Boat Tours — El Calafate
Discover the majestic glaciers of Patagonia on an unforgettable boat tour from El Calafate. Navigate Lago Argentino's stunning turquoise waters, witnessing the grandeur of Upsala, Spegazzini, and Perito Moreno Glaciers up close. An immersive experience among towering icebergs and pristine natural beauty awaits.
El Calafate, often hailed as the gateway to Glacier National Park, offers unparalleled opportunities to witness some of the world's most spectacular glaciers. While the Perito Moreno Glacier is famously accessible by land, the true scale and diversity of Patagonia's ice giants are best appreciated from the water. Boat tours departing from Puerto Bandera provide an immersive perspective, allowing you to cruise through the vast, turquoise waters of Lago Argentino's western arm. This region is a sanctuary of immense natural beauty, where towering ice walls calve into the lake, creating a dynamic and awe-inspiring landscape. You'll encounter colossal icebergs, navigate narrow fjords, and come face-to-face with glaciers like Spegazzini, Upsala, and the north face of Perito Moreno. These boat excursions cater to a range of preferences, from classic full-day navigations that cover multiple glaciers to more exclusive, smaller vessel experiences. They offer a unique vantage point, revealing the intricate details of the ice formations and the sheer magnitude of these ancient rivers of ice. Far from being a passive activity, these tours connect you directly with the raw power and serene beauty of the Patagonian wilderness, making them an essential part of any El Calafate itinerary.
Experiences
Safari Náutico / Ríos de Hielo (All Glaciers Express)
easyThe most popular full-day tour exploring Lago Argentino's western arm. Cruise among icebergs in the Upsala Channel (with views of Upsala Glacier from a distance, as ice conditions permit closer access), then navigate the Spegazzini Channel to approach the towering Spegazzini Glacier.
Perito Moreno Glacier Navigation (Safari Náutico)
easyA shorter, essential boat trip that gets you incredibly close to the front wall of the Perito Moreno Glacier. It departs from Bajo de las Sombras port, offering spectacular views of the glacier's south face and dramatic calving events.
MarPatag's Spirit of the Glaciers (María Turquesa Cruise)
easyA more exclusive, premium full-day experience on a smaller, luxurious vessel. This tour also visits the Upsala and Spegazzini Glaciers, often with enhanced comfort, onboard gourmet dining, and a more intimate experience.
Estancia Cristina Discovery
easyCombines a scenic boat trip through the Upsala Channel with a visit to historic Estancia Cristina. Guests can choose activities like a 4x4 ride to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking Upsala Glacier or a short hike to a waterfall, blending glacier viewing with Patagonian ranch culture.
Gear Checklist
- ✓Warm, waterproof and windproof jacket
- ✓Layered clothing (fleece, thermal base layers)
- ✓Hat, gloves, and scarf
- ✓Comfortable, waterproof walking shoes
- ✓Sunglasses (essential due to glare from ice and water)
- ✓Sunscreen
- ✓Camera with extra battery (cold drains batteries faster)
- ✓Small backpack for essentials
- ✓Motion sickness medication (if susceptible)
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Browse Car RentalsCost Breakdown
| Tier | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Budget | $150 - $200 per person |
| Mid-Range | $200 - $350 per person |
| Premium | $350 - $600+ per person |
Notes: Costs typically include the boat tour itself and sometimes transfers to/from El Calafate. National Park entrance fees (approx. $30-40 USD for foreigners) are almost always separate and must be paid in Argentine Pesos (cash or card at the entrance). Food and drinks onboard are usually extra on standard tours, but included in premium experiences.
Best Season
The best season for boat tours in El Calafate is during the Austral summer, from October to April. During these months, the weather is milder, days are longer, and all tour operators are fully operational. While tours might run in shoulder seasons (September, May), some routes could be restricted due to ice conditions or shorter daylight hours. Summer also offers the best chances for stable weather, although strong winds are common year-round.
Safety Notes
- !Follow Crew Instructions: Always adhere to the safety briefings and instructions from the boat crew, especially regarding movement on deck and proximity to the ice.
- !Stay Clear of Calving Zones: While the boat maintains a safe distance, be aware that glaciers can calve suddenly and unpredictably, causing large waves.
- !Watch Your Step on Deck: Decks can be wet or slippery, especially near the rails or after rain/spray. Wear appropriate footwear.
- !Be Prepared for Cold: Even on a sunny day, the air temperature on the lake, combined with wind chill, can be very cold. Hypothermia is a risk if not dressed properly.
Getting There
Most boat tours depart from Puerto Bandera, located approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) west of El Calafate. If you have a rental car, driving to Puerto Bandera is straightforward and highly recommended. The paved Ruta Provincial 11 leads directly there, offering scenic views along the way. Having a car gives you the flexibility to arrive at your leisure, allowing extra time for breakfast or to explore other attractions before or after your tour, such as the Glaciarium museum back in El Calafate. Allow about 45-60 minutes for the drive. Alternatively, tour operators offer bus transfers from El Calafate hotels to Puerto Bandera, which is convenient but less flexible. For the Perito Moreno Glacier navigation, some tours depart from Bajo de las Sombras, which is closer to the glacier's main viewpoints, also accessible via Ruta Provincial 11.
Tips
- 1Book in Advance: Especially during peak season (December-February), boat tours fill up quickly. Secure your spot several weeks or months ahead.
- 2Dress in Layers: Weather on the lake can change rapidly. Layers allow you to adapt to temperature fluctuations, wind, and sun.
- 3Protect Your Camera: The spray from the lake and potential rain can be an issue. Use a waterproof cover or bag for your camera.
- 4Arrive Early for Best Views: If you want prime spots on the deck for photography, arrive at the boarding gate well before departure time.
- 5Motion Sickness Prep: While Lago Argentino is generally calm, the vastness can cause slight motion sickness for some. Consider preventative medication.
- 6Don't Forget Park Entrance Fees: Remember to budget for and purchase your Los Glaciares National Park entrance ticket separately. It's not usually included in the boat tour price.
- 7Bring Snacks/Drinks: Unless you're on a premium tour with catering, bringing your own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks can save money.
- 8Look for Wildlife: Keep an eye out for condors soaring above, or occasionally other birds and even huemuls (Andean deer) along the shorelines.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do boat tours go right up to the glaciers?
Boats generally approach glaciers like Spegazzini and the north face of Perito Moreno quite closely. For Upsala Glacier, due to the presence of numerous icebergs, boats usually maintain a safer distance, allowing panoramic views from the Upsala Channel.
Is the National Park entrance fee included in the boat tour price?
No, the entrance fee to Los Glaciares National Park is almost always separate and must be paid directly at the park entrance or online. It is typically not included in the boat tour ticket.
What are the chances of seeing a glacier calve?
Calving is a natural and frequent phenomenon, especially at Perito Moreno Glacier. While there's no guarantee, being near the glacier for several hours significantly increases your chances of witnessing a spectacular ice collapse.
Are there food and drinks available on board?
Most standard boat tours have a small cafeteria or bar selling snacks, hot drinks, and some alcoholic beverages. Premium tours like MarPatag often include gourmet meals and drinks as part of the package.
Can children participate in these boat tours?
Yes, boat tours are generally suitable for all ages, making them a fantastic family activity. Always check with the specific tour operator for any age restrictions or recommendations, especially for very young children.
What if the weather is bad? Do tours get cancelled?
Tours generally operate in most weather conditions, including rain or wind, as long as it's safe. However, in extreme cases of high winds or severe ice conditions, tours may be altered or cancelled for safety reasons. It's always best to check with your operator.
Is there cell phone reception during the boat tour?
Cell phone reception is generally very limited or non-existent once you leave the vicinity of El Calafate and particularly out on Lago Argentino. Enjoy the digital detox and focus on the incredible scenery!
What's the difference between "All Glaciers" and "Perito Moreno Navigation"?
"All Glaciers" is a full-day tour exploring the northern arm of Lago Argentino, focusing on Upsala and Spegazzini glaciers. "Perito Moreno Navigation" is a shorter tour focusing exclusively on getting close to the Perito Moreno Glacier's face, often combined with land visits to the walkways.