12. South America — Culture, Wine & Wonders of the Andes

Why Cruise South America

South America offers an exhilarating blend of culture, nature, and sophistication. From the rhythm of Rio to the elegance of Buenos Aires and the glaciers of Patagonia, this region takes you from tropical beaches to icy fjords — often on the same voyage. Cruising South America means tango, wine, mountains, and Machu Picchu all wrapped into one unforgettable adventure.

Best Time to Cruise

• November – March: Southern Hemisphere summer — ideal for Patagonia and Cape Horn itineraries.
• April & October: Shoulder season with fewer crowds and excellent value.

Top Cruise Lines & Ships

• Celebrity Cruises – Eclipse & Infinity, featuring Buenos Aires and Chilean fjords.
• Princess Cruises – round-trip or one-way voyages around Cape Horn.
• Holland America Line – renowned for extended itineraries including the Falkland Islands.
• Azamara & Oceania – boutique luxury focusing on wine regions and cultural immersion.
• VOA Member Favorites: Celebrity and Holland America for balancing luxury, culture, and exploration.

Top Ports & Highlights

• Buenos Aires, Argentina – tango, steak, and sophistication.
• Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – Sugarloaf Mountain, Christ the Redeemer, and Copacabana Beach.
• Valparaíso, Chile – colorful hills and gateway to Santiago’s wine country.
• Ushuaia, Argentina – the world’s southernmost city and gateway to Antarctica.
• Montevideo, Uruguay – elegant boulevards and art deco charm.
• Punta Arenas, Chile – penguins, fjords, and breathtaking landscapes.

VOA Insider Tips

• Choose a balcony cabin for stunning views of glaciers and coastlines.
• Add a VOA pre-cruise stay in Buenos Aires or Santiago to enjoy local culture and wine tours.
• Consider extended itineraries that include Antarctica or the Falklands for a rare experience.
• Travel between December and February for the best weather in Patagonia.

Why VOA Makes It Better

VOA Worldwide members receive:

• Exclusive net-rate fares up to 30% lower than retail.
• Concierge-curated wine excursions and cultural tours.
• Tailored land extensions to Machu Picchu, Iguazu Falls, or the Atacama Desert.
• Premium flight and hotel coordination to connect seamlessly with embarkation ports.