TorresDelPaine.com 
-
Classic
-
Guide -
Transfers -
Boat Transfer -
Meals
Set out on one of the most spectacular boat trips in Patagonia and sail the waters of the Última Esperanza Sound until you reach the imposing Balmaceda and Serrano glaciers, in Bernardo O’Higgins National Park.
The Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers Cruise is a full day excursion designed for those who want to discover some of the most striking landscapes of Chilean Patagonia. Fjords, mountains, native forest, waterfalls and wildlife are all part of this experience, which combines navigation with low-difficulty walks, departing from Puerto Natales.
The day begins early with the transfer from Puerto Natales to Puerto Bories, where you board the vessel to start sailing along the Última Esperanza Sound. Along the way you'll enjoy sweeping views of the mountain range, waterfalls dropping between the peaks, and the chance to spot cormorants and sea lions in their natural habitat.
One of the first highlights of the route is the Balmaceda Glacier, a striking hanging glacier that descends from the mountain of the same name. Further on, you'll disembark in the Serrano Glacier sector, where you'll take a pleasant walk along trails surrounded by native forest until you reach a viewpoint with privileged views of the glacier and the lagoon formed at its foot.
The experience is rounded off with a traditional Patagonian lunch at Estancia Perales, before sailing back to Puerto Natales.
Duration
Full Day | 10 to 12 hours approx.
Includes navigation, walking and transfers.
Itinerary
07.00 hrs. - Pick up at your accommodation
Passengers heading straight to Puerto Bories should arrive at 7:30 am
08.00 hrs. - Sailing from Puerto Bories to the Balmaceda and Serrano glaciers
From Puerto Bories, just 5 km away, you'll set sail toward Bernardo O'Higgins National Park through the Señoret Channel. Enjoy a tasty snack on board while you relax and take in the view of towering Mount Balmaceda and its remarkable glaciers, which we'll explore later on
8:30 - Bories Cold Storage Plant National Historic Monument
The journey also includes a stop at the Bories Cold Storage Plant National Historic Monument, built in 1913 by the Sociedad Explotadora Tierra del Fuego. For more than six decades it was the region's main processing centre, notable for its English post-Victorian architecture and its solid masonry buildings.
9:00 - From Puerto Bories to the Balmaceda and Serrano glaciers
Cross the striking Última Esperanza Fjord. Take in majestic mountains, spectacular waterfalls and abundant Patagonian wildlife. Along the way we'll visit the Waterfall and the Condor Cliffs, and continue on to Mount Balmaceda, where you can admire its glacier at 2,035 metres above sea level.
10.00 hrs. - Sighting of beautiful mountains, waterfalls, sheep stations and Patagonian birdlife
Along the way you'll see spectacular scenery of towering mountains, majestic waterfalls and rich wildlife, including imperial cormorants and sea lions.
12.00 hrs. - View of the Balmaceda Glacier
The Balmaceda Glacier, on the western slope of Mount Balmaceda, is one of the gems of Bernardo O'Higgins National Park. This hanging glacier, at 2,035 metres above sea level, captivates visitors with its striking white ice sliding majestically down the eastern side of the mountain.
12.30 hrs. - Visit to the Serrano Glacier. Walk through the forest to the foot of the glacier.
Distance: 1.8 km out-and-back trail near Natales, Magallanes. It is generally considered an easy route, taking an average of 30 minutes to complete. This trail is great for hiking and walking, and you're unlikely to run into many other people along the way.
13.00 hrs. - Return from the Serrano Glacier to Estancia Perales
On the way from the Serrano Glacier to Estancia Perales, you can enjoy a whisky with millennia-old ice, paired with a sweeping panoramic view of the Serrano Glacier.
14.00 hrs. - Lunch at Estancia Turística Perales
Enjoy lunch at Estancia Turística Perales, located 51 kilometres from Puerto Natales. The setting stands out for its remarkable scenery, on the shore of the Última Esperanza Fjord, at the foot of Cerro Prat and at the entrance to the Chacabuco range. The estancia offers a memorable visit for nature lovers, ending with a hearty Patagonian lunch. The menu includes lamb roasted over embers with side dishes, and vegetarian options are available on request.
On the way back from Estancia Perales to Puerto Bories and then to Puerto Natales, you'll be amazed by the unique landscapes of Patagonia. From majestic mountains to vast forests, every view is an unforgettable sight. You'll also have the chance to enjoy the natural spectacle of seabirds soaring in the sky and perhaps even spot a sea lion in
17.30 hrs. - Arrival in Puerto Natales. End of the sailing services.
Arrival in Puerto Natales. End of the sailing services. Thank you for joining us, and we hope you enjoyed this one-of-a-kind Patagonian experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
The excursion includes the navigation, a guide, a walk to the Serrano Glacier lookout and a traditional Patagonian lunch at Estancia Perales.
The experience starts in Puerto Natales, departing towards Puerto Bories, the boarding point for the navigation.
The full navigation lasts approximately 6 hours, spread out over the day.
<p"3848""3915">The physical demand is low and involves short, simple walks.
Yes. The boat sails in front of the glacier, allowing privileged panoramic views.
Reviews
Mar 20, 2025
"The scenery was exceptional and the trip was well organized with a friendly crew."
Nov 27, 2024
"El Glaciar fue lo mejor. Todo bien organizado."
Included
-
Transfers from/to Accommodation in Puerto Natales
Available for the urban area of Puerto Natales. - Boat Trip
- Lunch
- Snacks
-
Bilingual Guide spanish/english
During excursions and departures mentioned in the itinerary -
Expert advice and coordination
Personalized guidance and coordination of your experience via phone, email, webchat, WhatsApp, and scheduled video calls. -
Booking Fee – Reservation Management
Included in the final price. This fee covers the administrative expenses associated with managing and confirming the reservation, processing payments, and coordinating the service with local operators.
General Conditions
| Minimum passengers: | 2 |
| Departure: | 07:15 |
| Duration: | 10 |
| Return: | 18:00 |
- Daily departures from September to March (subject to availability).
- From April to August, departures are confirmed on Sundays only.
- Other departures subject to a minimum number of passengers.
Commercial Conditions
Cancellation Policies
- Cancellations with 10 days or more before the service date: 90% refund.
- Cancellations with 9 days or less before the service date are not eligible for a refund.
Other Conditions
- Cancellations due to weather conditions and force majeure: The operator (service provider) reserves the right to cancel, modify or reschedule services for safety reasons, weather conditions or other circumstances beyond its control. In the event of cancellation, the amount paid will be refunded less 5% corresponding to the administrative costs of the reservation (booking fee), which is non-refundable.
- Children's price (2 to 12 years): $137.500 clp
- Infants' price (0 to 1 year): free of charge
Our apply on everything not mentioned before.
Request with GreatChile
Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers Cruise (full day)
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Questions? Contact GreatChile
Office Hours
- Checking office status...
Telephone
Agenda
- Experts Appointment
"Views and lunch were highlights. Negative: inability to trek Serrano glacier due to pontoon damage from weather."