Australis will provide Shackleton Epic a safe and efficient filming platform. It will also act as the expedition support vessel – but Australis’s assistance will only be used in the event that Alexandra Shackleton gets into serious trouble.
Aside from Australian skipper, Ben Wallis, and his three crew, seven sponsor representatives (from Intrepid Travel, Arup and St.George Bank) will join Australis for the first stage of Shackleton Epic.
Australis is a steel hulled, fully rigged motor sailor. She carries a comprehensive range of safety, operational and navigational equipment. A 180hp Gardner diesel engine powers the vessel and she is equipped with two zodiac tenders. She sails beautifully and has a powerful engine to push her along at 8+ knots when needed.
The state-of-the-art integrated navigation system utilises computer charts, auto pilot and GPS. Also on hand is radar and depth sounder. The bridge is fully enclosed and heated and is a great place for wildlife spotting in cold conditions. Communications gear comprises HF radio, satellite phone and email, weather fax and VHF for close communications.
