Cruise the Beagle Channel from Ushuaia for sea lion colonies, bird rookeries and a short guided walk among Yámana shell middens on the Bridges Islands. This 3-hour catamaran trip mixes maritime history, wildlife viewing and an easy coastal trek.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Salt air bites at the face as the catamaran slips out of Ushuaia's port and into the Beagle Channel. Mountains hush on both sides, and the channel pushes and pulls like a living corridor—sometimes polite, sometimes insistent—guiding the boat toward low, wind-scoured isles. Passengers lean into the rail to read the coastline: the old maritime prison, the End of the World Museum, and the dark angles of Olivia and the Cinco Hermanos peaks.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; short, flat 20-minute island walk accessible to most participants
Wildlife
History
The route mirrors passages used by early European explorers like Darwin and long-occupied Yámana coastal sites; shipwreck history, including Monte Cervantes, punctuates local lore.
Conservation
Operators emphasize no-touch wildlife viewing and staying on designated paths to protect archaeological sites and sensitive coastal vegetation.
Reserve your spot on the Explore the Beagle Channel: Navigate and Trek the Bridges Islands today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive early for port processing
Arrive 30 minutes before departure to exchange tickets and pay the port fee—boarding is punctual.
Dress in windproof layers
Wind and spray make ambient temperatures feel several degrees colder than Ushuaia; a waterproof outer layer is essential.
Bring binoculars and a camera with zoom
Sea lions and seabirds are best observed from the boat—optical zoom or binoculars improve sightings and photos.
Respect wildlife distances
Follow the guide’s instructions on approach distances; never attempt to touch or feed animals on islands.
Windproof waterproof jacket
Protects against spray and strong channel winds throughout the year.
Sturdy waterproof shoes
Helpful for uneven terrain on the island and wet gangways during disembarkation.
Binoculars
Improves views of sea lions, cormorants and distant coastline from the boat.
Insulating mid-layer (fleece)
Traps warmth between the base layer and shell when winds pick up on deck.