Tall Ships and the Heroic Era of Antarctic Exploration
During the heroic era of Antarctic exploration, Scott and Shackleton’s tall ships were an embodiment of the expeditions they supported, thousands turned out to see them off.
They were a home for expedition members, dogs, ponies, and even a cat during their ocean journeys, and where the crew started to develop their ‘Explorer Mindset’, growing the personal skills and teamwork they would need during their time in Antarctica.
The ships Discovery, Nimrod, Terra Nova, Aurora and Endurance supported important science and exploration, and played a part in some of the most incredible tales of survival.
Explore the pages below to learn more about the remarkable expeditions these ships undertook. Each story captures a moment in the evolving legacy of Antarctic exploration.