Ushuaia: Beagle Channel Navigation to the Penguin Colony

We begin the navigation departing from the Tourist Pier of our city, heading towards the center of the Beagle Channel. As we sail away, we enjoy panoramic views of the Ushuaia coast, spotting important buildings such as the Maritime Museum (the former prison), the End of the World Museum, the industrial area, and the Olivia and Cinco Hermanos mountains. We navigate southwest, approaching Sea Lion Island, where from the boat we can enjoy views of sea lions in their permanent habitat, set in a marvelous scene. Continuing our navigation, we head towards Bird Island, home to Magellanic and Imperial cormorants, a privileged area to observe marine birdlife. We continue sailing towards the Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse, located in the archipelago of the same name. On these islets, parts of the Monte Cervantes shipwreck, which sank in 1930, can be observed. Following the southern coast of the Big Island of Tierra del Fuego, we will spot Estancia Remolino, where the Monte Sarmiento ship ran aground. Crossing the Beagle Channel north to south, we will see Gable Island and the Puerto Williams Naval Base (located on Navarino Island, Republic of Chile). Upon arriving at Martillo Island, we approach the beach and stay there. It is amazing to observe how the Magellanic penguin colony, which nests during the summer season, approaches the boat with notable curiosity, swimming underneath the catamaran and resurfacing—an unforgettable spectacle that invites countless photographs. From here, we sail back to the Tourist Pier, passing by Estancias Túnel and Fique along the way.

We continue towards the Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse, located in the archipelago of the same name, where the ship Monte Cervantes wrecked in 1930. The return will be via Paso Chico, passing by Estancias Túnel and Fique, returning to Ushuaia with a view of the impressive backdrop provided by Mount Martial and its glacier.

Upon arriving at Martillo Island, we approach the beach and remain there. It is amazing to observe how the Magellanic penguin colony, which nests during the summer season, approaches the boat with notable curiosity, swimming under the catamaran and resurfacing. It’s a spectacle that invites us to take countless photographs. From here, we sail back to the Tourist Pier, passing by Estancias Túnel and Fique along the way.

On the shores of the Beagle Channel and surrounded by the Martial mountain range, Ushuaia offers a unique landscape in Argentina, combining mountains, sea, glaciers, and forests. With its unmatched scenery, Ushuaia provides endless possibilities and activities. In summer, visitors can enjoy trekking, horseback riding, sport fishing, and mountain biking, allowing them to explore nature and discover unexplored places like the incredible Tierra del Fuego National Park. In winter, the magnificent geography and cold temperatures invite skiing—both alpine (downhill) and cross-country (on flat terrain). Sailing the Beagle Channel is another unmissable experience, as it was the stage for the feats of the first colonizers and is home to the region’s characteristic marine wildlife. To fully enjoy your stay in Ushuaia, we recommend always bringing at least one waterproof jacket and comfortable footwear for moving around safely and comfortably on the city’s characteristic sloped streets. Regarding tourist services, the city offers accommodations and restaurants of all categories, as well as banks and currency exchange offices.

Once in the Les Éclaireurs archipelago, we will be able to see the famous lighthouse of the same name, which is also home to colonies of imperial and rock cormorants on its islets. We will leave the lighthouse to continue sailing towards our destination. Along the way, you will be able to observe the predominant vegetation of the area, as well as the settlement of Puerto Williams (Chile) on Navarino Island.

The End of the World Museum preserves the heritage of life in Tierra del Fuego, from the pre-Columbian era through the early 20th century.

Partner