Shackleton Expedition Launches in Dorset

Launch of the Alexandra Shackleton which will set off in 2013 Credit: ITV Westcountry

Dorset played host to the launch of a rather special expedition today, that will see a band of modern-day explorers re-enact Shackleton's historic Antarctic adventure.

In an effort to recreate the original as closely as possible, the new expedition will limit itself to the technology and food of 1916.

They will set sail in a replica of the 22.5ft wooden whaler, the James Caird, used by Shackleton's expedition. Christened the Alexandra Shackleton, after the great man's granddaughter, it will set out on its epic ocean voyage in January 2013.

Alexandra Shackleton, expedition patron, launched the boat at a traditional naval naming ceremony at Portland Marina this afternoon.

The team includes two members from Yeovilton. Early next year they will set sail from Elephant Island, off the Antarctic Peninsula, to cross 800 miles of treacherous ocean to South Georgia.