Sailing Southern Patagonia

Sailing through the Chilean fjords around Gordon Island, enjoying the incredible landscapes and wildlife. The Darwin Range is located in the western part of the Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego and has the topographical feature of forming bays and fjords where we can find glaciers that flow into the sea.

On this expedition, we will visit various anchorage spots where, for the most part, we will be alone with nature.

Cape Horn is located at a latitude of 56°S, marking the last point of land before reaching Antarctica. For many years, it was one of the few routes connecting the Atlantic with the Pacific.

Due to its severe and unpredictable weather conditions, it is a place steeped in mystique and the history of great sailors. This makes circumnavigating Cape Horn one of the greatest nautical challenges.

Mitre Peninsula is one of the most inhospitable and rugged areas of the Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego. It is where the harshness of the South Atlantic meets the ruggedness of the Patagonian coasts.

The expeditions we undertake to the peninsula focus on exploring the bays: Slogget, Aguirre, Valentín, Buen Suceso, and Tethis. There, we can observe wildlife, flora, and a great deal of history related to the human settlements that once inhabited the island.

Isla de los Estados is a provincial reserve with numerous anchorages where we can observe the rigor of the South Atlantic. The vegetation is very dense and closed, with highly varied topography.

The island holds significant historical value as it served as a refuge for sailors during the past century. At the eastern tip of the island stands the San Juan de Salvamento lighthouse, known as the Lighthouse at the End of the World.

The ability to access inhospitable areas from a sailboat is significant from a scientific perspective.

Pic La Lune has participated in research expeditions with marine biologists studying cetaceans, terrestrial biologists and ornithologists, oceanographers, geologists, and geomorphologists, as well as in microplastic collection and other science-related activities.

Combining skiing and sailing is a dream for many. Getting to know the region in detail makes this dream a reality, thereby making the most of expedition days.

100 Miles of the Beagle Channel

Sailing in the Beagle Channel or Onashaga Channel (Yagán language) combines the harshness of meteorological conditions with a journey through inhospitable and little-explored landscapes. The icy waters of the Beagle Channel are a destination for sailors worldwide, whether due to their proximity to Cape Horn or as a supply port for those heading to Antarctica.

The Beagle Channel was discovered in 1830 during a hydrographic expedition of the British ship HMS Beagle, commanded by Robert Fitz Roy, with Charles Darwin among the crew.

In the sailing clinic, we will emphasize and raise awareness about environmental care and its particular characteristics. We will conduct observations of flora and fauna (sea lions, birds (penguins), and whales (if we are lucky)). It is a place with a rich history of great sailors and explorers who discovered new seas. Additionally, it holds significant historical relevance for the indigenous peoples.

The student will develop the skills needed to navigate a vessel on voyages safely and responsibly.

The following specific objectives will be addressed:

1. Deepen knowledge on dead reckoning navigation and the use of nautical and digital charts.
2. Acquire knowledge in mechanics, electricity, electronics, and general repairs of the vessel.
3. Gain tools for navigating in adverse hydrometeorological conditions.
4. Develop skills for maneuvering in confined spaces (anchoring, docking maneuvers, and special spaces).
5. Develop knowledge on safety equipment and basic first aid principles.

Program for the Helmsman Course for Sailing and Motor Yachts.

The trainee will become a navigator with the tools needed to enjoy nautical activities in a conscious and safe manner.

The following specific objectives will be addressed:

1. Acquire knowledge about navigation, including understanding nautical charts and their use, navigation challenges, and navigation in special zones.
2. Gain skills in maneuvering and preparing the vessel.
3. Understand the physical environment conditions of the Beagle Channel (interpreting weather forecasts, local currents within the channel, and the physical environment).
4. Obtain basic knowledge of onboard repairs, mechanics, and troubleshooting.