Yes, Isla de Lobos is a trip for all ages, children included. The Isla de Lobos boat tour lasts three hours in total, with about 45 minutes of sailing to the island, and it is a relaxed experience that works very well for families. The key is knowing what to expect: you do not go ashore on the island; you sail around it to see the sea lions and the lighthouse, and then anchor nearby for a swim if the sea allows. The boat is private with a captain, so only your group is on board and you can adapt the pace of the trip to what the little ones need.
Here are the details worth knowing if you are thinking about doing this trip with children.
What is the sail to the island like?
The sail to Isla de Lobos takes about 45 minutes from the Port of Punta del Este. It is a calm journey in normal sea conditions, and children usually love it: they watch the coast slip away, feel the movement of the boat and, with a bit of luck, may even spot dolphins along the way. Since the boat is private, you are not in a hurry or sharing the trip with strangers, so if one of the kids needs to slow down or get some fresh air, that is no problem.
All passengers wear a life jacket while sailing, including the youngest. We have life jackets for children in all sizes, so that is covered. If you have questions about how the life jacket fits or about safety on board, ask us before the trip and we will give you all the information.
What do we do when we reach the island?
Once we reach Isla de Lobos, the captain slowly sails around the island so you can see the fur seals and sea lions up close. It is one of the largest colonies in South America, and the animals are right there, sunbathing on the rocks or swimming around. Children are usually fascinated by the noise they make and by seeing them so close. You will also see the historic lighthouse, dating back to 1858, and plenty of birds that live on the island, which is a National Park.
After the loop, the boat anchors near the island. If the sea is calm, people can get in the water and swim with the sea lions around them. That part is optional: if your children do not want to or are very young, they can stay on the boat, watching and enjoying from there. There is no pressure for everyone to jump in. And if you would rather the trip be just for watching and not for swimming, we can plan it that way too.
What should I bring if I go with children?
Since the trip lasts three hours, it is a good idea to bring a few things so the little ones are comfortable on board. Here is a list of the basics:
- Sunscreen (always, even on cloudy days)
- A cap or hat
- Towels if they plan to swim
- Something warm if it is windy or if you leave early
- Water and snacks for the kids
- A camera or phone for photos (the kids will want a souvenir of the sea lions)
You can also add finger-food catering on board as an extra, so there is something ready to nibble during the trip. Or bring your own food and drinks, whichever you prefer.
Can it be combined with another activity on the same day?
Yes, the Isla de Lobos trip can be combined with the boat trip to Gorriti Island on the same outing. That makes the trip a little longer, but you get two trips in one. Gorriti is much closer to the port, so after seeing the sea lions you can anchor off Gorriti so the kids can swim, sunbathe and have something to eat at their leisure.
Another option that works very well for families is the boat trip to Solanas and Punta Ballena, which is a bit longer (about four hours) and more relaxed, ideal if you want a calmer trip with time to stay at anchor. And if your children are a bit older and interested in fishing, the fishing trip is also a great option: the captain teaches and guides them, so it suits beginners and younger kids. Rods, reels and bait are included.
What if they prefer something even calmer?
If you are looking for an even calmer trip, sailboat rental with a captain can be a good alternative. Sailing is smoother and quieter, and the kids can help with the maneuvers if they feel like it, without needing to know anything about sailing. The sailboat trips are full-day outings, and the boat has a bathroom and a kitchen on board.
What happens if the weather is bad?
If the sea is not in good condition on the day of the trip, we reschedule for another date or refund your money. That is important to know when you are going with children: we do not want anyone to have a bad time on the boat. The captain checks the conditions before setting out and lets you know in good time if the day needs to change.
Trips to Isla de Lobos run all year round, so if you need to reschedule there are always dates available. In high season, though, it is best to book early because boats fill up fast.
Frequently asked questions
From what age can children go?
There is no minimum age: families have even come with babies. We have life jackets for all ages and the captain makes sure everyone is comfortable on board.
How much does it cost to go to Isla de Lobos with children?
The price is per boat, not per person, and it varies with the season, the size of the group, the boat and the length of the trip. For an exact quote, message us on WhatsApp with the date and how many people are going.
Where does the boat leave from?
All trips leave from the Port of Punta del Este. We send you the exact meeting point when you confirm your booking.
Get in touch to go out with your family
If you want to do the Isla de Lobos trip with your children or combine it with another trip, message us on WhatsApp and tell us the date you have in mind and how many people are going. We will send you a quote and arrange everything so you can go out with peace of mind. Boat Rental in Punta del Este is private and with a captain, so you set the pace and the trip adapts to what your group needs. See you on board.