Photo: Thierry Dosogne / Stone / Getty Images
Passengers aboard Quark Expeditions’ Ocean Explorer experienced a harrowing journey when massive waves battered the ship while traversing the notorious Drake Passage in March. The passage, located between Argentina and Antarctica, is infamous for its turbulent waters, which transformed the cruise into what one passenger described as a "48-hour rollercoaster."
Travel blogger Lesley Anne Murphy captured dramatic footage showing guests being thrown against walls and sliding across the floor as the ship was hit by waves reaching heights of 30 to 40 feet. Despite the chaos, Murphy described the experience as the "trip of a lifetime," noting that the challenging journey was worth it for the unforgettable adventure. She shared her experience on Instagram, emphasizing that while the "Drake shake" was intense, it was also fun at times.
Quark Expeditions assures travelers that their vessels are built to withstand such conditions, and passengers are advised to stay in their cabins for safety during the roughest periods. The Drake Passage is known for its fierce weather due to the convergence of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Southern Oceans, creating powerful waves.