(Santiago Travel Tips) – San Antonio, located on the central coast of Chile, has become an increasingly popular departure point for cruises along the South American coastline, especially for routes heading to or from Valparaíso and beyond. The port of San Antonio is about 120 kilometers (75 miles) from Santiago, the capital of Chile, making it a convenient option for travelers flying into the country or staying in the capital. Here’s a detailed guide on how to reach the San Antonio Cruise Port from both Santiago’s city center and the airport.
Getting to San Antonio Cruise Port
The agency “iSouthAmerica.com“ offers private transfers to San Antonio Cruise Terminal.
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Hotel in Santiago to San Antonio Cruise Port
If you’re staying in Santiago, the journey to San Antonio can be a scenic trip through Chile’s beautiful wine country and coastal regions. There are several ways to make this journey, depending on your preference for convenience, cost, and comfort.
Taxi or Uber
To reach the cruise port from your hotel in San Antonio, Santiago, the most convenient and direct way is by taking a taxi. Taxis are widely available throughout the city, and most hotels can arrange one for you. Taxi fares in the city are generally reasonable, and the journey usually takes about 2 hours, depending on traffic.
Unlike in other cities, ride-sharing services like Uber are not as common in San Antonio. While Uber does operate in the city, availability can be limited, and taxis are often the more reliable choice. If you prefer to use Uber, it’s a good idea to check the app in advance to ensure that cars are available in your area.
Private Transfer Services
One of the most convenient ways to travel from Santiago to the San Antonio Cruise Port is by booking a private transfer. This service can be arranged through your hotel or online, and it typically involves a comfortable vehicle and a professional driver who will pick you up directly from your hotel and take you to the cruise port.
The drive from Santiago to San Antonio usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This option is ideal for travelers who prefer a direct, hassle-free journey, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are traveling in a group.
Public Transportation
For budget-conscious travelers, public transportation is an option, though it’s less convenient than private transfers or shuttles. Buses run regularly from Santiago to San Antonio, with several companies offering services from the city’s major bus terminals, such as Terminal Alameda or Terminal San Borja.
The bus journey takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and the number of stops along the route. The cost of a one-way ticket typically ranges from CLP 5,000 to 8,000 (USD 6-10), making it an affordable way to reach the port.
However, buses do not drop passengers directly at the cruise terminal. Instead, you’ll need to take a taxi or a local bus from the San Antonio bus station to the port, which can add time and complexity to your journey, especially if you have a lot of luggage.
SCL Airport to San Antonio Cruise Port
If you’re flying into Santiago and heading directly to the San Antonio Cruise Port, here’s how to make the journey from Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) to the port.
Taxi or Ride-Sharing Services
The most common and convenient way to get from Santiago International Airport (Arturo Merino Benítez) to the cruise port in San Antonio, Santiago, is by taxi. Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals terminal, and the ride to the cruise port typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.
As with trips from the hotel, Uber is available but less reliable in San Antonio due to limited availability. It’s worth checking the app upon arrival, but be prepared to take a taxi if no Uber cars are nearby
Private Transfer Services
As with traveling from the city center, private transfer services are the most convenient option for getting from the airport to the San Antonio Cruise Port. Many companies offer direct transfers from the airport to the port, and these can be arranged in advance.
A private transfer from Santiago airport to the San Antonio port typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.
This option is ideal for travelers arriving on international flights who want to ensure a smooth and stress-free transfer directly to the cruise terminal. The driver will meet you at the arrivals area, assist with your luggage, and take you directly to the port.
Shuttle Services
Shared shuttle services are also available from Santiago airport to the San Antonio Cruise Port. These shuttles operate on a fixed schedule and are a more economical option than private transfers, though they may involve longer travel times due to multiple stops.
The cost for a shared shuttle from the airport to the port generally ranges from CLP 40,000 to 70,000 (USD 50-85) per person, and the journey takes around 2 hours. This is a good option for budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind sharing the ride with others.
It’s important to book your shuttle service in advance, especially during peak cruise season when demand can be high.
Public Transportation
Public transportation from Santiago airport to the San Antonio Cruise Port is not as straightforward as other options. There are no direct bus services from the airport to San Antonio, so you would need to take a bus or taxi into Santiago’s city center first and then transfer to a bus heading to San Antonio.
While this option is the most budget-friendly, it can be time-consuming and less convenient, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are unfamiliar with the area.
Location, distance and Travel Time
The San Antonio Cruise Terminal, located in San Antonio, Santiago, is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Santiago’s city center, including popular neighborhoods like Providencia, Las Condes, and Vitacura. It is also approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Santiago International Airport (Arturo Merino Benítez).
Despite the longer travel time, the terminal is easily accessible for travelers arriving by air or staying in Santiago’s main hotel districts, with various transportation options available to make the journey convenient.
Final Tips
When planning your journey to the San Antonio Cruise Port, consider the time of day and potential traffic delays, especially if traveling during rush hours or peak travel seasons. It’s always a good idea to allow extra time for your journey to ensure you arrive at the port on time. Whether you’re coming from Santiago or the airport, booking transportation in advance can help make your trip smoother and less stressful.
If you have extra time before your cruise, consider exploring some of the charming coastal towns along the way or visiting a winery in Chile’s famous Casablanca Valley. The journey to San Antonio offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenic beauty of central Chile.
You might also be interested in:
- Getting to Valparaiso Cruise Port
- Where to Stay in Santiago, Chile
- What to see between Santiago Cruise Port