Drake Passage, Marine strait between South America and Antarctica.
The Drake Passage extends 600 miles wide, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans through deep waters reaching 15,600 feet in certain areas.
The passage was first crossed by Dutch navigator Willem Schouten in 1616, proving the existence of a direct route between Atlantic and Pacific oceans.
The waterway takes its name from Sir Francis Drake, while Spanish maps label it Mar de Hoces after Francisco de Hoces, reflecting different maritime traditions.
Large waves exceeding 40 feet occur frequently in the passage due to the Antarctic Circumpolar Current, making maritime navigation particularly demanding.
The waters contain numerous species lacking hemoglobin in their blood, including the entire family of Antarctic icefish, adapting to extreme cold conditions.
Location: Antártica Chilena Province
Location: Tierra del Fuego, Antarctica and South Atlantic Islands Province
Location: Antarctic Treaty area
Part of: Southern Ocean
GPS coordinates: -58.58028,-62.90944
Latest update: May 26, 2025 19:03
Maritime straits are essential passages for navigation and global trade. These natural waterways between lands connect oceans and seas, allowing the movement of merchant ships and international maritime transport. From the English Channel to the Strait of Malacca, these passages are crucial for the maritime economy and commercial exchanges between continents.
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