Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know to enjoy your cruise without worries, with the details of both cruises side by side.

Before you book

Where do the cruises depart from?
Moreno SpiritIt departs from Puerto Perito Moreno, at the foot of the glacier's coastal walkways (blue circuit), inside the National Park, 80 km from El Calafate.
Mayo Spirit TrekIt departs from Puerto de Punta Bandera (Solo Patagonia pier), 47 km from El Calafate. A transfer from your hotel can be added as an optional extra.
What are the departure times?
Moreno SpiritHigh season (Nov to Apr): daily departures between 10:30 AM and 2:30 PM. Low season (May to Oct): between 11:45 AM and 2:30 PM.
Mayo Spirit TrekDaily departure at 9:30 AM with a minimum of 20 passengers, check-in 9:10 AM. Return at approximately 5 PM. Available from October to April.
How long does each cruise last?
Moreno Spirit1 hour. A short cruise along the glacier's north wall.
Mayo Spirit TrekA full day, approximately 7 hours 30 minutes including cruising and walks.
Do the cruises include a transfer?
Moreno SpiritNo transfer is included. Visitors must make their own way to Puerto Moreno. Ask our office about daily transfers run by travel agencies.
Mayo Spirit TrekAn optional round-trip transfer from your hotel can be booked for an additional fee.

Who can take part

Can children take part?

Yes. Both cruises are designed for the general public, with no minimum or maximum age. For babies we suggest the responsible adult carries them in a baby carrier.

Are there any restrictions?
Moreno SpiritThe pier is not suitable for wheelchair access.
Mayo Spirit TrekPassengers must have no difficulty walking: no wheelchair or walking-stick use, and no mobility problems.

On both cruises, the women in advanced pregnancy (7 months or more) cannot take part.

Do the cruises have a guide?

Yes, both include a guide on board in Spanish and English, licensed by the National Parks Administration.

During the cruise

Is food sold on board?
Moreno SpiritYes, there is a bar service: cold and hot drinks, and snacks.
Mayo Spirit TrekYes, there is a bar service on board. Lunch is not included: you need to bring your own, and there is a microwave available to heat food.
What should I bring?

Comfortable warm clothing, closed shoes that are safe for walking, a waterproof jacket, hat, gloves, sunscreen and sunglasses.

Can I take photos?

Of course! Both cruises offer unique scenery, so it is worth bringing a camera or a phone with a full battery. On the Moreno Spirit you can hire a professional photographer on board as an optional extra.

Entrance fees, weather and cancellations

Do they include the National Park entrance fee?

No. The Los Glaciares National Park entrance fee is not included on either cruise and must be paid separately. It can be bought online at ventaweb.apn.gob.ar, selecting the correct access gate:

Moreno SpiritAccess gate: Río Mitre.
Mayo Spirit TrekAccess gate: Punta Bandera.
Are they cancelled in bad weather?

The cruises are not cancelled because of rain. They can only be cancelled in the event of strong winds or large icebergs blocking access to Puerto Perito Moreno. That is the skipper's decision, putting the safety of passengers and crew first.

Is there a refund if it is cancelled?
Moreno SpiritYou are refunded 100% of the amount paid.
Mayo Spirit TrekIf on arriving at Puerto Perito Moreno the boat cannot dock because of iceberg blockage and passengers cannot disembark at the walkways, we cruise for longer than usual along the glacier's north face and then return to Punta Bandera. In that case there is no refund, as it is considered an act of nature, compensated with extra cruising time.
Can I change or cancel my booking?

Yes, we have clear cancellation policies. Changes or cancellations must be requested by email at reservas@southernspiritfte.com.ar.

Payments

What payment methods are available?

On the website: Mercado Pago or bank transfer.

At our office in El Calafate (Av. del Libertador 1319, Local 1): cash, credit and debit cards.

Moreno Spirit it can also be paid at the ticket office in the lower car park of the glacier walkways area, in cash or by credit and debit card.

Got a question that is not here? Email us at reservas@southernspiritfte.com.ar or WhatsApp us at +54 9 2966 691709. We are here to help.

Still have questions?

We reply on WhatsApp and by email. Tell us which days you are in El Calafate and we will help you choose.