Imagine spending a full day floating among towering ice giants, with the crisp Patagonian air filling your lungs and views that seem to go on forever. That’s precisely what this All Glaciers Boat Trip offers from El Calafate. For around $255 per person, you’ll spend roughly 9 hours exploring the incredible **Upsala and Spegazzini glaciers, with a chance to disembark and walk in the pristine Patagonian forests at the Spegazzini Refuge.
What we love about this tour is how close you get to the glaciers — some within just 300 meters — and the opportunity to stand in the wilds of Los Glaciares National Park, taking in the vastness of these icy giants. Plus, the optional lunch at the Spegazzini Refuge and the scenic forest hike add a layer of authenticity to an already stunning experience.
However, keep in mind that entrance to the park is not included in the price, and some reviews mention that the guiding inside the boat can be limited or that some areas might feel crowded, especially during peak times. This tour generally suits travelers who value spectacular views, comfortable amenities (if you opt for the Captain’s Club), and a chance to combine boat and light trekking experiences in one day.
Key Points
- Spectacular glaciers: Sail close to Upsala and Spegazzini, with some of the best glacier views in Patagonian Argentina.
- Balanced experience: Combines boat sailing, forest walks, and optional dining, providing a well-rounded day.
- Expert guides: Bilingual guides (English and Spanish) offer insights, though some reviews note varying guide engagement.
- Flexible options: The Captain’s Club upgrade enhances comfort with better views and included food and drinks.
- Park entrance not included: Be prepared to buy your park ticket on-site in Argentine pesos.
- Authentic and scenic: The boat’s route offers stunning vistas, and the walk at Spegazzini Refuge offers natural viewpoints of the glaciers.
Starting the Day: From El Calafate to Punta Bandera
Your journey kicks off early, with hotel pickup around 7:00 AM in El Calafate — a smart choice to maximize your day. The roughly 1.5-hour bus ride takes you across the rugged Patagonian landscape to Punta Bandera Port. The early start means you’re on the water by 9:00 AM, ready to experience the glaciers when the light is often at its clearest and the crowds are usually thinner.
This pickup-and-transfer system is quite seamless, especially if you stay in central El Calafate. If you’re in a private apartment or outside the main route, the tour provider will give you a close meeting point. It’s worth noting that the transfer is included, which adds to the overall value, considering the remote location.
The Boat Ride: Glimpsing Giants from the Water
Once aboard, you’ll cruise along Argentino Lake, passing the north arm before heading into the Boca del Diablo, the narrowest part of the lake. This stretch feels like a natural funnel narrowing around enormous ice patches. The boat then enters the Upsala and Spegazzini channels, where the glaciers come into full view.
Upsala Glacier is the largest on Argentino Lake — visible from about 20 km away — making it an impressive sight. Many reviews highlight the thrill of getting close enough to the Spegazzini Glacier — only about 300 meters away — which offers a remarkable sense of proximity to these frozen monsters. As one reviewer put it, “Great experience!” with comments about the impressive views and the close approach.
Highlights of the Glacier Viewing
The boat stops at key viewpoints where guides provide commentary, though some reviews note that the guidance can be somewhat sparse or that the loudspeaker commentary sometimes detracts from the tranquility of the landscape. Still, the views are breathtaking: towering ice cliffs, floating icebergs, and an endless horizon of glaciers.
Spegazzini Glacier is praised for its height and picturesque setting, with some passengers noting it’s the most captivating glacier for photography. The Dry, Heim Sur, and Peineta glaciers are also visible, adding to the diversity of scenery.
Landside: Hike and Relax at Spegazzini Refuge
Arriving at the Spegazzini Refuge, you’re greeted with options: enjoy an optional 3-course lunch with drinks, visit the shop, or simply soak in the views from the terrace. The setting is stunning, with panoramic vistas of the glacier and the surrounding mountains.
For those craving a bit of activity, a 700-meter walk through the woods offers natural viewpoints of the glacier. It’s medium difficulty but doable for most, and many reviews highlight the peacefulness of this short trek. It’s a chance to stretch your legs and get closer to nature without strenuous effort.
More Great Tours NearbyReturning: The Cruise Back and Hotel Drop-off
After exploring, you’ll board the boat for the return journey, retracing your route across the lakes. The trip concludes back in El Calafate around 6:00 PM, with hotel drops included. The whole day feels well-paced, balancing sightseeing with relaxing moments.
Given the price point of $255, this tour offers significant value, especially if you opt for the Captain’s Club upgrade. Many reviews praise the exclusive seating, food, and drinks, making the experience feel more personalized and comfortable. Travelers who splurge on this upgrade often mention the private room, great views, and included snacks — a real treat.
However, it’s worth noting that some find the guiding inside the boat somewhat limited, and park entrance fees are not included, so budget accordingly. The timing suits travelers who want to see the glaciers from a different perspective, especially if you’re combining this with other Patagonian excursions.
This experience is perfect for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone eager to see massive glaciers up close without strenuous hikes. It’s also ideal if you want a comfortable, all-day adventure with options to relax and enjoy the scenery from a cozy boat or at the refuge.
If you’re traveling with a group who appreciates guided commentary and the chance to combine boat and light forest walks in one trip, this tour fits the bill. However, if you prefer more active treks, you might want to consider other options.
For the cost, you’re getting an immersive, scenic experience that combines boat, land, and optional dining in one of the most iconic regions of Patagonia. The stunning glacier views alone are worth the journey, and the optional amenities can elevate the experience from memorable to extraordinary.
Travelers who value close-up glacier encounters, comfortable upgrades, and insightful guides will find this trip rewarding. It’s especially suited for those who want to avoid strenuous hikes but still crave an authentic Patagonian adventure.
While it’s not perfect — some reviews mention crowded areas or limited guidance — the overall consensus is that this is a top-tier experience for seeing the glaciers from a perspective few travelers get.
Is transportation from El Calafate included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included if you’re staying in central El Calafate, making logistics easier.
What’s the best time of day for this tour?
The tour departs around 9:00 AM, so mornings are usually best to enjoy the scenery with fewer crowds and better lighting for photos.
How long do we spend at the glaciers?
Most of the day is spent on the boat, with a stop at Spegazzini Refuge for about an hour, plus optional walking and dining.
Is the park entrance fee included?
No, you need to purchase your entrance ticket separately, either upon arrival or online, in Argentine pesos.
What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, cash for park entry, and layers for the weather — it can be cold and windy on the water.
Can I upgrade to the Captain’s Club?
Yes, the upgrade offers a more exclusive experience with better views, private seating, and included food and drinks.
What if I want more adventure?
While this tour is more relaxed, some reviews mention additional options like hikes or exploring other glaciers, which you might find through local operators.
The El Calafate: All Glaciers Boat Trip offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into Patagonia’s icy giants — perfect for travelers seeking stunning scenery, comfort, and a taste of the wild.
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