Ferry from Uruguay to Buenos Aires

The ferry companies operating from Uruguay to Buenos Aires (including routes from Colonia del Sacramento, Montevideo, and Punta del Este) offer similar discounts across their services:

• Infants under 2 years old usually travel for free, although port fees may still apply.
• Children up to 13 years old typically get a 15% to 25% discount on ticket prices, depending on the operator.
• Multi-trip passes are often available for frequent travelers, offering discounts of up to 25%.

Whether you’re departing from Colonia del Sacramento, Montevideo or Punta del Este, the ferries heading to Buenos Aires offer a comfortable and well-equipped travel experience. Most vessels provide the following amenities:

• Spacious, air-conditioned lounges with comfortable seating.
• Onboard cafeterias or snack bars serving light meals, drinks, and coffee.
• Duty-free shops where you can browse cosmetics, souvenirs, and snacks.
• Wi-Fi access (usually for purchase), allowing you to stay connected during the crossing.
• Outdoor deck areas available on many ferries, perfect for enjoying the breeze and river views.
• Entertainment systems with TV screens playing series or news updates.
• Accessibility features such as ramps, elevators, and priority seating for passengers with reduced mobility.

No matter which Uruguayan port you’re traveling from, you can look forward to a smooth and pleasant journey across the Río de la Plata.

Cabins and accommodation

Ferries from Uruguay to Buenos Aires are daytime crossings, so no cabins are available. Depending on the operator and vessel, you can usually choose from the following seating options:

• Standard seats in air-conditioned lounges.
• VIP or business-class seating, which includes more space, leather seats, and sometimes access to exclusive lounges on upper decks.

Seats are typically unassigned, so arriving early can help you secure a preferred spot. Restrooms, snack bars, and other onboard amenities are available throughout the trip.

Luggage

Luggage allowances are generally generous across all operators on routes from Uruguay to Argentina:

• Passengers are allowed to bring carry-on and personal items on board.
• Each person may check in up to 30 kg of luggage free of charge, including suitcases, bicycles, or sports equipment.

Oversized items or special equipment should be checked in at the terminal before boarding. Although extra fees are uncommon, it’s a good idea to check the specific policy of your ferry operator in advance.

Traveling with pets

Pets are welcome on ferries from Uruguay to Buenos Aires, but travel conditions may vary depending on the ferry company and whether a bus transfer is included in your route.

• Small pets often travel free of charge inside a carrier, either in designated onboard areas or in the vehicle (if applicable).
• Larger pets must travel in approved kennels and remain in the designated pet area for the duration of the crossing.
• Guide and assistance dogs are always allowed on board with the necessary documentation.

If your journey includes a bus transfer (such as all routes from Punta del Este or the connection from Montevideo via Colonia) please note that pets are not allowed inside the bus cabin. According to Uruguayan regulations, animals must travel in the luggage hold inside a suitable carrier. Guide dogs are the exception and may travel in the cabin with their owner, provided the appropriate documents are shown.

To avoid issues, it’s best to notify your ferry operator at least 24 hours in advance if you're traveling with a pet. Be sure to bring all required health certificates and anything else your pet may need for a safe and comfortable trip.

Here are some useful tips to help you prepare for a smooth and enjoyable ferry trip from Uruguay to Buenos Aires:

• The ferry terminals in Colonia del Sacramento and Montevideo can get busy on weekends and holidays. It's best to arrive 30-45 minutes early to allow time for check-in and passport control.
• Since this is an international route, all travelers must carry a valid passport or national ID. Double-check your documents before you travel.
• For travelers from Punta del Este, remember that all ferry journeys to Buenos Aires require a bus transfer to either Colonia del Sacramento or Montevideo, where you will board the ferry. Plan your schedule accordingly and check the total travel time.
• Some ferry services offer direct trips from Montevideo to Buenos Aires, while others combine ferry + bus via Colonia del Sacramento. Choose the option that best fits your timing and preferences.
• If you are prone to motion sickness, try to choose a seat in the middle section of the lower deck, where the ride is smoother. This is especially helpful on windy days crossing the Río de la Plata.
• Outdoor deck access is sometimes limited, but window seats offer scenic views. On clear days, you may even spot the Argentine coastline before arriving!

Where to take the ferry from Uruguay to Buenos Aires?

Colonia del Sacramento

Ferries depart from the passenger terminal in the Port of Colonia, located just a short walk from the city’s UNESCO-listed Historic Quarter. This modern terminal offers:

• Easy access to taxis and local buses
• Waiting areas with basic amenities
• Parking facilities nearby

For bus + ferry travelers from Punta del Este or Montevideo, buses arrive at the Colonia terminal before boarding the ferry to Buenos Aires.

Montevideo

Direct ferries to Buenos Aires depart from the Terminal Fluvial Puerto de Montevideo, located in the historic Ciudad Vieja district near the Rambla promenade. The terminal features:

• Waiting lounges and cafés
• Duty-free shops
• Good connections to taxis and public transport

If you’re traveling with a combined bus + ferry ticket from Punta del Este via Montevideo, the bus will drop you off at a convenient point to easily transfer to the ferry terminal for your journey to Buenos Aires.

Punta del Este

The ferry itself does not depart from Punta del Este. Travelers take a bus from Punta del Este to either Colonia del Sacramento or Montevideo, where the ferry to Buenos Aires departs.

The bus departs from the Terminal de Ómnibus de Punta del Este, conveniently located near Playa Brava and within walking distance of downtown shops and restaurants.

Where will the ferry arrive in Buenos Aires?

All ferries from Uruguay to Buenos Aires arrive in the Puerto Madero area, one of the city’s most modern and central neighborhoods. Depending on your ferry operator, you’ll arrive at one of the following terminals:

• Buquebus Terminal: a large, modern terminal offering Wi-Fi, coffee shops, a two-level duty-free store, tourist information desks, onsite parking, and VIP lounges for eligible passengers. Well connected by taxi, rideshare, and public transport.
• Colonia Express Terminal: a smaller but efficient terminal with a cafeteria, duty-free shopping, Wi-Fi, and parking facilities. Located at the southern end of Puerto Madero, easily reachable by public transport or taxi.