Magellan Discoverer
BOAT INFORMATION
Flag
Bahamas
Builder
N/A
Address
Av. Pedro de Valdivia Norte 0129, Oficina 202 7520265 Providencia, Región Metropilitana Chile
Website
Year of Creation
2026
Boat Brand
International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO), Latin American Travel Association (LATA), ARGE Lateinamerika, Fedetur, Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), and Austro Chile
Key sites/activities En route:
Sites: Antarctica, South Georgia, the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas), and the Chilean Patagonia
Activities: Wildlife observations, zodiac cruising, hiking, snowshoeing, kayaking, land excursions, polar plunge, citizen science program, entertaining Polar expert-led lectures on board
HIGHLIGHTS
History
Antarctica21 was founded in 2003 with a pioneering spirit and a vision to make Antarctica accessible to adventurous travelers while providing a unique and comfortable experience. The company was established by a team of entrepreneurs and travel enthusiasts who recognized the challenges and opportunities of reaching one of Earth’s most remote and pristine destinations.
The founders identified that traditional sea voyages to Antarctica were lengthy and often marred by the turbulent waters of the Drake Passage. They innovated by combining air travel to a remote gravel runway in Antarctica with small-ship cruising, thereby reducing travel time and making the journey more comfortable and efficient. This approach revolutionized Antarctic tourism, allowing more people to experience the continent’s majestic landscapes and unique wildlife without the extended sea crossing.
Latest Renovations
New ship
Main strengths, special touch
Antarctic Air-Cruise Benefits
Antarctica21’s innovative approach to reaching the 7th continent combines a 2-hour flight between Punta Arenas, Chile, and King George Island with a boutique cruise along the Antarctic Peninsula. Upon landing, travelers board Magellan Discoverer and start their journey of a lifetime.
• Comfort: Avoid the stormy Drake Passage
• Speed: Reach the Antarctic Peninsula faster and in comfort
• Exclusivity: Small-ship, yacht-like experience
The Advantages of Booking with Antarctica21
• Custom-Built Vessel for Antarctic Air-Cruises
Magellan Discoverer is a modern small ship designed and built for Antarctica21’s air-cruises and is South America’s first hybrid-electric polar cruise ship. Launched in late 2026, it was built to the latest Polar Code specifications (PC6) and features cutting-edge stabilizers and thrusters for safe navigation. It ensures seamless logistics by matching guest capacity to its chartered aircraft. Efficient disembarkation, heated cabins, private balconies, an observation lounge, and an energy-recovery system enhance comfort while minimizing environmental impact.
• 100% Expert in this Niche
With over two decades of experience, we have perfected the art of combining seamless flights with unforgettable expedition cruising. We’ve operated over 300 Antarctic air-cruises, more than any other company, bringing unparalleled expertise to the guest experience.
• Antarctic Flight Priority
Our direct flights from Chile to Antarctica bypass the rough Drake Passage, maximizing time for exploring. Unlike larger operators requiring multiple flights, we transport all guests on a single Antarctic flight, streamlining logistics and reducing weather-related delays. Our exclusive partnership with DAP Airlines grants us priority access to the best flight windows, ensuring a smoother, more efficient journey.
• Small-Scale Boutique Expeditions
We focus on creating intimate, personalized experiences. With only 76 guests per voyage, guests enjoy a close-knit, exclusive atmosphere and unparalleled access to expert guides and the natural wonders of Antarctica. This smaller group size ensures faster disembarkations and a deeper connection with Antarctica. Only up to 100 people can disembark at once in Antarctica, while cruises with more guests take turns for land excursions, reducing their time ashore.
• Explorers House Private Club
Guests enjoy exclusive access to Explorers House, our private expedition club designed to enhance our guests’ experience in Punta Arenas. It’s the perfect place to relax, prepare for the journey ahead, and meet fellow travelers in a warm, welcoming setting.
• Safe & Sustainable Travel
Commitment to leading sustainable travel in Antarctica, setting the highest standards in environmental protection and travelers’ safety, and promoting science, education, and awareness about this unique ecosystem.
Children’s corner
Antarctica21 welcomes on its air-cruises children 8 years of age and older, and on its sea voyages children 12 years of age and older, if they comply with the requirements applicable to all passengers and that an adult taking full responsibility for the minor accompanies them. Antarctica21 reserves the right to modify the age reference of the children it welcomes on its air-cruises and sea voyages based on an evaluation of weight and height.
Fun facts
Purpose-built for fly-and-cruise travel
Designed from the ground up specifically for Antarctica21’s pioneering air-cruise operations.
All-balcony ship
Every cabin and suite features a private balcony with uninterrupted views of the Antarctic.
Hybrid-electric propulsion
Advanced technology improves efficiency while reducing environmental impact in polar waters.
Next-generation Antarctic premium ship
Launching in 2026–27, she represents the evolution of Antarctica21’s boutique expedition concept.
Yacht-like design with polar capability
Elegant, modern aesthetics paired with serious engineering for safe Antarctic navigation.
Unique Experiences
• Antarctic Science Programs: Guests can participate in Citizen Science programs and collect samples from Antarctica to support ongoing Antarctic research.
• Outdoor deck barbecue in Antarctica (weather permitting)
• Polar Plunge: Take a dip in Antarctic waters (weather permitting)
• Wet lab
• Exclusive access to the Bridge and expansive wraparound deck for 360-degree views and optimal wildlife observation
• Fly directly to Antarctica, then sail in comfort: Guests bypass the notoriously rough Drake Passage with a direct flight to Antarctica, boarding Magellan Discoverer already immersed in the polar environment—maximizing time exploring rather than transiting.
Boat Features
Routes
Air-Cruises
• Classic Antarctica Air-Cruise
8 Days / 7 Nights | Start & End: Punta Arenas, Chile
The most popular itinerary, this trip includes round-trip flights to Antarctica and sailing between the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. Explore ice-filled fjords, spot penguins, seals, and whales, and marvel at breathtaking icebergs.
• Polar Circle Air-Cruise
10 Days / 9 Nights | Start & End: Punta Arenas, Chile
This adventurous journey aims to reach the Antarctic Polar Circle at 66° south. The Expedition Team tailors each voyage to weather conditions, offering daily opportunities to explore this remote region.
• Antarctica & South Georgia Air-Cruise
18 Days / 17 Nights | Start: Punta Arenas, Chile & End: Ushuaia, Argentina
Explore the Antarctic Peninsula, Elephant Island, and South Georgia, retracing the steps of explorers like Shackleton. Visit massive penguin colonies, hike, kayak, and snowshoe in stunning polar landscapes.
• Antarctica Express Air-Cruise
6 Days / 5 Nights | Start: Ushuaia, Argentina & End: Punta Arenas, Chile (reverse itinerary available)
A quick, budget-friendly option offering a visit to Cape Horn, cruising the Drake Passage, landing in Antarctica, and flying back.
Sea Voyages
• Falklands (Malvinas) & South Georgia
17 Days / 16 Nights | Start & End: Punta Arenas, Chile
Visit the Falklands and South Georgia, home to gentoo and rockhopper penguins, black-browed albatrosses, and elephant seals. Explore local settlements, massive king penguin colonies, and glaciers.
• Falklands (Malvinas), South Georgia & Antarctica Sea Voyage
20 Days / 19 Nights | Start: Punta Arenas, Chile & End: Ushuaia, Argentina
Sail to the Falklands, South Georgia, and Antarctica. Spot diverse wildlife like rockhopper penguins and albatrosses, visit king penguin colonies, and explore the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands.
• Patagonia & Chilean Fjords Sea Voyage
9 Days / 8 Nights or 11 Days / 10 Nights | Start: Ushuaia, Argentina & End: Puerto Montt, Chile (reverse itinerary available)
Cruise through Chilean Patagonia’s glaciers, fjords, and islets. Visit Puerto Cisnes, San Rafael Glacier, Puerto Eden, and Tierra del Fuego, surrounded by marine wildlife and striking natural beauty.
• Falklands (Malvinas)
10 Days / 9 Nights | Start & End: Ushuaia, Argentina
A wilderness expedition to the Falklands (Malvinas), sailing through dramatic landscapes teaming with rich wildlife, combined with landings exploring a rich history and cultural heritage.
