CHAITEN

• Latitude: -42.9124
•
• Longitude: -72.7194
•
• West South America
•
• Port in Chile

Address: Chaitén Los Lagos Chile

Web-site: http://www.chile.travel/en/where-to-go/los-lagos-and-chiloe/chaiten

Chaitén is a port town located in southern Chile, within the Los Lagos Region. It primarily serves as a gateway to the more remote Patagonian regions to the south and is situated in a picturesque area surrounded by mountains, rivers, and lush forests.

Port Overview:

• Location: Chaitén is located on the southeastern coast of Chiloé Island in the Gulf of Corcovado.
• Coordinates: Approximately 42.9147° S latitude and 72.7064° W longitude.
• Status: As of recent reports, the port has been partially operational following the 2008 eruption of the Chaitén Volcano, which severely affected the town.

Physical Specifications:

• Type of Port: Coastal and small-scale port.
• Harbor Type: Natural harbor, relatively small compared to major international ports.
• Depth:
  • Approach Channel: Variable, largely dependent on tide; typically shallow.
  • Berth Depth: Shallow, suitable for smaller vessels.
• Tidal Range: Moderate tidal variations.
• Berth Accommodation:
  • Limited docking facilities, suitable for small fishing boats, private yachts, and small cargo vessels.

Port Facilities:

• Cargo Handling: Basic facilities primarily supporting local fishing and small-scale cargo operations.
• Passenger Services: Limited passenger ferry services linking Chaitén to other coastal regions and islands.
• Terminal Services: Basic terminal with essential services; lacks advanced container handling infrastructure.
• Storage: Limited warehousing options; mainly open storage areas.

Connectivity:

• Road Access: Connected by the Carretera Austral (Route 7), a major road running through southern Chile.
• Air Access: The nearest airstrip is at the Chaitén airport, which is capable of handling small aircraft.
• Sea Access: Coastal route primarily; limited international connectivity due to port size and capabilities.

Key Services:

• Fuel Supplies: Limited, tailored to local needs.
• Provisions: Basic provisioning available through local suppliers.
• Customs: Basic customs services available, but limited due to the port's size.
• Other Services: Limited repair and maintenance facilities, basic health and emergency services available in town.

Operational Information:

• Port Authority: Managed by local municipal authorities in collaboration with regional maritime bodies.
• Regulatory Compliance: Adheres to national and regional maritime regulations.
• Operational Hours: Typically operates during daylight hours; limited night operations due to minimal infrastructure.

Challenges and Development:

• Post-Volcano Eruption: Recovery from the 2008 eruption is ongoing, with infrastructure gradually being rebuilt and restored.
• Investment Needs: Significant investment required to modernize and expand facilities to better support both cargo and passenger operations.

Strategic Importance:

• Tourism Gateway: Significant for tourism, offering access to attractions like the Pumalín National Park.
• Local Economy: Vital for the local economy, supporting fishing, small-scale trade, and tourism.

Chaitén, while still reeling from past natural disasters, remains an essential hub for the local communities and travelers navigating the southern regions of Chile. The port plays a critical role in enabling economic activities and enhancing the connectivity of this remote area.