The wreck of the Quest, the ship on which famed explorer Ernest Shackleton died in 1922, has been discovered off the coast of Canada, the Royal Canadian Geographical Society (RCGS) announced. Shackleton, known for his polar expeditions, passed away from a heart attack aboard the Quest during a mission to the polar region, marking the end of the “Heroic Age of Polar Exploration.”
Historic significance
Shackleton’s previous expeditions, including the ill-fated 1915 journey of the Endurance, cemented his legendary status. The Quest continued its storied service post-Shackleton, participating in significant Arctic expeditions and World War II operations before sinking off Newfoundland in 1962.
The wreck was located just 1.5 miles from its last reported position. Using sonar equipment and historical data, an international team from Canada, Norway, the UK, and the US pinpointed the site. Search director David Mearns and lead researcher Antoine Normandin led the successful expedition.
Confirming the identity
Historians, divers, and oceanographers confirmed the wreck’s identity. Sonar imagery matched the Quest’s dimensions and structural features. “Finding Quest is one of the final chapters in the extraordinary story of Sir Ernest Shackleton,” said RCGS CEO John Geiger.
While the team plans to return for a detailed investigation, they intend to leave the wreck undisturbed, as it lies in a protected wildlife area. Alexandra Shackleton, Shackleton’s granddaughter, celebrated the discovery, especially in the 150th anniversary year of his birth.
Legacy
Shackleton’s enduring legacy continues to draw interest, with many visiting his grave annually. This latest discovery adds another chapter to his remarkable story, highlighting his lasting impact on polar exploration.