January 9, 2026
For UK travellers seeking genuine adventure and geographical awe, the South American cruise offers an extraordinary alternative to the Caribbean. This vast continent is a living mosaic of lush rainforests, towering glaciers, dramatic coastlines, and vibrant cultures. Best of all, these extraordinary landscapes unfold effortlessly as you explore by sea. Let your cruise ship be your guide to the three distinct and breath-taking South American regions with its on-board experiences, each offering its own rhythm, wildlife, and sense of discovery. 1. Subtropical North: A blend of natural history and vibrant culture The Amazon River is the world’s largest river by its water volume; responsible for 1/5th of the world’s total river flow. Your journey often starts from ports like Manaus, Brazil or Iquitos, Peru where modern cities quickly dissolve into dense emerald rainforest This region offers unforgettable wildlife encounters, including the rare pink river dolphins , found primarily in South American waters. On-board, expert naturalists and lecturers provide fascinating insights into the ecosystem, indigenous cultures, and biodiversity of the Amazon basin. Best for: Wildlife enthusiasts and cultural explorers 2. The Southern Region: Fjords, Glaciers and Cape Horn Cruising through Patagonia and the Chilean Fjords delivers jaw-dropping scenery, where snow-capped peaks, waterfalls, and glaciers dominate the horizon. Scenic cruising is the highlight here, making it perfect for travelers seeking balance between adventure and relaxation. Sail past massive tidewater glaciers in the Strait of Magellan, spot penguin colonies, and reach legendary Cape Horn , the southernmost tip of the continent. Ships are often equipped with binoculars, expedition jackets, and specialised gear to enhance the experience. Best for: Landscape photographers and adventurers 3. The Ultimate Frontier: The Antarctic Antarctica represents the pinnacle of expedition cruising; often paired with the southern region. Though it is the coldest, windiest, and driest continent on Earth, it comes alive during the cruise season from November to March . Expect towering tabular icebergs, vast colonies of seals, multiple penguin species, and thrilling Zodiac landings . Education is central to the experience, with onboard teams of marine biologists, glaciologists, and historians preparing guests for daily wildlife encounters. Best for: Bucket-list travellers, retired professionals and remote travellers. On-board Experiences: Where the Journey Shines World-Class Dining Enrichment & Entertainment Wellness & Relaxation Accommodation We provide tailored itineraries where cruises are sailing to this jaw-dropping scenery, such as: Holland America Line Celebrity Cruises Princess Cruises MSC Cruises Royal Caribbean International In addition, please find out several amazing cruise deals for the South American region by visiting us at Cruise Continent A South American cruise is a transformative voyage into the wild heart and spectacular edges of a massive continent. Whether you dream of spotting pink river dolphins in the Amazon or standing amongst penguins in Antarctica, your journey requires careful planning to maximise the experience. From choosing the right itinerary to ship for challenging waters, it is difficult to select one. As a UK-based cruise travel agent , we curate South American cruise journeys that blend exploration, comfort, and seamless long-haul travel planning for British guests. UK travellers , are you ready to sail for South America? Let us design your zero-stress, unforgettable cruising journey from the UK.