Your Ultimate Guide to an 18-Night South America Cruise from Fort Lauderdale

Dreaming of a grand adventure across the ocean? An 18-night cruise from Fort Lauderdale to the vibrant shores of South America is an incredible journey that combines relaxing sea days with the exploration of fascinating cultures. This guide provides a detailed look at what you can expect from this amazing voyage.

The Epic Journey: Why Choose a Grand South American Voyage?

An extended cruise to South America is more than just a vacation; it is an immersive experience. Unlike shorter trips, an 18-night itinerary allows you to truly disconnect and settle into the rhythm of life at sea. It provides enough time to explore multiple countries and diverse landscapes, from tropical Caribbean islands to the bustling metropolises of Brazil and Argentina. You get to witness the gradual shift in culture, climate, and scenery, all from the comfort of your floating resort. This type of trip is perfect for travelers who want to see a significant portion of a continent without the hassle of constant packing, unpacking, and airport transfers.

Major Cruise Lines Offering South America Itineraries

While specific 18-night itineraries can vary by season, several major cruise lines are known for offering long, repositioning, or grand voyages from Florida to South America. Finding the right ship is a key part of the experience.

Royal Caribbean: The image in the ad showcases an AquaTheater, a signature venue found on Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class ships. While these specific ships typically sail Caribbean routes, Royal Caribbean often uses other beautiful vessels for its South American journeys. You can expect Broadway-style shows, a wide variety of dining options, and innovative onboard activities like rock climbing walls and surf simulators.
Celebrity Cruises: Known for a more premium, sophisticated experience, Celebrity offers fantastic South American itineraries. Their ships focus on culinary excellence, elegant design, and top-tier service. A journey with Celebrity often includes enriching onboard programs, from guest lectures to wine-tasting workshops.
Princess Cruises: Princess has a long history of sailing global itineraries. Their ships provide a classic and comfortable cruise experience with engaging entertainment, Movies Under the Stars, and a focus on destination immersion. Their South American routes are well-regarded for their comprehensive port stops.
Holland America Line: Offering a refined and traditional cruising style, Holland America is another excellent choice for longer voyages. They are known for high-quality live music, cooking demonstrations, and spacious, comfortable staterooms, appealing to travelers who appreciate a relaxed and enriching atmosphere.

A Sample 18-Night Itinerary: From Florida to Argentina

To give you a concrete idea of what this adventure looks like, here is a possible day-by-day itinerary. Please note that specific ports and timings change based on the cruise line and sailing date.

Day 1: Depart from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Your adventure begins! Board the ship, explore its many amenities, and watch as you sail away into the Atlantic Ocean.
Day 2-3: At Sea. These are your first full days to enjoy everything the ship has to offer. Relax by the pool, visit the spa, try a specialty restaurant, or see a spectacular show.
Day 4: Port of Call in the Southern Caribbean. Your first stop might be an island like Aruba or Curaçao. Here you can enjoy stunning beaches, vibrant Dutch colonial architecture, and excellent snorkeling.
Day 5: At Sea. Another day to recharge as you travel further south across the Caribbean Sea.
Day 6: Cartagena, Colombia. Explore the historic walled city, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk through colorful streets, admire the colonial architecture, and learn about the city’s rich history.
Day 7-8: At Sea. These days are spent crossing the equator. Most cruise lines have a fun “Crossing the Line” ceremony to mark the occasion.
Day 9: Fortaleza, Brazil. Your first taste of Brazil! This coastal city is known for its beautiful urban beaches, lively nightlife, and delicious local cuisine.
Day 10: At Sea. Share stories with fellow travelers and enjoy the ship’s amenities.
Day 11: Salvador de Bahia, Brazil. Discover the heart of Afro-Brazilian culture. Visit the Pelourinho district with its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and captivating capoeira performances.
Day 12-13: At Sea. Enjoy the final stretch of sea days before reaching one of South America’s most iconic cities.
Day 14-15: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (Overnight Stay). With an overnight stay, you have ample time to explore. Take a cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain, stand at the feet of the Christ the Redeemer statue, and relax on the world-famous Copacabana or Ipanema beaches.
Day 16: At Sea. A final day to relax and reflect on your incredible journey so far.
Day 17: Montevideo, Uruguay. Discover the charming capital of Uruguay. Stroll through the historic Ciudad Vieja, enjoy the waterfront promenade, and experience its laid-back European atmosphere.
Day 18: Arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Your cruise concludes in the “Paris of South America.” Disembark and, if you have time, explore the passionate world of tango in La Boca, visit the grand Recoleta Cemetery, and enjoy a world-class Argentinian steak.

Planning for Your Extended Voyage

An 18-night cruise requires a bit more planning than a standard week-long trip.

Packing: You will be traveling through different climate zones. Pack layers, including swimwear and light clothes for the Caribbean and Brazil, as well as a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings, especially further south in Montevideo or Buenos Aires. Don’t forget formal attire for the ship’s elegant nights.
Budgeting: In addition to the cruise fare, budget for shore excursions, onboard gratuities, specialty dining, drinks, and souvenirs. Booking excursions in advance can sometimes save money.
Documents: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. While many South American countries do not require a visa for U.S. citizens on a cruise, it is crucial to verify the latest requirements for each country on your itinerary with the respective embassies before you travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an 18-night South America cruise cost? Prices vary widely based on the cruise line, time of year, and stateroom category. You can expect starting prices for an interior cabin to be around \(1,500 to \)2,500 per person, with prices for balcony rooms and suites being significantly higher.

When is the best time to take this cruise? These long south-bound cruises from Florida are often scheduled during the North American fall and winter (October through March). This allows you to arrive in South America during their spring and summer, which offers the best weather for exploring.

Is a cruise this long suitable for families? Absolutely. Major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean are designed with families in mind, offering kids’ clubs, teen lounges, and activities for all ages. An extended cruise can be a fantastic educational and bonding experience for the whole family.