The Maria Turquesa Full Day Sightseeing Glaciers Cruise promises an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes of Argentina’s Los Glaciares National Park. Guests can look forward to awe-inspiring views of the towering Upsala and Perito Moreno glaciers, all while enjoying the attentive service of knowledgeable bilingual guides. With a range of dining options, flexible pickup arrangements, and a remarkable 4.5-star rating, this cruise offers an exceptional sightseeing experience. But what truly sets this tour apart are the intricate details that elevate it beyond a mere excursion, inviting travelers to enjoy the natural wonder of one of the world’s most captivating destinations.
This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In El Calafate.
Key Points
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The Maria Turquesa Cruise offers a full-day sightseeing experience on Lake Argentino, providing stunning views of the Upsala and Perito Moreno glaciers in El Calafate, Argentina.
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Customers can choose between a classic deck with a box lunch or a premium deck with a 4-course gourmet lunch, both with the services of a bilingual local guide.
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Entrance fees to Los Glaciares National Park are included, and some packages offer round-trip transfers from select El Calafate hotels for added convenience.
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The cruise boasts a 4.5-star rating from over 234 reviews, highlighting its popularity among travelers seeking an exceptional glaciers sightseeing experience.
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Booking can be done directly through the tour operator’s website or customer service, with immediate confirmation and options to accommodate dietary requirements and accessibility needs.
Tour Overview and Highlights
The Maria Turquesa Glacier Cruise offers a full-day sightseeing experience on Lake Argentino in El Calafate, Argentina, providing visitors with stunning views of the Upsala and Perito Moreno glaciers.
Travelers can choose between a classic or gourmet cruise, each with enhanced viewing platforms for optimal glacier observation.
The tour includes round-trip transfers from El Calafate hotels in select packages, making it a hassle-free experience.
With over 234 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, this cruise is a popular choice among visitors seeking to witness the natural wonders of the region.
Whether you opt for the classic box lunch or the premium gourmet menu, the Maria Turquesa Glacier Cruise promises an unforgettable day on the water.
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Inclusions and Options
Aside from the breathtaking views, the Maria Turquesa Glacier Cruise offers a range of inclusions and options to suit different preferences and budgets.
Travelers can choose between a classic deck featuring a box lunch with a non-alcoholic drink or a premium deck that includes a delectable 4-course gourmet lunch.
Regardless of the package, all guests will enjoy the services of a bilingual local guide and the convenience of entrance fees to Los Glaciares National Park.
For those seeking a hassle-free experience, select options even include round-trip transfers from El Calafate hotels.
Whether you opt for the classic or premium experience, the Maria Turquesa Glacier Cruise is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Meeting and Pickup Details
Travelers can meet the tour directly at the Cruise Port Marpatag – Puerto La Soledad, Santa Cruz Province, Argentina, or opt for pickup from their hotels in El Calafate starting as early as 07:15 AM.
The meeting time for those opting out of the transfers is 08:30 AM for the presentation on board. This convenient option ensures a hassle-free start to the day’s adventure, allowing guests to focus on the stunning scenery that awaits them.
Whether you choose to make your own way or enjoy the door-to-door service, the tour’s flexible pickup arrangements cater to the needs of all travelers, making the journey to the glaciers a seamless and enjoyable experience.
What to Expect
Booking confirmation arrives immediately after reserving the tour, ensuring a smooth start to the journey.
Wheelchair and stroller accessibility cater to the needs of all travelers, while dietary requirements can be accommodated when specified at the time of booking. Vegetarian options are available to satisfy different preferences.
To make the most of the experience, the following are recommended:
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Dress in warm, waterproof layers, including hiking boots, gloves, hat, and scarf, to stay comfortable in the Patagonian climate.
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Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a camera, and binoculars to capture the stunning glacial landscapes.
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Be prepared for potential itinerary changes, as the tour may adapt to ensure the best possible experience.
Traveler Reviews and Feedback
Overwhelmingly, reviews of the Maria Turquesa Glacier Cruise highlight the stunning views, efficient organization, and friendly staff that contribute to a memorable experience.
Travelers praise the cruise’s ability to deliver breathtaking panoramas of the Upsala and Perito Moreno glaciers. Many note the smooth logistics, from seamless hotel pickups to on-board presentations. Guests also commend the knowledgeable bilingual guides who enhance the experience with their expertise.
While some reviewers mention pricing discrepancies or minor issues with food quality, the majority enthusiastically recommend the tour for its exceptional scenery and overall execution.
Suggestions for improvement include allowing more time at the Perito Moreno glacier and offering professional photography services to capture the awe-inspiring vistas.
Ready to set sail again? More boat adventures we've reviewed in El Calafate
- Perito Moreno Glacier Day Trip With Optional Boat Ride
- Perito Moreno Glacier Full Day Tour With Optional Boat Safari
- Maria Turquesa Full Day Sightseeing Glaciers Cruise
- The Calafate Boat Tour to the Glaciers + Lunch (Gourmet Glaciers)
- El Calafate: Perito Moreno Glacier & Optional Boat Cruise
- El Calafate: All Glaciers Boat Trip
Cruise Itinerary
The full-day sightseeing cruise on Lake Argentino embarks from the Cruise Port Marpatag in Santa Cruz Province, Argentina, providing passengers with awe-inspiring vistas of the Upsala and Perito Moreno glaciers.
The cruise offers three main highlights:
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Witnessing the magnificent Upsala Glacier, one of the largest in South America, with its towering walls of ice and dramatic calving events.
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Marveling at the Perito Moreno Glacier, a stunning natural wonder that continuously advances and retreats, creating a captivating display of the power of nature.
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Choosing between classic or gourmet dining experiences, allowing guests to customize their cruise and enjoy the breathtaking scenery in the way that suits them best.
Onboard Dining Experiences
Guests aboard the Maria Turquesa Glacier Cruise can choose between two distinct dining experiences to complement their sightseeing adventure.
Those opting for the Classic deck will enjoy a convenient box lunch, complete with a non-alcoholic beverage.
For a more elevated experience, the Premium deck offers a four-course gourmet lunch, allowing passengers to savor the flavors of the region while taking in the stunning vistas.
Both options are served by a bilingual local guide, ensuring that guests receive attentive service throughout their journey.
Whether travelers choose the classic or premium dining experience, they can be assured of a delightful culinary complement to their unforgettable glaciers cruise.
Booking and Reservations
Booking the Maria Turquesa Glacier Cruise can be done directly through the tour operator’s website or by contacting their customer service team, ensuring a hassle-free reservation process.
Travelers have the option to select from various package options, including those that include round-trip transfers from their hotel in El Calafate, providing a seamless start and end to their sightseeing excursion.
The booking process offers several advantages:
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Immediate confirmation of the reservation upon completion.
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Flexibility to accommodate dietary requirements and accessibility needs.
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Opportunity to add optional extras, such as alcoholic beverages, for a more customized experience.
With these convenient booking options, travelers can look forward to an unforgettable journey, exploring the stunning Upsala and Perito Moreno glaciers on the Maria Turquesa Glacier Cruise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?
Passengers can generally bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks on cruise excursions, but it’s best to check the specific policies beforehand. Some tours may have restrictions or include meals as part of the package.
Is the Cruise Available Year-Round or Only During Certain Seasons?
The cruise is typically available year-round, though operating hours and accessibility may vary by season. Visitors should check with the tour operator for specific seasonal schedules and any potential weather-related disruptions to ensure the best experience.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The maximum group size for the tour is not explicitly stated in the provided knowledge. However, it notes that the itinerary is subject to change, and there’s a maximum of 1 traveler per booking, suggesting a small group experience.
Is There an Age Limit or Restrictions for Children on the Cruise?
The tour doesn’t have an age limit, but it’s not recommended for very young children. Families with infants or toddlers should check if the cruise accommodates their needs. Older children are welcome, but parents should supervise them closely during the trip.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Gear for the Tour?
The tour recommends bringing hiking boots, warm waterproof jackets, thermal clothing, gloves, hats, and scarves to stay comfortable and prepared for the glacial environment. Sunscreen, sunglasses, cameras, and binoculars are also suggested to fully enjoy the scenery.
Recap
The Maria Turquesa Full Day Sightseeing Glaciers Cruise is an exceptional way to experience the stunning glaciers of Lake Argentino.
With a high-quality service, diverse dining options, and knowledgeable guides, this tour provides an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Los Glaciares National Park.
Highly rated by previous guests, the cruise is a must-do activity for anyone seeking to witness the majestic beauty of Patagonia.
More Full Day in El Calafate
More Boat Tours & Cruises in El Calafate
- Perito Moreno Glacier Private Tour With Boat Ride
- Boat Tour Todo Glaciares From El Calafate (Fullday Tour)
- Todo Glaciares Boat Tour From El Calafate.
- Unique Gourmet Experience – Perito Moreno Glacier Boat Ride
- Boat Tour at Premium Lounge – VIP Glaciares Gourmet + Pick up
- Perito Moreno Glacier Private Tour With Boat Ride
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