The End of November

Christopher with Sila tucked into a well-protected cove just north of the Straits of Magellan, called Puerto Profundo.

We went on a terrific hike above Puerto Profundo. Behind JackRabbit and Porter, you can see the Straits of Magellan- our first view of them.

It was really fun to be in the snow again

Part of what made this hike so fun was the sense that not many people had climbed this particular peak before us. In all directions, there were so many unnamed hills and summits, all with glorious views of Canal Smith, where we had come from, and the Western end of the Straits of Magellan, where we were headed next.

Just before entering the Straits of Magellan, we stopped and anchored near the Fairway Lighthouse, or Faro Fairway.

Christopher and the lighthouse keeper examine the chart. This picture belies the fact that the keeper (part of the Chilean Armada) and his wife and son welcomed us warmly, fed us breakfast, showed us around the island and lighthouse, and sent us on our way with some freshly canned centolla (southern king crab).

 Soon after leaving the comfort of the lighthouse visit, we were in the Straits of Magellan with 40 knots of wind, sailing on the staysail alone. Even in the 30 degree rain, Big Jack is all smiles as we sail through this historically important channel.

We tried to climb a mountain and instead spent the day bushwhacking

 At least at the end of the day, the Rabbit enjoyed sitting in a tree with the Straits of Magellan behind him.

Christopher enjoying one of the side canals that took us from the great, wide and rough Magellan to the more southerly and small boat friendly Beagle Channel.

A Chimango Caracara hitches a ride on the backstay

Christopher helps Porter navigate the channel

Caleta Brecknock is one of the more famous anchorages in Chilean Patagonia, and we understand why! It was a very well-protected anchorage and the hiking nearby was outstanding. But the views from the boat and from the hills nearby were absolutely spectacular.

We climbed Mt. Negro during our stay in Caleta Brecknock. It was a fantastic 5 ½ hour hike in the wind and rain that took us by many lakes, and well above tree line to enjoy outstanding views.

What few trees there are on Mt Negro are clearly affected by the prevailing winds.

 Pulling summit treats out of my pack: a bag of M&Ms brought all the way from Florida.

The Summit of Mt. Negro

 Same clothes, same weather, different day. A selfie on a Rabbit & Mama ramble near Caleta Brecknock. Notice the waves in the channel behind us. Sila is anchored just around the corner, protected from the steady 40 knots of wind that was funneling through the fjord and that kept us in our anchorage for several days.