Nowhere else in the world are history, culture and natural beauty combined as organically as they are on the continent of South America. Exotic. Stunning. Magical. Mysterious. There are so many adjectives to describe this land that is home to the world’s highest waterfall (Angel Falls, Venezuela), largest river (the Amazon), longest mountain range (the Andes), largest rainforest (the Amazon Rainforest) and the driest place on earth (the Atacama Desert, Peru).

On a cruise of this wondrous continent, you’ll explore the Atlantic and Pacific coastlines and witness their dramatically changing landscapes up close. The continent is culturally influenced by the historic connection with Europe, as evidenced by the vibrant cosmopolitan cities of Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires and Santiago. You’ll experience breathtaking mountain peaks and rugged natural beauty in Patagonia. The majestic Andes, spectacular icy fjords of Chile, colorful cultures, archaeological ruins and centuries-old colonial cities demonstrate the contrasts of this land. And what better way to explore this diversity than by ship.

Oceania Cruises
Aboard Insignia
December - March Departures

Reflecting the warmth of Tuscany, the newly redesigned, 684-guest Insignia provides a comfortable home for your South American adventure. Several unique itineraries are offered covering all sides of this varied continent. On ‘Patagonian Discoveries’, sail from Buenos Aires to Valparaiso around the continent’s southern tip and discover the natural beauty of the fjords region. Or the 27-day ‘Temples & Treasures’ itinerary may be more your speed exploring the western and northern part of the continent, including Lima, Machu Picchu, Panama Canal, Cartagena, Devil’s Island and ending in the exciting, colonial northeastern region of Brazil.

Norwegian Cruise Line
Aboard Norwegian Sun
November - March Departures

Sail around the tip of South America from Santiago to Buenos Aires on a 14-day adventure through the spectacular Chilean fjords & Strait of Magellan. Or choose an all-encompassing 33-day voyage sailing from San Francisco. You’ll discover many wonders en route, including ports in Mexico, Lima and ancient Arica in Peru, glacier cruising in the Beagle Channel, Cape Horn, Patagonia and Uruguay. Norwegian Sun has the largest suites afloat and was built to enjoy Freestyle Cruising® -- the flexibility and freedom to do whatever activities you choose. Dine whenever you wish without a dress code in one of 13 dining areas.

Princess Cruises
Aboard Royal Princess and Star Princess
November - March Departures

Choose a 7- to 30-day adventure discovering the region, perhaps just Brazil, Argentina and Chile, or combine with the highlights of Central America. Or spend 14- or 28-days exploring the wilds of the Amazon region aboard the intimate, 355-stateroom Royal Princess. If time allows, consider one of their Connoisseur Voyages, visiting even more remote ports of call and unspoiled landscapes, and providing a totally enriching experience. On both ships, you’ll enjoy freshwater swimming pools, a casino and the blissful Lotus Spa.

Holland America Line
Aboard ms Veendam, ms Prinsendam, ms Rotterdam
October - April Departures

Aboard one of their five-star fleet, Holland America Line offers more diverse itineraries in South America than most premium cruise lines. Choose from a 7- to 68-day voyage and discover the diversity of this great continent.  Whether it’s the Inca Empire region, the Amazon, ancient Ecuador, the Falkland Islands & Antarctica, Chilean fjords or Brazilian coast you wish to explore, this cruise line has something for every kind of traveler. With their onboard Explorations Speaker Series and award-winning shore excursions, the essence of South America is truly captured.