Built in
2019
Capacity
76
By
Antarctica 21
The Magellan Explorer stands as a pioneer in modern polar travel, designed specifically to facilitate Antarctica21’s fly-cruise expeditions. By combining a high-tech Polar Class 6 ice hull with the aesthetics of a boutique hotel, this vessel allows you to bypass the turbulent Drake Passage by air and board directly in Antarctica. While the ship can physically hold more passengers, occupancy is capped at just 73 guests for air-cruises. This deliberate limitation ensures that every traveler can disembark for shore landings at the same time—eliminating the rotation shifts common on larger ships—giving you maximum time on land to photograph penguin colonies and hike glaciated peaks.
On board, the experience is defined by intimate luxury and forward-thinking design. Almost all cabins feature private balconies, allowing you to wake up to the crackle of brash ice right outside your window. Between excursions, you can retreat to the glass-enclosed observation lounge, work out in a gym designed by Anytime Fitness, or warm up in the sauna with panoramic views of the polar landscape. Sustainability is also central to the ship’s engineering, utilizing a sophisticated heat recovery system to recycle engine heat for the ship’s water supply and heating. From the single-seating dining room serving premium Chilean wines to the fleet of 10 Zodiacs ready for adventure, the Magellan Explorer offers a seamless blend of rugged capability and refined comfort.
Sailings on this ship
We'll email you the current itineraries we sell on Magellan Explorer, plus the reasons travelers book with Small Ship Travel. Reply anytime to ask about specific cabins, dates, or itineraries.
Suites
355 sq. feet
-Penthouse Suite with balcony, bathroom, sitting and bed area.
474 sq. feet
-balcony, bathroom and either 2 twin beds or 1 king-size bed
237 sq. feet
-Veranda Cabin: balcony, bathroom, and either 2 twin beds or 1 king-size bed.
205 sq. feet
-Veranda Cabin: balcony, bathroom, and either 2 twin beds or 1 king-size bed.
194 sq. feet
-Cabin with sitting area and porthole
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.