USHUAIA | Navigation: Sea Lions, Birds and Lighthouse

Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, beckons travelers with its breathtaking natural wonders. Set out on a captivating 3-hour navigation through the Beagle Channel, where you’ll witness the vibrant birdlife, including the iconic Skúas and Black-browed Albatross. As you glide across the waters, observe the playful sea lions frolicking on their island, and bask in the maritime history surrounding the iconic Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse. This accessible tour seamlessly blends stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and captivating historical insights, offering an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts. But the journey has only just begun – step aboard and uncover the captivating secrets that await.

Key Points

• A 3-5 hour navigation experience through the Beagle Channel, showcasing the region’s diverse wildlife and landscapes, including sea lions, birds, and the iconic Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse.
• Highlights include observing Fuegian birds, such as Skúas and Black-browed Albatross, as well as visiting Bird Island and the sea lions’ island.
• The excursion includes a stop at the Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse, known as the "Lighthouse at the End of the World," with the opportunity to view nearby cormorant colonies.
• The navigation route includes the scenic Paso Chico into the Beagle Channel and provides insights into the historical context of the SS Monte Cervantes sinking in 1930.
• The experience is wheelchair accessible, and the cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a hassle-free booking process.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

In Ushuaia, the "USHUAIA | Navigation: Sea Lions, Birds and Lighthouse" activity offers an immersive 3-5 hour experience. Priced from Kč1,463 per person, the excursion promises free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option. Highlights include navigation through the Beagle Channel, viewing Bird Island and sea lions’ island, and observing the Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse. Participants can expect to see a variety of Fuegian birds and learn about the historical context of the SS Monte Cervantes sinking in 1930. Meeting at the port, guests should come prepared with appropriate attire and accessories, as the activity is wheelchair accessible.

Experience Highlights

The navigation through the Beagle Channel offers breathtaking vistas, as passengers witness the majestic Bird Island and the island home to a colony of sea lions.

During the tour, visitors can observe a variety of Fuegian birds, including Skúas, Black-browed Albatross, Steam Ducks, Cauquenes, Cook Gulls, and Gray Gulls.

The highlight of the journey is the arrival at the Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse, also known as the "Lighthouse at the End of the World," where guests can view the nearby cormorant colonies.

The historical context of the SS Monte Cervantes sinking in 1930 adds to the captivating narrative of this unforgettable excursion.

Itinerary Details

Departing from Ushuaia Bay, the navigation takes passengers on a captivating journey as they witness the city and majestic Andes Mountains from the water.

The boat sails through Paso Chico into the Beagle Channel, offering stunning views. The first stop is Bird Island, where visitors can observe a variety of Fuegian birds, including Skúas, Black-browed Albatross, Steam Ducks, Cauquenes, Cook Gulls, and Gray Gulls.

The navigation then proceeds to the sea lions’ island, providing opportunities to see these charismatic marine mammals in their natural habitat.

The final destination is the Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse, known as the "Lighthouse at the End of the World," allowing passengers to view the cormorant colonies that inhabit the area.

Included Services

Included in the excursion are a 3-hour navigation through the Beagle Channel and the port tax. The trip includes:

1. A scenic journey along the Beagle Channel, where participants can marvel at the surrounding Andes Mountains and observe the diverse wildlife, including sea lions and an array of Fuegian birds.

2. The port tax, which covers the necessary fees for embarking and disembarking the vessel.

3. Transfer to the port isn’t included in the excursion price, so you will need to arrange their own transportation to the departure point.

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Important Information

Participants must go to the port, where the team will provide them with the necessary information.

Recommended items include a hat, comfortable clothes, gloves, and a jacket or coat to keep warm during the 3-5 hour excursion.

Pets aren’t allowed on the tour.

The navigation is wheelchair accessible, allowing everyone to enjoy the stunning views of the Beagle Channel, Bird Island, and the Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse.

With the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book their spot and pay later, ensuring a hassle-free experience exploring the natural beauty of Ushuaia.

Departure and Arrival Points

The navigation embarks from Ushuaia Bay, affording travelers mesmerizing vistas of the city and the majestic Andes Mountains as the vessel sets sail through the Paso Chico into the Beagle Channel.

The journey then takes participants to:

1. Bird Island, where they can observe a variety of Fuegian birds, including Skúas, Black-browed Albatross, Steam Ducks, Cauquenes, Cook Gulls, and Gray Gulls.

2. The sea lions’ island, offering a chance to witness these captivating creatures in their natural habitat.

3. The Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse, also known as the "Lighthouse at the End of the World," providing a panoramic view of the cormorant colonies in the area.

Wildlife and Birdwatching

As the vessel sails through the Beagle Channel, passengers can indulge in an unparalleled birdwatching experience.

The tour takes visitors to Bird Island, where they can witness the vibrant colonies of Skúas, Black-browed Albatross, Steam Ducks, Cauquenes, and Cook Gulls.

The journey also includes a stop at the sea lions’ island, allowing passengers to observe these charismatic marine mammals in their natural habitat.

The highlight of the tour is the visit to the Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse, where guests can admire the cormorant colonies and learn about the historical context of the SS Monte Cervantes sinking in 1930.

This excursion offers a captivating blend of wildlife, stunning landscapes, and captivating historical insights.

Historical Context

The sinking of the SS Monte Cervantes in 1930 casts a poignant historical shadow over the Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse excursion.

This ill-fated passenger ship, which struck a reef and sank near the lighthouse, serves as a somber reminder of the treacherous waters that mariners once navigated.

As visitors approach the iconic lighthouse, they can reflect on:

1. The dramatic rescue efforts that saved many lives on that fateful night.
2. The ongoing challenges faced by lighthouse keepers in guiding ships safely through the Beagle Channel.
3. The enduring legacy of the SS Monte Cervantes, which remains a part of Ushuaia’s rich maritime history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring Food and Drinks on the Boat?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the boat, but it’s recommended to check with the tour operator beforehand. Some companies may have restrictions or provide refreshments as part of the excursion.

Is There a Bathroom on the Boat?

There is a bathroom on the boat for passengers’ convenience. Guests can use the restroom facilities during the 3-5 hour navigation through the Beagle Channel to observe sea lions, birds, and the Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Binoculars?

The tour does not provide binoculars, so it’s recommended to bring your own. This will allow you to get a closer look at the birds and sea lions you’ll be observing during the navigation through the Beagle Channel.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Yes, there’s an option to extend the tour duration. Customers can upgrade to a 5-hour excursion for an additional fee, which provides more time to explore the scenic islands and observe the diverse wildlife.

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Absolutely, you can take photos during the tour. The activity encourages guests to capture the breathtaking scenery, wildlife, and historical landmarks along the way. Photographers will have ample opportunities to snap stunning shots throughout the navigation.

Recap

Discover the captivating marine life and rich maritime history of Ushuaia’s Beagle Channel. From playful sea lions to soaring seabirds, this 3-hour navigation offers an immersive exploration of the region’s natural wonders. Cap off the journey at the iconic Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse, where you’ll learn about the area’s intriguing past. An unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts seeking to experience Ushuaia’s breathtaking beauty.

You can check if your dates are available here: