By Julietta Jameson
Copyright brisbanetimes
Silversea is the only cruise line that homeports from the city of Puerto Williams, which has an airport – Guardia Marina Zanartu Airport – that connects to Punta Arenas, the Chilean gateway for Antarctica and Patagonia. The Chilean navy has a base there, and it’s the starting point for trips around Cape Horn.
Puerto Williams is more than just a pitstop. It’s the centre of life for the indigenous Yaghan people, whose culture reaches back at least six thousand years and who influenced the work of Charles Darwin. It is also home to Dientes de Navarino, a jagged mountain range with the world’s most southerly trek, a 53-kilometre trail that takes four to five days to complete.
With all that in mind, “The Cormorant at 55 South is a tribute to the rich culture, breathtaking natural beauty, and storied history of Puerto Williams,” says Silversea president Bert Hernandez. “It will immerse guests in their destination before their journey to Antarctica and create a convenient, comfortable and seamless way to visit Antarctica.”
The Cormorant’s rooms have forest or water views, connecting to the natural wonder of the location with expansive windows; interiors feature warm wood and earth tones. Every room will incorporate handcrafted items created by regional artisans.
