November 13, 2026 — Polar specialist Antarctica21 has christened Magellan Discoverer, its first purpose-built hybrid-electric expedition ship, in Punta Arenas, Chile, on November 6. The maiden voyage is scheduled for December 15, 2026.
Built by Chile’s ASENAV yard in Valdivia, the Polar Class 6 ship carries up to 88 guests in 40 cabins, all with private balconies. Highlights include a 360-degree observation and walking deck, an accessible bow, a panoramic sauna and a dining room that seats everyone at once. Its diesel-electric system has battery storage that allows short periods of quieter, battery-only running near landing sites and wildlife.
The inaugural trip sails from Punta Arenas through the Strait of Magellan and across the Drake Passage, with guests flying back from King George Island. Antarctica21’s air-cruise model swaps the roughly two-day Drake crossing each way for a flight of about two hours. Magellan Discoverer will sail alongside sister ship Magellan Explorer this Antarctic season.
What it means for non-revs
- Air-cruise trips start and end in Punta Arenas (PUQ), usually reached via Santiago (SCL) on LATAM or Sky. Space-available travel that far south is risky, so a positive-space ticket for the PUQ leg is worth considering.
- Arrive in Punta Arenas at least a day early; weather can delay the King George Island flights.
Sources
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