South America Cruises

Explore South America by Cruise

From the glaciers of Patagonia to the colourful streets of Rio de Janeiro, South America offers one of the world’s most rewarding cruise experiences. A journey through this remarkable continent combines dramatic natural landscapes, fascinating history, diverse cultures and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Whether you’re dreaming of sailing past fjords at the southern tip of the continent or discovering cosmopolitan cities rich in character, South America cruises deliver a holiday unlike any other.

Many itineraries travel along both the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, visiting iconic destinations such as Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, Santiago, Lima and Cartagena. Longer voyages may even include scenic cruising around the legendary Cape Horn of South America, one of the world’s most famous maritime landmarks. With every port offering something different, it’s easy to see why more Australians choose to cruise South America each year.

Cruise Lines Sailing South America

A wide range of cruise lines operate throughout South America, catering to every travel style and budget.

Popular mainstream cruise lines include MSC Cruises, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean. These operators offer itineraries ranging from one-week coastal voyages to extensive journeys covering multiple countries and continents.

For travellers seeking a premium experience, luxury operators such as Silversea, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Viking and Ponant provide smaller ships, personalised service, gourmet dining and immersive shore excursions.

Many South America cruises also include unique expedition-style experiences through Patagonia, Tierra del Fuego and the remote waterways surrounding Cape Horn, creating unforgettable opportunities for nature lovers and photographers.

Ship Options for South America

The ships sailing South America vary significantly in size and style, giving travellers plenty of choice.

• Large resort-style ships offer extensive entertainment, multiple dining venues, family-friendly facilities and excellent value.
• Mid-sized vessels provide a balance between onboard amenities and access to smaller ports.
• Luxury ships focus on personalised service, spacious suites and destination-focused experiences.
• Expedition vessels are ideal for travellers wanting to explore Patagonia, the Chilean fjords and remote regions near Cape Horn in South America.

One of the most sought-after itineraries is the 31-day cruise around South America, allowing guests to experience the continent’s incredible diversity in a single voyage. These extended cruises often combine Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, Peru and Panama into one extraordinary adventure.

Top Harbours in South America

South America’s ports are as diverse as the continent itself. These destinations consistently rank among the most popular with cruise travellers.

• Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – Famous for Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain and the iconic beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema.
• Buenos Aires, Argentina – Known for tango, European-inspired architecture, exceptional dining and lively neighbourhoods.
• Callao (Lima), Peru – Gateway to Peru’s world-renowned cuisine and historic colonial landmarks.
• Ushuaia, Argentina – Often called the world’s southernmost city and a key departure point for Antarctic voyages.
• Cartagena, Colombia – A beautifully preserved colonial city filled with colourful architecture, plazas and Caribbean charm.

Many itineraries also include scenic cruising through the Chilean fjords, the Strait of Magellan and the waters surrounding Cape Horn, offering spectacular views that can only be appreciated from the sea.

When to Cruise South America

The cruise season in South America generally runs from October through to April, corresponding with the Southern Hemisphere’s spring and summer months.

• October to December – Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds and excellent sightseeing conditions.
• January to March – Peak season with warm weather and major cultural events, including Brazil’s famous Carnival celebrations.
• March to April – Ideal for Patagonia and Chilean fjord itineraries, with cooler temperatures and stunning landscapes.

The best timing depends on your chosen destinations, but shoulder-season departures often offer a balance of comfortable weather and attractive pricing.

Cost of Cruising to South America

The cost of a South America cruise varies depending on the cruise line, itinerary length, cabin category and travel season.

• 7-night cruises typically start from approximately $1,500 per person.
• 10 to 14-night itineraries generally range between $3,000 and $7,000 per person.
• Luxury voyages often begin around $8,000 per person and can exceed $20,000 for extended sailings.
• Grand voyages and world cruise sectors may offer exceptional value for travellers wanting a deeper exploration of the continent.

Booking early often provides access to the best cabin selection and promotional offers. Australians can also find excellent value on repositioning cruises and longer seasonal departures.

Alternative Cruise Regions

If you’re considering South America, these destinations may also appeal:

• Antarctica – Extraordinary wildlife encounters, glaciers and once-in-a-lifetime expedition cruising.
• Amazon – Explore one of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems and experience remote rainforest communities.
• Caribbean – Perfect for beach lovers seeking tropical islands and year-round sunshine.
• Patagonia – Dramatic landscapes featuring glaciers, fjords and rugged wilderness.
• Alaska – Ideal for travellers who enjoy spectacular scenery, wildlife and outdoor adventure.

Top South America Cruise Inspirations

North American Departure Cities

• Miami – One of the world’s busiest cruise hubs and a popular departure point for South America itineraries.
• Los Angeles – An ideal gateway for Pacific coast and repositioning cruises heading south.

Broader Cruise Regions

• United States Cruises – Discover major coastal cities, historic landmarks and diverse regional experiences.
• East Coast Cruises – Explore iconic destinations stretching from New England to Florida.
• USA West Coast – Enjoy scenic coastal cruising and access to some of America’s most famous cities.

FAQs About South America Cruises

How long are South America cruises?
Most itineraries range from 7 to 21 nights, while extended voyages can last over a month.

Do cruises visit Cape Horn?
Many longer itineraries include scenic cruising around Cape Horn, weather permitting, providing a memorable highlight of the journey.

When is the best time to visit South America by cruise?
The most popular period is between November and March when temperatures are warmer and attractions are fully open.

Are South America cruises suitable for Australians?
Absolutely. The region offers excellent value, diverse destinations and a mix of cultural, culinary and scenic experiences that appeal strongly to Australian travellers.

What wildlife can I see?
Depending on your itinerary, you may encounter penguins, sea lions, whales, dolphins, tropical birds and other native wildlife throughout the continent.

Book your next cruise with CruiseAway and enjoy access to a huge range of cruise lines, exclusive cruise deals, expert cruise specialists and personalised service. Whether you’re planning a short coastal voyage or an unforgettable South America adventure, CruiseAway helps you find the perfect cruise at exceptional value.