2025_26 Oosterdam, Punta Arenas, Chile...

We docked in Punta Arenas today… the extension of the dock has been finished so first time docking for this size of ship. I was out for the sail into Punta Arenas and it was not too bad weather wise. Cathy, Barb and I decided to walk around town this morning so we headed to the Main Square. Punta Arenas is the capital of Chilean Patagonia. During the golden age, Punta Arenas, wealthy merchants built grand mansions and architecture to demonstrate their wealth and influence. Today Punta Arenas has a mixed economy with tourism playing a large part as it is a gateway not only to the Antarctic but also to Chilean Patagonia. We stopped at a few shops before arriving at Plaza Armas, the grand plaza with tree-lined paths, benches and memorial to Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan. The perimeter of the square is flanked by grand houses built in the 19th century, Punta Arenas Cathedral and the most beautiful buildings you will find in Punta Arenas. We stopped for a coffee, discovered gelato and the largest piece of carrot cake I have ever seen. It was very convenient not to have to tender ashore…also, it was a good day just exploring Punta Arenas without a planned tour.