The Pio XI Glacier, also known as the Brüggen Glacier, excluding the Antarctic, is the largest but not the only glacier in South America. It spans over 60 kilometers (or 37 miles). An exact count of the number of glaciers is hard to come by–but they are concentrated around the border of Chile and Argentina. The estimated number of glaciers there is around 4,000.
Depending on whom you ask, the Pio XI Glacier was named after the Pope by Spanish explorers shortly before WW1. Others insist it is the Brüggen Glacier, named after the German explorer. Either way, it’s the same glacier.
We sailed through some fjords in Patagonia so we could see it. Needless to say, Crystal being Crystal, there was a lecturer on board with a PhD in oceanography. The lecturer (Ed Sobey) explained how glaciers are formed, the different types of glaciers and interesting facts about the particular glacier we saw. Altogether a fascinating event.
We are due to dock in Punta Arenas tomorrow, which will be our last stop in Chile. Then it is on to Argentina.
JFB
Fond memories of Patagonia and Punta Arenas . Just in case you’re thirsty, lovely cocktails at the bar, Endurance, at the Hotel Jose Nogueira . Safe sailing!
Gracias..Very important info. The bar Endurance at the Hotel Jose Nogueira. We just might try iy out…