• Classic

  • Guide

  • Boat Transfer

  • Snacks

Experience a scenic navigation through the fjords of Patagonia visiting the impressive Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers on a Half Day excursion from Puerto Natales.

The Balmaceda and Serrano Half Day Navigation is an ideal experience for travelers who want to discover glaciers and Patagonian landscapes in less time, combining panoramic navigation, wildlife observation and privileged views of Bernardo O’Higgins National Park.

The experience begins departing from Puerto Natales toward Última Esperanza Fjord, navigating through channels surrounded by mountains, native forests and waterfalls. During the navigation it is common to observe cormorants, sea lions and different Patagonian bird species.

The first approach takes place in front of Balmaceda Glacier, an impressive hanging glacier located above the mountain of the same name. Afterwards, the navigation continues toward the Serrano Glacier sector, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the glacier and its natural surroundings.

This Half Day excursion is an excellent alternative for travelers with limited time or visitors looking for a low physical demand panoramic experience in Patagonia.


Duration

Half Day
Approx. 4 to 6 hours including navigation and boarding.


Route

  • Puerto Natales
  • Última Esperanza Fjord
  • Balmaceda Glacier
  • Serrano Glacier
  • Bernardo O’Higgins National Park

What You Will See

  • Balmaceda Glacier
  • Serrano Glacier
  • Patagonian fjords
  • Waterfalls
  • Cormorants
  • Sea lions
  • Native forests
  • Patagonia landscapes

Ideal For

  • Travelers with limited time
  • First navigation experience in Patagonia
  • Nature photography
  • Families
  • Travelers looking for low physical demand

Important Information

The excursion has low physical demand and takes place mainly aboard the vessel.

Operation depends on:

  • weather conditions
  • wind
  • navigation safety

Recommended items:

  • Layered clothing
  • Waterproof or windproof jacket
  • 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.

Schedule

6:30 am - Meeting Point: Prat Pier (EPA) or Fishermen’s Pier

Passengers proceed to the embarkation pier in Puerto Natales to begin the navigation

7:00 am - Departure from Puerto Natales
9:00 am - Arrival at Puerto Toro
9:15 am - Start of guided hike (approx. 1.0 hour) to the front of the Serrano Glacier
10:30 am - Return to the catamaran for a scenic sail past the Balmaceda Glacier

Includes a whisky toast with millenary ice

13:00 hrs - Expected return time to Puerto Natales

The gateway to Torres del Paine … The beautiful and remote Natales was founded in 1911 and inhabited primarily by Chileans from the city of Chiloé. Today, it is the transit city to Torres del Paine National Park, but also a destination on its own with various activities such as trekking, mountaineering and sport fishing. Puerto Natales has a wonderful

Frequently Asked Questions

The excursion includes panoramic navigation and guide service during the experience.

The navigation begins from Puerto Natales.

The experience lasts approximately between 4 and 6 hours.

The physical demand is low and suitable for most travelers.

Yes. The vessel navigates in front of the glacier allowing privileged panoramic views.

Depending on operational conditions and service type, some departures may include only panoramic navigation.

Cormorants, sea lions and Patagonian bird species are frequently observed.

Yes, although it may be modified or cancelled depending on weather conditions and maritime safety.

Layered outdoor clothing, waterproof jacket, sunglasses and sun protection are recommended.

The main difference between both excursions is the duration, included activities and the amount of time spent exploring the glacier area.

  • Balmaceda & Serrano Full Day Navigation: includes a complete navigation through Última Esperanza Fjord, a walk to the Serrano Glacier viewpoint and a traditional Patagonian lunch at Estancia Perales before returning to Puerto Natales.
  • Balmaceda & Serrano Half Day Navigation: is a shorter panoramic version mainly focused on navigation and glacier observation, ideal for travelers with limited time.

Main Differences

Full Day Half Day
Longer duration Shorter excursion
Includes lunch Does not include lunch
Includes walk in Serrano sector Mainly navigation
More complete Patagonia experience Quick panoramic experience
Approx. 10–12 hours Approx. 4–6 hours

Both excursions allow travelers to navigate through Última Esperanza Fjord and observe Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers, but the Full Day version offers a longer and more complete Patagonia experience.

Included

  • Boat Trip
  • Bilingual Guide spanish/english
    During excursions and departures mentioned in the itinerary
  • Snacks
  • Ticket to Bernardo O’Higgins Parque Nacional
  • Expert advice and coordination
    Personalized guidance and coordination of your experience via phone, email, webchat, WhatsApp, and scheduled video calls.
  • Booking Fee – Reservation Management
    Administrative costs associated with managing and confirming your reservation, including payment processing and coordinating services with local operators.

General Conditions

  • Operates from October 1st to April 30th, with daily departures
  • Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult
  • Operates normally on Christmas and New Year’s Day
  • Service subject to weather conditions
  • Schedule is referential and may be modified

Includes

  • Coffee or tea with a croissant or medialuna
  • Whisky toast served over millenary glacier ice
  • Entrance fees to Bernardo O’Higgins National Park
  • Port taxes
  • Bilingual guide (Spanish–English)

Pricing

Per Person Price
Adulto (mayor de 12 años de edad) CL$ 125 000
Niño (5 a 12 años) CL$ 70 000

Commercial Conditions

Cancellation Policies

  • Cancellations with 10 days or more before arrival: 90% refund.
  • Cancellations with 9 days or less before arrival are not eligible for a refund.

Other Conditions

  • Weather Conditions and Force Majeure Cancellations: The operator (service provider) reserves the right to cancel, modify, or reschedule services due to safety reasons, weather conditions, or other circumstances beyond its control. In the event of cancellation, the amount paid will be refunded less a 5% administrative reservation fee (booking fee), which is non-refundable.
  • For groups (7+ passengers): cancellations must be made at least 15 days in advance to receive a 90% refund.

Our apply on everything not mentioned before.

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Balmaceda and Serrano Glacier Navigation (Half-Day)

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