Patagonia & Tierra del Fuego Nautical Guide

By Mariolina Rolfo and Giorgio Ardrizzi

Published in English by the Italian sailing magazine BOLINA this comprehensive cruising guide covers the coasts of Chile and Argentina from Valdivia to Mar del Plata. The two authors have spent eight years on their yacht Saudade III in the area. Every one of the four hundred anchorages has been checked out by the authors, who are almost unique in the realm of cruising guides by only including in their book places that they know from personal experience. The result is an absolute godsend to anyone planning to visit that part of the world, which I rate as one of the most beautiful cruising grounds anywhere. The description of every anchorage is accompanied by a clear plan, with recommendations as to where it is best to anchor as well as other practical tips. My first reaction after doing a few spot checks of my own favourite anchorages was: I wish I had this book when I cruised Southern Chile in 1999. At the time I used the existing Imray pilot as well as Alberto Montellero’s rather outdated guide, but this new book puts everything else in the shade.

Apart from dealing in detail with any anchorage worth mentioning, the book also contains much practical information on local weather conditions and forecasts, formalities, fuel and provisioning, as well as some sound advice on the boat, equipment and clothing that are suitable for this area. Bunched together in two sections is a wide selection of colour photographs, which has been an inspired addition as no words can do justice to the stunning scenery and wild beauty of this remote and little-visited corner of the globe.

Visit www.capehorn-pilot.com for information on how to buy the book (in the section BOOKSTORE, there is a list of all the bookstores that are currently selling the book.)

Jimmy Cornell