Introducing the use of e-Fuels in Our Antarctic Operations

At Antarctica21, we have always strived to find ways to explore the beauty of the White Continent while reducing our impact on its environment. Today, we are thrilled to share another significant step forward in our sustainability journey—our new partnership with HIF Global, a world leader in e-Fuel production. Together, we are pioneering the use of e-Fuels in Antarctic operations, setting a new standard for responsible travel in one of the world’s most fragile ecosystems.

Our partnership with HIF Global marks a milestone as we become the first company in the cruise industry to integrate e-Fuel into Antarctic travel operations. The introduction of this synthetic fuel, produced through CO₂ capture, renewable energy, and water, represents a promising alternative to conventional fossil fuels. By choosing e-Fuel, we’re not only reducing our reliance on traditional energy sources but also actively contributing to global efforts to reduce carbon emissions.

What is e-Fuel and how is it produced? Watch this YouTube video from our partners at HIF Global on how e-Fuel is produced.

The partnership is the first step in our ambitious plan to shift its operations toward the exclusive use of e-Fuels. At a ceremony in Punta Arenas, in southern Chile, on October 25, 2024, Antarctica21 and HIF Global signed an agreement whereby e-Gasoline will be tested for the operation of Zodiacs by Antarctica21’s flagship expedition vessel, Magellan Explorer.

Jaime Vásquez, President of Antarctica21 and Víctor Turpaud, CEO of HIF Latam sign the partnership agreement in Punta Arenas, Chile

In the following years, Antarctica21 plans to expand the use of e-Fuels to include synthetic Marine Gas Oil (e-MGO) to power Magellan Explorer’s main engines, as well as synthetic jet fuel for air operations, achieving full alignment between the company’s fuel usage and its sustainability goals.

The e-Fuel used for this partnership is locally sourced from HIF Global’s Haru Oni plant in Punta Arenas, in Chile’s Magallanes Region, where the company produces e-Fuel for various industrial applications. The plant’s innovative approach has the potential to position Chile as a key element in the global energy transition.

Jaime Vásquez, President of Antarctica21, said: “We are delighted to be at the forefront of the quest for alternative energy solutions. The strategic partnership between Antarctica21 and HIF aligns with our ongoing sustainability initiatives, which encompass energy-efficient practices and a comprehensive carbon offsetting and certification program. By integrating e-Fuel into our operations, we are paving the way toward a more sustainable future for Antarctic tourism while helping drive innovation in marine fuel alternatives.”

Víctor Turpaud, CEO of HIF Latam, stated, “This agreement is a concrete step that reaffirms our commitment to decarbonizing the planet. Our e-Fuels can make a difference today, not only transforming regional tourism but also contributing to a sustainable future in the White Continent.”

More about our partners at HIF Global

HIF Global is a world leader in the production of e-Fuels and develops projects worldwide to convert renewable energy into carbon-neutral fuels usable in existing engines. HIF Haru Oni is their first operational facility, located in southern Chile, and the company is developing commercial-scale facilities in the United States, Uruguay, Australia, Brazil, and Chile. For more information, visit www.hifglobal.com.