island penguin tour to the Cape Froward sailing and trekking excursion, there’s something to suit different interests and budgets. Travelers can explore the region’s natural wonders, see thousands of penguins, and enjoy the scenic coastal views. With these diverse activities, Punta Arenas is an excellent destination for those seeking unique maritime experiences.