National Geographic’s latest documentary Endurance brings to life the incredible story of polar explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton and the recent discovery of his legendary ship. Premiering on Sunday, 3 November at 21:00 CAT on National Geographic (DStv Channel 181), the film takes viewers on a journey that connects Shackleton's iconic 1915 survival feat with a modern-day expedition’s relentless pursuit to locate his long-lost vessel.
Directed by Academy Award-winning filmmakers Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin, alongside Natalie Hewit, Endurance chronicles the historic discovery of Shackleton’s shipwreck off the coast of Antarctica, a find that had eluded explorers for over a century. Led by polar geographer Dr. John Shears, marine archaeologist Mensun Bound, and expedition subsea manager Nicolas Vincent, the team used advanced submersible technology to finally locate the Endurance in March 2022, exactly 100 years after Shackleton’s death.
The film captures not only the physical challenges of navigating icy waters aboard the South African icebreaker Agulhas II but also the dedication and technological ingenuity that made this groundbreaking find possible. With never-before-seen footage and expert storytelling, Endurance provides a window into one of the most inspiring tales of survival and exploration.
Tune in for an additional broadcast on Friday, 8 November at 20:30 and witness history brought to life as the story of Shackleton’s crew and the modern explorers who found the Endurance unfolds on screen.