Drake Passage

Fact Sheets
Written By Rona Wheeldon

What the Drake Passage is, how it shapes Antarctic journeys and what guests experience when sailing across it.

At a Glance

  • The stretch of open ocean between South America and the Antarctic Peninsula where major oceans converge, creating some of the most dynamic and rapidly changing sea conditions on Earth.

Quick Facts

Route| Ushuaia → Beagle Channel → Drake Passage → Antarctic Peninsula

Distance| Approx. 600 miles / 970 kilometres

Duration| 36-48 hours each way

Sea Conditions| Highly variable, from calm (‘Drake Lake’) to lively (‘Drake Shake’)

Wildlife| Albatross, petrels, whales and other wildlife

Oceanography| Where the Atlantic, Pacific and Southern Oceans meet

Why It Matters on an Expedition Cruise

  • Crossing the Drake Passage is part of the Antarctic experience.

  • It’s where you feel the scale of the Southern Ocean, understand why conditions change so quickly, and appreciate the seamanship that gets you safely to the White Continent.

  • For many guests, it becomes a memorable and surprisingly enjoyable part of the journey - a chance to settle in and feel the rhythm of the expedition.

What You’ll Experience as a Guest

  • A noticeable change in motion as the ship leaves the Beagle Channel and enters open ocean

  • A gradual shift in light, temperature and sea state as you head south

  • Sea conditions that vary from calm, rolling swell to more energetic motion depending on weather and wind

  • Time to explore the ship, attend briefings, join wildlife watches and settle into the rhythm of the voyage

  • Possible sightings of albatross, petrels, whales and other wildlife

What to Wear / Bring / Do

  • Non‑slip footwear for moving around the ship safely

  • Seasickness medication if you’re prone to motion sensitivity (speak to your doctor before travel)

  • Binoculars for spotting seabirds and whales

  • A camera with a strap for use on open decks

Safety & Best Practice

  • Keep one hand free for railings when moving around the ship, especially on stairs and in corridors

  • Keep cameras and phones secured with straps

  • Follow crew instructions regarding which decks are open or closed

  • Rest, stay hydrated and eat lightly if you’re feeling the motion

Practical Tips

  • Spend time on the outer decks when conditions allow - seabirds often follow the ship, so bring binoculars for the best sightings

  • Attend the onboard briefings; they help you understand what to expect

  • If you’re motion‑sensitive, rest early, stay hydrated and avoid heavy meals

  • Use the crossing to organise your gear, charge devices and prepare for landings

Related Content

Rona Wheeldon

I’m Rona and I'm a UK-based freelance photographer, travel writer and film-maker. What you’ll find here on my YouTube channel is luxury travel inspiration, especially for child-free adults and empty-nesters.

https://www.ronawheeldon.com
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