1. Weather Conditions: The Strait of Magellan is known for its treacherous weather, with strong winds and unpredictable storms. Waiting for favorable weather conditions was crucial for the safety of the expedition. The crew needed to wait for the right moment to navigate the narrow and dangerous passage.
2. Repairs and Preparations: After the mutiny, Magellan needed time to repair the ships that were damaged during the incident. This involved fixing sails, replacing broken masts, and ensuring overall seaworthiness. Additionally, the crew needed to prepare the ships for the challenging journey through the strait, which included stocking up on supplies and making sure they were well-equipped.
3. Planning and Exploration: Before navigating the Strait of Magellan, Magellan spent time exploring the surroundings of San Julian. This was necessary to gather information about the local geography, identify potential hazards, and plan the best route through the strait. The expedition also needed to scout for suitable places for resupplying and making repairs if needed.
4. Crew Dynamics and Morale: After the mutiny, it was important to restore order and maintain discipline among the crew. Magellan likely spent time addressing the issues that led to the mutiny and ensuring the loyalty and cooperation of his men. This would have required careful diplomacy, communication, and perhaps some disciplinary measures.
5. Strategic Considerations: Magellan may have used the time to gather intelligence and assess the situation before attempting the passage through the strait. He might have been waiting for additional information about the strait, or for reinforcements or supplies from Spain.
In summary, the 8 month gap between the mutiny at San Julian and the navigation of the Strait of Magellan can be attributed to a combination of factors related to weather conditions, repairs and preparations, planning and exploration, crew dynamics, and strategic considerations.