Launching the Americas' First Hybrid-Electric Polar Cruise Ship

In a proud and emotional ceremony at the ASENAV shipyard in Valdivia, we celebrated the float out of Magellan Discoverer, the first hybrid-electric expedition cruise ship ever built in the Americas. Fully constructed in Chile, this cutting-edge vessel is a major milestone not only for us at Antarctica21, but for Chilean innovation and sustainable tourism at large.

The launch brought together our partners, engineers, regional and national authorities, and shipyard workers for a festive day, paying tribute to the collaboration behind this historic achievement.

Our Vision in Motion: Magellan Discoverer

Magellan Discoverer is the latest evolution of our commitment to responsible travel. Developed in close collaboration with ASENAV, a cornerstone of Chilean naval engineering, this vessel embodies the boutique spirit, technological sophistication, and environmental stewardship that have defined our company since the beginning.

Fernando Rodríguez, General Manager of ASENAV, stated:“Today, after many months of hard work, we celebrate the launch of Magellan Discoverer, an achievement that reflects the talent and collaboration of two companies from Chile. This vessel marks a significant leap in sustainable engineering, positioning ASENAV as a benchmark shipyard in the local maritime industry and placing Chile at the forefront of global innovation and design. Injust a few months, Antarctica21 will usher in a new era of polar exploration aboard a cruise ship unlike any other in the Americas”.

For us, this ship is more than a new addition to the fleet. It’s a symbol of our deep roots in Magallanes and our ongoing mission to set new standards for Antarctic travel.

Jaime Vásquez, President of Antarctica21, mentioned:“This is a deeply symbolic moment for us. With the launch of MagellanDiscoverer, we reaffirm our commitment to sustainable Antarctic tourism and toinnovation from southern Chile. This ship not only represents a technologicalleap in sustainability but also reflects national talent and what we arecapable of achieving when we strive for excellence. We are proud to collaboratewith ASENAV on this project, which brings together cutting-edge engineering anda responsible vision for travel in the planet’s most remote region”.

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Built for Boutique and Sustainable Exploration

Magellan Discoverer features an advanced hybrid-electric propulsion system that merges diesel engines with state-of-the-art lithium-ion marine batteries. This system allows us to reduce CO₂ emissions, lower underwater noise, and improve energy efficiency throughout our voyages. We’ve also incorporated intelligent energy management tools that recycle heat from the engines to warm onboard spaces and recover power from elevators to help recharge our battery systems. Built to IMO Tier III standards and Polar Class 6 classification, the ship is designed to operate safely and sustainably in the icy waters of Antarctica.

At 94 meters long, Magellan Discoverer welcomes 76 guests for Antarctic air-cruises and 67 crew members aboard. Designed by the acclaimed Tomas Tillberg Design, its interiors reflect our signature boutique aesthetic, inspired by the raw beauty of Patagonia and Antarctica. With large panoramic windows, thoughtfully selected sustainable materials, and a warm, contemporary style, the ship offers a comfortable and immersive polar experience.

With this vessel, we expand our fleet and our ability to deliver the kind of small-group, personalized expeditions that define the Antarctica21 experience blending boutique hospitality, learning, and low-impact travel.

Innovation from Punta Arenas to Antarctica

Since our founding in Punta Arenas in 2003, we’ve been committed to innovation and environmental leadership. We pioneered the air-cruise model, allowing travelers to fly directly to Antarctica and avoid the stormy Drake Passage, an approach that saves time, avoids seasickness, and minimizes emissions.

Today, we remain at the forefront of sustainable tourism. We’ve been CarbonNeutral®-certified since 2019, and we continue to invest in meaningful change:

• We're testing e-Fuels in partnership with HIF Global, powering our Zodiac boats with synthetic fuels produced locally in Magallanes.
• We’ve installed solar panels at our Explorers House expedition center in Punta Arenas.
• And we measure, manage, and reduce our environmental impact across every part of the journey.

“Each voyage is a chance to connect travelers with the beauty, and fragility, of Antarctica. Magellan Discoverer allows us to do so with even greater care, purpose, and pride,” said Vásquez.

Following its successful launch, Magellan Discoverer now enters the final phase of construction. In the coming months, work willfocus on interior outfitting, integration of navigation systems, technicaltrials, and maritime certifications. Scheduled for delivery in September 2026, Magellan Discoverer will begin sailing in November 2026. New Antarctic air-cruises aboard the small ship are now available for booking through early 2028, following 2027-28 season launch.

This ship doesn’t just expand our fleet. It deepens our commitment to exploration, sustainability, and our Chilean heritage. From the southern tip of the world, we’re proud to set sail together into a more sustainable future for Antarctic travel.

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