In Antarctica, a maximum of 100 passengers per ship are allowed ashore at the same time. With fewer than 76 guests onboard Magellan Explorer, there are no waiting times—everyone can go ashore simultaneously.
Magellan Explorer: Ship, Routes & Consulting
Possible expeditions, information about the ship and answers from our experts to all your questions about the cruises of the Magellan Explorer
3 Reasons for a an Expedition on the Magellan Explorer
- The Magellan Explorer is a purpose-built expedition ship designed for Air Cruises, accommodating 76 passengers—allowing everyone to go ashore at the same time.
- Instead of crossing the Drake Passage, you’ll take a two-hour flight from Punta Arenas, Chile, to your ship waiting off the coast near the Frei Research Station on King George Island.
- This vessel combines adventure, luxury, and a personalized experience that is both environmentally responsible and exceptionally comfortable.
What Awaits You on an Expedition on the Magellan Explorer
Small Ship
Magellan Explorer is a purpose-built expedition vessel designed by polar experts and naval architects specifically for air-cruise expeditions. With capacity for fewer than 76 guests, the ship can access areas that are unreachable for larger vessels.
Comfortable Cabins
Cabins onboard Magellan Explorer are comfortably appointed, many featuring private balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows offering breathtaking views of Antarctica.
Personalized Expedition Experience
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Cabins and Suites on the Magellan Explorer
Magellan Explorer is a purpose-built expedition vessel designed specifically for Antarctica air-cruise itineraries. Accommodating up to 76 guests, the ship features advanced stabilizers and all-outside cabins with private balconies for exceptional views of Antarctica.
| Penthouse Suite | 33 M2 |
| Deluxe Suite | 44 M2 |
| Triple Suite | 44 M2 |
| Deluxe Veranda Cabin | 22 M2 |
| Veranda Cabin | 19 M2 |
| Single Veranda Cabin | 19 M2 |
| Porthole Cabin | 18 M2 |
Penthouse Suite
- 33 m² Penthouse Suite on Deck 5
- 2 single beds or 1 king-size bed
- Separate seating area with sofa and coffee table
- Desk with chair and 2 armchairs
- Private balcony with seating area
- Larger private bathroom with separate shower
Deluxe Suite
- 44 m² Suite on Deck 4 (formerly called Grand Suite)
- 2 single beds or 1 king-size bed
- Separate living area with queen-size sofa bed and coffee table
- Desk with chair and chair sets in living and sleeping area
- 2 armchairs with side tables
- 2 private balconies with seating
- 2 larger private bathrooms with separate shower
Triple Suite
- 44 m² Triple Suite on Deck 4 with a maximum occupancy for 3 people
- 2 single beds that can be combined into a king-size bed for couples.
- 1 queen-size sofa bed: The sofa bed for the third guest is located in a separate additional sleeping area for more privacy.
- Desk with chair and chair sets in living and sleeping area
- 2 armchairs with side tables
- 2 private balconies with seating areas
- 2 private bathrooms with shower
Deluxe Veranda Cabin
- 22 m² Deluxe Veranda Cabin on Deck 4
- 2 single beds or 1 king-size bed
- Desk with chair and 1 armchair with side table
- Private balcony with seating area
- Larger private bathroom with separate shower
Veranda Cabin
- 19 m² Veranda Cabin on Deck 3
- 2 single beds or 1 king-size bed
- Desk with chair and 1 armchair with side table
- Private balcony with seating area
- Private bathroom with separate shower
Single Veranda Cabin
- 19 m² Single Veranda Cabin on Deck 3
- 1 king-size bed
- Desk with chair, 1 armchair with side table
- Private balcony with seating area
- Private bathroom with separate shower
Porthole Cabin
- 18 m² Porthole Cabin on Deck 3
- 2 single beds or 1 king-size bed
- Desk with chair and 2 armchairs with side table
- Private bathroom with separate shower
Magellan Explorer is the smallest comfortable ship operating in Antarctica, ideal for travelers who want to combine adventure with a higher level of comfort.
Meinhard Mooslechner
Polar Travel Expert
Magellan Explorer Deck Plan
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Itineraries of the Magellan Explorer in Antarctica
Frequently Asked Questions about Magellan Explorer
What makes the Magellan Explorer special?
Magellan Explorer is a purpose-built vessel designed specifically for polar expeditions. Introduced in the 2019/2020 season, it represents a new generation of expedition ships known for their environmental responsibility and high level of comfort.
Design and layout:
- Magellan Explorer features a modern and elegant design and holds a PC6 ice-class rating for deeper navigation into ice-covered regions.
- Designed for fewer than 76 guests, the ship offers an intimate and personal Antarctic experience.
- Cabins are tastefully furnished, many with private balconies, allowing guests to enjoy breathtaking views directly from their room.
Technical specifications:
- The ship is equipped with state-of-the-art navigation and safety systems, including stabilizers that ensure smoother sailing in rough conditions.
- Ice-detection radar assists with safe travel through Antarctic waters.
Environmental responsibility:
- Magellan Explorer uses an energy recovery system that repurposes engine heat to warm cabins and supply hot water onboard.
- Additionally, sustainability is prioritized throughout daily operations on the vessel.
Onboard experience:
- Amenities include a fitness center, sauna, and spa area—ideal for unwinding after a day of exploration.
- A spacious, glass-enclosed observation lounge provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
- Guests enjoy an enriching educational program featuring expert-led lectures and presentations by scientists and expedition specialists.
Expedition equipment:
- A fleet of Zodiacs enables fast and safe shore landings and water-based exploration.
- The ship is also fully equipped for a range of activities, from guided hikes to optional kayaking.
What technical details are available about the Magellan Explorer?
- Passenger capacity: up to 76 guests in Antarctica, allowing all travelers to land at the same time
- Crew: approximately 46 in Antarctica
- Expedition team: around 12 experts onboard
- Ice class: PC6 for deeper navigation into the ice
- Dimensions: length 90.7 m, width 16.2 m
- Speed: 14 knots, allowing less travel time at sea and more time exploring Antarctica
- Stabilization: Equipped with advanced stabilizers for a more comfortable voyage
- Fuel efficiency: To minimize fuel consumption, a heat recovery system repurposes engine-generated heat to power the onboard heating system and warm the ship’s water supply
How is the Magellan Explorer equipped?
Magellan Explorer represents a new generation of expedition vessels known for combining comfort with environmentally responsible design. The ship features an energy recovery system that uses engine heat to warm passenger cabins and supply hot water onboard.
It is equipped with advanced navigation and safety technology, including stabilizers for smoother sailing in rough seas. An ice-detection radar supports safe navigation through Antarctica’s icy waters.
- Onboard amenities include a fitness center, sauna, and spa area—ideal for unwinding after a day of exploration.
- A spacious, glass-enclosed observation lounge offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
- For off-ship exploration, a fleet of Zodiacs enables all guests to go ashore quickly and safely at the same time.
- The vessel is also outfitted for a variety of expedition activities, ranging from guided hikes to optional kayaking.
Which services are included and excluded with the Magellan Explorer?
Included:
• Return flights to Antarctica with transfers to the expedition vessel
• Antarctic voyage aboard a small expedition ship
• Full-board dining with daily breakfast and dinner
• Dinner with a choice of three main courses
• Wine, beer, juice, and soft drinks served with meals
• Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, cappuccino, water, and snacks available onboard
• Complimentary waterproof expedition boots for landings
• All guided shore excursions, lectures, and onboard programming
• Landing fees and IAATO passenger fee
Excluded:
• International flights (can be added for an additional cost)
• Optional paid adventure activities such as kayaking
• Optional purchase of an expedition parka
• Recommended gratuities at the end of the voyage
• Personal expenses such as purchases from the onboard shop
• Internet access onboard
• Drinks purchased at the bar
• Wellness services such as massages
• Personal travel insurance
Is my international flight already included when booking the Magellan Explorer?
When booking with AntarcticDesire.com, you will receive a tailored travel offer that includes international flights to and from the Magellan Explorer. We are also happy to assist with pre- or post-trip extensions in Patagonia, Chile, or other regions.