Magellan Explorer, Antarctic cruises

Location

ex Punta Arenas or Ushuaia (Antarctic cruises, Antarctica)

Description

Quick facts - Level: | Passengers: 100 (73 on air cruise) | Duration: 5-14 nights | Length: 298 feet | Cruising speed: 14 knots | Operator: Antarctica 21

A first class expedition ship custom-designed for Antarctic operations with a forward facing observation deck allowing the best wildlife viewing opportunities. She has stabilizers, bow and stern thrusters and an ice-detecting radar. She is also equipped with an energy-recovery system that recycles the heat produced by the engines to warm up the ship and its water supply. There is a library, gym, sauna, bar, lounge, dining room, presentation room and glass-enclosed observation lounge. 10 Zodiac boats are available for the use on daily excursions. The ship operates a selection of fly/cruise itineraries, most of which start and finish in Punta Arenas. The most popular is the Classic Antarctica Air Cruise which is 7 nights. There are also longer cruise options taking in South Georgia and the Falkland Islands.

Capacity

100 passengers (73 on air cruises)

Activities

International expedition staff lead shore excursions and give daily lectures on board. Sea kayaking is available at an additional cost (basic previous kayaking experience is necessary) and camping is also available on selected voyages at additional cost. There are limited places for these optional activities and so they should be booked well in advance.

Accommodation

Most cabins on are on decks 3 and 4 and range in size from 20 to 40 square metres. The Penthouse suites are on deck 5, next to the observation lounge. Almost all cabins have beds that can be configured as double or twin, there are 1 dedicated single cabin and also 1 triple. All cabins, except the Porthole cabins, feature a private veranda and they all have a wardrobe, individually controlled heating system, a sitting area, and a private bathroom with shower.

When to go

Mid November to mid March.