One of the purported advantages of sailing north along the east coast of South America is the Falklands current. It generally runs northeast and helps to push us along at around 0.7 knots. That might not seem like much, but it’s an extra 10% or more added to our boat-speed.
So we were surprised, and disappointed, to check our speed and find a current of 1.5 knots slowing us down. What is going on?
We have been in touch with French sailors Yves and Christine aboard their boat Orionde – they left Puerto Williams at the same time we did and we’ve been comparing experiences.
They told us that there is a feature of the South Atlantic called the Zapiola Whirlpool which is created by a giant underwater volcano that distorts the water flow to create its own currents. Apparently it is up to 600nm in diameter, centered roughly at 45S, 45W. Good thing we have knowledgeable friends!
We don’t have internet so can’t learn more ourselves, but if anyone is looking for something to do it would be great to send us (text only, please, because of our slow satellite connection) a bit more info about the whirlpool.
All’s well onboard.
Day Seven
166nm
43 25.3S 48 38.9W
