February 9, 2025

CAPE HORN, CHILE

February 1st 2025 we sailed by Cape Horn. The Cape is the along the bottom edge of the South American continent and marks the start of the Drake Passage. Infamous for churning seas and wicked winds, it's believed that more than 10,000 seamen have perished "rounding the horn". Our Captain, sounded our horn in honor of all the fallen seamen as we passed! It was rainy and super windy, but not to big of swells as we sailed by. On the island there is a lighthouse maned by a family, a husband wife and 2 teenagers a boy and girl. The posting is usually for just one year but this family has lived here for 3 years. Below are photo'd from internet showing their lighthouse home and small chapel. They get provisions shipped in every couple of months. Some boats stop here on the island - there is a memorial statue for all the fallen seamen, but nothing else on the island. Very remote!

By Patricia Patrick January 14, 2026
Since Janette Emerich is generous enough to share her drone photos with all of us on board the Ship, I have to share them with you all. This beauty is why I said we felt like we were in a screen saver the whole day in Rangiroa! I love the height perspective in the photos it really captures so much more. Blue Lagoon below:
By Patricia Patrick January 13, 2026
The water in Rangiroa is so spectacular, I wanted to spend more time drift snorkeling and checking out the area called " The Aquarium ". So today I went back out for a 3 hour session to do 3 drift passes in Tiputa pass and then spent an hour in an area with wonderful healthy corals and tons of fish, earning it the nickname " The Aquarium ".
By Patricia Patrick January 13, 2026
Today felt like we were inside a Computer Screen Saver! You know how everybody has one of those amazing beach shots on their home screens ? I am guessing we were in the place where most of them are filmed! Rangiroa is the 2nd largest atoll in the world, and its lagoon feels like its own ocean, it's huge! It is famous worldwide for "drift" diving and snorkeling, due to its fast moving current, crystal clear water and excellent visibility. We joined a group of 44 Residents in an all day adventure.