Introduction
The Navimag shipping company operates a new ship, launched for service in 2022, called Esperanza, that navigates the sea route between Puerto Montt and Puerto Natales.
Initially, Navimag ran their ships as cargo and vehicle transport ferries, with passengers being added at a later stage. However, with their new ship, the Esperanza, the focus has changed to cater for much larger passenger numbers than before, as well as offering a higher level of comfort.
Ideal Logistical Connection Between the Lakes and Patagonia
Considering that Puerto Montt is located on the southern side of the Chilean Lake Region and Puerto Natales is in Chilean Patagonia, and very close to Torres del Paine National Park, this navigational route is an ideal way to get from A to B as well as enjoy a Patagonia Cruise. Also, the route is operated in reverse, so passengers can travel from Puerto Natales to Puerto Montt.
Tight Budget
For those on a tight budget, but seek the experience of a Patagonian cruise, Navimag provides the solution. However, cabins, although clean and modern, are simple. This is not a ship that offers high-level comfort, it is a practical and functionable style of cabins and on-board services.
Here at ExperienceChile.Org we will be delighted to put an itinerary together for you, just let us know. We are absolute experts and specialists when it comes to Patagonia.
Routes Available
Route from Puerto Montt to Puerto Natales 3 Nights
Navimag Esperanza
Puerto Montt / Moraleda Channel / Open Ocean / Penas Golf / Bajo Catopaxi / Puerto Eden / Angosura White / Puerto Natales
There is one day of the of the week when the Navimag Esperanza sets sail from Puerto Montt and this is a Tuesday, arriving to Puerto Natales on a Friday.
Check-in Info Puerto Montt
- Check-In: Tuesday from 17:00 to 18:00hrs. At the Navimag office on the first floor of the Holiday Inn Hotel, Juan Soler Manfredini Avenue (s/n – means no number), Costanera Mall (mall on the promenade).
- Tuesday Boarding: 18:30hrs / Tuesday Departure: 22:00hrs / Arrive Puerto Natales Friday early am.
Route from Puerto Natales Puerto Montt 3 Nights
Navimag Esperanza
Puerto Natales / Angosura White and Santa Maria Channel / Puerto Eden / Bajo Catopaxi / Penas Gulf / Open Ocean / Moraleda Channel / Puerto Montt
There is one day of the of the week when the Navimag Esperanza sets sail from Puerto Natales and this is a Wednesday, with check-in on the previous day: Tuesday. The ship arrives to Puerto Mont on a Friday.
Check-in Info Puerto Natales
- Check-In: Friday from 20:00hrs to 21:00hrs. At the Navimag office located at the Puerto Natales bus terminal called the “Rodoviario”. Ave. España 1455, Office 2, Puerto Natales Bus Terminal.
- Boarding: 21:00hrs Friday Night / Departure Saturday: 06:00hrs / Arrive Puerto Montt Tuesday 08:00hrs
The Esperanza was constructed in 2019, has a capacity for up to 244 passengers and can reach a maximum speed of 13 knots.
The ship is modern and designed in such a way where space on board is maximized for the carrying of cargo, vehicles and passengers. The cabin accommodation on board is minimal in appearance, but clean and practical.
Apart from the 6 categories of cabins (including one equipped for disabled passengers), the ship offers a cafeteria, dining room, first aid room, gym and yoga room, activity room and 3 exterior decks.
Voltage on board is 220 volts.
The food on board is at a “canteen style” level.
Running down from the highest deck to the lowest, the passenger cabins are located thus:
Deck 7 (highest deck)
Premium Suite (on a corner at the bow end): offers a matrimonial bed, private en-suite wc and shower room, and panoramic views forward and to the starboard side.
Deck 6
AA Cabins: 4 Bunk beds, window and private en-suite wc and shower room.
CC Cabins: 8 Bunk beds, window and private en-suite wc and shower room.
A Cabin: 4 Bunk beds, no window and private en-suite wc and shower room.