Antarctica21’s new hybrid electric expedition ship Magellan Discoverer has departed builder Asenav's facilities and proceeded to Corral Bay off Chile for her final stage of sea trials.
The trials will assess the vessel's operational performance, manoeuvrability, and integrated systems under actual operating conditions. Antarctica21 plans to begin Antarctic service on December 15, following a voyage to Punta Arenas.
Magellan Discoverer combines diesel-electric generation with battery storage and two ABB azimuthing podded thrusters. Power is generated by two MAN main engines and gensets with a combined output of 4,800 ekW.
The 5,258GT vessel has a length of 94 metres, a beam of 17.2 metres, and a draught of 4.3 metres. Accommodation is provided for up to 88 guests on air cruises and 96 on sea voyages, along with 67 expedition staff and crew.
Antarctica21 ordered the ship in 2023, and steel cutting took place on February 8, 2024. The hull was launched in October 2025, when delivery was scheduled for September 2026.
Asenav had previously built the expedition ship Magellan Explorer for Antarctica21, which was delivered in 2019.