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  • Classic

  • Guide

  • Transfers

  • Boat Transfer

  • Meals

Set off on one of Patagonia's most scenic boat trips, sailing the Última Esperanza fiord all the way to the striking Balmaceda and Serrano glaciers in Bernardo O'Higgins National Park.

The Balmaceda and Serrano Glacier Cruise is a full day excursion designed for travellers who want to see glaciers, fiords, waterfalls and Patagonian wildlife through a comfortable, low-effort experience departing from Puerto Natales.

The day starts early with a departure from Puerto Natales towards Puerto Bories, where you board the vessel to begin sailing the Última Esperanza sound. Along the way you'll see mountains, native forest, waterfalls, cormorant colonies and sea lions in their natural surroundings.

The first approach is to the Balmaceda Glacier, a striking hanging glacier resting on the mountain of the same name. Later you'll go ashore in the Serrano Glacier sector for a short, panoramic walk along native forest trails up to the glacier viewpoint.

The excursion includes the boat trip, a guided walk and a traditional Patagonian lunch at Estancia Perales before returning to Puerto Natales.

Duration

Full Day
10 to 12 hours approx., including the boat trip, the walk and transfers.

What you'll see

  • Puerto Natales
  • Puerto Bories
  • Última Esperanza Fiord
  • Balmaceda Glacier
  • Serrano Glacier
  • Serrano Viewpoint Trail
  • Estancia Perales
  • Bernardo O'Higgins National Park

Ideal for

  • A first sailing experience in Patagonia
  • Travellers looking for low physical demand
  • Nature photography
  • Anyone who wants to see glaciers without a long trek
  • Families and active older travellers

Important considerations

The excursion involves low physical demand, though it does include short walks on natural trails.

Operation depends on:

  • weather conditions
  • wind
  • sailing safety

We recommend bringing:

  • layered clothing
  • waterproof or windproof jacket
  • comfortable outdoor footwear
  • sunglasses
  • sunscreen
  • water and snacks

 

Physical Demand
Low
Suitable for all visitors. Mostly panoramic or vehicle-based tours with minimal walking.
Experience
For Everyone
No previous experience needed.

Itinerary

07.00 hrs. - Pick-up at your accommodation

Passengers going straight to Puerto Bories must be there at 7:30am

El histórico muelle y los edificios de ladrillo de Puerto Bories, cerca de la orilla del agua.
08.00 hrs. - Sailing from Puerto Bories to the Balmaceda and Serrano glaciers.

From Puerto Bories, just 5 km away, you'll set sail towards Bernardo O'Higgins National Park through the Señoret Channel. Enjoy a tasty snack on board while you relax and take in the view of the imposing Mount Balmaceda and its remarkable glaciers, which we'll explore later on

El histórico muelle y los edificios de ladrillo de Puerto Bories, cerca de la orilla del agua.
La antigua maquinaria y los detalles arquitectónicos del Monumento Histórico Nacional Frigorífico Bories.
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.

La antigua maquinaria y los detalles arquitectónicos del Monumento Histórico Nacional Frigorífico Bories.
El intenso color azul del hielo en la base del glaciar Serrano.
9:00 - From Puerto Bories to the Balmaceda and Serrano glaciers

Cross the striking Last Hope Sound. Take in majestic mountains, spectacular waterfalls and rich Patagonian wildlife. Along the way we'll visit the Waterfall and the Condor Cliffs, and continue on towards Mount Balmaceda, where you can see its glacier at 2,035 metres above sea level.

El intenso color azul del hielo en la base del glaciar Serrano.
10.00 hrs. - Sighting of beautiful mountains, waterfalls, sheep ranches and Patagonian birdlife.

Along the way you'll see spectacular landscapes of towering mountains, majestic waterfalls and abundant wildlife, including imperial cormorants and sea lions.

Breathtaking view of the Balmaceda and Serrano glaciers flowing down into the Ultima Esperanza Sound.
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.

Breathtaking view of the Balmaceda and Serrano glaciers flowing down into the Ultima Esperanza Sound.
Un barco navegando por las profundas aguas azules del estrecho de Última Esperanza, cerca de los glaciares.
12.30 hrs. - Visit to the Serrano Glacier. Walk through dense coihue and ñirre forest to the foot of the glacier.

Distance: 1.8 km — a 1.8-km out-and-back trail near Natales, Magallanes. It's 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 other people along the way.

Un barco navegando por las profundas aguas azules del estrecho de Última Esperanza, cerca de los glaciares.
Primer plano de un vaso lleno de whisky y un trozo de hielo glacial cristalino.
13.00 hrs. - Return from the Serrano Glacier to Estancia Perales, with a whisky served over millennia-old ice.

From the Serrano Glacier to Estancia Perales, you can enjoy a whisky served over millennia-old ice, along with a spectacular panoramic view of the Serrano Glacier.

Primer plano de un vaso lleno de whisky y un trozo de hielo glacial cristalino.
Un tradicional asado patagónico preparado al aire libre en Estancia Perales.
14.00 hrs. - Lunch at Estancia Turística Perales.

Enjoy lunch at Estancia Turística Perales, located 51 kilometres from Puerto Natales. This place stands out for its striking setting, on the shore of Last Hope Sound, at the foot of Cerro Prat and at the entrance to the Chacabuco mountain range. The ranch offers a tour that nature lovers will appreciate, ending with a hearty Patagonian lunch. The menu includes charcoal-grilled lamb with side dishes, and vegetarian options are available on request.

Un tradicional asado patagónico preparado al aire libre en Estancia Perales.

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 — we hope you enjoyed this one-of-a-kind Patagonian experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

The excursion includes the navigation, a guide, the walk to the Serrano Glacier viewpoint 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 throughout 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 for privileged panoramic views.

Reviews

Kenneth sg Nov 21, 2025

"Views and lunch were highlights. Negative: inability to trek Serrano glacier due to pontoon damage from weather."

Jerry ca Mar 20, 2025

"The scenery was exceptional and the trip was well organized with a friendly crew."

Erika be 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, confirmed departures 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 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 Glacier Cruise (full day)
4.4/5 (5 reviews)
per person, from
US$ 260

How many people are traveling?

Quantity

Select the service

OptionTotal
Passenger from 12 years of age: US$ 260
Passenger 2 to 11 years of age: US$ 144
Passenger up to 1 years of age: US$ 29

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