Magellanova protoka
FAQFrequently asked questions
What is the Strait of Magellan and where is it?
This is a sea strait in southern Chile that separates mainland South America from the Tierra del Fuego archipelago and connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific Ocean. It is about 570 km long, and narrows to about 2 km at its narrowest point.
Where does this name come from?
In honor of Fernand Magellan, whose expedition was the first to cross the strait in 1520. At first it was called All Saints Strait, but King Charles V decided that the name of the navigator sounded better.
Is it easy to swim here?
Not really. Fogs, cold, unpredictable winds and currents - it took Magellan himself 38 days to cross the strait. Today, pilotage is mandatory, so don't rely on buoyancy.
What can be seen here?
The main city and port is Punta Arenas, from where it is convenient to start. Humpback and southern right whales can be found in the waters, and penguins live in Los Pinguinos Natural Monument.
Why was the strait once so important?
Before the opening of the Panama Canal in 1914, it was the main route for steamships between the Atlantic and the Pacific Ocean - safer than the ferocious Drake Passage. And in 1976, Lynn Cox became the first person to swim across the strait.
