ocean Ship
Magellan Explorer
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.
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 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.
