Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers Half-Day Cruise

Torres del Paine, Chile



We set sail from the heart of Puerto Natales. We navigate the Última Esperanza Fjord towards Bernardo O'Higgins National Park. We visit the Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers.

Overview

This half-day cruise departs from Puerto Natales, navigating the Última Esperanza Fjord to view Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers, suitable for travelers comfortable with light hiking.

Highlights

  • Sail through Última Esperanza Fjord from Puerto Natales cruise port.
  • View Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers from a tourist catamaran.
  • Low-intensity hike to the Serrano Glacier vantage point.
  • Visit the Balmaceda Glacier from the ship while enjoying whiskey with millennial ice.
  • Return to Puerto Natales before 1 pm.

Description

The tour begins early in the morning at Muelle Prat in Puerto Natales, sailing through Última Esperanza Fjord toward Bernardo O'Higgins National Park. This park, Chile’s largest at 4.3 million hectares and among the world's largest, includes the expansive Southern Patagonian Ice Field.

Along the fjord, you'll see remnants of the old Frigorífico Bories, local ranches, glaciers, waterfalls, a colony of imperial cormorants, and a rocky area inhabited by sea lions. After sailing, the group disembarks for a 1.5-hour hike to the Serrano Glacier’s closest viewpoint via a marked path.

Upon returning to the boat, passengers enjoy whiskey served with millennial ice before observing the Balmaceda Glacier from the vessel’s outer decks.

Includes

  • Coffee or tea with a sweet snack in the morning
  • Whiskey with millennial ice
  • Bernardo O'Higgins National Park entrance fees
  • Port taxes

Excludes

  • Extra onboard food and drinks
  • Gratuities
  • Transportation to and from the wharf

Important Information

  • The tour includes a hike to Serrano Glacier; wear appropriate clothing and be able to walk independently.

Booking Tips

Book in advance to secure your spot. Arrive early at Muelle Prat. Bring layered clothing, waterproof gear, and comfortable shoes. The best time to visit is during the morning departure for calmer waters and optimal glacier views.

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes a boat cruise through Última Esperanza Fjord, a low-intensity hike to the Serrano Glacier viewpoint, glacier viewing from a catamaran, and whiskey served with glacier ice on board.
The cruise departs early from Muelle Prat in Puerto Natales, Chile.
The tour lasts about half a day, returning to Puerto Natales before 1 pm.
The tour is best suited for active travelers comfortable with a light hike; check with the operator regarding age restrictions for children.
Wear warm, layered clothing and comfortable shoes suitable for a light hike and variable Chilean weather on the fjord.
Yes, photography is allowed and encouraged to capture the glaciers and fjord scenery in Chile.
Whiskey with glacier ice is served onboard, but check the tour details to confirm if additional food or drinks are permitted or recommended.
The cruise operates year-round, but weather conditions are generally more favorable during Chile’s spring and summer months.
Participants should be able to manage a low-intensity hike to the Serrano Glacier viewpoint during the tour.

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