The Spirit Of The Glaciers: 1 Night Guided Cruise from Calafate

A Glimpse into Patagonia’s Icy Wonders
Imagine sailing through the icy waters of Lago Argentino, with towering glaciers like Perito Moreno, Upsala, and Spegazzini rising dramatically from the water. For just $800 per person, this 1-night guided cruise offers a memorable way to explore some of Patagonia’s most stunning glacial scenery. Starting from El Calafate, this tour packs in scenic boat rides, short hikes, gourmet meals, and chances to observe local wildlife—all in an approximately two-day adventure.

What we particularly love about this experience? First, the up-close views of glaciers from the comfort of a well-appointed boat, which means you can appreciate their majesty without the crowds or noise of bus tours. Second, the combination of relaxing cruising with active exploration—disembarking for short walks that bring you closer to the ice and landscape, adding a tangible sense of connection to the environment.

A potential consideration is the price point—$800 per person is a significant investment, but it’s justified by the inclusions, the intimate size, and the quality of the experience. Also, since entrance to the national park isn’t included, you’ll need to budget separately if you wish to explore the park more extensively.

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy scenic boat trips, wildlife viewing, and short hikes, especially those wanting to avoid crowded park tours. If you’re seeking a combination of comfort, gourmet dining, and immersive scenery with a small group atmosphere, this cruise could be a top choice.

Key Points

• Stunning Glacier Views: Close-up encounters with Perito Moreno, Upsala, and Spegazzini glaciers.
• Comfort and Gourmet Cuisine: Relax on the Spirit of the Glaciers with high-quality meals and wines included.
• Flexible Exploration: Short hikes and walks during stops deepen your connection to the landscape.
• Wildlife Encounters: Opportunities to observe local fauna from the boat and shore.
• Intimate Group Setting: Limited to 38 travelers for a more personalized experience.
• Price and Value: While on the higher end, the all-inclusive nature and unique vantage points provide good value for glacier lovers.

Detailed Review of the Glacier Cruise Experience

Setting Sail: From Calafate to the Glaciers

The adventure begins at La Soledad Private Port in Calafate, where the intimate size of the cruise makes it feel more like a private expedition than a crowded tour. Boarding usually happens around 5:45 pm, followed by a prompt departure at 6 pm. You’ll see the waters darken as the Spirit of the Glaciers slips away into Lago Argentino, heading toward some of Patagonia’s most iconic ice formations.

The two main routes differ slightly—either focusing on the Perito Moreno Glacier or exploring the Spegazzini and Upsala Glaciers—but both offer spectacular scenery, wildlife spotting, and the chance to appreciate the immense scale of these icy giants. Most travelers report that the boat’s size (up to 38 guests) allows for a relaxed, personal atmosphere, far from the crowds typical of land-based park tours.

Evening and Overnight: A Relaxed Journey

After setting sail, you’re treated to a delicious dinner—wines included—while watching the glaciers glow in the evening light. The boat stays overnight on the water, giving guests a rare chance to see the glaciers in different lights and avoid daytime crowds. The cozy yet elegant accommodations on board are designed for comfort, and many reviews praise the friendly, professional staff—adding a personal touch to what can be a somewhat long day.

Day Two: Short Hikes and Glacial Encounters

The morning begins with breakfast as the boat heads toward the next stop. Depending on your route, you’ll visit either Spegazzini Glacier or Perito Moreno Glacier.

Spegazzini Glacier and Short Walks

If you choose the Spegazzini route, you’ll disembark after breakfast for a walk to the Spegazzini Glacier viewpoint—a chance for some fresh air and to see the ice up close. The view is dramatic: a massive glacier calving into the lake, with bright blue ice contrasting against the dark water and surrounding forest. Many travelers mention that this stop is a highlight, especially if you enjoy walking and nature photography.

Perito Moreno Glacier and Forest Walks

If your route focuses on Perito Moreno, your guide (likely a bilingual local named in reviews as “Fabian” or similar) will lead you on a walk through the Andean-Patagonian forest, incorporating flora and waterfall recognition. You’ll then disembark at the walkways of Perito Moreno, where you can marvel at the glacier’s dramatic front face, often calving ice into the lake. The onboard navigation around the glacier’s north face offers a different perspective compared to the walkways, adding to the sense of intimacy with this famous ice formation.

Wildlife and Scenic Highlights

Throughout the journey, many travelers enjoy observing local wildlife—such as condors, sea lions, and various waterbirds—both from the boat and during short hikes. The calving sounds of the glaciers, often described as thunderous, add a visceral element to the experience, making you feel genuinely connected to these ancient ice formations.

Food and Drink: A Culinary Highlight

Included lunch, dinner, breakfast, and beverages elevate this experience beyond a simple boat trip. Many reviewers praise the local wines served during meals, describing the dining as a highlight that complements the breathtaking scenery. A good meal here isn’t just sustenance—it’s part of the journey, offering a chance to relax and savor Patagonia’s flavors amid monumental scenery.

Practicalities and Considerations

The tour’s timing is well-designed—departing in the evening and returning by 4 pm on the second day—allowing for a full but not overwhelming experience. The cost of $800 may seem steep, but when you factor in all meals, drinks, guided walks, and accommodations, many find it reasonable given the quality of the experience and the exclusivity of the small group setting.

Keep in mind that entrance to the national park isn’t included, so you’ll need to buy that separately if you want to explore more on your own. The maximum group size of 38 helps foster a friendly, personalized atmosphere, and most reviews mention the professionalism and kindness of staff.

Authentic Perspectives from Travelers

One reviewer shared, “Tout était parfait, personnel très professionnel et très gentil,” emphasizing the friendly and professional staff. Another appreciated the small group size, which created a “good ambiance” and avoided the crowds of larger tours. They also appreciated the wine selection, making dinners a pleasant and relaxing part of the voyage.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This cruise suits nature lovers who want a comfortable yet immersive experience of Patagonia’s glaciers. It’s ideal if you value personalized service, gourmet meals, and scenic tranquility. Those who prefer active exploration with short hikes will find this a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.

It’s also well-suited for travelers who want a more intimate experience—away from large, bus-based group tours—and don’t mind splurging for the added comfort and exclusivity. If you’re looking for a unique perspective of the glaciers from a vessel that allows you to get very close without risking a boatload of travelers, this cruise will deliver.

The Sum Up

The Spirit of the Glaciers overnight cruise from Calafate offers an authentic and memorable way to experience Patagonia’s iconic ice formations. The combination of up-close glacier views, short hikes, and gourmet cuisine creates an experience that’s both relaxing and awe-inspiring. While the price may be on the higher side, the intimate setting, quality service, and scenic diversity justify the expense for most glacier enthusiasts.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who appreciate comfort and good food, and who want to avoid the crowds while still enjoying the stunning natural scenery. If you’re after a personalized, high-quality experience with plenty of opportunities to connect with the landscape, this cruise could be your perfect Patagonia adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the short hikes are manageable for most, but those with physical limitations may want to check specific trail details.

Does the tour include park entrance fees?
No, the entrance to the national park isn’t included, so you might need to purchase it separately if you wish to explore on your own.

What meals are included?
Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and beverages are all included, with wines served during lunch and dinner, enhancing the dining experience.

How many people are typically on the cruise?
The maximum group size is 38 travelers, fostering a more intimate and relaxed environment.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
While not specified, Patagonia’s weather varies, and travelers generally enjoy this experience in the warmer months—Southern Hemisphere summer—though the tour likely operates year-round.

Can I see wildlife during the cruise?
Yes, many travelers observe waterbirds, condors, and sometimes sea lions from the boat or during short walks.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund. Less notice means no refund, so plan accordingly.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Like any outdoor activity in Patagonia, weather can impact visibility and boat conditions, so flexible plans or weather updates are advisable.

This cruise offers a special glimpse into one of the world’s most stunning glacier regions—combining comfort, adventure, and natural beauty in a way that’s unlikely to be forgotten.