Colonia Express prepares a direct Buenos Aires–Montevideo ferry

Shippax reported on 6 November 2026 that Colonia Express is preparing a direct service between Buenos Aires and Montevideo in competition with Buquebus. Shippax cites Ladevi’s report of 4 November. The company has invested about USD 12 million in the project, based on Montevideo Express, a ship acquired and adapted for the route with capacity for 600 passengers and 70 vehicles. The plan is one daily return sailing, with times different from those of Buquebus.

Uruguay’s Ministry of Transport and Public Works authorised the service on 30 July, but the start depends on the port of Montevideo. Buquebus owns the pontoon used for loading vehicles at the Maciel pier. Colonia Express has proposed an alternative ramp operated from its own ship. Pablo Genta, president of Uruguay’s National Ports Administration, said technical and administrative evaluations still had to be completed, including how the ramp could be used without affecting the pier structure. Colonia Express also needs authorisation as a port operator in Montevideo.

Colonia Express currently sells trips to Montevideo that combine a crossing from Buenos Aires to Colonia del Sacramento with a bus connection.