The expedition cruise industry is preparing to welcome one of its most innovative projects: the Magellan Discoverer, a state-of-the-art polar expedition vessel specifically designed for operations in Antarctica under the renowned Air-Cruise travel model developed by the Chilean company Antarctica21.
Scheduled to enter service for the 2026–2027 Antarctic season, the vessel combines cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and an exclusive expedition experience.
Built at the ASENAV shipyard in Valdivia, Chile, the Magellan Discoverer will be the sister ship of the successful Magellan Explorer. It also incorporates significant improvements in energy efficiency, passenger comfort, and wildlife observation capabilities. One of its most innovative features is its hybrid-electric propulsion system, making it the first hybrid polar expedition vessel built in the Americas.
This technology combines next-generation diesel engines compliant with the IMO Tier III emissions standard and an advanced lithium-ion marine battery system. As a result, it optimizes energy consumption while significantly reducing the environmental impact of operations in Antarctica. Thanks to this configuration, the vessel will be able to operate on battery power alone during selected maneuvers and operational phases. This reduces CO₂ emissions, fuel consumption, and underwater radiated noise that can affect local marine wildlife.
In addition, the Magellan Discoverer will feature energy recovery and reuse systems, including the utilization of waste heat from its engines to provide heating for interior spaces.
The vessel has been specifically designed to meet the highest sustainability standards for operations in environmentally sensitive polar regions. Its hybrid systems will enhance the ship’s overall energy efficiency, reinforcing Antarctica21’s commitment to responsible, low-impact expedition tourism.
The Magellan Discoverer has also been awarded Polar Class 6 (PC6) certification, enabling it to operate safely in Antarctic waters while combining technological innovation, operational safety, and environmental stewardship.
ABB has played a key role in the development of this vessel by supplying its advanced Azipod® propulsion technology and the intelligent Onboard DC Grid™ power distribution system. Thanks to these solutions, the Magellan Discoverer has become the first hybrid-electric polar cruise ship built in the Americas. These innovations also improve maneuverability, reduce fuel consumption by up to 20%, and minimize underwater noise, enabling a more sustainable exploration of Antarctic ecosystems.
ABB and CT Engineering Group have maintained a close working relationship since 2022, reflected in our participation in commissioning activities on more than 60 vessels for the company over the past few years. As a result of this trusted partnership, ABB selected CT Engineering Group to serve as Site Manager during the commissioning phase of all ABB systems installed on this project.
Based in Chile over a six-month period, our engineers were responsible for coordinating all commissioning activities, providing technical support, and assisting during the vessel’s sea trials, the final stage before delivery of the ship to its owner.
