Where is the Drake Passage?

The Drake Passage is situated between Ushuaia, the southernmost tip of Argentina, and stretches to the top of the Antarctic Continental Shelf. The passage itself is 1000km in length and takes about 36 hours to cross in good weather, and up to 48 hours if the water is choppy.

Is crossing the Drake Passage safe?

Despite its reputation of being one of the most treacherous water crossings in the world, crossing the Drake Passage isn't dangerous anymore.While that may have been different for the region's first explorers centuries ago, new technology, safety procedures, and specialised equipment nowadays ensure a safe crossing.

Do you have to cross the Drake Passage to get to Antarctica?

If you're joining us on an Antarctica cruise, you'll cross the Drake Passage in order to get to Antarctica. It's often viewed as one of those 'bucket-list' things you simply have to do if you're travelling to the region.

What is the best month to cross the Drake Passage?

While you can experience horrible weather conditions and rough waters anytime, summer is considered the best time to cross through the Drake Passage. This is because the weather is usually calmer and doesn't produce as many storms as in spring or autumn. Travelling in either June, July, or August will theoretically give you the best chance of avoiding awful weather.

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travellers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. We are always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Best Drake Passage Cruises & Tours 2024/2025

Where the mighty waters of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans collide

The Antarctic is undoubtedly a bucket-list destination, but the sometimes calm, sometimes volatile body of water known as the Drake Passage is the stuff of travel legend. Known to many as one of the roughest sea passages in the world, this icy expanse not only offers rare glimpses into the world of marine mammals but also allows you the time to come to terms with the sheer size and scale of the Antarctica region. Whether you want to scout the horizon for breaching humpback whales or take a deep breath of the fresh, icy air from the top deck, our Drake Passage cruises will undoubtedly be an unforgettable adventure.

Our Drake Passage trips

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11 Days · Comfort

Best of Antarctica: Wildlife Explorer (Ocean Endeavour)

From

NZD $16,270

14 Days · Comfort

Best of Antarctica In Depth (Ocean Endeavour)

From

NZD $19,760

11 Days · Comfort

Best of Antarctica: Pristine Wilderness (Ocean Endeavour)

From

NZD $16,270

11 Days · Comfort

Best of Antarctica: Whale Journey

From

NZD $13,195

Drake Passage highlights

People on the bow of the boat taking in the scenery of the mountain in Antarctica

Breathe in the fresh Antarctic air

There are very few places where you can completely switch off and be at one with the natural landscape surrounding you. Drake Passage is one of those places. Escape from the general racket of ship life and go to the boat's bow for a deep, lungful of fresh and icy Antarctic air. Please refrain from acting out Leo's 'King of the World' moment. 

Best of Antarctica In Depth (Ocean Endeavour)

Best of Antarctica: Wildlife Explorer (Ocean Endeavour)

Woman sotting on the floor in a young pose meditating

Participate in a yoga class

When you think of on-board activities, yoga may not be the first one that comes to mind, however, it’s one of the best ways to rejuvenate your soul and leave you feeling refreshed for the journey ahead. Take the time to participate in a class with a professional instructor and release any tension or stress you might be holding onto (you definitely don’t need that in the Antarctic).

Best of Antarctica In Depth (Ocean Endeavour)

Best of Antarctica: Whale Journey

The library of the Endeavour Compass boat, in Antarctica

Take advantage of the polar library

If the weather is misbehaving during your journey through Drake Passage, there are still plenty of things to do on board to keep you entertained. That’s where the polar library comes in. With books on everything under the sun, including fascinating facts on your otherworldly destination, enrich your mind in preparation for the rest of your polar adventure. 

Best of Antarctica: Wildlife Explorer (Ocean Endeavour)

Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery (Ocean Endeavour)

Ultimate Antarctica: Falklands, South Georgia & the Antarctic Circle (Ocean Endeavour)

Group in costumes standing on stairs on the boats smiling at camera near Drake Passage, Antarctica

Get to know your fellow adventurers

You can’t go on an eye-opening, life-changing trip to the Antarctic without knowing the wanderlusters travelling with you. Crossing the Drake Passage is the perfect time to relax, drink, regale your shipmates with stories of your previous adventures, and get excited for the epic one you're about to go on.

Ultimate Antarctica: Falklands, South Georgia & the Antarctic Circle (Ocean Endeavour)

Best of Antarctica In Depth (Ocean Endeavour)

Best of Antarctica: Pristine Wilderness (Ocean Endeavour)

Group of passengers wearing blue standing on the top deck of their boat in Antarctica

Spot various Antarctic animals from the deck

If you think that just because there’s no land in sight, you won’t see any animals during your voyage across the notorious Drake Passage then perhaps you should think again. Drake Passage is full of animal life from high-flying albatross to breaching whales. The opportunity to photograph these creatures in all their Antarctic glory is a definite pinch-me moment you’ll remember for years to come.

Best of Antarctica: Wildlife Explorer (Ocean Endeavour)

Best of Antarctica: Whale Discovery (Ocean Endeavour)

Best of Antarctica: Pristine Wilderness (Ocean Endeavour)

Passengers talking to the guide and taking photos on the Ocean Endeavour, Drake Passage, Antarctic

Learn about Antarctica’s epic history from polar experts

It might seem like there's not much to do when crossing the Drake Passage, but the polar experts on board would say otherwise. Knowledgeable on all things Antarctica, including the region's history, geology, and biology, treat yourself to a presentation or lecture from the professionals who know it best so you know exactly what you're sailing into.

Best of Antarctica In Depth (Ocean Endeavour)

Best of Antarctica: Pristine Wilderness (Ocean Endeavour)