CALETA GONZALO

• Latitude: -42.5576
• Longitude: -72.6023
• West South America
• Port in Chile

Address: Hualaihué Los Lagos Chile

Caleta Gonzalo is a small marine port located in the southern part of Chile. It forms part of Chile's extensive network of ports that primarily serve local and regional traffic, particularly for tourism and small-scale fishing. Here's a more detailed description and specifications for Caleta Gonzalo:

Description

Caleta Gonzalo is situated in the Los Lagos region of southern Chile, in an area known for its extraordinary natural beauty, which includes fjords, forests, and marine wildlife. The port serves as a gateway to the Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park, one of the most significant conservation areas in Chile, which attracts a considerable number of eco-tourists and outdoor enthusiasts.

Port Specifications

1. Location:

   • Region: Los Lagos
   • Coordinates: Approx. 42.4744° S latitude, 72.8372° W longitude
   • Nearest Major City: Chaitén, approximately 60 km away

2. Port Type:

   • Small-scale marine port primarily for local and regional traffic.

3. Facilities:

   • Docking: Limited docking facilities suitable for small to medium-sized vessels.
   • Cargo Handling: Basic facilities, primarily used for local goods and tourism-related equipment.
   • Passenger Services: Basic amenities to support eco-tourism, including limited passenger boarding and disembarkation points.

4. Navigation and Access:

   • Approach: The port is accessed primarily via the narrow fjords typical of the region, requiring careful navigation.
   • Depth: Suitable for small to medium draft vessels; larger ships may not be able to dock.
   • Tidal Range: Moderately significant, like many fjord ports.

5. Usage:

   • Primary Uses: Eco-tourism, local ferry services, recreational boating, and small-scale fishing operations.
   • Conservation: Close proximity to the Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park emphasizes environmentally conscious operations.

6. Connectivity:

   • Road Access: Limited road connectivity, often requiring 4x4 vehicles for the rugged terrain.
   • Nearest Airports: Remote location means accessibility via smaller airstrips nearer to Chaitén.

Environmental Aspects

• Weather Conditions: Influenced by the Patagonian climate, typically cool with significant rainfall throughout the year.
• Wildlife: Rich marine and terrestrial wildlife, including dolphins, seals, and a variety of bird species.
• Environmental Protection: High environmental standards due to proximity to conservation areas; emphasis on minimizing ecological footprint.

Potential Development

Future enhancements to Caleta Gonzalo could include:

• Improved docking facilities for better handling of passenger and small cargo vessels.
• Enhanced infrastructure for eco-tourism, including more robust amenities for tourists.
• Development of environmentally sustainable practices and facilities to preserve the surrounding natural beauty.

Summary

Caleta Gonzalo is a modest, strategically located marine port in southern Chile that serves as a pivotal access point to the natural wonders of the Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park. Its specifications make it suitable for small-scale operations with a focus on eco-tourism and local commerce. The port emphasizes environmental stewardship due to its adjacent pristine natural landscapes.