Port Hanga Roa (Easter Island)
Hanga Roa, the main town and harbour of Easter Island in Chile, is a significant port of call for many cruise ships. These massive vessels bring a steady flow of tourists to the island, contributing significantly to the local economy. The unique cultural heritage and mystical moai statues of Easter Island are major attractions for cruise ship passengers.
Activities for cruise ship passengers in Hanga Roa are diverse. They include guided tours of the island’s archaeological sites, visits to the local museum, and opportunities to experience traditional Rapa Nui culture. Other popular activities are horseback riding, hiking, and snorkeling in the pristine waters surrounding the island. This wide range of activities cater to the diverse interests of cruise ship passengers.
History
The port of Hanga Roa is located in the town of Hanga Roa on Easter Island, a Chilean territory. Its history is closely tied with the history of the island itself. Easter Island was discovered by Dutch explorer Jacob Roggeveen in 1722, and was later claimed by Spain, and then by Chile in 1888. The port of Hanga Roa played a crucial role in the island's economic activities, mainly in shipping goods and people to and from the mainland.
Over the years, the port has undergone several transformations to accommodate the growing needs of the island. In the 1960s, the port was expanded to facilitate tourism, which has since become the island's main source of income. Today, the port of Hanga Roa is not only a vital lifeline for the residents, providing them with necessary supplies, but it also serves as a welcoming point for tourists who come to explore the island's unique Moai statues and rich Polynesian history.