After leaving Cape Horn we traveled in the Beagle Channel and passed Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse. With the lighting it is had to see the red paint.
Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse, Beagle Channel, Argentina
The Border of Argentina with Chile
We had one final port in Argentina, Ushuaia (population 83,000). Located below the 54th parallel south latitude, Ushuaia claims they are the world’s southernmost city. It is also referred to as the city at the end of the world. It is the only city in Argentina accessed by crossing the Andes Mountains (by road).
This white stone monument is a tribute to the Pioneer Settlers of Ushuaia. It appears different based on your position. Face on it looks like an eagle with its wings protecting the settlers. From the sides it looks like a giant wave with scenes of farming and industry.
In this port we had an excursion to Tierra del Fuego National Park. We had views of Ensenada Bay and stopped at Roca Lake. Unfortunately the weather was cold and misting rain, not the best weather for sightseeing or taking pictures. The border with Chile divides the Roca Lake.
We saw wild horses along the road.
We also stopped at Lapataia Bay, the southernmost place in the world that can be reached by road. It is where the famous Pan-American Highway ends. From here Alaska is 11,100 miles north.
“The End of the World Post Office” in Ushuaia, Argentina is considered the southernmost post office in the Americas.
We saw glaciers and waterfalls as we cruised toward Punta Arenas, Chile.
The next day we reached Punta Arenas, Chile (population 146,000). It is Patagonia’s most important city. It is located in the Strait of Magellan a passage that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The cruise director told us during his port talk the city is so windy they put ropes between buildings to help people walk during strong winds. Punta Arenas is considered the southernmost city in the world by Chile, in direct conflict with Argentina who gives Ushuaia that distinction. We found there are many things Argentina and Chile disagree on.
Chile is the world’s longest country at 2,647 miles. Mountains cover 80% of the country.
Punta Arenas was a tender port and we woke up to find three tender boats ready to take passengers ashore.
We did not have an excursion here but instead chose to walk around the town. In the town center is a nice park with a memorial to Ferdinand Magellan. It is said that if you kiss or rub his foot, you will have good luck and a future return to Punta Arenas.
Heritage Building built between 1894 and 1898 called “Palacio de la Gobernación”. This heritage building called the Government Palace, because the Governor lived there in the 19th century, when Magellan was a penal colony 
Across the street was the Sacred Heart Cathedral which unfortunately was not open.
The wind had picked up considerably and the short tender boat ride back to the ship was very bumpy. It was tricky getting from the boat back on the ship but there are always many helpful hands waiting to help.
Police Station and the Chilean Flag
This evening was New Years Eve with Filet Mignon and Lobster served in the dining room. A New Year’s Eve party was held at the pool with music, dancing, Hors D’oeuvres and champagne at midnight.
Happy New Year!!
Next up: Cruising the Strait of Magellan, the Chilean Fjords and Coyhaique, Chile
