Cruise Passengers Face 40-Foot Waves in Drake Passage

FALKLAND ISLANDS — Passengers aboard Quark Expeditions’ Ocean Explorer faced intense conditions as 40-foot waves battered their cruise ship during a journey through the notoriously turbulent Drake Passage. The incidents occurred while the ship was returning from Antarctica and traversing the 600-mile channel known for its fierce weather.

Travel blogger Lesley Anne Murphy documented the experience, describing it as akin to a 48-hour rollercoaster ride. “Imagine if you signed up for a 48-hour rollercoaster. I am proud to say we survived not one but two Drake Shakes on Antarctica!” she shared via Instagram, where she has 390,000 followers.

Murphy’s footage captured moments of excitement and fear. Despite some passengers whooping in delight, others felt the chaos was unsettling, including one incident where a fellow traveler was knocked to the floor by the swaying of the ship when a wave hit. “It was insane…and at times, even fun? 1000% worth it for this trip of a lifetime!” Murphy stated.

The Drake Passage, located between the southern tip of South America and Antarctica, is notorious for its extreme weather conditions created by the convergence of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Southern oceans. According to Quark Expeditions, their vessels are designed to handle such maritime challenges. Passengers were warned prior to the cruise about potential rough seas during the 12-day voyage.

As the ship navigated through massive swells, safety protocols were enforced. Murphy noted that passengers were directed to remain in their cabins for part of the afternoon as a precaution. “Yes, we were safe,” she reassured her followers, emphasizing that the company’s ships are built for these conditions.

However, Murphy’s adventurous recount sparked mixed reactions online. Many commented about their unease with such an experience. One user remarked, “The way this puts a FINAL stamp on my decision to never go on a cruise,” while another added, “I think I need a Dramamine just watching this video.” Others likened the ride to the infamous disaster of the Titanic.

It’s worth noting that not all encounters in the Drake Passage have ended safely. In 2022, a rogue wave struck a Viking cruise ship, leading to severe damage and the tragic death of a passenger.

For Murphy, the experience was a highlight of her travels. “We were told to stay in our cabins…we got some down time, we laughed a lot, I processed some of this amazing voyage,” she concluded, inviting her audience to consider their own adventurous spirit.