South America

South America’s rich biodiversity, geographic extremes, and cultural layers are ideally suited to small ship exploration. With smaller vessels, you can sail closer to wildlife-rich coastlines, dock in lesser-visited ports, and access ecologically sensitive areas such as the Amazon, Tierra del Fuego, and Chilean fjords.

These cruises also provide a more authentic and flexible experience than traditional travel, combining immersive excursions, onboard education, and meaningful cultural interactions. Whether you’re retracing Inca trade routes, watching glaciers calve into the sea, or spotting pink river dolphins, small ship cruises open a deeper window into the continent’s soul.

Sample Experiences Include:

• Navigating the Amazon River, with guided canoe excursions to spot monkeys, sloths, and exotic birdlife
• Sailing through Chile’s fjords and Patagonian ice fields, visiting remote communities and national parks
• Exploring pre-Columbian sites and colonial cities along Peru’s coast, including Paracas and Trujillo
• Witnessing the grandeur of Cape Horn and Tierra del Fuego, with opportunities to hike or kayak in pristine settings
• Visiting Afro-Brazilian cultural centers and coastal towns in Brazil, paired with live music and culinary tours
• Combining a coastal voyage with a pre- or post-cruise extension to Machu Picchu or the Atacama Desert

South America’s vast geography means that the best time to cruise depends on the region and the style of journey.

• Amazon River: Best from May to October for lower water levels and wildlife viewing; higher water months (December–April) allow for deeper navigation.
• Chile, Patagonia & Cape Horn: Cruise from November to March during the austral summer, with longer days and milder conditions.
• Pacific Coast (Peru, Ecuador, Colombia): Year-round cruising is possible; dry season is typically from May to October.
• Brazil & Northeast Coast: October to March is ideal for warm weather, beaches, and cultural festivals like Carnival.

At Small Ship Travel, we believe in matching you with cruise experiences that are culturally meaningful, expertly guided, and thoughtfully curated. Each of our South American cruise partners has been vetted for exceptional service, local expertise, and sustainable practices.

We offer exclusive perks through our trusted partnerships, including cabin upgrades, onboard credits, and private shore excursions with insider access. Our team also assists with custom pre- and post-cruise land extensions to iconic destinations such as Machu Picchu, Iguazu Falls, and the Galápagos. From initial planning to your return home, we provide dedicated support to ensure a seamless and enriching journey.