The Magellan Explorer is a brand new expedition ship built specifically for Antarctica fly cruises. This polar class 6 vessel features stylish design with technical advances for smooth and safe expeditions.
Antarctica Express Air Cruise
Explore Antarctica in one week on this 6-day Antarctica Express Air Cruise. Sail there and fly back for a compact trip of a lifetime.
Mar
Nov
FROM
$5,995
USD
PER PERSON
/
Explore the South Shetland Islands, starting in Ushuaia, Argentina, and ending in Punta Arenas, Chile (or reverse). Sail along the Beagle Channel, down to Cape Horn, and then across the famous Drake Passage to the South Shetland Islands. Please note that this is a positioning cruise that does not visit the Antarctic Peninsula. For travelers seeking to explore the Continent, we strongly recommend considering the Classic 8-Day Air Cruise or any of our longer cruise options.
In Antarctica’s South Shetland Islands, spend a full day photographing icebergs, identifying sea birds, walking amid a penguin colony, spotting seals and whale watching. Activities go well into the evening to get the most out of your time here. This expedition expertly merges education, experience and science. Participate in interactive workshops, open discussions, photography workshops and Citizen Science programs that collect data in support of scientists around the world. Collect phytoplankton samples, document migrating whales, gather photos of wildlife with polar tags and conduct seabird surveys.
Sail to King George Island at Fildes Bay and then take a 2-hour flight back to Punta Arenas, skipping the usual second sailing across the Drake Passage. The flight back is aboard a BAE 146, AVRO RJ 85 or AVRO RJ 100 jet. Each aircraft features high wings and engineering for very short runway requirements, perfect for landing in Antarctica.
In addition to the 6-Day Antarctic Express Air Cruise, there is a 7-day departure, which operates in reverse. The 7-Day Antarctica Express Air Cruise begins in Punta Arenas, Chile, with a charter flight over Cape Horn and across the Drake Passage to reach Antarctica. Sailing across the Drake Passage occurs at the end of the cruise itinerary to end in Ushuaia, Argentina.
Passage is aboard the 76-guest Magellan Explorer or identical sister ship Magellan Discoverer. AdventureSmith recommends all these ships, as their low guest count makes them some of the smallest ships in Antarctica, allowing for ample space on board for ultimate comfort and off-board passenger expedition experience. For these reasons and more, Magellan Explorer and Magellan Discoverer are ideal ships for luxury Antarctica cruises.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Antarctica cruises and trips to Antarctica, including even more Antarctica fly cruises.
Main Antarctica Express Air Cruise Itinerary
Ushuaia, ArgentinaPunta Arenas, Chile
The main Antarctica Express Air Cruise begins in Ushuaia, Argentina, sails around Cape Horn and across the Drake Passage to Antarctica. It ends with a charter flight from King George Island to Punta Arenas, Chile.
The journey begins in Ushuaia, Argentina, at the pier. Board the ship in the afternoon and sail along the Beagle Channel towards Puerto Williams, Chile, the southernmost town in the world. Explore the surroundings before setting sail to Cape Horn.
After an overnight crossing of Nassau Bay, awake in full view of legendary Cape Horn. Weather permitting, board a Zodiac and be one of the few privileged adventurers to step foot on this famous and rarely visited island. Back on board, set sail towards Antarctica and cross the famous passage named in honor of Sir Francis Drake, the great 16th century British explorer.
As you sail through the Drake Passage en route to King George Island, in the South Shetland Islands, attend an engaging program of lectures and presentations. In the company of expert guides, watch for wildlife from the lounge or from the outside decks. Perhaps spot magnificent seabirds, such as albatrosses and petrels, as well as different species of whales on their way south to Antarctica.
After crossing the Antarctic Convergence, the environment changes noticeably. Keep your camera ready, as this is the time to watch for the first icebergs and the first sight of Antarctic land. Reaching the South Shetland Islands, sail in ice-filled bays, while enjoying the company of seabirds, penguins, seals and whales. Board a Zodiac for the first memorable shore visit to a penguin colony. Take advantage of the endless Antarctic daylight.
Upon reaching King George Island, disembark at Fildes Bay. You then board a vehicle and transfer to the aircraft. Bid farewell to Antarctica and board the air flight back to Punta Arenas. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel for the night. Meals in Punta Arenas are at one’s leisure and not included.
After breakfast, transfer to the Punta Arenas airport for your onward flight.
Included
1 overnight with breakfast in Punta Arenas at the Cabo de Hornos Hotel or similar on the day of the scheduled return flight from Antarctica; group transfers between airport and hotel on the day of the scheduled return flight from Antarctica and group transfers between hotel and airport on last day of the air-cruise; flight from Frei Station on King George Island to Punta Arenas; ship cruise along the Antarctic Peninsula as indicated in the itinerary; daily buffet breakfast and lunch on board ship offering a wide choice of dishes; daily served dinner on board ship offering a choice of three main courses; wine, beer, juice, and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board ship; coffee, tea, chocolate, cappuccino, water and snacks on board ship throughout the expedition; all guided shore excursions as indicated in itinerary; lectures and entertainment on board; comprehensive pre- and post-voyage information material; loan of waterproof boots for landing in Antarctica; Contingency Plan as described below; IAATO passenger fee; standard internet connection on board the ship (premium service for Penthouse Suite guests).
Exclusions
Accommodation, meals (specifically, dinner in Punta Arenas upon return from Antarctica is not included), excursions and transfers other than those included in the itinerary and the Contingency Plan; beverages purchased at the ship’s bar; personal travel insurance; extra expenses (communication, laundry, souvenirs, etc.); gratuities; visas for Chile and/or Argentina, passport expenses, and any arrival and/or departure tax, if applicable; and premium internet (all cabins except Penthouse Suites).
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of $1,750 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
2026-27 Season:
Up to 210 days – full refund except for $1,000
209 to 120 days – 100% of deposit
119 to 90 days – 90% of total trip cost
89 to 60 days – 92.5 % of total trip cost
59 to 30 days – 95% of total trip cost
29 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
If full payment has not yet been received at 120 days prior, the full penalty will still apply and unpaid amount is due immediately.
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The main Antarctica Express Air Cruise begins in Ushuaia, Argentina (USH), and ends in Punta Arenas, Chile (PUQ). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to Ushuaia by 2:00pm on Day 1 of the itinerary, boarding in Ushuaia is between 3:00pm and 4:00pm directly at the pier. Boarding will close at 4:00pm. Travelers who miss their arrival deadline will be considered “no-show.” They will not be able to participate in the expedition and will receive no refund. Depart from Punta Arenas anytime on the final day of your trip, however, AdventureSmith strongly suggests that a flexible air ticket be held for your journey home in case you need to change your travel arrangement following a delay of the return flight from Antarctica. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Internal Flights
Upon arrival at Frei Base airfield on King George Island, a bus will bring travelers to the Zodiacs for ship embarkation (note: travelers may be required to walk approximately 1 mile, 20-30 minutes; if you think that you will not be able to walk this distance, then please inform your Adventure Specialist). Checked luggage will be transferred to the vessel by staff.
The maximum weight allowed on the flights to and from Antarctica is 25kg (55 lb.) of luggage: 20kg (44 lb.) checked luggage and 5kg (11 lb.) hand luggage. For Antarctica Express Air Cruises, excess luggage is not allowed as the start and end points are different. The baggage weight limit is a technical requirement imposed by the flight operation. Unfortunately, it is not possible to purchase extra allowance. Note that at certain points during the expedition, you will be required to handle your own luggage. Seats are not assigned on the charter flight between Antarctica and Chile.
Activities
Various activities are included in your Antarctica Express Air Cruise (weather conditions dependent), such as Zodiac rides, onboard lectures, programs by expert naturalist guides, and photography instruction. Contact AdventureSmith for more details about these adventure activities.
Room Configuration
In addition to listed Single cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at an 85% supplement of the per-person listed rate in select Porthole and Veranda Cabins (Magellan Explorer), upon availability; all other categories incur a 100% supplement. Sharing a cabin with another passenger of the same gender is also an option (same cabin categories apply). Passengers who book a Twin Cabin on a shared basis are accommodated in single rooms at the hotel in Punta Arenas and must pay a Single Hotel Room Supplement that varies based on departure selected.
Note: Single travelers who use CPAP machines or other assistive devices, as well as those who have conditions that can be disruptive to others (loud snoring, sleepwalking etc.) can only book their Air Cruise in a Single Cabin or in a Twin Cabin for single use. They cannot book on a twin-share basis.
Families & Children
At date of embarkation, a minimum age restriction of 8 years and minimum height and weight requirements (weight of 66lbs or 30kg and 3.9ft or 1.2 m tall) must be met. Children must be accompanied by a fully responsible adult. A 5% discount on the rate per person is offered for children up to 11 years of age; also for family groups of 6 or more travelers (special booking conditions apply).
Travel Insurance
Emergency medical evacuation insurance is mandatory for this trip, with a minimum recommended coverage of $100,000 USD per person. In addition to the emergency evacuation insurance, we highly recommend our travelers protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions and the wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flights to and from Antarctica operate based on weather conditions. While historically only a minority of flights have experienced a delay, be prepared for that possibility. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Antarctica expedition. Visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Contingency Plan
In the unlikely event that the flight to Antarctica cannot take place on the scheduled day due to unfavorable weather conditions, a Contingency Plan, included in the cost of your expedition, will apply. The primary goal of the plan is to provide an engaging and comfortable travel experience while adapting to the weather. A change in the flight schedule can impact travel to Antarctica or the return back, and the plan includes a range of activities determined by the circumstances. Additionally, the Contingency Plan offers financial protection by providing a refund should weather conditions prevent you from reaching Antarctica. Please read the full Contingency Plan and contact your Adventure Specialist for more details.
Reverse Antarctica Express Air Cruise Itinerary
Punta Arenas, ChileUshuaia, Argentina
The reverse Antarctica Express Air Cruise begins in Punta Arenas, Chile, with a charter flight to King George Island. It ends by crossing the Drake Passage from Antarctica, sailing around Cape Horn and into Ushuaia, Argentina.
Arrive to the Punta Arenas airport and be welcomed then transported to the hotel. In the afternoon, attend a briefing at Explorers House that provides important information about the upcoming voyage and reviews the essential guidelines for Antarctic visitors. After, enjoy a welcome dinner and meet fellow adventurers while eating a typical regional menu.
This Antarctic adventure begins with a two-hour flight from Punta Arenas to King George Island, in the South Shetland Islands, where you transfer to the expedition vessel and begin your Antarctic adventure.
Marvel at the overwhelming beauty of Antarctica’s South Shetland Islands. Sail in ice-filled bays, while enjoying the company of sea birds, penguins, seals and whales. Board a Zodiac for a memorable shore visit to a penguin colony and taking advantage of the endless Antarctic daylight to explore well into the evening.
Head north through the Drake Passage and attend an engaging program of lectures and presentations. In the company of expert guides, watch for wildlife from the glass-enclosed lounge or from the outside decks. Perhaps spot magnificent sea birds, such as albatrosses and petrels, as well as different species of whales.
Weather permitting, board a Zodiac and be one of the few privileged adventurers to step foot on legendary Cape Horn. Explore this famous and rarely visited island before continuing the journey. Sail along the Beagle Channel towards Port Williams, Chile, the southernmost town in the world. Explore the surroundings before setting sail to Ushuaia, Argentina.
Arrive to Ushuaia, where your journey ends.
Included
Group transfers airport/hotel on day 1; 1 overnight with breakfast in Punta Arenas at the Cabo de Hornos Hotel or similar, with a welcome dinner including drinks on day 1; exclusive access to the Explorers House Expedition Center in Punta Arenas; flight from Punta Arenas to Frei Station on King George Island; ship cruise along the Antarctic Peninsula as indicated in the itinerary; daily buffet breakfast and lunch on board ship offering a wide choice of dishes; daily served dinner on board ship offering a choice of three main courses; wine, beer, juice, and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board ship; coffee, tea, chocolate, cappuccino, water and snacks on board ship throughout the expedition; all guided shore excursions as indicated in itinerary; lectures and entertainment on board; comprehensive pre- and post-voyage information material; loan of waterproof boots for landing in Antarctica; Contingency Plan as described below; IAATO passenger fee; standard internet connection on board the ship (premium service for Penthouse Suite guests).
Exclusions
Accommodation; meals, excursions and transfers other than those included in the itinerary and the Contingency Plan; beverages purchased at the ship’s bar; personal travel insurance; extra expenses (communication, laundry, souvenirs, etc.); gratuities; visas for Chile and/or Argentina, passport expenses, and any arrival and/or departure tax, if applicable; and premium internet (all cabins except Penthouse Suites).
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of $1,750 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 210 days – full refund except for $1,000
209 to 120 days – 100% of deposit
119 to 90 days – 90% of total trip cost
89 to 60 days – 92.5 % of total trip cost
59 to 30 days – 95% of total trip cost
29 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
If full payment has not yet been received at 120 days prior, the full penalty will still apply and unpaid amount is due immediately.
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The reverse Antarctica Express Air Cruise begins in Punta Arenas, Chile (PUQ), and ends in Ushuaia, Argentina (USH). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to Punta Arenas in time to be at the Explorers House by 2:00pm on Day 1 of the itinerary. The same deadline applies to travelers arriving directly at the hotel on day 1. Travelers who miss their arrival deadline will be considered “no-show.” They will not be able to participate in the expedition and will receive no refund. In the afternoon, all travelers must attend a mandatory safety and Antarctic guidelines briefing, an information session covering important practical details and fitting session for expedition boots. Participation in these activities is essential for the success of the expedition. Depart from Ushuaia anytime on the final day of your trip, however, AdventureSmith strongly suggests that a flexible air ticket be held for your journey home in case you need to change your travel arrangement following a delay of the return flight from Antarctica. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Internal Flights
Upon disembarkation at Frei Base airfield on King George Island, a bus will bring travelers from the Zodiacs to the airplane for boarding (note: travelers may be required to walk approximately 1 mile, 20-30 minutes; if you think that you will not be able to walk this distance, then please inform your Adventure Specialist). Checked luggage will be transferred to the vessel by staff.
The maximum weight allowed on the flights to and from Antarctica is 25kg (55 lb.) of luggage per passenger: 20kg (44 lb.) checked luggage and 5kg (11 lb.) hand luggage. For Antarctica Express Air Cruises, excess luggage is not allowed as the start and end points are different. The baggage weight limit is a technical requirement imposed by the flight operation. Unfortunately, it is not possible to purchase extra allowance. Note that at certain points during the expedition you will be required to handle your own luggage. Seats are not assigned on the charter flight between Antarctica and Chile.
Activities
Various activities are included in your Antarctica Express Air Cruise (weather conditions dependent), such as Zodiac rides, onboard lectures, programs by expert naturalist guides, and photography instruction. Contact AdventureSmith for more details about these adventure activities.
Room Configuration
In addition to listed Single cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at an 85% supplement of the per-person listed rate in select Deluxe Veranda Cabins (Magellan Discoverer), upon availability; all other categories incur a 100% supplement. Sharing a cabin with another passenger of the same gender is also an option (same cabin categories apply). Passengers who book a Twin Cabin on a shared basis are accommodated in single rooms at the hotel in Punta Arenas and must pay a Single Hotel Room Supplement that varies based on departure selected.
Note: Single travelers who use CPAP machines or other assistive devices, as well as those who have conditions that can be disrupting to others (loud snoring, sleepwalking etc.) can only book their Air Cruise in a Single Cabin or in a Twin Cabin for single use. They cannot book on a twin-share basis.
Families & Children
At date of embarkation, a minimum age restriction of 8 years and minimum height and weight requirements (weight of 66lbs or 30kg and 3.9ft or 1.2 m tall) must be met. Children must be accompanied by a fully responsible adult. A 5% discount on the rate per person is offered for children up to 11 years of age; also for family groups of 6 or more travelers (special booking conditions apply).
Travel Insurance
Emergency medical evacuation insurance is mandatory for this trip, with a minimum recommended coverage of $100,000 USD per person. In addition to the emergency evacuation insurance, we highly recommend our travelers protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions and the wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flights to and from Antarctica operate based on weather conditions. While historically only a minority of flights have experienced a delay, be prepared for that possibility. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Antarctica expedition. Visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Contingency Plan
In the unlikely event that the flight to Antarctica cannot take place on the scheduled day due to unfavorable weather conditions, a Contingency Plan, included in the cost of your expedition, will apply. The primary goal of the plan is to provide an engaging and comfortable travel experience while adapting to the weather. A change in the flight schedule can impact travel to Antarctica or the return back, and the plan includes a range of activities determined by the circumstances. Additionally, the Contingency Plan offers financial protection by providing a refund should weather conditions prevent you from reaching Antarctica. Please read the full Contingency Plan and contact your Adventure Specialist for more details.
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Named after the famed explorer, Ferdinand Magellan, the MV Magellan Explorer is the first small passenger ship purpose-built for Antarctica fly cruises. She boasts technical solutions designed to enhance the expedition experience while offering a stylish and comfortable feel. Although the ship's capacity is for 96 passengers, guests are limited to only 76, ensuring the ultimate small ship polar air cruise experience. She offers a variety of comfortable accommodations including the elusive single cabin. The Magellan Explorer was constructed in Valdivia, Chile, by ASENAV shipyard. Her successor is sister ship Magellan Discoverer.
Why Sail Aboard Magellan Explorer
Choose the strong and agile Magellan Explorer for a stylish base for adventures, combining excellence in expedition and boutique hospitality. The Magellan Explorer’s dedication to keeping it small fits perfectly with AdventureSmith Explorations’ philosophy of small, sustainable cruises. As other Antarctica operators continue to push the boundaries of what constitutes a small ship (many reaching above 150 guests), it is refreshing to see a polar vessel focused on preserving the guests’ experience as well as the environment.
Limiting capacity to only 76 guests allows for ample space on board for ultimate comfort and off-board passenger expedition experience. This limited passenger count also allows for all travelers arriving to embark on a single flight to Antarctica, translating into less waiting. For these, and many other reasons, the Magellan Explorer is among our top choices for passengers seeking Antarctica luxury cruises and longer Falkland Islands and South Georgia cruise routes.
Our experts have been aboard the Magellan Explorer firsthand. Read our dedicated Magellan Explorer Ship Review or consult this page further for a detailed description including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our small ship cruise experts have been aboard nearly every first-class vessel in Antarctica and can help compare the Magellan Explorer with other Antarctica ships and ice-class expedition ships offering Patagonia cruises, and Antarctica cruise and Antarctica air cruise itineraries.
Operations Aboard Magellan Explorer
Because the Magellan Explorer has been planned and built specifically for the operation of Antarctic air cruises, many of her technical features are designed to support long periods of time away from port. Extended fuel range, comfortable crew quarters, spacious storage areas for provisions and supplies, and a well-equipped workshop for equipment maintenance are just some of the features that make the Magellan Explorer the perfect platform for a fly-and-cruise operation.
The vessel is built to the latest Polar Code specifications and carries a Polar Class 6 ice-class (Lloyd’s Register PC6), with its ice-detecting radar, state-of-the-art navigation and double hull construction. She features stabilizers for comfortable navigation and bow and stern thrusters for excellent maneuverability.
Sustainability Aboard Magellan Explorer
Specific measures have been taken to minimize MV Magellan Explorer's carbon footprint. The ship is equipped with state-of-the-art efficient engines and meets MARPOL’s stringent Tier III emission standards, the most rigorous standard in the industry. To minimize fuel consumption, a waste heat recovery system recycles the heat produced by the ship’s engines and repurposes it to power the ship’s heating system and to warm the water used on board. All waste is compacted and stored to be safely disposed. The ship's desalination plant produces at least 24 tons of fresh water each day.
Common Areas Aboard Magellan Explorer
The interior spaces of the MV Magellan Explorer, designed to enhance travelers' experiences and connection to Antarctica, were designed by renowned Chilean studio Enrique Concha & Co. The modern environment provides a comfortable, stylish and efficient feel at every turn in the ship. The public spaces include a large forward-facing observation lounge that hosts briefings and educational presentations, accessible bow, and an outdoor observation deck, each providing expansive views and close contact with the natural environment. The dining room accommodates all guests and expedition staff in a single sitting. Also on board is a meeting room with an interactive science lab, gift shop, protected outdoor barbecue area, library stocked with Antarctica literature and books in multiple languages, plus a gym and sauna. The ship offers local intranet with international news, daily programs and a medical clinic. Wireless internet is included onboard, with a set data allowance and the ability to add more if needed. Wireless receivers offer simultaneous translation for non-English speaking guests.
Dining Aboard Magellan Explorer
The main dining room serves buffet breakfasts and lunches, and table service dinner. When weather permits, outdoor BBQs are enjoyed on the deck. Premium Chilean wines are served with lunch and dinner. Snacks and drinks are shared during daily briefings plus welcome and farewell celebrations. 24-hour coffee, tea and water are also available. In addition to the cuisine, the bar offers a selection of Chilean domestic drinks, along with international favorites.
Activities Aboard Magellan Explorer
Zodiac cruises start in the specific Zodiac embarkation area equipped with hangers, lockers and sitting facilities to prepare for exploration. Then guests are routed to the two mid-ship gangways for quick and safe Zodiac operations with 10 Zodiacs for exploration and shore excursions. The Magellan Explorer also offers a variety of polar activities, including kayaking, hiking and snowshoeing, at additional cost.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Magellan Explorer
The Magellan Explorer features cabins in seven categories of accommodation. With most cabins featuring a large window and private balcony, and flexibility to offer dedicated single cabins, or interconnecting cabins (on sea voyages, #401-408 & #410-413), various passengers are accommodated. The spacious cabins range in size from 440 square feet (Triple Suite & Grand Suites), to 330 square feet (Penthouse Suites) and 220 square feet (Porthole Cabins, Veranda Cabins, Deluxe Veranda Cabins and Single Veranda Cabins).
All cabins feature a private bathroom and a sitting area. Each contains at least one desk and chair, combo Euro-American electrical outlets with USB port, safe, telephone, hair dryer, private bathroom with shower, bathroom amenities, bathrobe, and at cost personal laundry service options. Cabins with larger private bathrooms stocked with premium amenities include: the Triple Suite, Deluxe Veranda Cabins, Penthouse Suites and Grand Suites.
Magellan Discoverer is an elegant and stylish sister ship to the esteemed Magellan Explorer, built for the popular air cruise model. She is equipped with the latest technology for safety and sustainability, and like her sister, Magellan Discoverer flaunts a similar boutique, yacht-like aesthetic. For Antarctic air cruises, Magellan Discoverer will welcome up to 76 guests in 42 cabins across three passenger decks. Magellan Discoverer is under construction at the same ASENAV shipyard in Valdivia, Chile, with anticipated launch for the 2026-2027 Antarctica season.
Why Sail Aboard Magellan Discoverer
Choose the strong and agile Magellan Discoverer for a stylish base for adventures, combining excellence in expedition and boutique hospitality. The Magellan Discoverer offers a unique wet and dry science lab for hands-on exploration. Magellan Discoverer's dedication to keeping it small fits perfectly with AdventureSmith Explorations’ philosophy of small, sustainable cruises. Limiting capacity to only 76 guests allows for ample space on board for ultimate comfort and off-board passenger expedition experience. This limited passenger count also allows for all travelers arriving to embark on a single flight to Antarctica, translating into less waiting. For these, and many other reasons, the Magellan Discoverer is among our top choices for passengers seeking Antarctica luxury cruises.
Our experts have been aboard similar sister ship Magellan Explorer firsthand. Read our dedicated Magellan Explorer Ship Review or consult this page further for a detailed description including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our small ship cruise experts have been aboard nearly every first-class vessel in Antarctica and can help compare the Magellan Discoverer with other Antarctica ships and ice-class expedition ships offering Antarctica cruise and Antarctica air cruise itineraries.
Operations Aboard Magellan Discoverer
The ship features a hybrid-electric propulsion system with two powerful (1,800 kW) MAN main engines and innovative Azipods® provided by ABB, paired with a Corvus battery-based Energy Storage System. This ensures a smoother and quieter journey, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Antarctica fully.
Sustainability Aboard Magellan Discoverer
The Magellan Discoverer is equipped with state-of-the-art efficient engines and meets stringent Tier III emission standards, the most rigorous standard in the industry. To minimize fuel consumption, a waste heat recovery system recycles the heat produced by the ship’s engines and repurposes it to power the ship’s heating system and to warm the water used on board. All waste is compacted and stored to be safely disposed.
Common Areas Aboard Magellan Discoverer
The modern environment provides a comfortable, stylish and efficient feel at every turn in the ship. The public spaces include a large forward-facing Observation Lounge that hosts briefings and educational presentations, accessible bow, and an outdoor observation deck, each providing expansive views and close contact with the natural environment.
The dining room accommodates all guests and expedition staff in a single sitting. Also on board is a meeting room with an interactive science lab. The ship is also equipped with a gift shop, protected outdoor barbecue area, library stocked with Antarctica literature and books in multiple languages, and gym with panoramic windows and sauna. The ship offers local intranet with international news, as well as daily programs and a medical clinic. Wireless internet is included and available throughout the ship, and wireless receivers offer simultaneous translation for guests who do not speak English.
Dining Aboard Magellan Discoverer
The main dining room serves buffet breakfasts and lunches, and table service dinner. When weather permits, outdoor BBQs are enjoyed on the deck. Premium Chilean wines are served with lunch and dinner. Snacks and drinks are shared during welcome and farewell celebrations. Express lunches and 24-hour coffee, tea and water are also available. In addition to the cuisine, the bar offers a selection of Chilean domestic drinks, along with international favorites.
Activities Aboard Magellan Discoverer
Zodiac cruises start in the specific Zodiac embarkation area equipped with hangers, lockers and sitting facilities to prepare for exploration. Then guests are routed to the two mid-ship gangways for quick and safe Zodiac operations with 10 Zodiacs for exploration and shore excursions. The Magellan Discoverer also offers a variety of polar activities, including kayaking, hiking and snowshoeing, at additional cost.
For the ultimate adventure, the ship introduces a unique wet science lab and an expansive top deck that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. After a day of exploration, guests can relax and rejuvenate in the sauna with panoramic windows.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Magellan Discoverer
The Magellan Discoverer features a range of luxurious accommodations to suit every traveler's needs. She builds on the success of her sister ship, with an average of 70-square-foot-larger cabins and 4 more inches to the ceiling. With 3 cabin decks and 5 cabin categories, there's something for everyone. Choose from 8 Grand Veranda Suites, 2 Family Suites, 22 Deluxe Veranda Cabins, 2 Triple Veranda Suites, or 8 Single Veranda Cabins. For a premium family option, combine Grand Veranda Suite + Deluxe Veranda Cabin, contact your adventure specialist for pricing. Each cabin offers a comfortable and spacious layout, with a choice of either a king-size bed or two twin beds, a closet, refrigerator, coffeemaker, TV, desk and chair, cozy sitting area, large windows and a sliding glass door to a private balcony for enjoying the breathtaking views.
Learn About the Small Ships on Your Itinerary
The Magellan Discoverer is a brand new expedition ship built specifically for Antarctica fly cruises. This polar class 6 vessel features stylish design with technical advances for smooth and safe expeditions.
Reviews From Our Experts So You Know What to Expect
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Expert Aboard: Magellan Explorer Ship Review
Step aboard the 76-guest Magellan Explorer in Antarctica. Two of our experts share firsthand insights on what makes this under-100-guest vessel so special, plus perspectives from travelers who’ve sailed aboard it.
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8 Things I Learned Flying to Antarctica
Considering flying to Antarctica? Read firsthand tips on air cruises, from flight logistics and weather delays to what to pack and how to plan for a smoother trip.
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Planning Your Trip to Antarctica
View All Antarctica Travel Guides-
Antarctica Travel Guide
There are more small ships than ever cruising Antarctica with vessels and itinerary options for every style and budget. This up-to-date guide culls the best tips for a comprehensive look at Antarctica travel today.
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Things to Do in Antarctica
Learn about things to do in Antarctica, and how our experts can help you achieve your bucket list activities. Antarctica has so much to offer and our small ship cruise lines focus on experiencing the White Continent in an active, up-close way; here we explain how.
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Best Time to Visit Antarctica
When is the best time to go to Antarctica? On the White Continent, the answer isn’t so black-and-white. Consult this month-by-month list covering everything from penguins to pack ice to help guide your travel timing.
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Antarctica Cruises 2026, 2027 & 2028
We’ve scoured the new itineraries, schedules, ships and trends to bring you AdventureSmith Explorations’ annual round-up of what’s new in Antarctica. Plus view a complete list of all cruises, searchable by date.
Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Antarctica Cruise
View All Antarctica Air Cruises
Save $5000 per person
Antarctica Air Cruise
The original air-cruise with refined ships and logistics
Antarctica & South Georgia Air Cruise
Skip the Drake while prioritizing South Georgia wildlife
Save up to 10%
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Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake
A time-smart Peninsula fly cruise with active options
Our experts will save you hours.
A single conversation with us is worth hours of internet scrolling. Find your next best trip with ease, then book with the confidence of our 20+ year experience.
