Chilean shipbuilder ASENAV has completed construction of the Magellan Discoverer, the first hybrid-electric expedition cruise ship built in the Americas, which has departed for final sea trials ahead of its scheduled entry into service in December 2026. Built for Antarctica21 at an estimated cost of US$90 million, the 94-metre, 5,258-GT vessel features ABB’s Onboard DC Grid, Corvus Energy battery storage and Azipod propulsion technology to improve fuel efficiency, reduce emissions and minimize underwater noise. The Polar Class PC6 vessel can operate for up to 60 days without refuelling, navigate ice up to 80 centimetres thick and accommodate up to 96 passengers. The project represents a significant advancement in hybrid-electric propulsion and environmentally responsible expedition cruising, particularly in sensitive Antarctic waters.
