Cook continues his relentless pursuit of a great southern continent, putting fable and mystery to rest.

Despite his great skills sailing and navigating across the world, Endeavour runs aground and is nearly lost. Cook commits the most controversial act of the voyage: he claims the entire east coast of New Holland for Britain, without permission from the local inhabitants. Stopping for emergency repairs in Batavia, infected water turns Endeavour into a death ship.

Back in London, Cook’s maps confirm his brilliance. He is promoted and eventually given command of a new voyage that will add an incredible third of the world to the map. It makes him a great British hero, but the massive responsibility is taking its toll. He is losing control; only his obsession with discovery drives him on.