11. Around the Horn

Our approach to Cape Horn began at around 7am and so we were up, showered and well wrapped against the elements so as to be up on deck in good time. For most on board, this was to be the high point of the trip and I think it is safe to say that nobody was disappointed.

There was not much of a swell running, but the wind was blowing at a steady 40 knots and the temperature was just 5C. The sky was generally overcast with a few bright patches and there were many intense squally showers of driving rain and hail. Thus, it is true to say that we experienced the rounding of the Cape in the spirit it in which it should be done!

Our route meant that we approached from the north, passing between the islands and then turning to port so that the Cape island itself was almost circumnavigated. The passing showers, pitch black skies interspersed with bright sunshine, powerful waves crashing against the rocks and even a rainbow all added to the sense of Mother Nature's power. As we continued around to the most southerly point, eventually the lighthouse came in to view, followed shortly thereafter by the Chilean naval outpost and also the albatross sculpture, a memorial to all those sailors who had lost their lives in this most inhospitable of places.

Those passengers who were hardy enough to remain on deck huddled wherever they could find some shelter, although most preferred to view from the comfort of one of the ship's lounges. Again, I was reminded of the fact that the sailors of Magellan's day would not have been afforded such luxury.

Several, should I say, foolhardy souls were determined to watch our rounding whilst sitting in the jacuzzis, and with hindsight they were probably a lot warmer than we were!

It took an hour and a half to complete the rounding and then we went beck below decks for a very welcome cooked breakfast and a mug of steaming coffee. As I write, the sky has cleared somewhat and as we steam towards the Falkland Islands, once again we have the albatrosses and petrels for company.

Thus it can be said that we have joined that elite band of sailors who have sailed around Cape Horn. Maritime folklore has it that we can now eat with one leg up on the table (although I fear we would be ejected from the restaurant should we try), and we now are also entitled to wear a gold earring in our left ear. Book me my appointment at Ernest Jones now!