Cape Horn is generally regarded as the southernmost point of South America. The cape was first circumnavigated by an expedition of the Dutch navigator Willem Cornelisz Schouten and Jacob Le Maire on January 26,1616. They searched for a new passage to the Pacific because Dutch ships were only allowed to use the Strait of Magellan if they belonged to the Dutch East India Company. The cape was named in honor of the council of the city of Capo Hoorn. Cape Horn separates the Atlantic from the Pacific Ocean. The circumnavigation of the cape was one of the most feared sea routes. In particular, the passage to the west was due to the constant westerly storms extremely dangerous and difficult. It is estimated that the seas off Cape Horn became disastrous for more than 800 ships and more than 10,000 people and the largest ship graveyard in the world.
Cruise offers to the port Cape Horn / Chile
Even with a present-day cruise ship today, it is an uncomfortable occasion. The sea seethes. Huge wave mountains build up in front of the ship and splash apart foamingly when the bug penetrates with a groan. The violent, swaying ship movements ensure that the onboard restaurant of cruise ship is often only half full. Finally, with eight-meter high waves every meal is a challenge.
But it is an incredibly exciting and above all enjoyable experience. A landing is possible only with special permission and with some preparations: Passengers must - equipped with rubber boots, life jackets and parkas - be brought to the gravel beaches by storm-proof rubber boats.
Which cruise lines and ships sail to Cape Horn?
In which country / island is Cape Horn located?
