South America

South American Cruise Guide

South American Cruise Guide

Embark on a remarkable journey through the enchanting landscapes of South America. Cruise along the mighty Amazon River, and explore the bustling streets of Rio de Janeiro or the historic treasures of Buenos Aires. Our South American cruises offer a tantalizing blend of culture, adventure, and natural beauty. From the mystical ruins of Machu Picchu to the stunning fjords of Chile, each port of call holds a unique and unforgettable experience. Delve into the rhythms of tango, savor authentic cuisine, and witness the breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia. Join us on a South American cruise and let the wonders of this continent unfold before your eyes.

Port Stanley
Montevideo

Key South American Cruise Information

Ships & Cruise Lines

South American routes are served by a diverse fleet of ships, from intimate, luxury vessels to large, modern mega-ships. Premium lines like Azamara and Celebrity Cruises are popular choices. Azamara's smaller ships, such as the Azamara Journey and Quest, are well-suited for the destination, offering longer stays in port and the ability to access smaller harbors that larger ships can't reach. Celebrity's larger vessels, like the Celebrity Equinox, provide a resort-style experience with a wide array of dining options, entertainment, and spacious balcony cabins perfect for scenic cruising. Other major lines like Holland America, Costa, and Cunard also offer extensive itineraries, with cruise lengths averaging around 8 nights but often extending to 14 nights or more to cover the vast distances.

The best ships for South America enhance the journey with destination-focused amenities. Many feature expansive observation lounges with floor-to-ceiling windows, which are essential for taking in the stunning scenery of the Patagonian fjords or when rounding Cape Horn. Onboard enrichment programs are a key feature, with many ships hosting guest lecturers, including historians, naturalists, and geologists, who provide valuable context for the ports of call. To bring local culture onboard, some cruises offer destination-themed menus, regional wine tastings, and even tango lessons, creating a more immersive experience that connects passengers to the places they are visiting even while at sea.

Last updated on June 20, 2025

Best Time to Cruise

The primary cruise season for South America runs from October through April, aligning with the Southern Hemisphere's spring, summer, and autumn. The peak season is during the summer months of December, January, and February. During this time, you can expect hot, sunny, and humid weather in Brazil and Argentina, perfect for enjoying the famous beaches. This is also the busiest and most expensive period, coinciding with Christmas, New Year's, and the world-renowned Carnival celebrations in Brazil (typically in February or early March). Cruises that include Antarctica or Patagonia also operate during these months when the weather is most favorable and wildlife, like penguins and seals, is most active.

For travelers seeking milder weather, fewer crowds, and better pricing, the shoulder months of October - November (spring) and March - April (autumn) are ideal. In the spring, you'll witness the continent coming into bloom, with pleasant temperatures for exploring cities. Autumn offers beautiful fall colors in Patagonia and comfortably warm weather further north. Packing for a South American cruise requires versatility. Be prepared with lightweight clothing, swimwear, and strong sun protection for tropical ports like Rio, but also pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy walking shoes, especially if your itinerary includes the cooler, windier climates of Ushuaia and the Chilean Fjords.

Last updated on June 20, 2025

Who Should Go

South American cruises appeal strongly to experienced, curious travelers who are passionate about culture, history, and nature. The typical demographic often skews towards mature adults and retirees (50+) who have the time for longer, more immersive itineraries that can span two weeks or more. These travelers appreciate the convenience of unpacking once while exploring multiple countries and vastly different landscapes—from the tropical beaches of Brazil to the glaciers of Patagonia. With median per-person-per-day prices around $151, it offers strong value for those wanting an in-depth exploration of a diverse continent. It's a perfect fit for adventure-seeking couples and solo travelers interested in a journey that is both relaxing and intellectually stimulating.

This destination is ideal for those with an active and inquisitive travel style. Shore excursions can range from leisurely walking tours in colonial city centers like Montevideo to strenuous hikes in Patagonian national parks. However, it may be less suitable for families with very young children, as the long sea days and culturally focused port calls might not hold their attention. Travelers looking for a short, budget-friendly party cruise may find the Caribbean to be a better fit. Additionally, while cruise lines make great efforts, accessibility can be a challenge in some of the older, historic ports or on nature-based excursions over rugged terrain, so travelers with mobility concerns should research specific itineraries and excursions carefully.

Last updated on June 20, 2025

Best South American Cruise Deals

14 Night Buenos Aires to Buenos Aires cruise
December 6, 2025
Celebrity Equinox
S M L XL
Buenos Aires Montevideo Port Stanley Ushuaia Punta Arenas Puerto Madryn Punta del Este Buenos Aires
$1,388
$99 per day
Inside
7 Night Sao Paolo to Sao Paolo cruise
March 28, 2026
7 Night South America Cruise
CruiseScore™ (3.79/5)
MSC Seaview
S M L XL
Sao Paolo Búzios Salvador Maceió Sao Paolo
$649
$93 per day
Inside
7 Night Rio to Rio cruise
March 7, 2026
7 Night South America Cruise
CruiseScore™ (3.48/5)
MSC Armonia
S M L XL
Rio Maceió Salvador Ilheus Rio
$681
$97 per day
Inside
7 Night Rio to Rio cruise
February 28, 2026
7 Night South America Cruise
CruiseScore™ (3.50/5)
MSC Armonia
S M L XL
Rio Maceió Salvador Ilheus Rio
$681
$97 per day
Inside
7 Night Salvador to Salvador cruise
February 25, 2026
7 Night South America Cruise
CruiseScore™ (3.50/5)
MSC Armonia
S M L XL
Salvador Ilheus Rio Maceió Salvador
$684
$98 per day
Inside
7 Night Salvador to Salvador cruise
March 4, 2026
7 Night South America Cruise
CruiseScore™ (3.48/5)
MSC Armonia
S M L XL
Salvador Ilheus Rio Maceió Salvador
$684
$98 per day
Inside
7 Night Maceió to Maceió cruise
March 3, 2026
7 Night South America Cruise
CruiseScore™ (3.48/5)
MSC Armonia
S M L XL
Maceió Salvador Ilheus Rio Maceió
$684
$98 per day
Inside
7 Night Buenos Aires to Buenos Aires cruise
February 12, 2026
7 Night South America Cruise
CruiseScore™ (3.91/5)
MSC Preziosa
S M L XL
Buenos Aires Sao Paolo Camboriu Punta del Este Buenos Aires
$707
$101 per day
Inside
7 Night Buenos Aires to Buenos Aires cruise
March 19, 2026
7 Night South America Cruise
CruiseScore™ (3.82/5)
MSC Preziosa
S M L XL
Buenos Aires Sao Paolo Camboriu Punta del Este Buenos Aires
$707
$101 per day
Inside
7 Night Buenos Aires to Buenos Aires cruise
March 12, 2026
7 Night South America Cruise
CruiseScore™ (3.83/5)
MSC Preziosa
S M L XL
Buenos Aires Sao Paolo Camboriu Punta del Este Buenos Aires
$717
$102 per day
Inside

Monthly South American Cruise Prices

Prices are roughly steady throughout the year. On average South American Cruises are extremely affordable compared to other types. Look at the chart below for the average cost per day by month.

Jan
$184
Feb
$183
Mar
$143
Apr
$174
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
$240

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