What to Expect on the Drake Passage

The Drake Passage is one of the most talked about elements of a trip to Antarctica. The two day crossing can feel intimidating but for many, this crossing is a rite of passage and a badge of honor to those visiting the continent. Located between the southern tip of South America and the northernmost reaches of Antarctica, this infamous stretch of water is renowned for its turbulent seas and unpredictable weather. Let's get ourselves prepared - mentally and physically - to cross the Drake:

Pretty much every expedition cruise will cross the Drake Passage between Cape Horn in South America and the South Shetland Islands of Antarctica. You can opt to fly this distance on a "fly cruise" but most guests will cruise across this expanse which can at times be smooth and comfortable and at other time be rocking and rolling

What to Expect:

1. Rough Seas: The Drake Passage is known for its choppy waters, with waves reaching heights of several meters. Be prepared for motion sickness, especially if you're prone to seasickness. Consider bringing motion sickness medication - our ship also provided extra on board just in case.
2. Unpredictable Weather: Weather conditions in the Drake Passage can change rapidly, with storms brewing and dissipating with little warning. On our initial crossing the "Drake Lake" made for smooth sailing and we actually arrived in the South Shetland islands half a day early! However on the way home we got the full "Drake Shake" experience which made even basic tasks -sleeping, eating, walking - a challenge
3. Educational Opportunities: Many expedition cruises across the Drake Passage offer onboard lectures and presentations by expert naturalists and historians. Antarctica XXI provided 3-4 lectures per day when the water wasn't too rough. This gave us a chance to learn a lot about what we were about to experience on the continent

Tips for Preparation:

1. Choose the Right Cruise: When selecting a cruise across the Drake Passage, opt for a reputable expedition company with experienced captains and knowledgeable staff. Adventure Life trip planners can help you research different cruise options and share reviews from past passengers to help find the trip that is right for you.
2. Stay Flexible: Understand that weather conditions may impact the itinerary and schedule of your voyage. Be flexible and open to changes, and trust the expertise of your captain and crew to make the best decisions for the safety and comfort of all passengers. We were lucky enough to arrive a half day early and get an extra excursion on our voyage. However, on the way home we had an entire day where all programing (lectures and films) were cancelled as it was safer for guests to stay in their cabins for the day
3. Be Prepared with Entertainment: Although our cruise had numerous lectures and activities on Drake Passage crossing days, many guests still mentioned wishing they had thought to download movies, music or podcasts to their devices. Since wifi is limited if available at all coming prepared with this meant Tim and I were never bored on our crossing days.
4. Embrace the Adventure: Crossing the Drake Passage is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that few people get to enjoy. Embrace the adventure, immerse yourself in the stunning scenery, and cherish the memories you'll create along the way.

Crossing the Drake Passage by boat is an exhilarating journey that offers unparalleled opportunities for adventure and exploration. By understanding what to expect and following these helpful tips for preparation, you can embark on your voyage with confidence and make the most of this extraordinary experience. So, pack your bags, set sail, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime across the legendary Drake Passage. Safe travels!