South Georgia Island (Grytviken, British Antarctica)

South Georgia Island is part of "South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands" British overseas territory, located in southern Atlantic Ocean. It is an inhospitable, remote collection of islands, that consists of South Georgia (the largest) and a chain of smaller isles (known as "South Sandwich Islands").

The island South Georgia has length of 165 km (103 ml) and width up to 35 km (22 ml). South Sandwich Islands are located approx 700 km (430 ml) to the southeast. Territory's total land area is approx 3903 km2 (1507 ml2).

There is no permanent population on South Georgia. The present inhabitants include Deputy Postmaster, UK Government Officer, scientists, support staff (from British Antarctic Survey).

• In 1775, the British claimed sovereignty over South Georgia, and in 1908 - over South Sandwich Islands.
• In 1927, Argentina claimed South Georgia and in 1938 - South Sandwich Islands.
• In 1985 was formed the Overseas Territory "South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands". Previously it was governed as part of Falkland Islands Dependencies.

From 1976 until 1982 (when closed by the Royal Navy), Argentina maintained the Corbeta Uruguay naval station (on Thule Island) in South Sandwich Islands. The country's claim over South Georgia contributed to 1982 Falklands War. During the war, Argentine forces occupied the island. The country continues to claim sovereignty over South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands.

Shag Rocks (aka Islas Aurora) are 6 small-sized islands located west of South Georgia Island.

South Georgia Island cruise terminal