I am a huge fan of Shackleton as well. A nearly unbelievable story.
That they all survived, and in as good and nearly intact shape as they did (Physically AND psychologically) is a testament to the kind of leader Shackleton was.
And then, the 800+ mile journey in an open boat in Arctic winter from Elephant Island, with only three celestial bearings (done in a heaving small boat) and landing dead on at South Georgia Island (done mostly by dead reckoning) is a tale of navigation that ranks amongst the most monumental in human oceangoing navigation.
THEN, to try to go across the mountainous South Georgia Island, in boots that had screws taken from the boat to be driven inside out on the men’s boots to serve as crampons, is remarkable.
They had the boat at the Peabody Essex Museum a couple of years ago, and I can tell you, your respect for that accomplishment rises significantly when you see the size of that boat.
I have seen the boat at a museum. It just added to my awe and respect for Shackelton and his men. And yes just navigating at sea in those conditions is remarkable.