Crossing the Drake Passage
For many travellers, crossing the Drake Passage is one of the most anticipated and feared parts of an Antarctica expedition. Stretching 1,000 km (620 miles) between the southern tip of South America and the Antarctic Peninsula, the Drake Passage is legendary for its powerful winds, massive waves, and unpredictable conditions.
For some, it’s a rite of passage, the ultimate seafaring challenge that separates adventurers from tourists. For others, it’s a bumpy two-day ordeal that leaves them clinging to their cabin bed. Either way, crossing the Drake is an unforgettable experience—and for those who endure it, the reward is stepping foot on the White Continent.
What Is the Drake Passage?
The Drake Passage is the body of water that separates Cape Horn, South America, and the South Shetland Islands, Antarctica. It is the only open connection between the Atlantic, Pacific, and Southern Oceans, meaning a colossal amount of water is constantly moving through it.
This unique geography creates the largest volume of moving water in the world, making it one of the most dynamic and unpredictable seas on the planet. The lack of landmasses to slow the wind and waves means the passage is frequently home to massive swells, strong currents, and fierce winds.
How Big Is the Drake Passage?
• Distance: About 1,000 km (620 miles) between Ushuaia (Argentina) and the Antarctic Peninsula
• Crossing time: It typically takes roughly 48 hours to cross in good conditions, but strong headwinds or rough seas can slow progress
• Waves: Swells of 4-8 metres (13-26 feet) are common, but waves can reach up to 15 metres (50 feet) in extreme storms
• Winds: Known as the Furious Fifties, winds in the Drake often exceed 40 knots (74 km/h or 46 mph)
Why Is the Drake Passage So Wild?
The Drake Passage is one of the roughest bodies of water in the world due to a combination of geography, ocean currents, and wind patterns.
• A natural wind tunnel: The Roaring Forties, Furious Fifties, and Screaming Sixties are bands of intense westerly winds in the Southern Hemisphere. With no land to slow them down, they race around the globe, building power as they enter the narrow Drake Passage.
• The Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC): The ACC is the largest ocean current in the world, carrying more water than any other current on Earth. As it squeezes through the narrow Drake Passage, water moves at a ferocious pace, creating powerful swells.
• No continental barriers: Unlike other major ocean crossings, the Drake Passage has no landmasses to break the waves, allowing storm-driven seas to build uninterrupted.
• Temperature differences: The Drake is where cold Antarctic waters meet warmer subantarctic waters, creating turbulence, strong currents, and rapidly changing weather.
The “Drake Shake” vs. The “Drake Lake”
Every traveller hopes for a calm crossing, but the Drake Passage has two very different moods:
• The “Drake Shake” – If the winds and currents are strong, expect a bumpy ride. Swells can make walking difficult, and seasickness is a challenge for many.
• The “Drake Lake” – Occasionally, the passage is eerily calm, with glassy seas and a smooth crossing. These days are rare but do happen.
What Wildlife Can You See in the Drake Passage?
Despite its reputation as a rough sea, the Drake Passage is one of the best places for spotting seabirds and marine life. Expedition ships often have naturalists on deck, helping passengers identify wildlife.
Seabirds Commonly Seen in the Drake
• Wandering albatross – The largest flying bird in the world, with a wingspan of up to 3.5 metres (11.5 feet)
• Wilson’s storm petrel – Small but powerful birds that seem to dance on the water’s surface
• Prion species – Delicate seabirds that skim the waves, including fairy prions and Antarctic prions
• Pale mantled grey albatross – A stunning albatross species often seen following ships
• Cape petrel – Black-and-white patterned seabirds that glide effortlessly over the waves
• Antarctic petrel – A striking species that breeds in Antarctic ice cliffs
• Magellanic penguins – Occasionally seen swimming in the Drake, these penguins are more commonly found near South America
Marine Life
While whales are more common near Antarctica, humpback whales, fin whales, and orcas are sometimes spotted in the Drake Passage. If the seas are calm, keep an eye out for blows on the horizon.
How to Prevent Seasickness in the Drake
If you’re worried about seasickness, you’re not alone. Many travellers experience motion sickness in the Drake Passage, but there are several ways to minimise discomfort and enjoy the journey.
Medication Options
• Seasickness patches (Scopolamine) – Applied behind the ear, these are highly effective but can cause drowsiness
• Motion sickness tablets (Meclizine, Dramamine, Stugeron) – Best taken before the rough seas begin
• Ginger – Ginger tea, capsules, or even ginger biscuits can help settle nausea
• Acupressure wristbands – Some travellers swear by these for reducing motion sickness
Other Tips for Managing Seasickness
• Stay hydrated – Dehydration makes nausea worse. Drink plenty of water.
• Eat light, avoid greasy foods – Crackers, bananas, and bread are easier on the stomach.
• Get fresh air – Standing outside and watching the horizon can help reorient your balance.
• Stay mid-ship and low – Cabins near the centre of the ship move less than those at the bow or stern.
Will I Feel Seasick for the Rest of the Trip?
The good news is that once you reach the Antarctic Peninsula, the waters are much calmer. The shelter of the ice and land reduces swells, making it much easier to move around the ship and enjoy landings. Most travellers feel completely fine after the Drake crossing.
Final Thoughts: Conquering the Drake Passage
The Drake Passage is one of the most legendary sea crossings in the world—a true test of endurance for those heading to Antarctica. Whether you experience the Drake Shake or the Drake Lake, crossing these waters is an essential part of the adventure.
Embrace the experience, watch for incredible wildlife, and remember—at the end of the journey, Antarctica awaits.
For more tips and information on Antarctica read our other blogs –
Sustainable Travel in Antarctica