Explore Best South America Cruise Lines

Cruising to South America opens up a world of dramatic landscapes, from the icy fjords of Patagonia to the lush Amazon rainforests and interesting colonial cities. These voyages often take you to ports in countries like Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay, with side trips to the Galápagos or the Falklands. The weather can swing from cool Andean breezes to steamy equatorial heat, but the food—fresh ceviche or grilled gaucho meats—always hits the tasty spot. You'll dock at ports with colorful markets, ancient ruins, and endless views that stick with you. Solid lines like Azamara, Costa, Holland America, MSC, Oceania, Seabourn, and Silversea all run routes that let you soak in this wild, welcoming continent without the hassle of long flights between stops.

Best Cruise Lines for South America

South America cruises mix rugged adventure with cultural exploration. They let you see a ton in one go—from tango in Buenos Aires to penguin spotting in Ushuaia. The top lines here have amazing itineraries, onboard comforts, and little extras that make the trip feel special for everyone. Here's a rundown of cruise line picks for South America.

Azamara

Azamara keeps things intimate on South America runs, like a comfortable expedition with friends. Their smaller ships slip easily into tucked-away places that big ships can't touch, such as remote fjords in Chile or quiet Andean ports. You get overnight stays in places like Rio, so you can catch a sunset samba or a late-night pisco sour without rushing back. It's laid-back, with folksy service that feels genuine, perfect if you want to dig into local settings rather than just snap photos.

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Costa Cruises

Costa Cruises adds a splash of Mediterranean magic to South American waters, since they're Italian at heart. You'll cruise past Brazil's Carnival-ready beaches or Uruguay's wine country, with menus heavy on pasta twists with local spices. The energy on their ships is upbeat. They’ve group dinners and deck parties. But the stops feel real, like docking in Buenos Aires for a day of street art and steak. It's solid for groups or families who like a bit of enjoyment without overwhelming the scenery.

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Holland America

Holland America does South America with a thoughtful, no-fuss touch, like a well-planned road trip across the continent. Their ships head to classics like the Strait of Magellan or Lima's food scene, with onboard talks from experts on everything from Incan history to wildlife spotting. Evenings wind down with live jazz or a quiet read overlooking the Pacific, and the crew has that steady reliability. Great if you're after depth over flashy entertainment, especially for couples easing into longer voyages.

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MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises ramps up the cruise factor for South America, with sleek ships that match the continent's amazing ports and lively cities. Sail from Santos to Valparaíso, for ports like Montevideo, and you've got pools, theaters, and Italian gelato to unwind with after a day of hiking Machu Picchu trails. Cruise itineraries are lively but not chaotic, with options for kids' clubs or spa days. It's a smart pick for anyone chasing variety—culture one day, beach lounging the next—without skimping on modern perks.

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Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises turns South America into a gourmet cruise show, where the food rivals the views. Their mid-sized ships glide effortlessly into ideal places like the Galápagos or Colombia's coffee coasts. You can linger over farm-to-table meals inspired by what you've just tasted ashore. Service runs smoothly as silk, with no crowds to fight, and excursions lean toward the insightful, like wine tastings in Mendoza. If you're the type who savors a slow sip of Malbec while watching glaciers calve, this one cruise line is your match.

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Seabourn

Seabourn makes South America feel exclusive, like you've got the whole coast to yourself. Tiny ships mean easy access to offbeat places, such as the Falkland Islands' wildlife or Ecuador's cloud forests, with caviar served poolside as you sail by. The all-inclusive setup covers the small amenities, so you focus on adventures like zodiac rides or private chef dinners on shore. It's an understated luxury for those who prefer whispers over shouts, with a crowd that's more about shared stories than selfies.

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Silversea Cruises

Silversea makes South America cruise comfortable and luxurious in butler-level care, turning a cruise into your personal discovery. Their yachts hug the coastline from Antarctica's edge to the Amazon's heart, docking at ports like Puerto Madryn for whale watching or Iguazú Falls tours. Butlers unpack your bags, and suites come with ocean views that beat any hotel. It's for travelers who want the polish without the pretense. You’ll have expedition guides one morning, a sunset cocktail the next, all while feeling miles from the everyday.

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Book your South America Cruise Holiday with CruiseBooking.com

Book your South America cruise holiday with CruiseBooking.com for a straightforward setup that gets you out there fast. Pick from these standout lines, hunt for deals on our website side by side, and lock in the route that clicks for you. It could be Patagonia peaks or Rio’s rhythms. We have secure cabins, helpful hints, and round-the-clock backup to keep things easy-breezy from click to cast-off.