El Calafate: Upsala & Spegazzini Glaciers Cruise with Lunch

Discovering the Glaciers of Patagonia: A Full-Day Cruise from El Calafate

If you’re headed to Argentina’s Santa Cruz Province, a day exploring the glaciers of Los Glaciares National Park is a must. This full-day cruise offers a close-up look at the towering Upsala and Spegazzini Glaciers, two of the park’s most impressive ice formations. For around $334 per person, you’ll spend roughly 11 hours aboard the María Turquesa, sailing through shimmering ice-filled waters, and enjoying some breath-taking views that are hard to beat.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to see hanging glaciers like Seco, Heim Sur, and Peinetta up close — areas that most visitors only glimpse from land. Second, the opportunity to walk through a Patagonian forest and beaches at Sitio de Las Vacas, adding an element of outdoor adventure to your day. The optional boxed lunch is also a plus for those wanting to avoid the hassle of finding food on the go.

A potential consideration: weather conditions can affect visibility and comfort, especially on the open boat. Also, since the park entrance fee is not included, you’ll need cash to cover that. This experience suits travelers who want an intimate, scenic boat trip with plenty of photo opportunities and a taste of wilderness.

If you appreciate natural beauty, outdoor activities, or glacier scenery, you’ll find this tour is a good fit. It’s particularly appealing if you enjoy boat excursions and exploring remote, pristine environments.

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Key Points

• Incredible Glacier Views: See the Upsala and Spegazzini Glaciers from close range, with opportunities for stunning photos.
• Diverse Experience: Combine boat cruising with a short walk through Patagonian forests and beaches.
• Optional Lunch: Choose to bring your own or opt for a boxed lunch to enjoy onboard.
• Expert Navigation: The María Turquesa cruise navigates through ice-filled channels, offering a unique perspective on massive ice formations.
• Park Entrance Fee: Remember, the entrance fee to Los Glaciares National Park is not included and must be paid in cash.
• Flexible Planning: The tour lasts about 11 hours, with a starting time around 8:30 a.m., making it a full but rewarding day.

In-Depth Review: What to Expect from the El Calafate Glaciers Cruise

The Itinerary Breakdown

We start our day early in El Calafate, with a board at the private port La Soledad around 8:30 a.m., depending on your booking. The boat, María Turquesa, is a well-equipped vessel designed for close-up encounters with icebergs and glaciers. The journey begins with sailing toward the North Arm, where we first visit Escuadra Bay and the Condoreras Wall. Here, the scenery is dramatic — towering ice cliffs and floating ice floes, some triple the size of the boat, create a surreal landscape.

The real highlight comes when we traverse Upsala Channel, about 15 km away from the Upsala Glacier — the third-largest glacier in the Southern Patagonian Icefield. As we glide through this icy maze, you’ll be struck by the sheer scale of the glacier, with its calving icebergs constantly shifting and cracking. A guide named Maria, or similar, will probably point out that the Upsala Glacier is enormous and visually spectacular — a true piece of nature’s grandeur.

Next, the boat steers into the Spegazzini Canal. Here, we get a close-up view of the hanging glaciers like Seco, Heim Sur, and Peinetta. These glaciers cliff from the mountains into the lake, creating dramatic scenery. The boat then disembarks at Sitio de Las Vacas, where a 30-minute walk through lush Patagonian forest leads to beaches dotted with ice and natural beauty. This is a perfect moment for some quiet reflection away from the boat.

Lunch and Glacier Observation

Returning to the boat, you can enjoy a lunch break — either bringing your own food or choosing a “with food” option included in some packages. We loved how flexible this was, letting you relax while cruising past glaciers and icebergs. The calm waters and the chance to see floating ice up close make this a memorable meal.

The tour’s final major stop is at Spegazzini Glacier. Standing at 135 meters above lake level, this glacier’s towering face is one of the most photogenic sights. You’ll have ample time here to take pictures, soak in the tranquility, and marvel at the size and serenity of this icy giant.

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The Grand Finale: Perito Moreno

Later in the afternoon, the boat takes us to the Perito Moreno Glacier, the star of the park and one of the most accessible and spectacular glaciers in the world. You’ll have the opportunity to disembark on walkways and get up close to the glacier — a highlight for many travelers. The experience of walking near such an immense, slow-moving mass of ice is truly awe-inspiring.

Practicalities and Comfort

The entire experience lasts about 11 hours, with the tour starting around 8:30 a.m. and concluding around 5:00 p.m. The boat is spacious and designed for viewing, but keep in mind that weather can change quickly — it’s wise to dress in layers, bring rain protection, and wear comfortable shoes for the walks.

Transfers to and from El Calafate hotels are included if you select that option. Without hotel pickup, you’ll need to arrive at La Soledad Port yourself, which is straightforward given its central location.

What the Reviews Say

Seven reviews give this experience an average rating of 4.1/5. Travelers praise the spectacular views and the close encounters with glaciers, with comments like “we loved the way the boat navigates among icebergs” and “the walk at Sitio de Las Vacas was a highlight.” Some note that weather can be a factor, and a few mention that entrance fees are separate, so remember to bring cash.

One reviewer said, “This tour offers fantastic scenery, and the boat trip felt intimate, not crowded,” which is a big plus for those seeking a more personal experience. Conversely, some suggested early booking might be wise during peak season, as spots can fill quickly.

Why This Tour Is a Good Choice

This cruise suits travelers who value scenic, close-up glacier views combined with a bit of outdoor walking. It’s ideal for those wanting more than just a land-based look at the glaciers and who enjoy boat trips with spectacular ice vistas. It’s also suitable for those with a full day available, as it takes most of the daylight hours but offers a comprehensive experience.

While the price might seem high, it includes transportation, boat cruise, and optional lunch, providing solid value for the opportunity to see multiple glaciers in one day — especially considering the remote, pristine nature of the area.

If you’re traveling to El Calafate and want an up-close, scenic adventure on the water, this cruise offers a well-organized, memorable way to experience Patagonia’s glacial majesty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the boat trip suitable for children or families?
Yes, the boat trip is generally suitable, but consider weather conditions and the length of the day when traveling with children.

Do I need to bring cash for park entrance fees?
Yes, the entrance fee to Los Glaciares National Park is not included and must be paid in cash.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
While the tour runs year-round, the best time for clear weather and good visibility is during the southern summer months, from December to March.

Can I choose the lunch option?
Yes, you can bring your own food or opt for the “with food” option available with some bookings.

How early do I need to arrive if I don’t have hotel pickup?
Arrive at La Soledad Port by 8:30 a.m. to ensure you don’t miss the departure.

Is the tour physically demanding?
The boat cruise itself is relaxing, but the walk at Sitio de Las Vacas is about 30 minutes and involves some uneven terrain.

Does the tour include transportation from hotels?
Yes, if you select the option, transportation is included; otherwise, you’ll need to make your way to the port.

What makes this tour different from other glacier visits?
This tour offers an intimate boat experience near icebergs and a walk through Patagonian nature, adding more depth than just viewing from land.

How many people typically join the tour?
While the specific group size isn’t listed, boat tours like this tend to be moderate-sized, ensuring good views and personal space.

What should I wear on the tour?
Dress in layers, bring rain gear, and wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and outdoor weather.

Final Thoughts

This cruise from El Calafate is a fantastic way to see Patagonia’s spectacular glaciers from a close perspective, combining ice-filled channels, hanging glaciers, and a bit of nature walking. It’s well-suited for travelers who love scenic boat rides and want an authentic, immersive experience amid some of the world’s most impressive ice formations.

While it’s not the cheapest option, the value of seeing multiple glaciers and the unique vantage point on the water makes it worthwhile. It’s especially appealing if you’re seeking a full-day adventure that balances comfort with outdoor exploration. Just be prepared for variable weather, and don’t forget to bring cash for the park entry.

This tour offers the perfect combination of spectacular scenery, outdoor activity, and a peaceful escape into nature — a memorable highlight of any trip to Patagonia.

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