A five-hour catamaran from Ushuaia navigates the Beagle Channel to visit seabird islands, Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse and Martillo Island’s Magellanic and Gentoo penguins. Expect dramatic mountain views, sea lion haul-outs and maritime history along the way.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The catamaran slips free from Ushuaia’s pier and the city’s low roofs fall behind as the Beagle Channel widens, cold wind tracing the scarred flanks of the Fuegian Andes. Sea birds wheel and call; islands punctuate the water like punctuation marks in a long, glacial sentence. You feel the channel pressing at the hull—an invitation to move east toward Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse and the penguin colony on Martillo Island.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required; able to board a small catamaran and walk short distances on uneven tidal terrain at Martillo Island
Wildlife
History
The Beagle Channel has long been a navigation route for indigenous Yamana people and later European explorers; early 20th-century steamships and estancias left nautical wrecks and coastal relics.
Conservation
Penguin colonies are sensitive to disturbance—stay on marked paths during landings and obey guides; support local operators who follow wildlife distancing and leave-no-trace practices.
Reserve your spot on the Beagle Channel Navigation Penguin Colony today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer for Wind and Spray
Bring a windproof outer layer and thermal mid-layer—conditions change quickly on the open channel.
Bring Binoculars
Binoculars increase wildlife sightings on islands and along shorelines where animals congregate.
Take Seasickness Preventatives
If prone to motion sickness, take medication or use acupressure bands before boarding.
Arrive Early to Check In
Plan to be at the Catamaranes Canoeros ticket office 30 minutes before departure for boarding procedures.
Windproof jacket
Blocks cold wind and spray on the exposed channel.
Binoculars
Helps spot seabirds, sea lions and distant penguin colonies.
Sturdy waterproof shoes
Needed for wet, rocky landings and walking short shore sections on Martillo Island.
Motion-sickness remedies
Pills or acupressure bands help if you’re sensitive to rolling in open water.