Presenter Lorraine Kelly and historian Dan Snow have climbed the mast of RRS Discovery to help launch a new experience at the Dundee attraction.
The TV duo, who are patrons of Dundee Heritage Trust, have helped unveil the Discovery Mast Climb at Discovery Point.
The experience allows participants to climb the masts of the 124-year-old ship before descending via zip line down to the dockside.
Designed in collaboration with Zone Events, the climb is the first of its kind in Scotland.
The Cutty Sark and SS Great Britain are the only other historic vessels in the UK offering a similar experience.
Lorraine Kelly hails ‘amazing experience’ of climbing Discovery mast
After taking part in the mast climb, Lorraine told The Courier: “It was, for me, a massive challenge, because I am not good with heights, I’m not as fit as I once was, and I’m 65 years old.
“I kept saying that as I was climbing up, ‘I’m 65’, but what an amazing experience.
“This ship means such a lot to me, as when Shackleton and Scott had an ill-fated trip to Antarctica, they were on the Discovery.
“I also had my birthday party on there, and it was wonderful.”
Dundee Heritage Trust, which runs Discovery Point, will use money raised from people paying for the mast climb to help pay for the ship’s maintenance, after recently tackling financial challenges.
Lorraine added: “She’s a big symbol of the city, but she’s an old lady.
“She needs lots of TLC, which means we need to keep raising funds and awareness.
“We want people to be proud of her, which they should be.
“The Discovery, Discovery Point and V&A are all for people in Dundee.
“They shouldn’t feel this isn’t for them, it absolutely is.
“At a time when things are closing in the city, we have to celebrate things like the Discovery, because she isn’t going anywhere.
“She’s staying right here and she’s going to be fine.”
Discovery Mast Climb offers ‘unforgettable views’
Ashleigh Pink. Dundee Heritage Trust’s commercial director, 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 Tay.”
The mast climb will open to the public in autumn, with tickets available to buy later in the summer.
Prices have not been revealed.
Conversation