Saturday, February 7, 2004
Punta Arenas, Chile
|
|
With a breathtaking view overlooking the Strait of Magellan, Punta Arenas is in the southernmost region on Earth. Otway Sound is home to colonies of sea lions and Magellanic penguins.
Magdalena Island Natural Penguin Reserve
This tour introduces you to one of the most unspoiled fauna habitats to be found in South America. Located 25 miles north from Punta Arenas and 10 miles offshore, Magdalena Island is a natural reserve of Magellan Penguins, cormorants and other birds. Your tour begins with an approximate two hour ferry ride across the Strait of Magellan, sailing the same waters as Francis Drake, Pedro Sarmiento de Gamboa, Charles Darwin and other exploring seafarers. On arrival to Magdalena Island, you will observe one of the largest penguin colonies of Southern Chile. It has been estimated that nearly 70,000 Magellan Penguins may be found on the island. During your stop at the island, you will be able to observe these curious and entertaining birds. There will be time to walk up to the lighthouse for a panoramic view of the landscape before the return ferry ride (including entertainment) to the cruise ship pier. (1 - 21).
That evening we met for drinks in the constellation lounge to enjoy the view, followed by dinner and Havdallah. I even dropped some cash in the casino, but only after collecting a few dollars in state quarters.