South America is one of the most fascinating continents for cruise lovers. It combines ancient history, vibrant cultures, lush rainforests, glacier-covered fjords, and some of the world’s most dynamic coastal cities. Royal Caribbean, known for its innovative ships and carefully crafted itineraries, offers selective and unforgettable routes that take travelers around South America. These itineraries cover diverse regions such as Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, Patagonia, and sometimes the legendary Cape Horn.
If you're looking to know which Royal Caribbean cruises go around South America, this detailed guide explains the ships, routes, ports, experiences, and everything travelers can expect on these spectacular sailings. These journeys are usually part of seasonal repositioning voyages or grand adventure itineraries that combine multiple regions into one extensive cruise.
Let’s explore how Royal Caribbean structures its South American voyages, what makes these routes unique, and why they are among the most sought-after options for adventure-seeking travelers.
South America’s geography creates a natural pathway for extended cruising. The continent stretches from the warm Caribbean-border regions all the way down to icy Patagonia and up again into the Pacific. With countless ports along two major coastlines, Royal Caribbean uses this layout to design unforgettable routes.
These itineraries often include:
Large coastal cities like Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, and Santiago
Natural wonders such as Patagonia, fjords, rainforests, and glaciers
Historical ports shaped by European, Indigenous, and Afro-Latin influences
Remote locations like Cape Horn or Ushuaia
Royal Caribbean typically includes South America in:
Repositioning cruises (when ships move between North America and Australia)
Seasonal South American adventures
Transatlantic and transpacific combinations
Extended cruises around the Horn
Because the continent’s coasts are long and varied, these cruises often feel like multiple vacations in one.
South America cruises attract:
Explorers seeking diverse landscapes
Culture lovers
Nature photographers
Travelers wanting to check Cape Horn off their bucket list
Guests falling in love with long voyages
These itineraries are immersive, offering a blend of nature, cities, wilderness, and multi-country experiences.
Radiance-Class ships such as Radiance of the Seas and Brilliance of the Seas often operate itineraries that include parts of South America. These ships are designed with glass architecture, making them perfect for scenic coastlines like Chilean fjords or Patagonia.
Routes that travel along the eastern or western coast
Options that include Cape Horn
Scenic cruising through glaciers and fjords
Stops in vibrant cities such as Buenos Aires or Montevideo
These ships strike a balance between size, comfort, and the ability to call at diverse ports.
Serenade of the Seas, also part of the Radiance Class, has previously offered large repositioning cruises that loop around parts of South America.
Panoramic views ideal for scenic routes
Cultural immersion through South American cities
Long voyages that span multiple countries
Cape Horn included on select seasons
These itineraries are perfect for travelers who prefer a more intimate ship without sacrificing comfort or amenities.
At times, Voyager-Class ships such as Explorer of the Seas or Voyager of the Seas operate routes that travel along the eastern coast of South America as part of repositioning cruises.
Departures from or to Brazil (Rio, Santos, or Recife)
Caribbean-to-Brazil or Brazil-to-USA season transitions
A combination of warm beaches, colorful coastal cities, and cultural experiences
These sailings offer lively onboard environments and modern entertainment.
Royal Caribbean occasionally offers special Cape Horn voyages that circle the southern tip of South America. These are rare and highly desirable itineraries.
One of the world’s legendary maritime regions
Rugged, untouched natural landscapes
Wildlife such as penguins, sea lions, whales, and Andean birds
A sense of adventure unlike any other cruise
Travelers often describe these cruises as once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Brazil, the largest country in South America, offers a vibrant range of ports. Royal Caribbean itineraries often include multiple Brazilian cities.
Rio de Janeiro
Santos (São Paulo)
Salvador
Búzios
Recife
Fortaleza
These stops offer beaches, samba culture, historical districts, and thrilling food scenes.
Many Royal Caribbean South America cruises include Argentina and Uruguay on the same itinerary due to their geographical closeness and cultural charm.
Buenos Aires (known for tango, steak, and culture)
Ushuaia (gateway to Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego)
Montevideo (historic plazas and coastal walks)
Punta del Este (beaches and upscale resorts)
These destinations provide a mix of European-style architecture and Latin culture.
West-side itineraries bring travelers through some of the most dramatic scenery on Earth.
Puerto Montt
Punta Arenas
The Strait of Magellan
Fjords lined with waterfalls
Glaciers and snow-capped mountains
A scenic transit through these stretches feels like sailing through a natural masterpiece.
Not all cruise lines include Cape Horn, but Royal Caribbean has featured it on select voyages.
Rugged landscapes shaped by winds and waves
Remote wildlife experiences
Added thrill of conquering a legendary sailing route
Ideal for photographers and adventure lovers
It is considered one of the most iconic maritime landmarks in the world.
Long South American itineraries often include:
Regional cooking demonstrations
Latin dance lessons
Music and cultural shows
Guest speakers on history and geography
These experiences enhance your understanding of the places you visit.
South America cruises are designed with a mix of:
Relaxing days at sea
Nature-focused excursions
City explorations
Beach breaks
Culinary adventures
This balance keeps the voyage exciting and rejuvenating.
Royal Caribbean enhances long voyages with:
Specialty dining restaurants
Multi-cuisine menus
Nightly entertainment in theaters and lounges
Comfortable cabins for extended stays
Balcony cabins are especially popular on scenic routes.
From Amazonian rainforests to cosmopolitan capitals, these cruises allow you to explore many countries without repeated packing or airport stops.
Cape Horn, Patagonia, and the Chilean fjords are destinations many travelers only dream of. Royal Caribbean makes them accessible with comfort and style.
The onboard experience is just as memorable as the ports. Shows, activities, and food options ensure non-stop engagement.
These cruises are perfect for travelers who want to check off major world wonders and remote regions in one extended adventure.
South America's landscapes offer stunning photo opportunities:
Glaciers
Volcanoes
Beaches
Wildlife
Historical architecture
Every port brings something new.
These cruises run seasonally and often sell out months in advance due to limited departures.
South America’s cruise season usually peaks:
Between November and March
During the Southern Hemisphere summer
This offers warm temperatures and calm conditions.
Some countries require visas or additional documentation, depending on your nationality. Prepare early to avoid last-minute stress.
South America itineraries can include:
Tropical heat in Brazil
Cool winds in Patagonia
Mild city weather in Argentina
Colder temperatures around Cape Horn
Layering is essential.
Radiance-Class: great for scenic cruising
Voyager-Class: best for entertainment and families
Grand voyages: perfect for those who love long itineraries
Selecting the right ship ensures a more enjoyable experience.
Royal Caribbean offers some of the most memorable and diverse South America itineraries in the cruise industry. From the cultural richness of Brazil and Argentina to the rugged landscapes of Patagonia and the excitement of rounding Cape Horn, these voyages offer something truly extraordinary.
Whether you're seeking adventure, culture, food, nature, or iconic maritime history, these cruises are built to deliver a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Understanding which Royal Caribbean cruises go around South America helps you choose the perfect journey—one that blends remarkable destinations with the comfort, entertainment, and service Royal Caribbean is known for.
For travelers wanting an unforgettable voyage that spans multiple countries, natural wonders, and cultural treasures, South America cruises with Royal Caribbean are among the most rewarding options available.
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