Navimag Day 1 - Making New Friends

Last night was the first night on the Navimag Ferry. Our host Juan Pablo is a cool guy who's happy to answer any questions. After a quick wonder along the decks we have a security briefing in the main room. Due to recent incidents alcohol is no longer sold or allowed on the ship although Juan tells us that everyone loves a drink and to be discreete about it. Lucky we smuggled our bottle of whisky on board!

The ferry consists of 6 levels in total. The first 4 levels contain cargo (trucks, food, fish, cows jammed into trailers, gas etc). Level 5 is the main floor with the mess, cinema room, information room, reception, kitchen and numerous rooms. Level 6 is slightly smaller with more rooms and the bridge.

Our cosy cabin has twin beds with a small desk, wardrobe and hand basin. The main light doesnt work but hey were used to dimly rooms by now. Suki froze and Trav was constantly awaken by the metallic clang as the ferry smashed against the mooring. If you listen carefully you can hear the 'moooo' from the cows on the lower deck.

We awake just before breakfast is announced on the intercom. Nothing flash but plently of food consisting of cornflakes, ham, cheese, bread, tea and coffee. Entering a food coma we nap until lunchtime where we have a filling meal of turkey and rice. We still havent left Puerto Natales yet! They are still loading trucks and cargo on board. We were meant to depart at 7am - better get a move on!

Finally were on the 'road' and the captains annouces that we are naviagating through the most narrow section of our voyage. We rush to the bow to witness the view and gaze as we brush past the mountains. This passage is only 80m wide.

Out come the cards for a game of 'arsehole' followed by watching Big Hero 6 in the awesome cinema room. Before dinner we have an information briefing where Juan tells us about the journey and all the points of interest.

After dinner we sneak out to the back deck to share everyones contriban rum and red wine. Its time for lights out of our second night aboard the NavimagRead more