Useful information
This section provides all the essential information you need to plan your shore excursion in Puerto Madryn
Plan your shore excursion in Puerto Madryn with confidence
Below you will find detailed explanations about our meeting point, vehicles, how our operation works on cruise days, the advantages of booking independently from the cruise line, and the differences between regular and private tours.
Meeting Point & Cruise Day Operation
On the day your cruise ship arrives in Puerto Madryn, our operation begins several hours before passengers are allowed to disembark. We continuously monitor the ship’s arrival time, port conditions, and any schedule updates, as each excursion is coordinated with the specific itinerary of your vessel.
Once disembarkation is authorized, passengers must proceed outside the port area, to the end of the pier (pier exit). To reach this point, you may either use the complimentary port shuttle bus or walk approximately 1 km (about a 10-minute walk). Both options are simple and well signposted.
At the pier exit, outside the terminal, our team will be waiting in the designated meeting area holding signs that read “ARNEZ #1” and “ARNEZ #3”, along with a small green flag, making it easy to identify us quickly and without confusion.
From the meeting point, our staff will assist with group organization and escort passengers to their assigned vehicles before the excursion begins. All tours are carefully scheduled with precise timing to ensure a smooth experience and a safe return to the ship with sufficient margin before departure. In the event of any last-minute changes to the cruise itinerary or port schedules, we adjust our operation in real time and communicate all updates clearly and promptly.
Vehicles & Transportation
Transportation is provided in modern, comfortable cars, vans and minibuses, selected according to group size and operational needs. All vehicles are suitable for shore excursions and designed to offer a smooth and enjoyable ride throughout the day.
Groups are organized to maintain comfort, efficiency, and personalized attention. Our drivers and guides are experienced professionals with extensive local knowledge, ensuring safe driving conditions and informative commentary during the tour. Vehicle assignments are coordinated on site to guarantee an organized departure and return process.
Advantages of Booking Outside the Cruise Line
Booking your shore excursion independently from the cruise line allows you to enjoy a more personalized experience while receiving excellent value for your money. Independent tours typically offer better pricing, as they do not include the additional onboard commissions charged by cruise companies.
In addition to cost benefits, independent excursions allow for smaller groups, more flexible itineraries, and direct communication with a local operator. This means you receive accurate information, real-time updates, and a service tailored specifically to your ship’s schedule, while still maintaining a strong focus on safety and punctuality.
Our excursions are designed exclusively for cruise passengers, with schedules carefully calculated to ensure timely return to the port. This allows you to enjoy the advantages of an independent tour without sacrificing peace of mind.
Regular Tours vs. Private Tours
Regular tours are shared experiences with other cruise passengers who have chosen the same excursion. These tours follow a fixed itinerary and schedule, offering an excellent balance between comfort, organization, and value. As they operate in groups, passengers may be asked to wait briefly for other participants to arrive at the meeting point. This waiting time is never longer than 15 to 20 minutes and is already factored into the overall tour schedule. To enhance comfort during the excursion, a box lunch including two bottles of water per person is included in the tour price.
Private tours, on the other hand, are fully customized experiences designed for couples, families, or small groups seeking greater flexibility. With a private tour, the vehicle and guide are reserved exclusively for your party, allowing for a personalized pace, tailored stops, and a more intimate experience. Box lunch is not included in private tours; however, one of the main advantages is flexibility at the start of the excursion. The earlier you disembark, the earlier the tour can begin, without the need to wait for other passengers.
Both options are carefully planned around your ship’s schedule and are operated with the same commitment to safety, organization, and a punctual return to the ship.