Although its nickname the “End of the World” – derived from its location along the southernmost tip of South America among the Tierra del Fuego archipelago – Ushuaia is far from the end of any adventure. Where the Andes meet the Beagle Channel and the snow-capped Martial Mountains sit behind a sprawling city of colorful buildings, lies a lively town ready and waiting to take you on the thrill ride of a lifetime. Scenes like Parque Yatana give you the chance to immerse yourself in the rich, indigenous culture.
Navigating the intrepid Drake Passage is made for the boldest of explorers. Petrels and albatrosses that glide across the skies guide the way. To witness its awesome power makes the journey to Antarctica all the more triumphant. The Drake Passage leads you from the southern most region of the Americas to the Antarctic Peninsula, the northern point of The White Continent. This waterway where cold southern ocean meets warm northern sea water creates powerful currents that test your mettle.
But the rewards for the journeyer that braves these waters do not compare. The meeting of warm and cold waters creates an environment that attracts extraordinary wildlife. Drake Passage offers the chance to witness the likes of humpback whales and hourglass dolphins that accompany the voyage. The soundtrack of the 48-hour journey through the Drake Passage includes the crash of the ocean against the ship and the cry of petrels, skuas, and gulls. While the waterway is famous for its challenging navigation, you may still get another side of the Drake Passage. On some occasions, the channel is calm and tranquil, making for a pleasant voyage into Antarctica. That’s one of the more splendid characteristics of the Drake Passage – you never know what you will get. As you emerge from the Drake Passage, the mammoth, icy peaks of the South Shetland Islands loom ahead, greeting you on your victorious landing. You have completed the rite of passage to explore the seventh continent.
Captain’s Choice ports of call add to the sense of adventure and an element of surprise. Your ship’s master will sail around changing weather conditions as needed and take you to the best areas for wildlife viewing.
Captain’s Choice ports of call add to the sense of adventure and an element of surprise. Your ship’s master will sail around changing weather conditions as needed and take you to the best areas for wildlife viewing.
Captain’s Choice ports of call add to the sense of adventure and an element of surprise. Your ship’s master will sail around changing weather conditions as needed and take you to the best areas for wildlife viewing.
Captain’s Choice ports of call add to the sense of adventure and an element of surprise. Your ship’s master will sail around changing weather conditions as needed and take you to the best areas for wildlife viewing.
Drake Passage Navigation
Drake Passage Navigation
Located on the tiny Hornos Island, Cape Horn is the southernmost headland of Tierradel Fuego and where the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans meet. To this day, sailing around it is still considered one of the great yachting challenges. If the opportunity for a RIB cruise presents itself, you may find yourself climbing the cliffside across a rocky beach. Weather permitting, you may go ashore and stop at the Chilean naval station, where you can dive into the cape’s maritime history. Find your way to the lighthouse, Stella Maris Chapel and Cape Horn Memorial, where you can sign the guest book and have your passport stamped.
Ushuaia, Argentina
