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“By Endurance We Conquer”

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Our Inspiration

In the spirit of Shackleton driven by endurance and unbroken resolve we look to bridge the courage of historic voyages with today’s pressing need for environmental stewardship and scientific discovery.

Shackleton’s legacy offers enduring lessons in leadership, adaptability and collective confidence that continue to inspire global communities. Our work honours that legacy by inviting young people, educators and explorers to participate in meaningful exploration of our world’s most fragile ecosystems.

Our Platform

Endurance 2 is the founding project of Atlantic Shackleton Global Foundation. Its mission is to design, build and operate Endurance 2 a modern-day sailing vessel inspired by Sir Ernest Shackleton’s legendary ship, Endurance.

Endurance 2 will serve as a powerful global focal point for Shackleton’s legacy, undertaking voyages to as many countries as possible across the world from the Polar Regions to the Mid-Latitudes. More than a ship, it is conceived as a platform for exploration, connection and purpose.

The vessel will support meaningful scientific research, explore some of the planet’s most critical and remote environments, and operate as a floating classroom. Through advanced communications and digital technology, Endurance 2 will bring live learning experiences directly into classrooms and communities across the globe, inspiring curiosity, leadership and environmental responsibility.

To achieve this mission, we are building strategic partnerships with aligned organisations, globally and locally, spanning science, education, technology and youth development. We are already attracting exceptional people, collaborators and supporters who share our vision and ambition.

To date, the project has been funded by a committed group of 25 private seed funders from around the world. Together, this founding group is united by shared values, a common vision and a collective desire to create something truly unique, a project that benefits all involved while giving back to the wider world.

Endurance 2 is about building on a legacy to shape the future. Our growing network of individuals and organisations is working together to make a positive difference guided by purpose, collaboration and optimism.

And, as with Shackleton’s journeys, we believe that while the destination matters, it is the shared journey that defines us.

Our People

Our foundation is led by a passionate and diverse team of explorers, ocean scientists, educators and strategic partners from across the globe.

Each brings expertise in marine science, youth development, expedition leadership and organisational innovation. United by shared passion and vision, our team drives forward a mission of discovery, connection and impact.

Together with our supporters and collaborators, we are building a movement that creates real opportunities for young people to explore, learn and lead.

Founding Seed Funders

  • David E Shaw
  • Michael & Maria Fischer
  • Oliver Plunkett
  • Alan Gray
  • Bruce & Mary Francis Bigony
  • Shrenik Baldota
  • Nancy Koos
  • Enda O’Coineen
  • Hayley Argles-Grant
  • David Press

Lead Founding Strategic Members

  • Marc Bryan-Brown Trustee of The Explorers Club New York
  • John Geiger – CEO Royal Canadian Geographic Society
  • Steve Scott-Fawcett – Shackleton Appreciation Society
  • Russell Best – Project Adviser, RN Commodore Retired
  • Jane Golden – Project Adviser
  • Kevin Kenny – Athy Shackleton Museum & Autumn School
  • John Murphy – Chairman Atlantic Youth Trust
  • Andy Tourell – Project Adviser, Ocean Infinity
  • Seamus Taffe – Athy Shackleton Museum & Autumn School
  • Rory Golden – Chapter Chair of the Great Britain and Ireland Explorers Club
  • Niamh Tyrrell – Educationalist, Atlantic Youth Trust
  • Sarah Murphy – IMI BP Shackleton Leadership
  • David Concannon – Hon Legal Adviser
  • Mark Porter – Explorer & Adventurer
  • Catherina Frostad – Explorer & Expedition Leader