South America Cruises

South America offers some of the most dramatic and diverse cruise journeys in the world, combining vibrant cities, remote wilderness and breathtaking natural scenery. From the colourful beaches of Brazil to the glaciers and fjords of Patagonia, a South America cruise reveals a continent rich in culture, landscapes and unforgettable experiences.

Many itineraries sail between Buenos Aires and Santiago, travelling through the spectacular Chilean fjords and around the legendary Cape Horn. Others explore the Brazilian coastline from Rio de Janeiro, while some voyages venture toward the icy waters of Antarctica for scenic cruising near the Antarctic Peninsula.

With opportunities to combine your cruise with experiences such as Iguazú Falls, Machu Picchu or Chile’s famous wine regions, South America cruises offer remarkable journeys across one of the world’s most fascinating continents

Cruising is one of the most rewarding ways to explore South America’s vast landscapes and diverse cultures. Ships sail past glaciers, fjords and remote coastlines that are difficult to reach by land, while also visiting vibrant cities and historic ports. From the rhythm of Rio de Janeiro to the wild beauty of Patagonia, each destination reveals a different side of the continent. With scenic cruising through regions such as the Chilean fjords and the waters near Antarctica, South America cruises offer unforgettable experiences both on land and at sea.

The South America cruise season generally runs from November through March, when the southern hemisphere enjoys summer conditions and longer daylight hours. During this period, warmer weather makes it ideal for exploring cities such as Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires while also providing the best conditions for sailing through Patagonia and the Chilean fjords. Cruises visiting the waters near Antarctica also operate during these months when sea ice retreats and wildlife activity increases.

In addition to the main cruise gateways, several other ports across South America host departures for regional voyages and longer itineraries exploring the Atlantic and Pacific coastlines. The port of Callao near Lima serves as a gateway to Peru and is used by cruise lines sailing along South America’s Pacific coast. Many guests extend their holiday with a Peru tour with Machu Picchu, travelling from Lima into the Andes to visit one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites and UNESCO World Heritage landmarks.

In Brazil, Santos, the main port for São Paulo, is the country’s busiest cruise port and a popular starting point for itineraries along the Brazilian coastline. Further north, Salvador de Bahia offers departures along Brazil’s tropical Atlantic coast and is known for its colourful colonial architecture, historic centre and vibrant Afro-Brazilian culture.