Full day tour: Sail among the Glaciers of Patagonia

Full day tour: Sail among the Glaciers of Patagonia

Imagine gliding through icy waters, surrounded by towering glaciers that seem to stretch endlessly into the sky. This full-day boat tour from El Calafate takes you deep into the heart of Los Glaciares National Park, where you’ll visit the famous Uppsala and Spegazzini glaciers. For approximately 9.5 hours, you’ll cruise on a comfortable catamaran, explore hanging glaciers, and enjoy a moderate hike at the Spegazzini Refuge—an experience that combines jaw-dropping scenery with a sense of adventure.

One of the best parts? The tour offers roundtrip transportation from your hotel, making logistics simple, and it’s flexible enough to include lunch and VIP options on board. Its reputation is stellar, with a perfect 5.0 rating from three reviews, reflecting consistent satisfaction from travelers who’ve been awestruck by Patagonia’s icy grandeur.

What we love is the close-up views of floating icebergs and glaciers—it’s almost surreal how these giants of ice seem to float like sculptures. Another highlight is the organized itinerary that balances sailing, photo stops, and a relaxing refuge visit, giving you plenty of time to appreciate the scenery without feeling rushed.

A possible consideration? Because it’s highly popular, booking a few days in advance is wise—up to 5 days ahead on average—to secure your spot. This tour appeals especially to those who love nature’s spectacle and want a well-rounded day that combines cruising, scenic vistas, and a bit of walking—all in one package.

If you enjoy stunning landscapes, good value, and comfortable group sizes, this tour is a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for travelers of all ages, including those who appreciate a relaxed pace with plenty of photo opportunities.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Experience the grandeur of Uppsala and Spegazzini glaciers up close.
• Comfortable Cruise: Travel on a well-organized catamaran with options for VIP service or basic seating.
• All-Inclusive: Includes transportation, sailing, and a visit to Spegazzini Refuge—plus optional lunch.
• Ideal for All Ages: Moderate hiking and scenic cruising make this accessible for most travelers.
• Advance Booking Recommended: Tours are popular, so plan ahead—most book 5 days earlier.
• Authentic Experience: Genuine scenery and an organized itinerary ensure a memorable adventure.

In-Depth Review of the Patagonia Glacier Sail Adventure

Setting the Scene: El Calafate’s Gateway to Glaciers

Starting from Punta Bandera Port, just a 47 km drive from El Calafate, this tour offers a seamless transition from your hotel to Patagonia’s icy wonders. The roundtrip transportation makes it easy to relax and focus on the scenery rather than logistics.

The Voyage Begins: Navigating Past Perito Moreno

Once aboard the comfortable catamaran, you’ll leave the port and begin navigating northward. The boat’s design allows for excellent views from multiple vantage points, ensuring everyone gets a good look at the glaciers and floating icebergs. As the reviewer noted, “the boat wasn’t full, so it was easy to walk around”—a definite plus for those who prefer unobstructed vistas and freedom to explore the deck.

Uppsala Glacier: The Majestic Ice Giant

The first major stop is near the Uppsala Glacier, which is especially striking for its sheer size and the floating icebergs. The boat drifts along the north face of the Perito Moreno Glacier en route, providing a spectacular backdrop for photos. You’ll get about 20 minutes here to capture the awe-inspiring scenes, with reviewers calling it a “stunning beauty” and praising the “icebergs like floating sculptures.”

Although some travelers mentioned they couldn’t get too close to the icebergs near Upsala because of the ice’s size and movement, the views still thrill—“even though we couldn’t get too near, the scenery was breathtaking,” one review states.

Glaciar Spegazzini: The Showstopper

After about 2 hours of sailing, you arrive at the Spegazzini Glacier—noted for its towering ice cliffs, much taller than Perito Moreno, and a favorite among photographers. Here, a second 20-minute stop allows for more photos, and many describe it as the highlight of the trip. The refuge at Spegazzini offers a comfortable place for a lunch break if you’ve chosen that option, with reviews praising the quality of food and beverages, adding to the experience.

The Return Journey: A Relaxed Cruise Back

The boat trip back takes about 2 hours, giving you ample time to reflect on the day’s sights. Travelers consistently mention the well-organized nature of the trip—from hotel pickups to the boat’s amenities, everything runs smoothly.

Post-Trip: Moderate Hike and Refugio Experience

The tour doesn’t end on the boat. Once at Spegazzini, you’ll have the chance to explore the surrounding Patagonian forest through a moderate hike. This adds a touch of terrestrial adventure, allowing you to stretch your legs and enjoy the local flora—though the main focus remains on the glaciers and icebergs.

Authentic Traveler Perspectives

Many reviewers have raved about the stunning scenery and the organization of the trip. One said, “A Patagonia highlight for sure,” emphasizing that the experience is memorable. Others appreciated the ease of access and the quality of the boat, noting that the “well-organized” approach made the whole day enjoyable.

The feedback about the lunch at Spegazzini Refuge was particularly positive, with travelers mentioning good food and a relaxed atmosphere. Such touches elevate the experience beyond just a boat trip—it’s a full-day immersion in Patagonia’s icy spectacle.

Considerations

The main downside seems to be the popularity of the tour, which means early booking is essential to guarantee a spot, especially during peak season. Also, since admission tickets to the glaciers are not included in the base package, you should budget around AR$45,000 for adults, which adds to the overall value discussion.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: Around 9.5 hours from pickup to drop-off.
• Price: $340 per person, with options for lunch and VIP upgrades.
• Booking: Most travelers book 5 days in advance, so plan ahead.
• Meeting Time: 7:00 am, so be prepared for an early start.
• Group Size: Up to 200 travelers, but reviews suggest the boat doesn’t feel crowded.
• Weather: Conditions can change quickly, so dress in layers and bring waterproof gear.
• Inclusions: Transportation, sailing, and a stop at Spegazzini Refuge.
• Exclusions: Glacier entrance tickets (~AR$45,000) and optional extras.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after breathtaking glacier views, a comfortable boat experience, and a well-organized day, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts, as well as those wanting a low-stress way to see some of Patagonia’s most iconic sights. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find this experience rewarding, especially given the moderate hiking and scenic sailing.

Travelers who enjoy authentic landscapes but prefer a group setting with good organization** will appreciate how smoothly everything runs. However, if you seek an in-depth glacier hike or more individualized excursions, you might look into other options.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes roundtrip transportation from your hotel, 5 hours of sailing, a landing at Spegazzini Refuge, and the option to include lunch.

Are the glacier tickets included?
No, the tickets for the glaciers (AR$45,000 for adults) are not included and must be purchased separately.

How long is the boat trip?
You’ll spend approximately 5 hours sailing, with additional time at stops and at the refuge, making the entire experience about 9.5 hours.

Is this suitable for all ages?
Yes, the moderate pace and scenic nature make it ideal for travellers of most ages, including families. The hike is moderate, so consider your comfort with walking on uneven terrain.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, since the tour is very popular, most travelers book 5 days ahead to secure their spot.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers and prepare for potentially chilly or windy conditions on the water. Waterproof clothing is recommended.

Can I upgrade to VIP service?
While the basic package is great, there are VIP options on board for a more luxurious experience, though details depend on the booking.

To sum it up

This full-day glacier cruise from El Calafate offers a balanced mix of cruising, scenic stops, and light hiking, providing a comprehensive look at some of Patagonia’s most spectacular ice formations. Its high rating and enthusiastic reviews underscore its quality and the value it provides. The experience is well-suited for travelers who want to see the glaciers without the hassle of complicated logistics or the need for extensive hikes.

You’ll love the vast floating icebergs, towering glaciers, and the organized, relaxed vibe that makes the day both enjoyable and awe-inspiring. The optional lunch and VIP service add a layer of comfort and indulgence, making it a great choice for those who appreciate good food amidst stunning scenery.

If you’re in El Calafate and eager to witness Patagonia’s icy giants from the water, this tour offers a memorable, well-rounded adventure that captures the essence of this incredible landscape.