Rounding the 'Horn'

On Monday, we set out to attempt to round Cape Horn and Hornos Island. Apparently it's a pretty amazing feat of navigation and not many boats actually get the chance to do it, owing to weather and water conditions. Cape Horn marks the southernmost point of South America and extends into Drake Passage, the Antarctic strait connecting the south Atlantic and South Pacific oceans. Storms, strong currents and icebergs make passage extremely hazardous. As it turned out for us, the weather was amazing--sunny and warm and very unique for Cape Horn. At about 5 pm, we went around the tip and it was truly special. The weather was so good, in fact, the boat anchored and some crew went ashore to deliver some treats and supplies to the lone family that lives there, manning the lighthouse and 'keeping' the little island. They took the entire boat's worth of passports in a safe box and had them stamped, giving everyone on board a truly once in a lifetime gift. It was bitterly cold up on deck but blankets were handed out along with hot toddies, gluhveine and champagne and the whole boat, employees and all were out in force, documenting the historic moment and celebrating. All in all, a very festive occasion!