Argentina’s Puerto Madryn delivers some of the best wildlife viewing in South America, all from the comfort of well-equipped boats. Three standout excursions have earned our recommendation: The Punta Tombo tour puts you face-to-face with thousands of Magellanic penguins in their natural habitat. For serious wildlife enthusiasts, the Peninsula Valdes cruise offers the complete package – penguins, seals, and seasonal whale watching. Meanwhile, the Chubut River dolphin tour provides intimate encounters with these playful creatures.
We especially love the Peninsula Valdes option for its comprehensive wildlife experience and professional guides who know exactly where to spot marine life. Tours include transportation, meals, and park entrance fees, typically running $140 and up per person. Most vessels offer wheelchair accessibility.
Let’s explore our favorite boat tours in Puerto Madryn.
Key Points
- The Dolphin Boat Watching Tour offers opportunities to witness playful dolphin pods along the Lower Valley of the Chubut River.
- The private cruise shore excursion to Punta Tombo provides a personalized experience with air-conditioned transport, a professional guide, and box lunch.
- The Peninsula Valdes Tour explores the UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering an all-inclusive experience with air-conditioned vehicles, bilingual guides, and lunch.
- The tours offer accessibility features, such as wheelchair accessibility, stroller-friendly options, and accommodations for dietary preferences and service animals.
- Across the tours, positive reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and enjoyable wildlife encounters, with some areas for improvement in transport comfort.
Cruise Shore Excursion Punta Tombo – Tickets Included – Puerto Madryn Patagonia
The Punta Tombo shore excursion is a popular choice for cruise ship passengers visiting Puerto Madryn, Argentina. Located 115 miles north, the excursion showcases the largest colony of Magellanic penguins in South America.
The 3-hour round-trip transport takes travelers on a 1-mile coastal walk to observe thousands of penguins and other wildlife. Comfortable air-conditioned vehicles, a tasty packed lunch, and a professional tour guide or English-speaking driver are included.
While wheelchair accessible, some areas have uneven terrain. Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and efficient communication, though some note the long walk and variable wildlife sightings later in the season.
Read our full review: Cruise Shore Excursion Punta Tombo – Tickets Included – Puerto Madryn Patagonia Review
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Cruise Shore Excursion Peninsula Valdes – Pto Madryn – Patagonia – Argentina
This Cruise Shore Excursion Peninsula Valdes – Pto Madryn – Patagonia – Argentina offers a comprehensive wildlife watching tour focusing on the rich biodiversity of the Valdes Peninsula.
Organized by experts, the tour includes visits to the Peninsula Valdes and Punta Tombo, with potential sightings of penguins, elephant seals, guanacos, and sea lions.
Lunch is provided, and the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
While wildlife sightings can vary, the tour receives positive feedback for its knowledgeable guides.
Travelers should note the long drives and variable wildlife visibility, and consider timing for optimal wildlife encounters.
Sentir Patagonia Travel offers customized options for those seeking a tailored experience.
Read our full review: Cruise Shore Excursion Peninsula Valdes – Pto Madryn – Patagonia – Argentina Review
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Cruise Shore Excursion Ea San Lorenzo Peninsula Valdes – Patagonia – Argentina
Offering a comprehensive exploration of the Valdes Peninsula, the Cruise Shore Excursion Ea San Lorenzo Peninsula Valdes takes travelers on a full-day adventure through the captivating landscapes and diverse wildlife of Patagonia, Argentina.
Priced from $279 per person, this highly-rated tour (91% recommendation rate) accommodates up to 17 participants and includes a BBQ Patagonian lamb lunch, park entrance fees, and transportation.
Highlights include close encounters with Magellanic penguins, sea lions, and elephant seals, as well as scenic views and a visit to a small museum.
While reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, some travelers have noted room for improvement in transportation comfort and meal quality.
Read our full review: Cruise Shore Excursion Ea San Lorenzo Peninsula Valdes – Patagonia – Argentina Review
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SIB Cruise Shore Excursion Peninsula Valdes – Pto Madryn – Patagonia Argentina
Travelers seeking a comprehensive exploration of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Valdes Peninsula can opt for the SIB Cruise Shore Excursion Peninsula Valdes. This 5-hour tour departs from Puerto Madryn, offering the chance to spot diverse wildlife like Magellan penguins, sea lions, and guanacos.
The experience includes comfortable transportation, a box lunch, and a knowledgeable guide for groups of 5 or more. While the long drive on unpaved roads may be challenging, many travelers praise the tour’s organization and unique wildlife encounters, despite some noting limited visibility.
Considering the tour’s $144.38 per person price tag and $30 entrance fee, it’s important to have realistic expectations about the wildlife viewing experience.
Read our full review: SIB Cruise Shore Excursion Peninsula Valdes – Pto Madryn – Patagonia Argentina Review
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Exclusive Punta Tombo Tour for Cruise Ships
An exclusive Punta Tombo tour for cruise ship passengers provides a unique opportunity to witness the incredible Magellanic penguin colony up close. Priced from $210 per person, this private tour includes air-conditioned transportation, a professional guide, a boxed lunch, and entrance fees.
With a maximum of 40 minutes waiting time from docking, the tour offers flexibility and accessibility for wheelchair users, stroller users, and those travelling with infants.
Positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable guide, enjoyable penguin encounters, and cost-effectiveness compared to larger bus groups.
For an additional fee, customers can also visit Punto Loma, making this tour a comprehensive Patagonian experience.
Read our full review: Exclusive Punta Tombo Tour for Cruise Ships Review
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Puerto Piramides Private Tour And Sailing in Peninsula Valdes
For those seeking a more immersive Patagonian adventure beyond the Punta Tombo penguin colony, the Puerto Piramides Private Tour And Sailing in Peninsula Valdes offers a captivating experience.
Priced from $344.65 per person, the private tour includes round-trip transfers, a licensed guide, entrance fees, and gratuities. Visitors can explore the Peninsula Valdes Protected Natural Area and embark on a whale-watching sailing excursion during the mating season from June to December.
The tour accommodates most travelers, with stroller and wheelchair accessibility. Cruise ship passengers can book the experience, but refunds aren’t issued for missed tours due to late arrivals.
Casual, comfortable attire is recommended.
Read our full review: Puerto Piramides Private Tour And Sailing in Peninsula Valdes Review
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Punta Tombo Cruise Excursion With Penguins
Frequently, cruise passengers visiting Puerto Madryn can partake in the Punta Tombo Cruise Excursion with Penguins, a captivating outing operated by Loika Expediciones.
For €139.57 per person, guests embark on a tour from the Comandante Luis Piedra Buena Pier, with pickup 30 minutes after boat docking. The 12:00 am tour explores the Punta Tombo penguin colony, accommodating up to 16 travelers.
The air-conditioned experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours prior and a reserve now, pay later option. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour provides infant seats and is accessible to most.
Guests are greeted at the dock with a sign displaying their name, ensuring a seamless start to the penguin-focused adventure.
Read our full review: Punta Tombo Cruise Excursion With Penguins Review
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Lower Valley of the Chubut River With Dolphins Boat Watching
This captivating boat tour takes visitors along the serene Lower Valley of the Chubut River, offering the chance to witness the playful antics of local dolphin pods.
With a maximum group size of 16, travelers can enjoy an intimate experience aboard a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with a professional guide.
The tour includes all fees, a tasty brunch, and park entrance, making it an excellent value at $135 per person.
Accessibility features like wheelchair and stroller access, as well as dietary accommodations, ensure a comfortable experience for all.
Guests can secure their spot with a flexible reservation and cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour.
Read our full review: Lower Valley of the Chubut River With Dolphins Boat Watching Review
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Shore Excursion Piramides Port & Sailing in Puerto Madryn
Visitors to Puerto Madryn can embark on an engaging shore excursion that combines a visit to the Piramides Port and a sailing experience.
The tour includes convenient port/hotel pick-up and drop-off, a licensed guide, and transportation by air-conditioned vehicle. Participants will enjoy the stunning scenery, with opportunities to see sea lions in their natural habitat.
The sailing component is available during the whale-watching season from June to December. The tour is suitable for most travelers, except those who require wheelchair access.
Confirmation is provided within 48 hours, and a Reserve Now and Pay Later option is available.
This comprehensive shore excursion offers a memorable way to explore Puerto Madryn.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion Piramides Port & Sailing in Puerto Madryn Review
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Punta Tombo Excursion for Cruise Passengers
An engaging Punta Tombo excursion allows cruise passengers to discover the captivating wildlife haven on Argentina’s Patagonian coastline.
Priced from $140 per person, this small-group tour transports visitors in an air-conditioned vehicle to the Punta Tombo Nature Reserve.
Travelers can expect bottled water, a provided lunch, and gratuities included.
The excursion begins with a 7:00 am pickup at the Comandante Luis Piedra Buena Pier.
With a maximum of 17 passengers, the experience offers easy access for wheelchair users and stroller-pushing families.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior, and customers can reserve their spot now and pay later.
Read our full review: Punta Tombo Excursion for Cruise Passengers Review
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Private Cruise Shore Excursion to Punta Tombo
Departing from the Muelle Luis Piedrabuena pier, this private cruise shore excursion to Punta Tombo offers an immersive exploration of Argentina’s captivating wildlife haven.
Priced from $249 per person, the tour includes park entry, a professional guide, air-conditioned transportation, and a box lunch with vegetarian and gluten-free options.
Visitors can expect a pickup according to their cruise ship’s schedule, with a typical start time of 7 AM.
The tour caters to diverse needs, providing infant seats, service animal accommodations, and wheelchair accessibility.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this private excursion ensures a personalized and flexible experience for cruise passengers seeking to discover the wonders of Punta Tombo.
Read our full review: Private Cruise Shore Excursion to Punta Tombo Review
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Peninsula Valdes for Cruise Passengers
Cruise passengers exploring Puerto Madryn can embark on a captivating tour of the Peninsula Valdes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its diverse wildlife.
The all-inclusive experience includes an air-conditioned vehicle, bilingual guide, lunch, and entrance to the reserve. Pickup is at the Comandante Luis Piedra Buena Pier, where the guide will be waiting with a sign.
The tour starts at 7 am and has a maximum of 16 travelers. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and accommodates service animals. Infants can sit on laps, with infant seats available upon request.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a lowest price guarantee, this tour offers flexible booking options starting from $140 per person.
Read our full review: Peninsula Valdes for Cruise Passengers Review
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Peninsula Valdes Excursion Cruise, Puerto Madryn
This excursion to the Peninsula Valdes offers cruise passengers a captivating opportunity to explore one of Argentina’s natural wonders.
Operated by Loika Expediciones, the tour departs from Puerto Madryn’s Comandante Luis Piedra Buena Pier at 9 am, with a maximum of 18 travelers.
The cruise includes all fees and taxes, and the price is SEK 1,562.84 per person, with a lowest price guarantee.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it does accommodate strollers and infant seats.
Passengers can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
Read our full review: Peninsula Valdes Excursion Cruise, Puerto Madryn Review
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Common Questions
Are There Any Discounts Available for Senior Citizens or Children?
Many boat tour and cruise companies offer discounts for seniors and children. Specific discount rates and eligibility vary by operator, so it’s best to check with each company directly for their policies and available savings.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Tours?
You can usually bring your own food and drinks on boat tours, but it’s best to check with the tour operator first. They may have restrictions or offer on-board refreshments that you can purchase.
Are There Any Accessibility Options for Passengers With Disabilities?
Many boat tours and cruises offer accessibility options for passengers with disabilities. Visitors should check with the tour operator ahead of time to inquire about wheelchair access, staff assistance, and any other accommodations available.
How Flexible Are the Tour Schedules, and Can They Be Customized?
Tour schedules are generally flexible, and many operators can customize tours to accommodate passengers’ needs. Many offer alternative routes or activities upon request, making the experience more personalized for those with specific accessibility requirements or preferences.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photography or Videography During the Tours?
Most boat tour companies allow guests to freely take photos and videos during the excursions. However, some may have restrictions in certain areas for wildlife protection or safety reasons. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand.
The Sum Up
Puerto Madryn offers a range of exciting cruise shore excursions. Travelers can explore the Punta Tombo penguin colony, discover the diverse wildlife of the Peninsula Valdés, or visit the Ea San Lorenzo region. These tours provide an opportunity to experience Patagonia’s natural wonders up close. With various tour options catering to cruise passengers, visitors are sure to find the perfect excursion to suit their interests and make the most of their time in Puerto Madryn.