vahsel

Updated: May 8, 2025

I do not think we shall be able to work back to Vahsel Bay. There are possible landing- places on the western coast of the Weddell Sea, but can we reach any suitable spot early enough to attempt the overland journey next year? Time alone will tell. I do not think any member of the Expedition is disheartened by our disappointment.

Sir Ernest Henry Shackleton - South: the story of Shackleton's 1914-1917 expedition

I hoped that by first moving to the east as far as the fifteenth meridian west we would be able to go south through looser ice, pick up Coats' Land and finally reach Vahsel Bay, where Filchner made his attempt at landing in 1912. Two considerations were occupying my mind at this juncture.

Sir Ernest Henry Shackleton - South: the story of Shackleton's 1914-1917 expedition

I was watching for possible landing-places, though as a matter of fact I had no intention of landing north of Vahsel Bay, in Luitpold Land, except under pressure of necessity. Every mile gained towards the south meant a mile less sledging when the time came for the overland journey.

Sir Ernest Henry Shackleton - South: the story of Shackleton's 1914-1917 expedition

Where will the vagrant winds and currents carry the ship during the long winter months that are ahead of us? We will go west, no doubt, but how far? And will it be possible to break out of the pack early in the spring and reach Vahsel Bay or some other suitable landing-place? These are momentous questions for us."

Sir Ernest Henry Shackleton - South: the story of Shackleton's 1914-1917 expedition