Three crossings between Puerto Montt and Villa O'Higgins. Only one runs out.

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1. Caleta La Arena–Caleta Puelche

About 30 minutes, just south of Puerto Montt. CLP 11,130 (≈ €10) per car, foot passengers free. Boats shuttle all day; no booking needed.

2. Hornopirén–Caleta Gonzalo — the one to book

The only crossing that sells out, and everything north of Chaitén depends on it. It's two boats with a short drive between them: about four and a quarter hours on the water, and most of a day door to door.

• March to December: subsidised fare, about CLP 34,300 (≈ €31) per car
• January and February: commercial fare, quoted between CLP 48,000 and 69,500 (≈ €43–63) for a car and driver, plus about CLP 11,600 (≈ €10) per extra passenger

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In January and February, book about three weeks ahead. Tickets are sold online at barcazas.cl (plain link, no commission) — the booking form is in Spanish.

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3. Puerto Yungay–Río Bravo

Near the southern end, on the way to Villa O'Higgins. Free, government-subsidised, about 45 minutes to an hour. No booking; first come, first served, with only a few sailings a day, so check the timetable before driving down.

What to book where

• Hornopirén ferry: barcazas.cl — plain link, no commission
• Rental cars from Puerto Montt: compare on DiscoverCars

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