Friday, 16 February

Puerto Chacabuco, Chile – We were ashore very early and heading through the town to the surrounding wilderness. Our first stop was in the forest, where we trekked about a kilometre to a truly magnificent waterfall.

Along the way, we saw an endangered insect that was rather frightening-looking. We saw a second one on the path on the way back out. Next stop was a building on a beautiful site, overlooking a lake. We were offered food and drink and entertained by local, traditional dancers and an accordion player.

Apparently, the dancers have won national competitions, and they were really something to watch. Back through the town, admiring parks and playgrounds that are in sharp contrast to the rather battered looking homes, and onto the ship. This area seems just about as rugged as what we’ve been seeing, but has roads – very rough, twisting roads -- and a harbour, so people can live here.

Our guide told us that employment opportunities are very limited, so young people leave, just as they do in so many parts of the world. The ship’s crew provided lively entertainment for the Captain’s farewell party before dinner. The evening entertainment was the Voyager Production Company’s Hollywood Musical show. It was spectacular.
Photos of the day