by Sarah Kuta
Last updated: 12:00 PM ET, Thu February 15, 2024
Travel company Antarctica21 is building a new expedition ship that’s slated to begin sailing the Southern Ocean in 2026-27, the company announced today.
The vessel, named Magellan Discoverer, will be a PC6 ice-class ship with a “boutique, yacht-like aesthetic,” according to a statement. It will be the sister ship to Magellan Explorer, which debuted in November 2019.
"This ship is born out of our unwavering commitment to meeting the rising expectations of our guests,” says Jaime Vásquez, Antarctica21’s president. “Equipped with the latest technology, Magellan Discoverer strengthens our dedication to sustainability while offering seamless comfort for our travelers. With its modern elegance and advanced technical features, it supports our ongoing effort to provide unparalleled experiences in the spectacular Antarctic region."
The new ship will be custom-built for the Antarctic fly-and-sail operations that Antarctica21 specializes in. Travelers will be able to fly to the White Continent—skipping over the notoriously rough Drake Passage in the process—and meet the ship when they land.
Once onboard, they’ll be able to retreat to one of 40 cabins across three passenger decks, relax in the observation lounge, sweat in the sauna, take in the views from the wraparound walking deck, peruse the gift shop, exercise in the gym or conduct business in meeting rooms. The ship will also have a large dining area.
The staterooms include 12 suites, two triple deluxe veranda suites, 22 deluxe veranda cabins and six single deluxe veranda cabins. Among the suites, two are family suites with space for up to four guests each. Each cabin will have a private balcony and a sitting area.
Magellan Discoverer will meet Tier III emissions standards and will have hybrid diesel-electric propulsion and heat recovery systems. The ship will also support Antarctic research with an onboard wet lab.
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