ocean Ship
Magellan Discoverer
by Antarctica 21
Introducing the Magellan Discoverer, a state-of-the-art expedition vessel debuting in the 2026-27 season to redefine Antarctic exploration. Uniquely custom-built for Antarctica21’s signature air-cruises, this boutique ship allows travelers to skip the tumultuous Drake Passage by flying directly to King George Island, maximizing time spent amidst the ice. As a modern hybrid-electric vessel, the Discoverer is engineered with a PC6 ice-class hull and heat recovery systems, ensuring a quieter, smoother, and more eco-conscious journey through sensitive polar waters. With a guest capacity limited to just 76 passengers during air-cruises, the ship fosters an intimate atmosphere where long lines for Zodiac landings are non-existent, offering you unparalleled access to the White Continent’s wildlife and landscapes.
Life on board is designed to rival the majesty of the views outside, featuring all-balcony cabins that ensure you never miss a breaching whale or passing iceberg from the privacy of your room. The ship’s interiors channel a sophisticated yacht aesthetic, complete with a glass-enclosed observation lounge, a gym, and a sauna with panoramic windows for relaxing after a polar plunge. Guests can indulge in Chilean-inspired gourmet cuisine and premium wines in the spacious dining room or enjoy an al fresco meal in the protected outdoor barbecue area. Whether you are consulting with expert guides in the wet science lab or spotting seabirds from the accessible bow, the Magellan Discoverer offers the perfect balance of rugged adventure and refined luxury for the modern explorer.
sq. feet
-Grand Veranda Suite
sq. feet
-Family Veranda Suite
sq. feet
-Deluxe Veranda Cabin
205 sq. feet
-Cabin with sitting area and balcony
Antarctica21 offers a pioneering air-cruise experience, allowing travelers to explore Antarctica in comfort and efficiency. Unlike traditional Antarctic cruises that require a lengthy and often turbulent crossing of the Drake Passage, Antarctica21’s innovative approach flies guests directly to King George Island, eliminating days at sea and maximizing exploration time. Once in Antarctica, guests board one of Antarctica21’s small expedition ships, designed for an intimate, immersive, and personalized experience in one of the world’s most remote and awe-inspiring destinations.
Each voyage is carefully crafted to deliver an unforgettable polar adventure, featuring expert-led excursions, Zodiac landings, and guided hikes that bring travelers up close to majestic glaciers, towering icebergs, and incredible wildlife such as penguins, seals, and whales. With a commitment to sustainability, safety, and comfort, Antarctica21’s boutique-style expeditions offer a premium experience with fewer guests, ensuring more personalized service and deeper engagement with the pristine Antarctic environment. Onboard, travelers enjoy comfortable accommodations, gourmet cuisine, and expert lectures, enriching their understanding of the continent’s unique ecosystem and history.
At Small Ship Travel, we specialize in selecting the world’s finest small ship expeditions, ensuring that each journey meets our high standards of luxury, authenticity, and responsible exploration. Antarctica21 has been carefully vetted and selected as a premier partner in our curated collection, reflecting our commitment to offering travelers the best small ship experiences available.
With a focus on expedition-style travel that balances adventure with comfort, Antarctica21 aligns perfectly with Small Ship Travel’s mission to provide journeys that are both immersive and seamless. Our team of experts works closely with Antarctica21 to create tailor-made itineraries, ensuring that every aspect of your Antarctic voyage—from the initial planning to the final departure—is handled with precision and care.
As experts in luxury small ship travel, Small Ship Travel provides exclusive access, expert guidance, and concierge-level service to enhance your Antarctica21 experience. From selecting the perfect itinerary to arranging pre- and post-expedition accommodations, private transfers, and specialized gear recommendations, we ensure that every detail is taken care of.
Embark on the ultimate Antarctic adventure with Antarctica21 and Small Ship Travel—where innovation, exploration, and luxury come together for an unforgettable journey to the White Continent. Contact us today to begin planning your expedition.
Reach out to our travel concierges today to create your perfect journey.
