Drake Passage

All of us studied in school that the Drake Passage connects the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. But only a few know that it is one of the most beautiful and dangerous places on Earth.

The danger of the Drake Passage is related to some geographical features. Firstly, the strongest current of the West Winds passes through this famous strait. It is so strong that there are the largest storms. The wind speed here reaches 40 m/s, and waves rise 15 meters in height. Secondly, Drake Passage has many large ice floes and icebergs creating an incredible landscape. But it complicates the process of ship movement. Thirdly, the changeable water does not allow us to completely organize the trip to this unusual place.

Cruise ships do not come here. Yes, cargo ships try to avoid the Drake Passage, preferring other ways. They are safer but longer. The only people going here are oceanologists.

These brave people examine a strait. It has a number of features distinguishing it from other straits on earth. For example, Drake Passage is the widest one. Even in the narrowest places, the width is no less than 800 kilometers. It is also the deepest passage. Its depth in some places reaches 5 kilometers. The Cape Horn is located there.

After the discovery of the Drake Passage, it became a true cemetery for sailors. People could rarely return from such dangerous trips. Now, here are only submarines, warships, and ships with maximum displacement. They are protected from winds of the stormiest strait on earth.