Comparing the Top Tours in El Calafate

There are three main ways to see the ice by water in El Calafate. The most famous is the Ríos de Hielo Express. This full-day trip visits the Upsala and Spegazzini glaciers. You will navigate through fields of massive blue icebergs. It is the most comprehensive way to see boat tours El Calafate has currently.

The second option is the María Turquesa Gourmet Cruise. This is a premium experience that includes a three-course lunch. The boat is larger and much more comfortable than standard vessels. You get to land at Puesto de las Vacas for a short walk. This tour focuses on comfort and high-end service throughout the day.

Lastly, many visitors take the short navigation at Perito Moreno. This lasts only one hour and stays close to the southern wall. It is cheap and easy to add to a land-based tour. It does not go to the distant glaciers like the longer cruises. Choose this if you are short on time but still want a water perspective.

The Verdict: Which glacier boat tour is the best?

Verdict: The Ríos de Hielo Express is the best choice for the average visitor. It provides the most dramatic scenery for a moderate price. You see the highest glacier walls in the entire park. The scale of the icebergs in the Upsala channel is truly breathtaking. It is the best way to see the top attractions near El Calafate in one go.

• Pros: Excellent value, visits multiple glaciers, modern and fast catamarans.
• Cons: Can feel crowded, food on board is basic, early morning start.

Best for: Families, photographers, and those seeing glaciers for the first time. Skip if: You hate crowds or want a quiet, romantic atmosphere. Alternative: The María Turquesa 'Gourmet Cruise' is better for luxury seekers. If you have a high budget, the private cabins on the 'Spirit of the Glaciers' offer ultimate seclusion.

Cruising Lago Argentino: Reality and Crowds

Expect the weather to be very cold and windy on the deck. Even in the middle of summer, the wind off the ice is piercing. You must bring a high-quality windbreaker and warm gloves. Most boats have large windows so you can see from the warmth inside. However, the best photos are always taken from the outdoor railings.

Crowds are a reality on the most popular routes. The boats for the Ríos de Hielo can hold hundreds of people. People often rush to the sides when a glacier comes into view. Be patient and wait for your turn at the rail. The UNESCO World Heritage site status means these tours are always in high demand.

Timing is everything when you want the best light for photos. Most boats leave the port between 8:30 AM and 9:00 AM. The morning light on Spegazzini Glacier is usually spectacular. If you visit in late summer, the icebergs reflect the sun beautifully. Check the Administración de Parques Nacionales site for current park rules regarding boat distances.

Essential Booking and Practical Details

Most boat tours depart from Puerto Bandera, which is 47 kilometers from town. You can book a transfer with your ticket or drive yourself. Total travel time from your hotel is about one hour. Ensure you have your national park entrance fee ready in cash or booked online. Most tours do not include the park fee in the ticket price.

Booking in advance is highly recommended for 2026. This is especially true if you want the premium decks or gourmet options. You can find more detail in our Lago Argentino glacier cruise booking tips. Price ranges typically stay between $100 and $300 per person. Group discounts are rare, but children often pay a reduced rate.

If you prefer a land experience, combine a short boat ride with the Perito Moreno Glacier guide trips. This allows you to walk the walkways and then see the ice from below. It is the perfect balance for those who get seasick easily. The water on the lake is usually calm, but the wind can cause some choppy waves.