What Cruise Lines Go to South America Top Picks for 2024

Top cruise lines sailing to South America in 2024 include Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line, offering diverse itineraries from the Amazon to Patagonia. These trusted operators combine immersive shore excursions, modern ships, and seasonal routes to iconic destinations like Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, and the Chilean Fjords. Whether you’re seeking adventure or luxury, these lines deliver unforgettable South American voyages.

Key Takeaways

• Royal Caribbean offers diverse South American itineraries with modern amenities and family-friendly activities.
• Celebrity Cruises excels in luxury experiences, featuring upscale dining and curated shore excursions.
• Norwegian Cruise Line provides flexible schedules and affordable options for exploring key ports like Buenos Aires.
• Holland America Line focuses on cultural immersion with longer voyages and expert-led enrichment programs.
• Princess Cruises combines scenic routes with onboard comforts, ideal for wildlife and nature enthusiasts.
• Small-ship lines like Silversea offer intimate, high-end expeditions to remote destinations like Patagonia.

Exploring the Wonders of South America by Cruise

South America, a continent of vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and rich histories, has become a top destination for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation in equal measure. From the Amazon Rainforest’s lush greenery to the Andes’ towering peaks and the pristine beaches of the Pacific and Atlantic coasts, South America offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication. For many, cruising provides the perfect way to experience this diverse region—allowing travelers to explore multiple destinations without the hassle of constant packing and unpacking. Whether you’re drawn to the colonial charm of Cartagena, the modern energy of Rio de Janeiro, or the remote beauty of Patagonia, South America has something for every traveler.

But with so many cruise lines offering itineraries to this vast continent, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top cruise lines that sail to South America in 2024, highlighting their unique offerings, itineraries, and onboard experiences. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, this guide will help you find the perfect cruise line to match your interests, budget, and travel style. From luxury liners to expedition ships, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your dream South American adventure.

Top Cruise Lines Sailing to South America in 2024

When it comes to South America, several cruise lines stand out for their exceptional itineraries, onboard amenities, and immersive shore excursions. Below are the top cruise lines that regularly sail to the continent, each offering a distinct experience tailored to different types of travelers.

Luxury and All-Inclusive: Silversea and Regent Seven Seas Cruises

For travelers seeking a high-end, all-inclusive experience, Silversea Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises are excellent choices. Both lines are renowned for their luxurious accommodations, personalized service, and all-inclusive pricing that covers everything from shore excursions to premium beverages.

• Silversea offers a fleet of small, intimate ships that can access ports larger vessels cannot. Their South America itineraries often include stops in Buenos Aires, Montevideo, and the Falkland Islands, with optional expeditions to Antarctica. Their Silver Cloud and Silver Wind ships are particularly popular for their expedition-style voyages.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises combines luxury with flexibility, offering spacious suites and a high staff-to-guest ratio. Their Seven Seas Navigator and Seven Seas Voyager regularly sail along the Pacific coast, visiting cities like Lima, Valparaíso, and Pisco, with optional excursions to Machu Picchu and the Galápagos Islands.

Both lines are ideal for travelers who prioritize comfort, exclusivity, and curated experiences. For example, Silversea’s Expeditions Program includes guided Zodiac tours in the Amazon, while Regent offers complimentary land packages for pre- or post-cruise stays in iconic destinations.

Expedition and Adventure: Hurtigruten and Lindblad Expeditions

For adventure seekers and nature lovers, Hurtigruten Expeditions and Lindblad Expeditions (in partnership with National Geographic) offer immersive, small-ship voyages focused on wildlife, culture, and remote destinations. These lines are perfect for travelers who want to explore beyond the typical tourist hubs.

• Hurtigruten specializes in expedition cruises to Patagonia, the Amazon, and the Antarctic Peninsula. Their MS Fram and MS Roald Amundsen (hybrid-electric) ships feature expert-led lectures, kayaking, and Zodiac landings. Their “Amazon & Atlantic Expedition” itinerary includes stops in Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina, with opportunities to explore the Pantanal wetlands and Iguazu Falls.
• Lindblad Expeditions combines adventure with education, offering itineraries that include visits to the Galápagos Islands, the Chilean Fjords, and the Amazon Rainforest. Their National Geographic Endeavour II and National Geographic Quest ships feature onboard naturalists and photo instructors, making them ideal for wildlife enthusiasts.

Tip: If you’re interested in photography or wildlife, Lindblad’s partnership with National Geographic provides access to expert guides and unique photo opportunities, such as snorkeling with sea lions in the Galápagos.

Mainstream and Family-Friendly: Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line

For families, budget-conscious travelers, or first-time cruisers, Royal Caribbean International and Carnival Cruise Line offer affordable, action-packed itineraries with a focus on entertainment and family-friendly amenities.

• Royal Caribbean sails to South America on ships like the Harmony of the Seas and Adventure of the Seas, offering 7- to 10-night itineraries that often include stops in Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, and Montevideo. Their ships feature Broadway-style shows, rock climbing walls, and kid-friendly clubs, making them ideal for multigenerational travel.
• Carnival Cruise Line offers shorter, more affordable cruises, such as their 4- to 6-night “Brazil & Argentina” itineraries on the Carnival Splendor. These cruises focus on port-intensive experiences, with stops in Santos (for São Paulo), Rio de Janeiro, and Punta del Este (Uruguay). Carnival’s “Fun Ships” are known for their lively atmosphere, with themed parties and casual dining options.

Example: Carnival’s “Carnival Journeys” program offers extended sailings with unique shore excursions, such as a tango class in Buenos Aires or a samba dance lesson in Rio.

Mid-Range Excellence: Princess Cruises and Holland America Line

For travelers seeking a balance between luxury and affordability, Princess Cruises and Holland America Line offer well-rounded itineraries with excellent onboard amenities and diverse shore excursions.

• Princess Cruises is known for its “MedallionClass” technology, which offers contactless check-in, personalized service, and onboard entertainment. Their Regal Princess and Ruby Princess ships sail along the Pacific coast, visiting ports like Valparaíso, Lima, and Callao (for Machu Picchu). Princess also offers “Discovery at SEA” programs, which include guided hikes in Patagonia and wine tastings in Chile.
• Holland America Line focuses on cultural immersion, with itineraries that include overnight stays in cities like Buenos Aires and Santiago. Their Nieuw Amsterdam and Eurodam ships feature elegant dining, live music, and enrichment programs, such as cooking classes with local chefs. Holland America’s “Zuiderdam” offers a 14-night “South America Passage” cruise, which includes a transit of the Panama Canal.

Tip: Holland America’s “Cruise with Purpose” program allows passengers to participate in community projects during port stops, such as building schools in Ecuador or planting trees in the Amazon.

Boutique and Niche: Seabourn and Ponant

For travelers who prefer intimate, boutique-style cruising, Seabourn and Ponant offer small-ship experiences with a focus on personalized service and unique itineraries.

• Seabourn operates the Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Quest, which sail to South America with stops in Cartagena, Lima, and the Chilean Fjords. Their “Ventures by Seabourn” program offers guided kayaking, hiking, and Zodiac tours, with expert naturalists on board. Seabourn’s “Caviar in the Surf” beach barbecues are a highlight for many passengers.
• Ponant specializes in French-inspired luxury and eco-friendly cruising. Their Le Boréal and Le Lyrial ships sail to the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and the Antarctic Peninsula, with itineraries that focus on wildlife and conservation. Ponant’s “Blue Eye” lounge, with underwater viewing pods, is a unique feature that allows passengers to observe marine life without leaving the ship.

Example: Ponant’s “Green Cruising” initiative includes partnerships with local conservation groups, such as the Falkland Islands Conservation Trust, to support sustainable tourism.

Popular South American Cruise Destinations and Itineraries

South America’s diverse geography and cultures make it a treasure trove of cruise destinations. Below are some of the most popular regions and itineraries to consider for your 2024 cruise.

The Pacific Coast: Chile, Peru, and Ecuador

The Pacific coast is a favorite for its mix of cosmopolitan cities, ancient ruins, and natural wonders. Popular stops include:

• Valparaíso and Santiago, Chile: Known for their colorful street art, historic neighborhoods, and world-class wine regions. Many cruises offer shore excursions to the Colchagua Valley or the Andes Mountains.
• Lima and Machu Picchu, Peru: Lima’s vibrant culinary scene and colonial architecture are a draw, while Machu Picchu (accessible via Callao) is a must-visit for history buffs.
• Guayaquil and the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador: Guayaquil is a gateway to the Galápagos, where Lindblad and Celebrity Cruises offer specialized itineraries focused on wildlife and conservation.

Tip: If you’re interested in Machu Picchu, book a cruise that includes an overnight stay in Lima or Callao, as the site is a full-day excursion from either port.

The Atlantic Coast: Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay

The Atlantic coast is famous for its beaches, tango, and vibrant cities. Key destinations include:

• Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Home to iconic landmarks like Christ the Redeemer and Copacabana Beach. Many cruises offer shore excursions to Sugarloaf Mountain or a samba show in Lapa.
• Buenos Aires, Argentina: Known for its European architecture, tango, and steak. Holland America and Regent offer overnight stays, allowing time to explore neighborhoods like Palermo and Recoleta.
• Montevideo and Punta del Este, Uruguay: Montevideo is a charming port with a relaxed vibe, while Punta del Este is a glamorous beach resort popular with South American elites.

Example: Royal Caribbean’s “Rio Carnival Cruise” coincides with the annual Carnival festival, offering passengers a chance to experience the city’s world-famous parades and street parties.

The Amazon Rainforest and Pantanal

For nature lovers, the Amazon and Pantanal offer unparalleled opportunities to explore the world’s largest rainforest and wetland. Cruise lines like Hurtigruten and Lindblad offer itineraries that include:

• Manaus, Brazil: A gateway to the Amazon, where passengers can take guided jungle walks, boat tours, and wildlife spotting expeditions.
• Belém, Brazil: Known for its colonial architecture and proximity to the Amazon Delta, where cruises often include visits to local villages and markets.
• Cuiabá, Brazil: A starting point for excursions into the Pantanal, where travelers can spot jaguars, capybaras, and giant otters.

Tip: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing and insect repellent for Amazon cruises, as the climate is humid and tropical.

Patagonia and the Chilean Fjords

Patagonia’s remote beauty and dramatic landscapes make it a bucket-list destination for many travelers. Popular stops include:

• Punta Arenas, Chile: A gateway to the Torres del Paine National Park and the Strait of Magellan.
• Ushuaia, Argentina: The southernmost city in the world, often referred to as the “Gateway to Antarctica.”
• Glacier National Park, Chile: Home to the Perito Moreno Glacier, which can be viewed via Zodiac tours or helicopter excursions.

Example: Hurtigruten’s “Patagonia Expedition” includes a stop at Cape Horn, where passengers can visit the historic lighthouse and learn about the region’s maritime history.

Choosing the Right Cruise Line for Your South American Adventure

With so many options, selecting the right cruise line for your South American trip depends on your priorities, budget, and travel style. Below are key factors to consider.

Destination Focus vs. Onboard Experience

Some cruise lines, like Hurtigruten and Lindblad, prioritize destination immersion, with smaller ships and expert-led excursions. Others, like Royal Caribbean and Carnival, focus on onboard entertainment and family-friendly activities. Consider whether you want to spend more time exploring ports or enjoying the ship’s amenities.

Itinerary Length and Port Density

South America itineraries range from 4-night “taster” cruises to 20+ night expeditions. If you’re interested in multiple regions (e.g., the Amazon, Patagonia, and the Galápagos), opt for a longer cruise or combine two shorter itineraries. For example, a 10-night Pacific Coast cruise followed by a 7-night Amazon cruise.

Onboard Dining and Cultural Enrichment

Luxury lines like Silversea and Seabourn offer gourmet dining with local ingredients, while mainstream lines like Carnival focus on variety and casual options. If you’re a foodie, look for cruises that include cooking classes, wine tastings, or farm-to-table experiences. Cultural enrichment programs, such as language classes or history lectures, are also worth considering.

Accessibility and Mobility

South America’s ports can be challenging for travelers with mobility issues. Smaller ships (like those from Lindblad or Ponant) may offer better accessibility, while larger ships (like Royal Caribbean’s) have more elevators and medical facilities. Always check with the cruise line about shore excursion accessibility.

Budget and Inclusions

Luxury lines are all-inclusive, while mainstream lines often charge extra for drinks, specialty dining, and excursions. If you’re on a tight budget, look for promotions like “Buy One, Get One 50% Off” or early booking discounts. For example, Princess Cruises often offers “MedallionNet” internet packages at a reduced rate when booked in advance.

Data Table: Comparison of Top South American Cruise Lines (2024)

Cruise Line	Ship Size (Avg. Guests)	Price Range (Per Person)	Key Features	Best For
Silversea	300-600	$5,000-$20,000	All-inclusive, luxury, small ships	High-end travelers, couples
Hurtigruten	200-500	$4,000-$12,000	Expedition focus, eco-friendly	Adventure seekers, nature lovers
Royal Caribbean	3,000-6,000	$1,000-$4,000	Family-friendly, entertainment	Families, first-time cruisers
Princess Cruises	2,000-4,000	$1,500-$6,000	MedallionClass tech, cultural programs	Mid-range travelers, couples
Seabourn	400-700	$4,000-$15,000	Boutique luxury, personalized service	Romantic getaways, small-ship lovers

Conclusion: Embark on Your South American Dream Cruise

South America is a continent of endless wonders, and cruising offers a unique way to experience its diversity—from the bustling streets of Buenos Aires to the remote glaciers of Patagonia. Whether you’re drawn to luxury, adventure, or family-friendly fun, there’s a cruise line that’s perfect for your 2024 voyage. By considering factors like itinerary, onboard experience, and budget, you can find the ideal ship to match your travel goals. So pack your bags, brush up on your Spanish or Portuguese, and get ready to explore the magic of South America by sea. The adventure of a lifetime awaits!

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines go to South America in 2024?

Majors like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises offer South America itineraries in 2024, with routes covering the Amazon, Patagonia, and coastal gems like Rio de Janeiro. Smaller luxury lines like Silversea and Seabourn also provide high-end expeditions to remote regions.

Which South America cruise lines include the Amazon River?

Cruise lines like Avalon Waterways, Hurtigruten, and Princess Cruises specialize in Amazon River voyages, often combining jungle excursions with stops in Brazil and Peru. These trips range from 7 to 14 nights and feature guided wildlife tours.

Are there luxury cruise lines that go to South America?

Yes, luxury cruise lines such as Silversea, Regent Seven Seas, and Oceania Cruises sail to South America with all-inclusive packages and curated shore excursions. Their smaller ships access remote ports like Ushuaia and the Chilean fjords.

What are the best cruise lines for a South America cruise with kids?

Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line are top picks for families, offering kid-friendly activities, flexible dining, and itineraries with stops at beaches and cultural sites. Their South America cruises often include stops in Argentina, Uruguay, and Chile.

Do any cruise lines go to South America’s Galápagos Islands?

Yes, Lindblad Expeditions (in partnership with National Geographic), Celebrity Cruises, and Ecoventura operate Galápagos voyages with naturalist guides and immersive wildlife experiences. These cruises focus on conservation and exploration of the archipelago.

When is the best time to book a South America cruise?

The prime season runs from November to March, aligning with summer in the Southern Hemisphere. Booking 6–12 months in advance ensures better rates and cabin choices, especially for holiday sailings or Antarctic extensions.