December 9, 2024
After navigating overnight through the Murray Channel and crossing Nassau Bay we approached Cape Horn National Park. The rocky promontory of Cape Horn rises nearly 1,400 feet above the water.
Cape Horn is the World’s southern most point. We were blessed with great weather so we were allowed to go ashore. For the last 3 weeks no group has gone ashore because of rough seas and rain.
Back in the Zodiacs we went ashore at Cape Horn NationalPark. The Cape Horn Biosphere Reserve, was declared as such by UNESCO in 2005. The legendary Cape Horn is a rocky promontory 1394 feet that dominate the land cap of the turbulent Drake passage and was discovered in 1515 by a Dutch maritime expedition.
We experienced the seascape where the Atlantic and Pacific oceans meet. Then we hiked to the top of the island to observe the lighthouse. From here we took in the panoramic views of the island’s grassy plains and the cerulean fjords below. The lighthouse on the island is inhabited bay a naval officer and his family. The small chapel (called Stella Maris) and a monument representing the albatross complete the view at the top.
In the afternoon we disembarked in historic Wulaia Bay, once the site of the region’s largest native settlements. This area is also renowned for the vastness of its vegetation and beauty of its landscapes—which may explain why Charles Darwin chose it as a landing point during his famous voyage on the Beagle.
Yet another steep hike through the forest to get to the viewpoint. Tough hike but the view as worth it!!
You have literally gone to the end of the world, and it is stunning! You are truly a great adventurer.
So proud of you Mary.
❤️Denise
Not sure if you saw the larger cruise ship at Cape Horn in the morning and sailing around it, Holland America’s Oosterdam. I was on board that ship, and we were in glacier alley the same day you were as well. Small world, and we had such beautiful weather for both. I love that you got boots on the ground in both places, your photos are awesome!
Yes, we saw you!! I love that we were in the same place. Thanks for following my adventures and you kind complements!! Travel on!!