Building A Sustainable Future For Antarctica21

In 2023 Antarctica21 celebrates its 20th Anniversary. During our company’s 20th anniversary year, we want to celebrate our history with a review of the important milestones that have defined our journey. This is one of the notable moments in the company’s history. You can read more stories here.

Written by Claudio Bobadilla, Fleet Director at Antarctica21

As Fleet Director, one of my central objectives is to develop our shipping services in a sustainable and responsible manner. One of my goals is to use data-driven processes and procedures for our ship operations while strengthening the company’s sustainability efforts that go beyond the directives set by regulators and the guidelines of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO). From 2017 to 2019, I had the pleasure of being the shipowner’s representative during the construction of Magellan Explorer. The launch of our custom-built polar vessel in 2019 is one of my most significant memories during my decade-long journey with Antarctica21. It was an important achievement in my career, as well as a critical milestone for the company. With a brand-new vessel navigating new waters also came new opportunities.

As we started operating Magellan Explorer, one of our first initiatives was to implement onboard systems to capture detailed information about the ship’s energy consumption. For the 2022-23 polar season, we deployed Marorka, a “smart shipping” solution on board Magellan Explorer. This involved installing a variety of sensors with automatic data collection systems, and software to manage and optimize our vessel’s energy and environmental performance. With the data generated, we have now created an extensive knowledge base that helps us analyze and model different operational scenarios and make decisions that optimize our fuel consumption and reduce carbon emissions.

Another important project I have led is a committee to work on Antarctica21’s Sustainability Policy. This process is being carried out with the assistance of sustainability consultants from Deloitte. Using international sustainability standards based on the ESG (environmental, social, and governance) assessment framework, we are working to develop a comprehensive strategy for every aspect of our operation. With clearly defined goals for every department, monitoring of results, and regular reporting, we seek to make incremental improvements in every area of our business. It’s very exciting to see all the efforts made over the years come together under a single, coordinated plan of action.

I have great admiration for all the people who contributed to Antarctica21’s success over the last 20 years. I am also proud to work with a company that recognizes the importance of sustainable and efficient practices. Building on the foundation set by Magellan Explorer’s onboard systems and our upcoming Sustainability Policy, we are actively exploring new initiatives that align with global sustainability benchmarks. I know that, with focus and effort, we can continue to offer inspiring travel experiences to our guests while ensuring the continued protection of Antarctica and its ecosystem.