
Catamaran Tour through the Beagle Channel and Penguins in Isla Martillo
Traveler rating
4.2/5
Based on 127 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Catamaran Tour through the Beagle Channel and Penguins in Isla Martillo worth booking?
Catamaran Tour through the Beagle Channel and Penguins in Isla Martillo is a 5-hour experience in Ushuaia, Argentina, from $240 per person. It scores 62 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.2/5 rating across 127 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 62 / 100
- Rating
- 4.2/5 (127)
- Duration
- 5 hours
- From
- $240 per person
This tour is carried out within the maritime excursions in Ushuaia. Navigation through the Beagle Channel is one of the 3 must-see tours in Ushuaia. You will enjoy and navigate the waters of our ancestors, the Yámanas canoeists. Also, get to know our marine fauna. On the tour we will see: Isla de los Pájaros, Isla de los Lobos, Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse and of course the Ushuaia penguins. We do this maritime tour through the Beagle Channel in Canoero Catamarans, the most modern fleet of catamarans in Ushuaia, 2018 and 2019 models.
What you get
About this experience
This tour is carried out within the maritime excursions in Ushuaia. Navigation through the Beagle Channel is one of the 3 must-see tours in Ushuaia. You will enjoy and navigate the waters of our ancestors, the Yámanas canoeists. Also, get to know our marine fauna. On the tour we will see: Isla de los Pájaros, Isla de los Lobos, Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse and of course the Ushuaia penguins. We do this maritime tour through the Beagle Channel in Canoero Catamarans, the most modern fleet of catamarans in Ushuaia, 2018 and 2019 models.
What's included
Included
- Navigation and guidance
- All Fees and Taxes
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- On-board restrooms
Not included
- Private transportation
What you'll see and do
Isla de Los Pajaros
Here you can see the varied flora and fauna of the place. Skuas, Black-browed Albatross, Steam Ducks, Cauquenes, Cook Gulls and Gray Gulls stand out in particular.
We visit the "Isla de los Lobos" where the attractive star that you will see are the one and two-haired sea lions. Both Isla de los Pájaros and Isla de los Lobos are part of the Bridges archipelago.
Faro Les Eclaireurs
At the Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse (misnamed Lighthouse at the End of the World) we will make the stop that everyone is waiting for !!!: The famous photo with the lighthouse behind it, that unmissable photo that we all want to take as a souvenir. There you will also be able to see Imperial and Rocky Cormorants, as we will also understand about the shipwreck of the SS Monte Cervantes in the 1930s.
20 minutes here · Admission included
Isla Bridges
We will visit the archipelago of the Bridges Islands.
Pass by without stopping
We will see the fishing village of Ushuaia, Puerto Almanza.
Pass by without stopping
Puerto Williams
We will sight the Chilean town on the other side of the Beagle Channel.
Pass by without stopping
We will visit Gable Island, the old home of our ancient Yámanas.
Pass by without stopping
Martillo Island
Here we will stop the boat for about 40 minutes on the island's beach and we will see a colony of more than 6,000 Magellanic and Gentoo penguins and if we are lucky, some King penguins. We will be with the boat directly on the beach where they nest, without disturbing them, we will see how they swim and walk just 4 or 5 meters from us!
40 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Ushuaia
We will meet at the Ushuaia Tourist Port, located on the waterfront of our city at the intersection of Avenida Prefectura Naval Argentina and Comodoro Augusto Laserre. As a reference, we are right in front of the Secretary of Tourism.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
We will meet at the Ushuaia Tourist Port, located on the waterfront of our city at the intersection of Avenida Prefectura Naval Argentina and Comodoro Augusto Laserre. As a reference, we are right in front of the Secretary of Tourism.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- pt, en, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Info de Ushuaia
Know before you go
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Port fee included (USD 1 or ARS400)
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 127 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Value for money
4 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Photo opportunities
3 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
The guide
2 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
2 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Organization
2 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Traveler reviews
127 verified traveler reviews for Catamaran Tour through the Beagle Channel and Penguins in Isla Martillo. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Couldn't hear well from...
Couldn't hear well from your lady. If provide language selections and headphones which is similar with Hop on Hop off is better.
Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing your feedback and for joining the navigation through the Beagle Channel with the visit to Isla Martillo. We appreciate your suggestion regarding the audio. The navigation and onboard commentary are provided directly by the navigation company that operates the catamaran, which is an independent service. We will make sure to share your comment with them, as feedback from travelers is always helpful. We hope you were still able to enjoy the unique experience of sailing through the Beagle Channel and observing the wildlife of this remarkable region. Thank you for taking the time to share your review. Best regards, Mara.
via Viator
Morning wildlife excursion
Most important before you get to port/ boat !!! You must get your actual ticket ( white paper ticket from a cabin nearby, there is a collection of them just near to entrance to port). Get down to port area early to avoid lines and potentially missing trip. ) I showed them my voucher on phone and they gave me ticket for specific boat . The trip on catamaran was comfortable and staff friendly . It was a beautiful morning out on the seas. The journey took a while to see animals but it was worth it. The only thing to mention on site if that boat approached martillo island and you don’t get off to walk around with penguins. It would be a helpful note to add!)
Response from the operator: Thank you for your detailed review and for sharing practical tips for future travelers. We’re glad you found the navigation comfortable and enjoyed the morning on the Beagle Channel. Regarding Isla Martillo, we would like to clarify that this specific tour does not include disembarkation or walking among the penguins. At no point in the product description or itinerary is a penguin walk mentioned. On the contrary, the itinerary clearly states that the boat approaches the beach where they nest — “We will be with the boat directly on the beach where they nest, without disturbing them.” The navigation described here is designed as a wildlife observation experience from the boat, respecting environmental regulations and minimizing disturbance to the colony. We appreciate your feedback and understand how expectations can sometimes differ, especially when multiple penguin experiences exist in Ushuaia. We hope you still enjoyed the unique opportunity to observe them in their natural environment. Warm regards, Mara.
via Viator
Crew was very...
Crew was very professional, courteous and friendly. The only downside was at the penguin island. I initially thought we would step on the island but we stayed on the boat and rotated around the perimeter of the boat to take pictures. The best spot for pictures was taken up by individuals who paid to get their pictures taken by the crew.
Response from the operator: Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. We’re glad to know that you found the crew professional, courteous, and friendly — that’s something consistently highlighted on this navigation. Regarding Isla Martillo, we’d like to clarify that the excursion does not include disembarkation on the island. For conservation reasons, penguin visits are carried out exclusively from the vessel, which approaches the shoreline and navigates slowly around the island so all passengers can observe and photograph the penguins in their natural habitat. This is also clearly stated in the tour description, where it is specified that the experience takes place from the boat, without landing on the island. The onboard photography service you mention is an optional service offered during the navigation and is managed directly on board. While it may give access to certain moments or positions, the vessel continuously changes orientation during the stop so everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the views. We hope that, beyond this aspect, the chance to see penguins up close in one of the southernmost corners of the world was a memorable part of your visit to Ushuaia. Best regards, Mara.
via Viator
Penguins - great! Photographers - rude!
I want to start this review by saying the penguins are well worth the visit! The staff on the boat is another story. The boat runs a photography service and people who choose to pay for the photo service get the best spots on the boat to see the penguins. That part is a bit of a racket. The cruise is already so expensive and if you don't fork over more cash, you do not have access to the prime boat spots. Additionally, when the photographer is talking and selling you their services, they will call you out if you talk. It was embarrassing for a few people. The boat was very comfortable and clean. Be prepared with warm winter clothes. The boat ride (outside) is very cold. Inside it is warm and there are plenty of food options if you are hungry. Overall, it was great to see the penguins but the experience could have been better if the photographers were not so pushy and rude.
Response from the operator: Thank you for taking the time to share such a detailed review. We’re glad to know that seeing the penguins at Isla Martillo was a highlight for you — observing them in their natural habitat is truly one of the most memorable moments of this navigation. Regarding the points you mention about the photographers on board, it’s important to clarify that the navigation itself is an independent service operated by a third party. While we manage the reservation, the onboard organization — including optional photography services — is handled directly by the navigation operator. These photo services are optional and intended for passengers who wish to purchase a professional souvenir, but they should not interfere with the overall experience. That said, we understand how situations like the one you describe can feel uncomfortable, and we appreciate you sharing your perspective. We will pass this feedback along to the operator so they are aware of how this was perceived. We also appreciate you highlighting the comfort and cleanliness of the boat, as well as the importance of dressing warmly — the cold and wind are very much part of the authentic Ushuaia experience. We hope that, overall, the chance to see the penguins and navigate the Beagle Channel remains a special memory from your visit to the southernmost city in the world. Kind regards, Mara
via Viator
Stunning nature and sites
Just absolutely gorgeous sites and wildlife! This trip was so worth it and sunny day to boot! Do it!
Response from the operator: Thank you for your enthusiastic review! We are so glad you enjoyed the wildlife and the gorgeous sites of the Beagle Channel. You were lucky to have such a sunny day to enhance the experience! At Info De Ushuaia®, with over 20 years of experience, we love hearing that our visitors consider this trip "so worth it." It truly is one of the best ways to discover the nature of the region. We hope to see you again soon at the End of the World! Best regards, Mara.
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 44
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Info de Ushuaia, who run 12 experiences we rank across 2 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 62.7.
See everything Info de Ushuaia runsWhy this scores 62
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Catamaran Tour through the Beagle Channel and Penguins in Isla Martillo: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Ushuaia.
How much does Catamaran Tour through the Beagle Channel and Penguins in Isla Martillo cost?
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Prices start at $240 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Ushuaia usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Catamaran Tour through the Beagle Channel and Penguins in Isla Martillo take?
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Plan for about 5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Ushuaia is not rushed.
Is Catamaran Tour through the Beagle Channel and Penguins in Isla Martillo worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 62 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.2/5 across 127 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Ushuaia, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Catamaran Tour through the Beagle Channel and Penguins in Isla Martillo?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Catamaran Tour through the Beagle Channel and Penguins in Isla Martillo suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Catamaran Tour through the Beagle Channel and Penguins in Isla Martillo?
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Around 44 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Ushuaia can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Ushuaia and add a light layer if any part of the 5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Catamaran Tour through the Beagle Channel and Penguins in Isla Martillo start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Ushuaia within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Ushuaia?
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On Outty we rank every Ushuaia experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Vinciguerra Glacier Trekking and Premium Floe Lagoon, King Crab Route 4WD Off Road with lunch in Puerto Almanza, Tierra del Fuego National Park – Small Groups. Optional Train. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Ushuaia?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Ushuaia?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Catamaran Tour through the Beagle Channel and Penguins in Isla Martillo?
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Included: Navigation and guidance; All Fees and Taxes; In-vehicle air conditioning; and On-board restrooms. Not included: Private transportation. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Catamaran Tour through the Beagle Channel and Penguins in Isla Martillo?
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We will meet at the Ushuaia Tourist Port, located on the waterfront of our city at the intersection of Avenida Prefectura Naval Argentina and Comodoro Augusto Laserre. As a reference. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Catamaran Tour through the Beagle Channel and Penguins in Isla Martillo offered in?
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It is offered in Portuguese, English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Catamaran Tour through the Beagle Channel and Penguins in Isla Martillo?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Catamaran Tour through the Beagle Channel and Penguins in Isla Martillo wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible; and Transportation options are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Catamaran Tour through the Beagle Channel and Penguins in Isla Martillo if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Catamaran Tour through the Beagle Channel and Penguins in Isla Martillo?
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Across 127 reviews averaging 4.2 out of 5, recurring themes include value for money, photo opportunities, the guide. Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.
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