The world’s southernmost city delivers exceptional sailing opportunities in the dramatic Beagle Channel. Your options include scenic catamaran tours (great for wildlife spotting) and intimate private yacht experiences for groups up to 15 people. We love the half-day catamaran excursions for their expert commentary and reliable penguin and sea lion sightings. For adventurous travelers, combination tours that pair sailing with hiking in Tierra del Fuego National Park offer the best value. Let’s explore the top sailing tours in Ushuaia.
Key Points
- Catamaran tours through the Beagle Channel offer scenic cruising, wildlife spotting, and on-board amenities like café services and complimentary refreshments.
- Private yacht sailing options are available for up to 15 participants, providing a more personalized experience at a cost of $2,450.
- Guided tours showcase the Beagle Channel’s scenic waterways, historic landmarks, and diverse marine life, including penguins, sea lions, and seabirds.
- Extended multi-day adventure options include hiking, canoeing, and exploration of Tierra del Fuego National Park, offering a comprehensive experience at the “end of the world.”
- Accessibility features, such as wheelchair-friendly catamarans, ensure that the sailing experiences in Ushuaia are inclusive and accommodate various mobility needs.
Catamaran Tour Through the Beagle Channel and Penguins in Isla Martillo
A popular activity in Ushuaia is the Catamaran Tour through the Beagle Channel and Penguins in Isla Martillo. This 5-hour tour takes you on a scenic journey, offering the chance to see penguins, sea lions, and various bird species.
The comfortable catamaran features an on-board café and ample time for photography at each stop. While the crew is knowledgeable, the meeting point can be challenging to find amidst the many tour operators.
Weather cancellations have also been reported, so it’s best to arrive early and be prepared for potential communication issues. This tour provides an immersive wildlife experience, though some improvements to the service and information could enhance the experience further.
Read our full review: Catamaran Tour Through the Beagle Channel and Penguins in Isla Martillo Review
Book now: Check availability
Ushuaia: Beagle Channel & Sea Wolves Island Catamaran Cruise
Discover the captivating beauty of Ushuaia’s Beagle Channel and Sea Wolves Island on this 2.5-hour catamaran cruise. Priced from $78 per person, this tour takes you on a journey through the scenic waterways, offering opportunities to spot seabirds and sea lions.
Climb aboard a modern, comfortable boat and navigate the Ushuaia Bay and Beagle Channel, visiting highlights like Birds Island and Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse. Enjoy an optional guided hike for panoramic views.
With experienced English/Spanish-speaking guides, on-board facilities, and excellent customer reviews, this cruise provides an immersive and memorable experience in the heart of Tierra del Fuego.
Read our full review: Ushuaia: Beagle Channel & Sea Wolves Island Catamaran Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Beagle Channel Sailing Tour: Birds, Seals & Penguins Islands
Set out on a captivating full-day sailing adventure through the Beagle Channel from Ushuaia, Argentina.
Board a catamaran and explore islands teeming with native wildlife, including sea lions, penguins, and a variety of bird species. You’ll visit Seal Island, Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse, Williams Port, and the Magellanic penguin colony on Martillo Island.
The 6-hour tour departs at 3:00 PM from the Muelle Turístico marina, with a maximum capacity of 100 travelers. Enjoy the scenic views, get close to the animals, and consider adding the optional visit to Estancia Harberton for a more comprehensive experience.
Prepare to be amazed by the diverse wildlife and the stunning landscapes of Tierra del Fuego.
Read our full review: Beagle Channel Sailing Tour: Birds, Seals & Penguins Islands Review
Book now: Check availability
Ushuaia: Penguin Watching Tour by Catamaran
Frequently, travelers to Ushuaia, Argentina, choose to experience the natural wonders of the Beagle Channel and its surrounding islands by embarking on the Penguin Watching Tour by Catamaran.
This 5-hour tour, priced from $129 per person, departs from the local tourist dock and navigates to key highlights like Sea Lion Island, Bird Island, and Martillo Island, where you’ll spot Magellanic and Papua penguins.
The modern, comfortable catamaran offers live guides, audio guides, and onboard amenities.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a wheelchair-accessible design, this tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to observe Tierra del Fuego’s diverse wildlife up close.
Read our full review: Ushuaia: Penguin Watching Tour by Catamaran Review
Book now: Check availability
Explore Beagle Channel and Sea Lions Island on a Catamaran Cruise
Exploring the Beagle Channel and Sea Lions Island on a catamaran cruise is a must-do activity for visitors to Ushuaia, Argentina. This 3-hour tour offers the chance to witness the scenic beauty of the region, including former prisons, museums, and iconic landmarks like the Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse.
You’ll also encounter diverse wildlife, from sea lions and fur seals to steamer ducks and albatross. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.
To make the most of your experience, consider booking directly with local operators and opt for a morning cruise to avoid potential cancellations due to afternoon winds.
Don’t forget to bring binoculars, snacks, and be prepared for potential sea sickness.
Read our full review: Explore Beagle Channel and Sea Lions Island on a Catamaran Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
From Ushuaia: Beagle Channel Catamaran Tour
A Beagle Channel catamaran tour is an immersive way to discover the scenic beauty of Ushuaia’s maritime surroundings. Priced from $85 per person, this 3-hour tour lets you sail through the historic channel, known for its shipwrecks, and spot wildlife like sea lions and albatross.
You’ll visit the iconic Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse and learn about the SS Monte Cervantes shipwreck from 1930. With sweeping views of Ushuaia and the Andes, this tour offers excellent value.
Accessibility is a plus, as the tour is wheelchair-friendly. However, keep in mind the large group size, as noted in customer reviews.
Read our full review: From Ushuaia: Beagle Channel Catamaran Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Setting out on a yacht to navigate the Beagle Channel offers a more intimate and personalized sailing experience compared to the larger catamaran tours.
This 4-hour excursion takes you to key wildlife-rich islands, with a maximum of 26 travelers. You’ll disembark for a guided trek on Bridges Island and visit the iconic lighthouse at the end of the world.
Along the way, you’ll marvel at the stunning scenery and spot sea lions, gulls, and possibly penguins. Complimentary hot drinks keep you warm as you cruise through the historic waterway that Charles Darwin himself traversed.
While there’s a risk of longer cruising times, the smaller group size and personal attention from the knowledgeable crew make this a truly memorable Ushuaia sailing experience.
Read our full review: Beagle Channel Navigation on Yacht Review
Book now: Check availability
Catamaran Tour Through the Beagle Channel in Ushuaia
For those seeking a more panoramic and larger-scale experience of the Beagle Channel, the Catamaran Tour provides an engaging alternative to the intimate yacht excursion.
This 2.5-3 hour tour takes you on a catamaran through the channel, with the capacity to accommodate up to 100 travelers. Priced from $75 per person, the tour offers scenic views, wildlife sightings, and a badge of excellence based on 15 positive reviews.
Accessibility features include wheelchair-friendly surfaces, stroller access, and allowance for service animals. While some travelers report minor logistical issues, the overall consensus is that this is a recommended experience for those wanting a comprehensive Beagle Channel adventure.
Read our full review: Catamaran Tour Through the Beagle Channel in Ushuaia Review
Book now: Check availability
3-Day Adventure Tour of Ushuaia: Hiking, Canoeing and Sailing at the End of the World
Discover the natural wonders of Ushuaia, the southernmost city on Earth, with this immersive 3-day adventure tour.
You’ll hike through Tierra del Fuego National Park, canoe on Lago Roca, and embark on a scenic Beagle Channel cruise. With 5-star reviews, this tour offers the perfect blend of activities to explore Ushuaia’s stunning landscapes.
You’ll enjoy 2 nights’ accommodation, select meals, and round-trip airport transfers. While the national park entry fee and port tax are extra, the bilingual guide ensures you make the most of your time.
Whether you’re an avid adventurer or seeking a unique travel experience, this tour promises an unforgettable journey at the “end of the world.”
Read our full review: 3-Day Adventure Tour of Ushuaia: Hiking, Canoeing and Sailing at the End of the World Review
Book now: Check availability
Beagle Channel and Seal Island Catamaran Tour From Ushuaia
After exploring the stunning landscapes of Tierra del Fuego National Park and paddling along Lago Roca, it’s time to venture out onto the Beagle Channel for a captivating catamaran tour.
This 2.5 to 3-hour excursion takes you past scenic coastal islands, including Seal Island, where you’ll have opportunities to spot sea lions and various bird species.
With a maximum of 100 travelers, you’ll enjoy professional guide commentary, complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off, and a provided lunch.
While reviews mention some inconsistencies with the pickup service, the tour generally receives positive feedback for its wildlife sightings and stunning Patagonian views.
Priced from €94.33 per person, it’s a must-do activity for your Ushuaia adventure.
Read our full review: Beagle Channel and Seal Island Catamaran Tour From Ushuaia Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Yacht Sailing on the Beagle Channel
Take in the majestic landscapes of Ushuaia’s Beagle Channel on a private yacht sailing tour.
For $2,450 per group of up to 15 people, you’ll cruise the channel on a private yacht, spotting birds and sea lions along the way. Enjoy complimentary coffee, tea, and hot chocolate as you sail.
While the mini trek on Bridges Island isn’t recommended for those with reduced mobility, most travelers can participate.
With a 5.0-star rating based on 5 reviews, this private tour offers an informative and enjoyable experience.
Consider bringing a microphone to better hear the guide’s commentary. The tour ends back at the meeting point in Ushuaia.
Read our full review: Private Yacht Sailing on the Beagle Channel Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Ushuaia, at the southernmost tip of Argentina, offers unparalleled sailing experiences. Whether you choose a catamaran tour through the Beagle Channel, a trip to Penguin Island, or a private yacht adventure, you’ll be captivated by the region’s stunning natural beauty. With options ranging from day trips to multi-day excursions, you’ll find the perfect sailing experience to suit your interests and budget.