Ferry from Buenos Aires to Montevideo

The ferries running between Buenos Aires and Montevideo offer a solid range of comfort options. You’ll find spacious indoor lounges, snack and drink services, duty‑free shops, Wi‑Fi (often for purchase), and in many cases, outdoor deck seating to enjoy the fresh air and scenic views. Ferries are also equipped with accessibility features like ramps, elevators, and reserved seating areas.

Cabins and accommodation

No cabins are available on this route, as it's a shorter daytime crossing (2 hr 30 min - 3 hr 45 min). Seating options include:

• Standard seats in air‑conditioned lounges.
• VIP/business-class seating with leather chairs, more legroom, and exclusive lounge access on the higher decks.

Seats are usually not assigned, so earlier boarding helps secure the best spot.

Luggage

Luggage rules are fairly generous and similar for both operators:

• Carry‑on and personal items are allowed on board.
• Checked luggage (standard suitcases, sports gear, bikes) is accepted at no extra cost, up to 30  kg per passenger.

Traveling with pets

Both ferry companies allow pets on board with the following policies:

• Small pets may travel free of charge: in carriers or kennels provided by you, located in designated onboard areas.
• For larger pets, they may remain in a vehicle if traveling by car, or must stay in kennels for the crossing.
• Guide and assistance dogs are welcome on board with both operators.

If your trip includes a ferry + bus connection from Colonia del Sacramento to Montevideo, please note that pets cannot travel inside the passenger cabin on the bus. According to Uruguayan regulations, pets must be transported in appropriate carriers placed in the bus luggage hold. The only exception is for certified guide dogs, which may travel with their owners inside the cabin upon presenting the proper documentation.

Make sure to notify the ferry or bus company at least 24 hours before departure if you are traveling with a pet. Also, bring your pet’s health certificates and any necessary supplies for a comfortable trip.

Here are some helpful tips for your ferry trip from Buenos Aires to Montevideo:

• The ferry terminals in Buenos Aires can get busy, especially during holidays and weekends. Arrive at least 30-45 minutes before departure to allow enough time for boarding and passport control.
• Since this is an international trip, all travelers need to carry a valid passport or ID document. Check that your documents are up to date and valid for your journey.
• Some ferries offer a direct service to Montevideo, while others combine a ferry trip to Colonia del Sacramento with a connecting bus ride to Montevideo. Choose the option that best fits your schedule and preferences.
• There are several ferry connections from Buenos Aires to Uruguay beyond Montevideo, including trips to the charming historic town of Colonia del Sacramento and the glamorous beach resort of Punta del Este - both great options to explore if you have some extra time.

Where to take the ferry from Buenos Aires to Montevideo?

Ferries to Montevideo depart from the Puerto Madero area in Buenos Aires. There are two main terminals depending on the ferry operator:

• Buquebus Terminal (Terminal Fluvial de Puerto Madero): located at Av. Antártida Argentina 821, this modern terminal offers Wi-Fi, a Coffee Store Ana Uclé, a restaurant called La Cantina, a two-level duty-free shop, and VIP lounge access for Business and First class passengers (subject to availability). It is easily reachable by taxi, rideshare, and public buses.
• Colonia Express Terminal (for services connecting via Colonia): located at Av. Elvira Rawson de Dellepiane 155, Puerto Madero Sur, this terminal provides a cafeteria, duty-free shopping, and parking facilities.

If you are coming from Ezeiza International Airport, plan at least 1 hour by car or taxi to reach the terminals (longer during peak traffic). From Aeroparque Jorge Newbery Airfield (Aeroparque), the trip usually takes about 20-30 minutes.

Where will the ferry arrive in Montevideo?

The ferry docks at the Terminal Fluvial Puerto de Montevideo, located in the historic Ciudad Vieja district right at the start of the Rambla port area. This convenient location means you’re just steps away from the old city center, with plenty of cafés, shops, and historic sites to explore on foot.

The terminal offers a comfortable and welcoming experience, with amenities such as coffee shops, dining options, and duty-free stores. It is well connected to the rest of Montevideo by public transport and taxis, making it easy to continue your journey.

For those taking the ferry + bus option via Colonia del Sacramento, the bus will arrive at the Terminal de Tres Cruces, Montevideo’s main bus station, conveniently located near several key attractions of the Uruguayan capital, making it easy to explore the city right after you get off the bus.