RRS Discovery is launching a thrilling new mast climb and zip line experience in Dundee
- Andrew Batchelor
- Jun 27
- 3 min read
The RRS Discovery is launching a daring new experience that will see adventurers climb the masts of the iconic ship before soaring back down to the dockside by zip-line.
Set to open in Autumn 2025, the Discovery Mast Climb (DMC) invites visitors to ascend 25 metres up the towering foremast of Captain Scott’s legendary Antarctic ship, traverse the yard arms, and finish with a breathtaking 40-metre descent via zip-line.
The launch marks a major development for one of Scotland’s most treasured historic vessels, promising to deliver an unforgettable mix of history, height and heart-racing excitement.
Developed in partnership with adventure specialists Zone Events, DMC has been designed to reflect the spirit and challenge of early polar exploration.
Participants will engage directly with the authentic rigging and navigate tight spaces above deck, mirroring the conditions faced by Scott, Shackleton and their crew more than a century ago.
'First of its kind in Scotland'
The DMC will be the first of its kind in Scotland, joining just two other historic ship climbs in the UK – the Cutty Sark in London and the SS Great Britain in Bristol. The experience is expected to attract thrill-seekers and history-lovers alike, while bolstering Dundee’s profile as a must-visit cultural destination on Scotland’s East Coast.
Ashleigh Pink, Commercial Director at Dundee Heritage Trust, said:
“This isn’t just another heights challenge — this is a completely unique way to encounter one of Scotland’s most iconic ships. The Discovery Mast Climb delivers a powerful mix of history, heritage and heart-pounding excitement. Unlike any other attraction in this part of the UK, it allows people to physically step into the story of polar exploration, while taking in unforgettable views of the city and the River Tay.”
Jono Buckland of Zone Events added:
“We are absolutely thrilled and honoured to collaborate with Dundee Heritage Trust on such a prestigious vessel. Designing and operating the Discovery Mast Climb has been a truly unique challenge — blending modern climbing techniques and safety systems with the traditional rigging of a century-old polar exploration ship. Every element of the experience has been carefully crafted to let participants step into the boots of Scott and Shackleton’s crew, and feel, quite literally, what it was like to climb aboard one of the most legendary ships in history.”
'DMC could generate major interest'
The new attraction was launched yesterday in dramatic style, as historian Dan Snow and broadcaster Lorraine Kelly CBE took on the challenge of being the first to complete the climb and zip-line. In a friendly race to the top, Snow narrowly beat Kelly to the zip wire, marking his first public activity since becoming a Patron of Dundee Heritage Trust.
Snow, who previously made headlines aboard RRS Discovery in 2022 when he announced the search for Shackleton’s Endurance, said he was thrilled to return for such an ambitious venture. Both Patrons were kitted out in custom technical gear provided by Stormtech, the official clothing sponsor for the DMC.
The Canadian outdoor brand specialises in high-performance, weather-resistant apparel tailored for extreme conditions and has fully equipped the DMC team.
The launch was supported by Loganair, whose sponsorship underlined its commitment to promoting Scotland’s cultural landmarks and helped bring the high-profile event to life.
The DMC experience is expected to generate major interest among adventure tourists, schools, and heritage visitors, following the growing trend of immersive, physically engaging heritage attractions across the UK.
Adventurers keen to take part are encouraged to sign up to Dundee Heritage Trust’s mailing list to be first in line when tickets go on sale later this summer.
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