El Calafate: Glaciers Gourmet Experience – Full Day Cruise

Traveling through Southern Patagonia’s Los Glaciares National Park is an adventure that promises jaw-dropping scenery and memorable moments. For those seeking a blend of comfort, stunning landscapes, and a touch of luxury, the Glaciers Gourmet Experience offers just that. Starting at La Soledad Port in El Calafate, this full-day boat cruise takes you among some of the most iconic glaciers in the region, including Upsala and Spegazzini, with options to visit Perito Moreno — a true highlight.

What we love about this tour is its luxurious comfort and gourmet dining, making a full day on the water both relaxing and indulgent. The panoramic views from the boat’s outer decks are spectacular, giving you a chance to see massive glaciers towering over the water and to enjoy the birds nesting along the Condor Wall. Another plus: the expert bilingual guides enhance the experience with insightful commentary, making it accessible whether you’re a native speaker or just starting to learn.

One possible consideration is the price—at $200 per person, it’s an investment, but many reviews suggest it’s worth the cost for the quality of the experience. The cruise runs between 8 to 12.5 hours, so it’s a long day, but well-suited for travelers eager to maximize their time in Patagonia. It’s ideal for those who want a luxurious, guided experience that combines nature, comfort, and cuisine—especially if you appreciate stunning scenery coupled with easy logistics and a family-friendly environment.

If you’re someone who loves breathtaking vistas, delicious food, and learning from knowledgeable guides, this tour could be perfect. It also suits travelers who prefer all-in-one experiences that combine sightseeing, dining, and transportation without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions.

Key Points

• Luxury and Comfort: High-standard amenities onboard with gourmet cuisine and glacier-themed decor.
• Scenic Diversity: Multiple glacier views, including Upsala and Spegazzini, with stops at Escuadra Bay and Condor Wall.
• Expert Guidance: Bilingual guides provide insights, adding depth to your experience.
• Flexible Timing: Full-day experience with variable start times, catering to different schedules.
• Family Friendly: Recreation area and wildlife viewing make this accessible for kids.
• Covered Costs: Optional extras like park entrance fee are payable separately, but the tour covers transport, guides, and meals.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure begins at La Soledad Port in El Calafate, with pickup options available if you choose them, starting early around 8:30 AM. If you prefer, you can meet directly at the port. The journey is designed for ease, with hotel pickup available from your accommodation at 7:15 AM—an ideal setup for travelers staying in El Calafate.

The duration varies between 8 and 12.5 hours, depending on the day’s itinerary and weather conditions. Expect a comprehensive day that balances sailing, sightseeing, and cuisine — perfect for those who want to pack a lot into one trip without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Board at La Soledad Port

Your day kicks off with a warm welcome from the crew and guides, who are multilingual, engaging, and well-informed. Boarding the catamaran, you immediately notice the glacier-themed decorations—a nice touch that immerses you visually into the icy landscape.

Escuadra Bay and Condor Wall

The cruise first takes you through Escuadra Bay, where birds like the condor can be seen nesting along the cliffs. According to reviews, watching these majestic birds in action is a highlight. The guides point out the local fauna and explain the ecological significance of these nesting sites—a treat for birdwatchers.

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The Majestic Glaciers: Seco, Heim, and Spegazzini

Next, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Spegazzini Glacier, renowned for its sheer ice walls and calving activity—a spectacle that leaves many guests in awe. From the outer decks, you can get close enough to hear the cracking ice and see the glacier’s deep blue hues. The Spegazzini often gets praise for its impressive scale and the opportunity to photograph from different angles.

On the way, you’ll visit the Seco and Heim glaciers, less famous but equally striking, adding variety to your glacier repertoire. Reviews mention that the views are breathtaking, and the guides’ commentary enhances understanding of the glacier formation and history.

Disembarking at “Puesto Las Vacas” and Short Walks

Disembarkation at “Puesto Las Vacas” allows a short walk to stretch your legs and enjoy a closer look at the landscape. This optional stop gives a more tactile experience of the surroundings, even if just for a few minutes.

Upsala Canal and Glaciers

Next, the boat navigates the Upsala Canal for unmatched views of the Upsala and Bertracchi Glaciers. These giants are among the largest in the park, and many reviews highlight the breathtaking vistas from the boat. The panoramic perspective allows you to appreciate their vast scale and jagged icy peaks.

Gourmet Lunch and Glacier Decor

Midday, you’ll enjoy a gourmet lunch onboard—many reviewers mention that the food exceeds expectations, with delicious dishes served in a comfortable setting. The glacier-themed decor adds to the immersive experience, making you feel like you’re dining among the ice.

Optional Disembarkation at Perito Moreno

One of the tour’s most flexible features is the option to disembark at the Perito Moreno Glacier, where you can explore the walkways and get up close at the footbridges. Some reviews note this as a valuable addition, providing a convenient way to see the glacier from different angles and extend your time at this famous site.

Return to La Soledad Port

After a full day of sightseeing, your cruise returns to the port, concluding a well-organized and memorable journey. The return trip offers a chance to absorb the scenery one last time and reflect on the day.

The Experience on the Water

Traveling on a luxury catamaran, you’ll find the outer decks are the best spots for pictures and panoramic views. Many reviews point out the crowd levels, noting that it can be busy, but the guides do a great job managing the flow and providing informative commentary.

The recreation area with fauna illustrations is designed to keep kids engaged, making this a family-friendly activity. The friendly staff ensures everyone feels taken care of, which many guests appreciated.

Food and Comfort

The gourmet lunch is a notable feature. Several reviews praise the quality of the food, calling it better than expected, with some mentioning vegetarian options. The decor and atmosphere make the meal feel special rather than just a box lunch.

The comfort level onboard is high, with ample space on the decks to move around, and the interior salon provides shelter if the weather turns. The guides also offer audio guides in English and Spanish, enhancing understanding for different travelers.

Cost and Value

At $200 per person, the tour might seem steep, but considering the long duration, luxury amenities, gourmet meal, and expert guides, many find it worth the investment. Reviews consistently mention that the scenery and experience justify the price, especially if you value comfort and convenience.

The optional park entrance fee is separate but can be paid easily at the port or online, ensuring no surprises. For travelers eager to maximize glacier viewing without multiple logistics, this all-in-one cruise offers great value.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who appreciate comfort and good food as much as scenery. It’s perfect for those who want to see major glaciers without the hassle of multiple stops or hikes. Families will find the recreational areas and easy logistics appealing, and nature lovers will enjoy the bird nesting sites and glacier vistas.

If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive, guided day among Patagonia’s icy giants, this cruise provides a memorable, hassle-free way to do so. Those on a budget might find it pricey, but reviewers consistently say it delivers on quality and experience.

The El Calafate Glaciers Gourmet Experience offers a luxurious, scenic, and educational way to explore one of the world’s most iconic glacier regions. It balances comfort with adventure, providing stunning views, delicious food, and guided insights into Patagonia’s icy landscape.

While the price may be a consideration, many find it justified by the quality of the experience and the ease of logistics. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want a well-organized day with plenty of photo opportunities and a comfortable setting.

If you value expert guides, gourmet meals, and breathtaking scenery in a luxury environment, this cruise is a worthwhile addition to your Patagonian itinerary. It’s suitable for adventurers, families, and photo enthusiasts eager to capture the grandeur of glaciers from a comfy boat.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the ship has a recreation area with illustrations of native fauna, making it family-friendly. The long day may require patience from younger kids, but the scenery and activities keep them engaged.

Do I need to book the park entrance separately?
Yes, the national park entrance fee isn’t included and can be purchased at the port or online. Many guests find it convenient to pay at the port just before boarding.

What should I bring for the cruise?
Bring your Passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and clothes suitable for outdoor sightseeing. Weather can change quickly, so layers and rain gear are recommended.

Is there an option to get off the boat at Perito Moreno?
Yes, there’s an option to disembark at Perito Moreno Glacier to explore the walkways and take photos from the footbridges, perfect for those wanting a closer look.

How long does the tour last?
The cruise duration varies from 8 to 12.5 hours, depending on the day’s schedule and weather conditions. It’s a full-day commitment, but packed with memorable sights.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

In essence, this cruise offers a luxurious, scenic, and insightful adventure through some of Patagonia’s most stunning glaciers. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a comfortable, guided experience that combines nature, cuisine, and awe-inspiring views—a true highlight in any Patagonia journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby