Beyond the Breakers – In the Footsteps of Shackleton

Dear Modern Explorer, "Men Wanted: For hazardous journey. Small wages, bitter cold, long months of complete darkness, constant danger, safe return doubtful. Honour and recognition in case of success.” â€" Ernest Shackleton Shackleton's words were in the back of my mind as I walked through the Royal Geographical Society Exhibition celebrating the centennial of the Shackleton Endurance Expedition â€" arguably one of the most famous expeditions to Antarctica. The Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition (1914â€"17), also known as the Endurance Expedition, is considered the last major expedition in the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration. Conceived by Shackleton as the first expedition to make a land crossing of Antarctica, it failed, but became famous, as much for its remarkable tale of survival as for Shackleton's exceptional leadership. Looking at the images, carefully digitized by our partner, the Royal Geographical Society, I am reminded of the incredibly hostile environment the Antarctic presents. Little has changed since the heroic age of polar exploration. Antarctica in its splendor and incredible beauty is still a harsh, brutal, and dangerous place â€" a destination mandating respect and careful planning. These days however, we're spared certain hardships when we venture to this remote treasure. With her ice-strengthened hull, our workhorse, Silver Explorer is the perfect escort for exploring Antarctica, the Falklands, and South Georgia. Beautifully appointed, crewed with a passionate and well-trained staff, it is doubtful you'll find a better way to explore the white continent. Our carefully selected Antarctica expedition team has incredible passion, not only for Antarctica expedition travel, but in sharing their knowledge and escorting guests to the icy shores. Perfectly sized for 132 or fewer guests, Silver Explorer is ideal for multiple landings as well as opportunistic plan changes, to take advantage of weather and wildlife sightings. Thanks to the valued and loyal support of our Venetian Society guests, Silversea Expeditions continues to grow in strength. In November of 2017, Silver Cloud will join our Expedition fleet. As part of her major refurbishment, she'll get an ice-strengthened hull and start her career as a full-fledged expedition ship in Antarctica. With only 200 lucky guests, 18 rugged Zodiacs, and an expedition team of 19, she will be perfectly equipped to compliment Silver Explorer, in our quest to deliver one-of-a-kind, ultra-luxury, educational expeditions in Antarctica and around the world. If you've yet to visit, or are longing to revisit Antarctica or South Georgia, join us for one of our 10-, 12-, 15- or 18-night expeditions. Beyond a life-changing adventure, the personal impact of these expeditions is difficult to describe when restricted to mere words. The immensity of it all is something one must experience to fully grasp and appreciate. Experience an expedition of a lifetime. Witness rarely seen treasures; book one of these select sailings: VOYAGE 7626 â€" Antarctica and Chilean Fjords 18-night Antarctica and Chilean Fjords Combining the magic of the Chilean Fjords and the beauty of the Antarctic Peninsula in a once in a lifetime trip. VOYAGE 7629 -â€" Explorers Antarctica Christmas in the Falklands, New Years in Antarctica A spectacular trip following the footsteps of explorers such as Shackleton, you'll visit the Falkland Islands, witness the wildlife spectacular that is South Georgia, and finish the year in beautiful Antarctica. VOYAGE 7706 â€" Cape to Cape Cross the Atlantic Cross the Atlantic, but not via the typical high-traffic North Atlantic run to and from Europe. This epic journey via the Southern oceans takes you to some of the most remote places on Earth. You'll spend four days exploring South Georgia, visit the tiny remote island of Tristan de Cunha (between Argentina and South Africa), and end your voyage in magical Cape Town. When it comes to staying warm in the Antarctic, layers rule. You can buy your own or rent them from our reliable source and they'll be delivered to your ship. Either way, be sure to wear a base layer to insulate and wick moisture, a second lightweight insulating layer to trap body heat, followed by the complimentary parka you will receive as your outer barrier layer. And of course, wear waterproof boots and pants, gloves, and a hat. Also, bring binoculars and a camera; there's much to see and remember. VIEW VOYAGES       > TERMS AND CONDITIONS: All Silver Privilege Fares shown are cruise-only, in US dollars, per guest, based on double-occupancy in a Vista Suite aboard Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper and Silver Spirit; Explorer Suite aboard Silver Galapagos and Silver Discoverer; or Adventurer Suite aboard Silver Explorer. Fares are capacity controlled and subject to change at any time without notice. Availability of all suite categories cannot be guaranteed. Fares for single guests are available upon request. Additional restrictions may apply. All fares, savings, offers, itineraries and programmes are subject to change without notice. Voyage highlights, excursions and Enrichment Programmes shown are subject to change and/or cancellation without prior notice. All information herein is accurate and in effect at time of printing. Silversea reserves the right to correct any errors or omissions. Visit Silversea.com for complete Terms and Conditions. Ships' registry: Bahamas.