Drake Passage

Drake Passage – Between South America and Antarctica

Overview

The Drake Passage is the legendary stretch of ocean that separates the southern tip of South America from the northernmost reaches of Antarctica. Stretching roughly 500 miles (800 kilometers) between Cape Horn in Chile and the South Shetland Islands of Antarctica, it is the shortest crossing between the two continents—and one of the most infamous bodies of water in the world. Known for its unpredictable weather, massive swells, and powerful currents, the Drake Passage has long been both a rite of passage for explorers and a challenge for modern travelers embarking on Antarctic expeditions. Today, it remains one of the most dramatic and awe-inspiring journeys on Earth.

Why Visit

• Cross one of the most famous and storied seas in maritime history
• Witness a remote part of the world where the Atlantic, Pacific, and Southern Oceans converge
• Spot wildlife such as albatrosses, petrels, whales, and dolphins from your ship
• Experience the thrill of navigating waters that challenged explorers like Sir Francis Drake and Ernest Shackleton
• Begin your Antarctic adventure with an unforgettable journey by sea

Highlights

• Wildlife Viewing: The open ocean is alive with seabirds soaring overhead and marine life breaching the surface
• “Drake Lake” vs. “Drake Shake”: Calm, mirror-like seas one day—or towering waves and gale-force winds the next
• Historical Significance: Once a major route for explorers and traders circumnavigating the globe
• Gateway to Antarctica: Crossing the passage marks the start of your Antarctic expedition
• Sense of Adventure: Few journeys rival the drama and raw power of sailing the Drake Passage

History & Cultural Significance

The Drake Passage takes its name from the English explorer Sir Francis Drake, who in 1578 became the first to navigate these treacherous waters after being blown southward while attempting to round Cape Horn. For centuries, before the construction of the Panama Canal, the passage was a critical route for trade and exploration, despite its dangers. The convergence of three oceans here creates some of the strongest currents on Earth, with waves that can reach over 30 feet (9 meters). The passage has tested sailors, inspired legends, and symbolized both danger and discovery. Today, it remains central to Antarctic travel, connecting Ushuaia, Argentina—the world’s southernmost city—with the White Continent.

Typical Costs & Tickets

There is no cost to enter the Drake Passage itself, but travelers typically experience it as part of an Antarctic expedition. Cruises departing from Ushuaia range widely in price, from about $5,000–$12,000 USD per person for a 10- to 14-day voyage, depending on the level of comfort, itinerary, and duration. Luxury cruises and extended expeditions can cost significantly more. Some travelers choose “fly-cruise” options, which allow them to bypass the Drake Passage by flying directly to King George Island in Antarctica—though this convenience comes at a premium cost.

Best Time to Visit

The Antarctic cruise season runs from late October through March. Within this window, the Drake Passage can be crossed at any time, though conditions remain unpredictable year-round. Early season voyages (November) offer pristine ice and wildlife courtship displays, while December and January bring the warmest weather and abundant penguin activity. February and March are excellent for whale watching as the seas become rich with krill. Calm days on the Drake Passage—nicknamed the “Drake Lake”—are possible during any month, but travelers should always be prepared for the “Drake Shake.”

Nearby Experiences

Traveling through the Drake Passage is the gateway to Antarctica. Most voyages continue to the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula, where visitors can see glaciers, icebergs, penguin colonies, and research stations. Before departing, most expeditions begin in Ushuaia, Argentina, a vibrant city with its own attractions, including Tierra del Fuego National Park. Some longer cruises also include stops in the Falkland Islands or South Georgia, rich in history and wildlife.

Travel Tips

• Pack seasickness medication or patches—even seasoned travelers can be challenged by the Drake
• Bring binoculars and a camera for spotting wildlife along the way
• Layer clothing to stay warm and comfortable while on deck
• Embrace the adventure—crossing the Drake is part of the Antarctic experience
• If prone to seasickness, consider a fly-cruise option to avoid the rough seas

Fun Facts & Local Legends

• The passage is where the Atlantic, Pacific, and Southern Oceans meet, creating the Antarctic Circumpolar Current—the strongest ocean current in the world
• Crossing the Drake Passage is considered a rite of passage for Antarctic travelers
• On calm days, passengers experience the “Drake Lake,” but on rough days it becomes the “Drake Shake”
• Waves here can be taller than a three-story building, though modern ships are well-equipped to handle them