Built in
2026
Capacity
76
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.
Sailings on this ship
We'll email you the current itineraries we sell on Magellan Discoverer, plus the reasons travelers book with Small Ship Travel. Reply anytime to ask about specific cabins, dates, or itineraries.
Suites
sq. feet
-Family Veranda Suite
sq. feet
-Grand Veranda Suite
sq. feet
-Deluxe Veranda Cabin
205 sq. feet
-Cabin with sitting area and balcony
Antarctica21 pioneered the air-cruise to Antarctica, a way to reach the continent in comfort and without wasted time. Where traditional Antarctic cruises spend two days crossing the Drake Passage, the open and often rough stretch of ocean south of South America, Antarctica21 flies guests straight to King George Island. That skips the long sea days and leaves more time for exploring. Once there, guests board one of Antarctica21's small expedition ships, built for an intimate, personal experience in one of the most remote places on Earth.
Each voyage is built around a memorable polar adventure, with expert-led excursions, Zodiac landings (Zodiacs are the small inflatable boats used to go ashore), and guided hikes that bring you close to glaciers, towering icebergs, and wildlife such as penguins, seals, and whales. With a focus on sustainability, safety, and comfort, these boutique expeditions carry fewer guests, which means more personal service and a deeper connection to the Antarctic environment. On board, you will find comfortable accommodations, gourmet cuisine, and expert lectures that deepen your understanding of the continent's ecosystem and history.
At Small Ship Travel we focus on the world's finest small-ship expeditions and hold each one to high standards of comfort, authenticity, and responsible exploration. Antarctica21 has been carefully vetted and chosen as a partner in our collection, which reflects our commitment to the best small-ship experiences available.
With its mix of adventure and comfort, Antarctica21 fits our aim of offering journeys that are both immersive and well-run. We are a small specialist agency, and we work closely with Antarctica21 to build tailor-made itineraries so every part of your Antarctic voyage, from first planning to final departure, is handled with care.
As specialists in small-ship travel, Small Ship Travel offers priority access, expert guidance, and concierge-level service to improve your Antarctica21 experience. From choosing the right itinerary to arranging pre- and post-expedition stays, private transfers, and gear recommendations, we take care of every detail.
Plan your Antarctic voyage with Antarctica21 and Small Ship Travel, where smart logistics, exploration, and comfort come together for a trip to the White Continent. Contact us today to start planning your expedition.
consultation
Reach out to our travel concierges today to create your perfect journey.