MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Record cruise season forecasted for Punta Arenas

Following the confirmation of the Chilean flagged “Antarctic Dream” and “Le Diamant” from Noble Caledonia, Punta Arenas 2005/06 cruise season will complete 148 calls of domestic and international vessels.

A total 66.957 visitors are expected this season of which at least 48.000 belong to international vessels' calls, making Punta Arenas Chile's main cruise port revealed Miguel Bisso Operations Manager of the local port authority, Empresa Portuaria Austral.

"We are expecting 52 additional calls and 22.000 more passengers this season, compared to 2004/05, according to the data supplied to us by the different maritime operators", said Mr. Bisso.

Among novelties for the coming season is the tendency confirmation of ever larger cruise vessels beginning with "Queen Mary II", "Millennium", "Regal Prince" and "Amsterdam", "that will be calling in Punta Arenas".

"Given the increase in visitors and vessels calls we've done several improvements regarding landings, rest rooms and waiting lounges", added Mr. Bisso, who said an additional 50,000 US dollars were invested in the reforms.

More specifically this weekend the expansion of existing facilities was inaugurated in coincidence with the first season call of the "Mare Australis". The reformed facilities now have a coffee shop, handcrafts stand, delicatessen shop and improved internet and communications booths.

"Le Diamant" is scheduled to visit Punta Arenas 18 times this season and the "Antarctic Dream" six.