The Calafate Boat Tour to the Glaciers + Lunch (Gourmet Glaciers)

Nestled in the heart of Patagonia, the Calafate Boat Tour to the Glaciers promises an unforgettable adventure. Travelers can witness the majestic ice formations of five breathtaking glaciers, while enjoying a gourmet lunch and breathtaking scenery. With professional bilingual guides leading the way, guests will have the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of ice calving and encounter diverse wildlife. This remarkable tour not only immerses visitors in the stunning natural landscapes of the region, but also offers a chance to savor the culinary delights of Patagonia. As the boat glides through the turquoise waters, one can’t help but wonder what other surprises this journey has in store.

This experience made our list of the 9 Best Lunch Experiences In El Calafate.

Key Points

• The Calafate Boat Tour offers close-up views of five major glaciers in Patagonia, with the opportunity to witness dramatic ice calving.
• The tour includes a gourmet box lunch with dessert and a glass of wine, providing sustenance during the immersive glacial exploration.
• Professional guides fluent in both Spanish and English lead the tour, ensuring an informative and enriching experience for all travelers.
• Pickup options include hotel or cruise port, offering convenient transportation to the tour’s starting point.
• The tour promises an unforgettable adventure, showcasing the breathtaking natural wonders of Patagonia’s landscapes.

Tour Overview and Details

The Calafate Boat Tour to the Glaciers offers travelers a comprehensive experience, providing a boat tour around five of the region’s main glaciers, a gourmet lunch with drinks and dessert, and entrance to the Los Glaciares National Park.

Priced from $239.00, this tour can accommodate up to 50 travelers and is led by professional guides fluent in both Spanish and English.

Pickup from accommodations in El Calafate is included, though Airbnbs and homes without reception will need to use an alternative meeting point.

The tour features close views of the glaciers, icebergs, and the dramatic sight of ice falling into the water, making it a must-see for glacier enthusiasts.

Pickup and Meeting Information

Travelers can choose between two convenient options to begin their Calafate Boat Tour to the Glaciers – either a hotel pickup from accommodations in El Calafate or meeting at the Cruise Port Marpatag in Puerto Bandera. The hotel pickup runs from 7:00 a.m. to 7:30 a.m., ensuring a punctual start to the day’s adventure. However, those staying at Airbnbs or accommodations without a reception area will need to use the alternative meeting point. To make the logistics as seamless as possible, the tour provider has thoughtfully provided these two options for travelers. Regardless of the starting point, the Calafate Boat Tour promises an unforgettable exploration of the stunning glaciers.

Pickup Option	Start Time	Location
Hotel Pickup	7:00 AM – 7:30 AM	Accommodations in El Calafate
Meeting Point	N/A	Cruise Port Marpatag, Puerto Bandera
No Pickup	N/A	Airbnbs or accommodations without reception

Tour Experience and Highlights

What makes the Calafate Boat Tour to the Glaciers a must-do experience? The tour offers an array of captivating activities and features, allowing visitors to witness the breathtaking natural wonders up close.

During the boat tour, travelers can marvel at the imposing glaciers, icebergs, and the dramatic sight of ice calving into the water.

The tour highlights include:

• Close-up views of the region’s five main glaciers, offering a truly immersive experience.

• The opportunity to witness the incredible power of nature as large chunks of ice break off and plunge into the water.

• The chance to spot diverse wildlife, such as birds and marine life, in their natural habitats.

• The inclusion of a gourmet lunch and drinks, adding to the overall enjoyment of the tour.

Food and Dining

A box lunch is included with the tour, though some reviews suggest it may be of subpar quality. Dessert and a glass of wine are also provided as part of the lunch.

Travelers have the option to bring their own personal lunch, which some recommend doing based on concerns over the included meal. While the provided lunch may not be the highlight of the tour, it does offer sustenance and a chance to refuel before continuing the glacier exploration.

Those seeking a more satisfying dining experience may want to consider purchasing their own meal to bring along. Ultimately, the tour’s focus remains on the stunning glacial views, with the included lunch serving as a functional, if not exceptional, component of the overall experience.

Traveler Feedback and Recommendations

Many travelers praise the tour’s amazing views, friendly staff, and overall organization, despite some minor drawbacks.

While a few reviewers note issues like a crowded boat, seating problems, and disappointing lunch quality, the vast majority recommend the experience as a must-see for glacier enthusiasts.

Some key traveler suggestions include:

• Arrive early to secure better seating

• Consider exploring local vendors for similar tours at lower prices

• Bring your own lunch to avoid quality concerns with the provided box lunch

• Account for any additional costs, such as return trips, when budgeting for the tour

Scenic Highlights of the Boat Tour

The Calafate Boat Tour offers travelers a captivating journey through the majestic landscapes of Patagonia, showcasing the awe-inspiring glaciers that define this region.

As the boat glides across the pristine waters, guests are treated to close-up views of towering ice formations, some of which reach heights of over 60 meters. The sheer size and power of the glaciers are truly humbling, with the occasional cracking and calving of ice into the lake adding to the excitement.

Passengers can observe the intricate patterns and vibrant hues of the glaciers, from the brilliant white to the mesmerizing blues and greens. This unforgettable experience allows visitors to witness the raw beauty and magnificence of Patagonia’s natural wonders.

Preparing for the Glaciers Adventure

To make the most of the Calafate Boat Tour, travelers would do well to prepare in advance by packing appropriate clothing and essentials for the glaciers adventure.

The tour takes visitors up close to the awe-inspiring ice formations, so warm, waterproof layers, sturdy shoes, and sun protection are musts.

It’s also a good idea to bring:

• A small backpack or daypack to carry personal items

• Water and snacks to keep energy levels up

• A camera to capture the breathtaking scenery

• Motion sickness medication if needed, as the boat ride can be choppy

With a bit of planning, travelers can ensure they’re ready to fully enjoy the glaciers’ majesty and make the most of this unforgettable Patagonian experience.

Booking and Customization Options

Booking the Calafate Boat Tour offers travelers several customization options to suit their preferences and needs.

Travelers can choose to include hotel pickup, which provides a seamless start to the day. Alternatively, they can opt to meet the group at the designated cruise port location.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 50 people, ensuring an intimate experience. While the primary language of the professional guide is Spanish and English, the tour is accessible to travelers of various linguistic backgrounds.

Plus, the package includes entrance to the renowned Los Glaciares National Park, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the stunning glacial landscape.

With these flexible booking options, travelers can tailor the Calafate Boat Tour to their individual requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Boat Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?

The boat tour may not be the most suitable for families with young children. The crowded boat and potential seating issues could make it challenging for families to have a comfortable experience. Some additional planning may be required to accommodate young travelers.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?

Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the boat tour. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour operator beforehand, as some may have restrictions or provide lunch as part of the package.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for the Tour?

The tour operator may offer discounts or special offers, such as early booking or group discounts, to make the tour more accessible. Travelers should check the company’s website or inquire directly for any current promotions or deals.

How Much Time Do We Have to Explore the Glaciers on Foot?

The tour typically includes a boat ride providing close views of the glaciers, with potential for short hiking opportunities depending on time and accessibility. However, the main focus is on the boat tour experience rather than extensive glacier exploration on foot.

Can We Take Photographs or Videos During the Boat Tour?

Visitors are typically allowed to take photographs and videos during the boat tour, as capturing the stunning glacial scenery is often a highlight of the experience. However, it’s important to check with the tour operator beforehand for any specific guidelines or restrictions.

Recap

The Calafate Boat Tour to the Glaciers offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes of Patagonia.

With close-up views of five majestic glaciers, a gourmet lunch, and professional bilingual guides, it’s an experience not to be missed.

Whether you’re marveling at the ice calving or spotting diverse wildlife, this remarkable adventure promises to create lasting memories.