Why don't ships pass under South America?

This is why the Panama Canal is so important to international trade.

wasn't it discovered by ferdinand magellan first?

The most incredible part of the literally unbelievable story of Shackleton is crossing this part of the sea in a small lifeboat for days with no water or food in freezing weather and hitting a small island 100s of miles away using a sextant while surrounded by 20+ ft waves

It's an area way out of your way where waves can keep going around and around and around the earth without ever hitting land. The water is near freezing random icebergs can show up out of nowhere. Alternatively you could travel a shorter trip through a nice canal in Panama.

Would not recommend taking a swim there

Estrecho de Magallanes!

Weather conditions are often harsh. There are safer routes.

Ships usually do not pass under South America mainly because: Geographical Barriers: There's no natural water route under South America. The continent extends down to Cape Horn, where the land ends, but navigating around this area is known for extremely hazardous conditions due to: Rough Seas: The Drake Passage, between South America's Cape Horn and the South Shetland Islands of Antarctica, is infamous for its turbulent waters, strong winds, and massive waves. Ice hazards: Closer to Antarctica, there are icebergs and sea ice, especially during certain times of the year, posing significant risks to ships. Alternative Routes: Instead, ships use: The Panama Canal: A man-made shortcut through Central America, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, significantly reducing travel time and avoiding the perilous journey around Cape Horn. The Strait of Magellan: A navigable sea route immediately south of mainland South America and north of Tierra del Fuego. It's safer than going around Cape Horn but still challenging. Suez Canal: Economic and Time Considerations: The routes around South America are much longer, increasing fuel costs, time, and the wear on ships. The Panama Canal, despite its tolls, offers a quicker and often safer passage. Ship Size Restrictions: Some modern ships, especially the largest container ships and tankers, might be too large for the Panama Canal's locks (Panamax and New Panamax standards), but these ships are also not built for the treacherous conditions at the tip of South America, so they use the Suez Canal or routes that avoid these areas entirely. Therefore, while it's technically possible for ships to navigate around South America, it's less desirable due to the natural challenges and the availability of safer, more economical alternatives.

creating a unique natural phenomenon⛵️, most dangerous👽 sea crossings🌊.