The last of our five portages was Peninsula Brecknock. Unsure if it would be passable we found an easy route.

Snug inside the warm microclimate of our kayaks, we started taking rest breaks on shore only when absolutely necessary.

On entering Canal Beagle the Cordillera Darwin came into sight. Each adjoining fjord brought breathtaking views of the icy peaks overhead.

With ice choking the sea in all directions, we paddled in close to Ventisquero Italia.

Beaches were frequent along this final stretch which made for relaxed camping and quiet moments to reflect.

In Puerto Williams the Armada welcomed us with a small parade. After handshakes and posed photos with uniformed military officials, we continued on our way.

When our wetsuits froze overnight we needed a fire to thaw them. Finding wood that would burn, however, was a real challenge.

Running before a storm—our sails bending to spill the larger gusts, we transited Canal Ballenero at exhilarating speed.

The Beagle Canal is closely guarded by the Chilean Armada.  We were required to begin twice daily radio contact there.

Clad only in sodden neoprene, our feet began to suffer from the all-day wet and cold.

We crossed over to Isla Navarino where the Southern Beech forests had already begun their turn to an array of fiery Fall colors.

On April 17, 2004, after 173-days and 1,850-miles, we landed in the tiny village of  Puerto Toro. We had completed the entire route safely—and we had done it together.