By simoncurrin - 24 Oct 2016
URGENT NEWS - RESTRICTIONS ON CHARTERS IN CHILEAN WATERS - FALKLANDS ALTERNATIVE PROPOSED - REVISED START FOR RYA TRIP.
Pelagic Expeditions along with all foreign flagged charter vessels have had to cancel all of our classic two week cruises in the Beagle Channel and to Cape Horn for the foreseeable future.
After 28 years conducting this most popular of our cruises, the Chilean authorities have ordered the Navy which controls the navigation in this southern region not to allow any port clearances for foreign vessels carrying passengers on charter.
NOTE: THIS DOES NOT AFFECT OUR SAILINGS TO AND FROM ANTARCTICA ONLY CRUISES WITHIN CHILEAN WATERS.
It is a long sad story, but in brief it revolves around protectionism for a local charter fleet that does not exist. Therefore, there is no way now to visit this area, other than on your own recreational boat – if you have one.
We are trying to find a solution to this dilemma. There are examples around the world where foreign vessels with foreign crew can trade in conjunction with a local business thereby creating a joint venture. This will take time to promote and implement if at all possible, so at least for the 2016/2017 season it is a ‘no go.’
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