A Voyage to Patagonia through the Straits of Magellan aboard the H.M.S. 'Beagle' and 'Adventure' (1826-1827)

The expeditions of H.M.S. "Beagle" and "Adventure" in 1826 and 1827 were primarily carried out to explore the usefulness of the Strait of Magellan for the merchant navy. Aiming at finding an alternative seaway to the perilous route around Cape Horn, it was clear that the Strait of Magellan with its strong currents, severe storms and numerous shallows was as dangerous for sailing vessels as the former. The swift and easily manoeuvrable Royal Navy ships conducted hazardous pioneer work. Luckily, the mate John MacDouall, with his accurate sense of observation, was on board, who delivered a lively and precise account of his adventures. Additionally, for his day and age MacDouall bore a special quality: sensitivity for social matters beyond the usual arrogance of the ruling classes. This aspect makes the book worth reading for sea dogs as well as all others who are interested in historical descriptions of that time. The book was first published in 1833 under the title "Narrative of a Voyage to Patagonia and Terra del Fuego in 1826 and 1827".