Top 15 Most Valuable and Fascinating Underwater Discoveries
2. Endurance
Current Estimated Value: $10 million* (Recovery Expedition Cost)
Year Lost: 1915
Discovered: 2022
The Endurance, a ship famously associated with Ernest Shackleton, was a key vessel in the Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition of 1914. Despite the determination and bravery of her crew, the Norwegian-built ship never returned from her inaugural Antarctic journey, ultimately succumbing to the treacherous conditions of the icy waters.
After spending over a century beneath the waves, Endurance was successfully located in 2022, and the recovery expedition to bring her back to the surface cost approximately $10 million. This remarkable feat not only highlights the enduring legacy of Shackleton’s expedition but also the advancements in underwater exploration technology that made such a recovery possible.
The Fortitude,Tom Stoddart
On November 21, 1915, the Endurance sank in the Weddell Sea of Antarctica after becoming trapped in pack ice. As the ship succumbed to the relentless ice, Ernest Shackleton and a few brave crew members embarked on a perilous journey to seek assistance. Meanwhile, the remaining crew managed to survive by navigating to Elephant Island in lifeboats, showcasing their resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
In March 2022, the wreck of the Endurance was discovered at a depth of 9,869 feet beneath the surface. This remarkable find not only shed light on the ship's storied history but also led to its designation as a protected historic landmark, ensuring that its legacy and the sacrifices of those aboard are honored and preserved for future generations.
