 Puerto Williams : Profile
Puerto Willams, Chile's most southern city, is the usual jumping off point for Antartica. It is situated on Navarino Island in the Beagle Channel.
Yachts entering the Beagle Channel area should contact the Chilean Navy on VHF Channel 16. Puerto Williams is a naval base, but yachts are welcomed there. Cruising boats are usually told to proceed directly into the small western basin, close to the airport, where there is a concrete dock. Shallow-drafted boats may come on its inside, or tie up alongside the Micalvi, a former supply ship, now used as a yacht club by the locals.
Officials will visit the boat here, after which the captain must go to the port captain's office to complete formalities. It is essential that those for whom this is the first port of entry into Chile insist on being given the compulsory customs certificate. Those who leave without it will have serious problems when clearing out of Chile.
Yachts should inform the authorities of their intended route while in Chilean waters and make a daily report on VHF Ch 16. If leaving for local trips (The Horn and the glaciers), a maximum 10 day only zarpe will be issued.
All the foreign yachts entering or leaving Puerto Williams have to pay a tax if coming from or going to a foreign country. Overtime is also charged outside normal working hours. (Monday to Friday 0700 - 1900 and Saturday 0700 - 1300). The charge is 50% more that the standard rate.
Please note: A yacht less than 25 tons of TRG must pay tax only when it enters or leaves the country. A yacht more than 25 tons of TRG must pay each time it enters or leaves a port of Chile, even when it sails in Chilean waters without leaving the country. Lighthouse and beacon fees apply.
last updated December 2008.
Capitania de Puerto
Tel:+56 61 621090, Fax:+56 61 621090, VHF Channel 16
cpwilliams@directemar.cl
The most pleasant, and safest, berths are at the Club Naval de Yates Micalvi. It is based in a small inlet at the western end of the harbour. There is an anchorage in Seno Lauta, with good holding, but exposed to both easterly and westerly winds. It is free, but requires permission from the Port Captain.
Club Naval de Yates Micalvi
Perto Williams, Chile
There is 3.5 metres on the outside of the'Micalvi', and 2 or less alongside the portside. Water, electricity and hot showers are available. The bridge and forward sections of the ship have been turned into a very popular bar, for both passing crews and locals alike. There is a warm welcome here for everyone.
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