When you first set off on your Antarctic adventure, you’ll be following in the intrepid footsteps of many brave men and women, several of whom never returned to tell their tale.
While trips to the huge, icy world at the bottom of the Earth are now routine, that will not rob you of your sense of adventure as you explore this most wondrous of continents with Aurora Expeditions. To remind you of the adventures experienced by the explorers of the past, let’s take a look at two of the best books to stuff into your hand luggage before you jet off:
The Worst Journey in the World — Apsley Cherry-Garrard
This seminal work by Apsley Cherry—Garrard hasn’t been out of print since it was first published in 1922, testament to its longevity and relevance. Everyone knows the story of Scott and his band of brothers that took on the South Pole, but fewer know of the arduous journey embarked upon by the author and a small group of men.
Seeking out the eggs of the emperor penguin, Cherry—Garrard and his group ventured out into the Antarctic dusk. Facing raging winds that robbed them of their tent, the brave men had to rely solely on their sleeping bags for warmth as snow buried them over and over again — The Worst Journey in the World is their story, and what a fascinating read it is. |
Endurance, The Greatest Adventure Story Ever Told — Alfred Lansing
No list of books regarding Antarctic adventures would be complete without a mention of Ernest Shackleton and his ship, the mighty Endurance. When his vessel became trapped in sea ice, and subsequently crushed, Shackleton was forced to sail to South Georgia Island in an open lifeboat, along with all 27 of his men.
Because the doomed Endurance could serve them no more, Shackleton never managed to cross the frozen continent of Antarctica, but his trip to South Georgia would prove to be just as epic. One particularly frightening anecdote mentions that, as Shackleton steered his lifeboat through the South Polar Sea in the black of midnight, he glanced ahead and thought that light was finally breaking through the dark clouds.
He was, for once, mistaken — the white he saw came from the foaming crest of a gigantic wave that was so big he’d confused it with a moonlit cloud. It broke over his boat — by some miracle, without severely damaging his vessel or sweeping any men away. This book is chock—full of similar such stories, and proves a riveting read.
You’re in safe hands with Aurora Expeditions, so be sure to get in touch with us today to unleash your inner Antarctic explorer!
