Puerto Williams (Navarino Island, Chile Antarctica)

Puerto Williams is a port town on Isla Navarino (island) facing Beagle Channel. This is the world's southernmost city and capital of Antártica Chilena province - one of the 4 in the Magellan and Chilean Antarctica Region. Puerto Williams administers Cabo de Hornos and Chilean Antarctic Territory. The town has population around 3,000, which includes both civilians and Chilean Navy personnel.

The town was established in 1953, initially named Puerto Luisa. Later was renamed in honor to John Williams Wilson (aka Juan Guillermos, 1798-1857) - British-Chilean politician who founded Fuerte Bulnes (Chilean fort in Magellan Strait) located approx 62 km (39 ml) south of Punta Arenas.

Puerto Williams as seaport serves primarily naval vessels (being a Chilean Navy base). The base also operates the Guardiamarina Zanartu Airport, hospital and meteo stations. Since late-20th century, the number of military personnel has decreased and the civilian population has increased, mainly due to increased international scientific research and tourism activities. The seaport attracts cruise ship tourists traveling to Cape Horn and Antarctica.

Puerto Williams cruise terminal