Quest, Shackleton's final ship, reveals new details in historic underwater exploration

An expedition led by the Royal Canadian Geographical Society in partnership with Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution has successfully captured the first close-up images of the wreck of Quest, the last ship of renowned Antarctic explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton, in the Labrador Sea. The significant discovery occurred on July 9, 2026, showcasing the ship's condition after decades underwater.

Close-Up Images of Quest's Wreck

Utilizing the Falcon ROV and the DSV Alvin, the team was able to observe much of the ship, including the bow, deck, and some portholes. Expedition leader and RCGS CEO John Geiger described the experience as a "moving experience." He noted, "To see Shackleton's ship, and to think that Shackleton was standing on that deck a century ago... It's incredible."

The wreck, initially discovered in 2024, was only visible through side-scan sonar at that time. Geiger aimed to return with advanced imaging technology to uncover more details about the ship's current state and history.

Environmental Concerns Surrounding the Wreck

Upon first observing the wreck, the expedition team noticed several large fishing nets obscuring parts of Quest. Geiger commented, "There is a lot of damage to the ship. The nets are a sad story, limiting our ability to look at the wreck. I think we have to take responsibility for what we are doing to our oceans; that's a huge issue." This highlights the ongoing concerns regarding marine conservation and the impact of human activities on underwater ecosystems.

Mark Pathy, chief mission specialist, emphasized the importance of inspiring future generations to explore the planet. He stated, "I hope it inspires people to explore the planet and to understand that there are undiscovered wonders to see and experience out there. It really is a magical place, our planet."

Historical Significance and Future Exploration

Ernest Shackleton, who died on Quest in 1922, remains a central figure in polar exploration history. His legacy includes the extraordinary tale of survival after the loss of his ship Endurance, which was trapped in ice for two years in the Weddell Sea.

After its sinking in 1962, Quest was sold to a Norwegian family and spent 40 years sealing in Arctic waters. The recent expedition, which involved a world-class team from WHOI, aims to survey and map the wreck using advanced underwater photogrammetry technology to create a digital twin of the site.

The team will also sail northeast toward Greenland to survey another shipwreck, Terra Nova, associated with Shackleton's rival, Robert Falcon Scott. Both vessels are significant to Canada's maritime history.