Prince Charles Strait (61°5′S 54°35′W / 61.083°S 54.583°W / -61.083; -54.583Coordinates: 61°5′S 54°35′W / 61.083°S 54.583°W / -61.083; -54.583) is a strait 5 nautical miles (9 km) wide between Cornwallis and Elephant Islands, in the South Shetland Islands. This strait was known to sealers as early as 1821, but first record of its navigation was in 1839 by the brig Porpoise of the United States Exploring Expedition squadron under Wilkes. Soundings of the strait were made by the vessel John Biscoe and the frigate HMS Sparrow in December 1948. Named for Charles, Prince of Wales, son of Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom.
This article incorporates public domain material from the United States Geological Survey document "Prince Charles Strait" (content from the Geographic Names Information System).
Famous quotes containing the words prince and/or strait:
““There was a Prince of old
At Salem dwelt, who lived with good increase
Of flock and fold.
He sweetly lived; yet sweetness did not save
His life from foes.”
—George Herbert (1593–1633)
“We approached the Indian Island through the narrow strait called “Cook.” He said, “I ‘xpect we take in some water there, river so high,—never see it so high at this season. Very rough water there, but short; swamp steamboat once. Don’t paddle till I tell you, then you paddle right along.” It was a very short rapid. When we were in the midst of it he shouted “paddle,” and we shot through without taking in a drop.”
—Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862)