cruise around cape horn

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Cruises through Cape Horn, Chile (Cruising)

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Cape Horn Cruising Guide

Experience what it’s like to journey to the end of the world as you cruise past Cape Horn. Located on the southernmost tip of South America in the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, Cape Horn is the place where the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans meet. For centuries, adventurous explorers and daring sailors, including Ferdinand Magellan and Charles Darwin, navigated its famous choppy waters on their way from Europe to the East.

With the creation of the Panama Canal, the lengthy route was no longer a necessity. Instead, visitors flock to Cape Horn on a South America cruise to witness its stunning natural beauty and endemic wildlife. Discover this remote area of the world while on a cruise that sails around South America’s breathtaking Patagonia and marvel at snow-capped mountains, sparkling lakes, towering glaciers, and unrivaled landscapes during an unforgettable journey to one of the far corners of the planet.

Things to Do During a Cape Horn Cruise

See where two oceans meet.

When you sail to Cape Horn, you get to visit the exact spot where the Atlantic Ocean and the Pacific Ocean meet. Due to patterns of water currents, this mingling between the oceans can create rocky waves at certain times of the year and surprisingly calm waters at other times.

Look for Whales

When you cruise around Cape Horn, you’ll be sailing around one of the best places to view sea mammals, including sea lions, penguins, and whales. In the Patagonia region, you can expect to see a few different kinds of whales in the water, like orcas, humpback, and blue whales. Bring your camera along and snap photos of these majestic animals as they swim with their calves, feed in groups, and perform riveting breaching displays in the water.

Spot Penguins

Another animal you can’t miss seeing during a cruise around Cape Horn is the Magellanic penguin. Named after Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan, these penguins are some of the largest of their kind and typically have two black stripes running down their stomachs. Over one million Magellanic penguins live in Patagonia, making it more than likely that you’ll see some of these flightless birds during your journey.

Learn More About South America Shore Excursions

Culture & history of cape horn.

Cape Horn is named after the city of Hoorn, the birthplace of explorer Willem Corneliszoon Schouten, who was the first man to sail through Cape Horn in 1616. During the ensuing centuries, the passageway became a popular shipping route, since it was the only way ships were able to travel from Europe to the Far East and back, until the opening of the Panama Canal in 1914. Cape Horn was once considered one of the most treacherous stretches of water in the world, and it is believed that over 10,000 seafarers lost their lives attempting to cross it. The Cape Horn Monument shaped like an albatross on Isla Hornos is dedicated to those who lost their lives off the coast of Cape Horn. 

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Scenic Cruising Cape Horn

It may be the most notorious ocean passage in the world, and for centuries it evoked dread in the hearts of sailors. But those who survived a trip around Cape Horn, where the Atlantic and Pacific slosh violently into each other, had bragging rights for life. Along this passage, the Tierra del Fuego, or "land of fire," where Chile and Argentina converge at the bottom of the world, got its name from early sailors who saw the fires of the people who lived here burning on shore. For some 8,000 years, until as recently as the end of the 19th century, this was the home of the Yaghan and other indigenous groups. 

Magellan and Drake left their mark and names here, as did Darwin, who sailed through here on the HMS Beagle . The great clipper ships of '49er lore later fought their way through fierce waves carrying gold between California and the East Coast in that era before the Panama Canal. Just as Richard Henry Dana, Jr., described in his masterful  Two Years Before the Mast , published in 1840, a journey today around the Cape at the very bottom of the Tierra is shaped by capricious weather, as powerful winds and shallow waters can produce waves that reach as high as 30 meters (100 feet).

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Cruise to Cape Horn (Cruising), Chile

Cape horn (cruising) shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in cape horn (cruising).

Take in Chile's Southernmost View

Enjoy the ride past Hornos Island, then marvel at the rugged coastlines that define this isolated idyll. Get the "money shot" as the captain signifies you're passing Cape Horn itself, and zoom in on the Chilean Naval Station, a humble wooden structure that's home to a picturesque lighthouse. Cruising amid these isolated straits definitely makes you feel like you're at the end of the world!

Set Your Sights on Local Wildlife

Speaking of birds, you can also see rockhopper penguins when you look down on Hornos Island's beaches, and you may see an albatross when you look up. Search for humpback whales when you look down off the dock, ideally during lulls when the water is not so rough. Then, try to spot sea lions lazing on the rocks — their mousy color often camouflages them — or consider bringing binoculars if you hope to be able to see king crabs from afar. Searching for wildlife is one of the best things to do in Cape Horn, Chile.

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Cape Horn Cruises & Tours

Top 10 cape horn cruises for 2024-2025, fjords of tierra del fuego: punta arenas to ushuaia, patagonian explorer: ushuaia to punta arenas, darwin's route from punta arenas, antarctica express air cruise, antarctic explorer - fly/sail, patagonia and chilean fjords, the best of chilean fjords, 10 best luxury cape horn cruises for 2024-2025, end of the world, 3 best cape horn cruise deals for 2024-2025, cape horn & tierra del fuego travel guide, chile weather, best time of year to visit chile, tierra del fuego- the southernmost point in the world.

• Tierra del Fuego Culture
• Ponant  - has cruises that enter Chilean Patagonia, head for the Tierra del Fuego archipelago and its iconic Cape Horn .  If weather conditions allow, guests can disembark at Cape Horn and discover its albatross sculpture created by the Chilean artist José Balcells Eyquem. For your comfort, your cruise package includes an overnight in Buenos Aires the day before embarkation and the flights to/from Ushuaia before boarding  Le Borea l  and  Le Lyrial . 
• Lindblad Expeditions  - optimize your Patagonia experience with a land and sea expedition on the  National Geographic Resolution  and  National Geographic Endurance  that lets you view the legendary 425-meter high Cape Horn off your list. You can join any naturalist who shares your interests. Plus, get top shots with the help of a National Geographic photographer, who lingers ashore through the golden hour of light.
• Antarctica 21  -  operates Fly & Cruise Expeditions to Antarctica and Sea Voyages to Cape Horn, the Falkland Islands, South Georgia & Antarctica. Trips are boutique wilderness adventures taking you to Antarctica and beyond while enjoying small ship experiences aboard  Magellan Explorer  and Ocean Nova Air Cruises  that allow time to explore remote destinations.
• Quark Expeditions   -  sail to the southern tip of the Tierra del Fuego archipelago. There are no direct flights to Cape Horn or the Tierra del Fuego archipelago. Book a sea voyage on a ship like the 199-guest  Ultramarine  set to deliver the ultimate polar expedition experience to this remote location.
• Hurtigruten  -  After a night in Santiago, board the expedition ship  MS Fram in Punta Arenas. Then sail south through the narrow Canal Gabriel and into the Garibaldi fjord. If the weather cooperates, you may land on Cape Horn, a region known for rough seas .
• Aurora Expeditions   - has several expeditions that set off from the small Chilean town of Puerto Williams, venturing out into the open Drake Passage. The body of water between Cape Horn and the Southern Ocean can be rough, but very few people can say they have traveled these historic waters. Cruise comfortably across the passage with  Sylvia Earle .

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Cruises from/to Cape Horn, Chile

Cape horn, chile cruise port.

Cape Horn is the most southern part of Tierra del Fuego, and therefore one of the closest spots to Antarctica. This uninhabited land has become famous in the world of sailing for its rough winds, strong waves and icebergs. But there’s no need to worry, cruise ships are experts at traversing around the Cape, which is part of the Drake Passage. This route gives you the opportunity to put on your explorer pants and see the same landscapes that sailors did hundreds of years ago. You may not be docking here, but be sure to take in the view from your ship. Featured here are some of our favorite facts and sights for Cape Horn, Chile:

• There is one lighthouse, called the Cape Horn Lighthouse, which is actually a mile east of Cape Horn. There is another lighthouse that is on Cape Horn and is the most southern lighthouse in the world.  
• Because of the treachery of passing through the Cape, sailors who successfully complteded an eastbound passage were entitled to wear a gold loop earring in their left ear and dine with one foot on the table.  
• Charles Darwin passed through Cape Horn on his famous journey aboard the Beagle , which led him to write his masterpiece, The Origins of Species .

Top 10 Cruises to Cape Horn, Chile

• Majestic Princess 33 NIGHT South America CRUISE Departing From Los Angeles, California (Dec 2024)
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• Majestic Princess 21 NIGHT SOUTH AMERICA TOUR 8501 Departing From San Antonio, Santiago, Chile (Dec 2024)
• Majestic Princess 20 NIGHT SOUTH AMERICA TOUR 8501 Departing From San Antonio, Santiago, Chile (Dec 2024)
• Majestic Princess 15 NIGHT South America CRUISE Departing From San Antonio, Santiago, Chile (Dec 2024)
• Majestic Princess 33 NIGHT South America CRUISE Departing From San Antonio, Santiago, Chile (Dec 2024)
• Queen Victoria 85 NIGHT World CRUISE Departing From Hamburg, Germany (Jan 2025)
• Queen Victoria 78 NIGHT World CRUISE Departing From Southampton, England (Jan 2025)
• Queen Victoria 52 NIGHT Transatlantic CRUISE Departing From Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida (Jan 2025)
• Sapphire Princess 19 NIGHT SOUTH AMERICA TOUR H504 Departing From Buenos Aires, Argentina (Feb 2025)

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Cape Horn Expedition Cruise

Cape horn expedition cruise | in the wake of explorers and sailors, expedition cruise to patagonia, tierra del fuego and cape horn., cruise aboard the world-class m/v stella australis and m/v ventus australis cruises., 4-night cruises from punta arenas, chile or ushuaia, argentina. check out the updated tracks, dates and rates..

Cape Horn Expedition Cruise. The Straits of Magellan, Beagle Channel and Cape Horn are important and highly significant geographic and historical landmarks in the southern tip of the South American continent. Snow-capped mountains, huge glaciers and magnificent forests, all add to the peculiar beauty of this landscape of peaks, trees, fjords and remote islands sculpted by the strong westerly winds and the Pacific Ocean. During this journey we will sail through a significant part of the Straits of Magellan, learning about the fascinating history of the indigenous people and the explorers of the Fuegian fjords and channels, and following in the footsteps of Darwin aboard the HMS Beagle in the 1830s. We‘ll explore the cultural remnants of the world’s southernmost people, the Yamana, and learn how they survived and adapted to this extreme geography and climate. We’ll see active breeding colonies of penguins and sea lions, and enjoy the elegant flight of the majestic albatross. Finally, we shall reach the southernmost part of our journey at the mythical and feared Cape Horn. Sail with us in the wake of Cook, Darwin, Fitzroy and many other explorers.  cape horn expedition cruise

Mt Bove, Tierra del Fuego, Chile © Claudio F. Vidal, Far South Expeditions

M/V Ventus Australis & M/V Stella Australis

With spacious cabins, all of which overlook the exterior, both ships have been carefully decorated, offering maximum interior comfort and spectacular views from virtually all parts of the ship..

16,5 m 2 / 177 sq. ft

Double Bed Cabin

16,5 m 2 / 177 sq. ft.

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20,5 m 2 / 220 sq. ft.

M/V Ventus Australis

Built: 2017

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To register for this tour, complete our  online registration form  and return it with a deposit of US$ 500 per person. Full payment of the tour fee (in US Dollars) is due 90 days prior to tour departure.

Cancellation Policy Notice of cancellation can only be accepted IN WRITING from the person who signed the booking form and takes effect on the day such noticed is received by us.

Refunds are made according to the following schedule: • If cancellation is made 120 days or more before departure date, the deposit less US$ 250 is refundable. • If cancellation is made between 120 and 60 days before departure, the deposit is not refundable, but any payments covering the balance of the fee will be refunded. • If cancellation is made fewer than 60 days before departure date, no refund is available.

This policy and fee schedule also applies to pre-trip and post trip extensions, as well as any transfers from one tour to another. We strongly recommend the purchase of trip cancellation insurance to protect yourself.

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South America & the Chilean Fjords

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Journey to the end of the world

Soak in the eclectic mix of Latin and European influences in the Argentine capital of Buenos Aires, the birthplace of the tango. Visit Port Stanley, home to more than one million penguins, and explore the scenic surroundings of Ushuaia, the city at the “End of the World.” Sail through the Strait of Magellan, passing rugged mountain peaks and blue-tinted icebergs, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Chile’s seafaring capital, Santiago.

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Cruising the Cape Horn in March

By Tracee93 , May 11, 2019 in Holland America Line

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Hello, looking for advice from cruisers who have cruised the Cape Horn in the month of March.  We are looking at a 14 day cruise on Holland America, from Buenos Aires to Santiago Chile and wondered if March was a good time to go?  I understand that weather and the ocean can be unpredictable, but wondered if there was a good time or bad time to do the Cape?  Any advice would be appreciated.  

Many thanks!

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There is no controlling King Neptune or the weather.

Cruising around the Cape can be really rough or not too bad.

There’s no guarantee no matter when you go IMO.  

It’s an experience and definitely one to do 😉  

Yes, no one knows ahead, I've been there when it was flat and I have been there when you could hardly see Cape Hoorn, sometimes the captain flip flops the days between Ushuaia and Cape Hoorn depending on the weather..

When I was there last February, it was calm as a millpond. So was the Drake passage all the way to Antarctica.

The Other Tom

As others have said, you can't predict the weather that far out.  Instead, base your decision on when is the best time to see what you want to see, for example, penguins.  We went the second week in Feb and that was a good time for penguins.  YMMV.

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Women’s Ultimate Cape Horn (South America) Cruise Packing List + FREE Printable Guide

Susan Ferrier

I like travel, dirt…and coffee! (Not necessarily in that order) I’m an avid gardener, and coffee fanatic. When possible, I travel with my bike which allows me to cover more ground while rooting out unique ecosystems and exquisite gardens, as well as, hidden gem coffee shops and roasteries.

Embarking on a cruise around South America is an exciting adventure that promises diverse landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and unforgettable memories. As a woman preparing for this voyage, you’ll want to ensure that your packing list is not only practical but also stylish and versatile. From the sun-soaked beaches of Rio de Janeiro to the rugged beauty of Patagonia, South America offers a range of environments to explore, each with its unique clothing and accessory requirements.

In this packing guide, I’ll take you through the essentials you need to pack to stay comfortable, look fabulous, and make the most of your South American cruise around Cape Horn. I’ll provide you with expert tips and insights to help you pack smartly for this once-in-a-lifetime journey. So, let’s dive in and ensure you’re prepared to make the most of every moment on your South American cruise.

Table of Contents

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. These links are just one way that I support my site. By clicking on these links I may receive a small commission. But don’t worry, you will not pay more for the products. 

To prepare you for this adventure, I will highlight the most important considerations when packing for your once-in-a-lifetime trip. In my article, How to Prepare for a Cruise Around South America and Cape Horn I provide an in-depth breakdown of what you can expect on a cruise of this type. At the end of this post, you will have the opportunity to receive a FREE printable cruise packing list you can use as a guide for your upcoming cruise around the Horn of South America.

So, there are no unrealistic expectations of what you will find in the following paragraphs, I should make it clear that this is not going to be a guide to an Instagrammable wardrobe. This packing list for your South American sailing is a practical how-to guide.

You will still look cute in photos but I’m not going to tell you to pack flowy dresses you will wear once. No cutesy hats. You won’t be packing 15 pairs of shoes or different sunglasses for every day. But since the age of cruisers to South America tends to skew older, you probably aren’t so young that you’re concerned with the Insta-worthy shots. Ah, the beauty of being a bit older and wiser!!

What to Know Before Packing for Your South American Cruise

Timing of a south america cruise.

Probably the most important thing you should know is that most South American Cruises are scheduled for the southern hemisphere’s summer month, beginning in November through early March. This makes a South American cruise ideal for those in the Northern Hemisphere who want to escape the cold winter weather.

Pack for All Four Seasons

However, despite it being summer in South America you are going to need some winter attire because it gets quite chilly at the “End of the World.” But no worries, it won’t be cold the entire time. On this cruise, you get to experience all four seasons throughout your sailing. This is one of the things that makes packing so challenging.

You should expect the daytime South American temperature to range from the upper 80s and 90s in Buenos Aires and as low as the 30s when sailing through the Strait of Magellan. This being the situation, you will need everything from swimsuits, sunscreen, and sandals to hats, scarves, and mittens.

Packing for Formal Nights on a South American Cruise

Most South American Cruises around the Horn are 10 days to 2 weeks. On a cruise of this length, you can expect two formal nights. This means you will need two outfits that fit the occasion. But formal nights are nowhere near as buttoned-up as it once was when sailing. This is good news in terms of packing.

Know what to expect before embarking. Read my guide to preparing for your South American and Cape Horn cruise . 

What to Wear on Excursions

Excursions in the ports of call range from city walks involving museums and cultural sites to trekking on glaciers and kayaking. Expect to do walking in a variety of conditions including uneven cobblestone streets and hiking trails. But don’t fret. One good sturdy pair of walking shoes will do the job for most conditions.

How to Pack Light for Your Cruise Around the Horn

One challenge I have found when packing for any cruise is they often depart from cooler climates to a warmer destination. On this cruise you can expect just the opposite, you’ll go from warm to cold and back to warm again.  These weather extremes make packing for a Cape Horn cruise especially difficult. No worries as I’m here to help. But let me be candid: you will likely need something larger than a carry-on. And if you don’t, then you should be writing this post.

Pack Versatile Pieces

The key to packing light for a cruise is layering and clothes that do double duty. That means packing sleeveless or short-sleeved knit tops. They are great for warm days and can act as a base layer when you arrive at those cooler destinations. Plus, if you have the right pieces you can dress them up for dressier occasions like dinner in the main dining room or the club at night.

Select Packable Garments

Also, typically, they are packable and require little or no ironing. If they do need some attention, usually hanging them in the bathroom while showering will steam out most of the wrinkles. If you need more, a spritz with a bit of Downy Wrinkle reducer. 

Downy Wrinkle Reducer

Stay wrinkle-free throughout your trip.

Skirts Rather than Shorts

I recommend packing skirts rather than shorts as they are super versatile. Wear them instead of shorts on hot days then pair them with leggings on cold days on land and nights on the ship. The right skirt will take you from day to night and even double as formal attire. Pair a black skirt with a simple top and pretty accessories to dress it up for the evening. (More about accessorizing in a moment.)

While the picture above was not taken on a cruise this is something I might pack for a South American cruise. It’s a simple blouse that takes up almost no space in the suitcase, a plain black skirt that I can wear day or night, and black leggings underneath. All of these items can do double duty and that’s key. The skirt and the leggings can be worn independently giving you more options.

Opt for Neutral Colors

My second trick for minimizing the weight of my luggage is choosing neutral colors so you can mix and match. I try to stick to grey, black, white, and tan bottoms. But if you are like me, you probably like to have a splash of color too. I typically bring brightly colored tops and choose colorful accessories.

Stick to Classic Pieces

I love cardigans because they add warmth and can usually be casual or dressy. Take a style tip from Audrey Hepburn, pair a classic cardigan with pearls and you can’t go wrong.

Classic Women’s Cardigan

You can never go wrong with classics. Dress it up or keep it casual.

Pack a couple of scarves/pashmina. One to wear around your neck on those cold days (mornings in particular) and as a sarong over your swimsuit. Another to throw over your shoulders on a formal night. 

What to Wear in the Evening on a South America Cruise

Another challenge often encountered when packing for a Cape Horn cruise, but especially the longer ones is preparing for formal nights. If you are anything like me, it’s not so much about dressing up for dinner and photos as it is packing and lugging formal attire.

Keep to the Basics for Formal Nights

After, seven cruises I can say I have gotten better about this. Fortunately, formal wear doesn’t necessarily mean evening gowns and tuxes anymore (unless you are on a high-end luxury cruise). This helps a lot. These days a smart black skirt and a black sheath dress will be plenty. With the right coordinating pieces and accessories, you’re ready for the two formal nights on these longer cruises.

Limit Your Jewelry

I only bring a few pieces of jewelry on a cruise. A string of pearls and earrings are so elegant and can dress up any outfit. I also pack a few 36 to 40-inch beaded necklaces and a shortener enhancer clasp to twist and shorten the strands.

Necklace Enhancer

Wear one strand of beads in many ways with this shortener and enhancer

For a less formal evening, pair a skirt with a simple top and pretty accessories to dress it up. This will easily take you from dinner to a show or dancing and the casino.

What to Wear For Warm Weather

How to dress during sea days and warm weather.

For the first few days of your Cape Horn cruise, you won’t need much more than your swimsuit, a hat to shield your face from the sun, and some sunscreen during your at-sea days. For shore excursions, you are going to want to dress appropriately for the activity you have planned.

Women’s Sun Hat

This fun hat provides UV protection and has a hole for your ponytail.

Capris and skirts typically make more sense than shorts for packing light since they tend to be more versatile. One of the benefits of capris and skirts is they can often be dressed up a bit more than shorts. Of course, skirts and capris may not be practical for all excursions so you will need to consider this. For those ports of call, shorts, jeans, leggings, and yoga pants are a better bet.

For warm days and excursions pack a few tank tops or tees (I’m in the process of converting to all-wool tees for their all-season wearability, durability, and eco-conscious fibers). Using my packing list you will have options that work for any excursion.

What to Pack for Cold Weather Around the Horn

I’ve already told you that you are going to have some cold days. You will need to pack for this. And as much as you will be tempted, try to avoid packing bulky clothes. Here are the must-haves

• Wool socks (I like Woolie Boolie or SmartWool )
• Gloves or mittens
• Hat and/or ear warmers
• Base layers, under other clothes, I like Cuddl Duds and SmartWool products.
• Fleece, a sweatshirt, or a pullover sweater
• Jacket (I like puffer jackets)

Base layers are critical for cold weather. They should be thin and made of a wicking fabric (something I’ve come to appreciate as a cyclist) such as wool or polyester blend. Both fabrics are extremely packable, and warm when worn with a heavier top layer. Also, because they are thick enough not to be seen through, you can get away with wearing them as a top with yoga pants on transitional days.

SmartWool Thermal Top

This super versatile wool top will be your go-to item throughout your cruise and beyond. It’s sure to become a favorite in your wardrobe.

I’ve already suggested packing cardigan sweaters. You are going to need them when you make your way around the Horn and even in Ushuaia. If you want to save the cardigan for evenings, then you may want to pack a fleece, a sweatshirt, or a pullover sweater. This depends upon your aesthetic and the space in your suitcase.

Packable Puffer Jacket

Leave the heavy coat at home. This compact, lightweight puffer will keep you warm without the bulk.

Finally, you are going to need a jacket of some kind. I’m a fan of puffer jackets that can be rolled up and packed without taking up much space. But you are going to want to make sure that your jacket is warm and will block the cold wind. It gets chilly standing out on the ship’s deck as you travel around the Horn and through the Chilean Fjords oohing and aahing at the glaciers and penguin colonies. Of course, you don’t need to stand outside but for me, it was part of the experience.

What Shoes Should I Pack for My South America Cruise?

This is something I always struggle with but don’t go crazy with shoes. At most, you will need three pairs and you will be wearing one of them.

Wear the Sneaker/Tennies

Wear a pair of sneakers. You will want them for excursions and by wearing them you will not be using up valuable space in your luggage. Although this is a Patagonian cruise, you will not be doing serious hiking unless you are on a true adventure cruise, so there is no need to pack them.

Pack a Versatile Slide-on Sandal

For the warmer weather, on deck, and even dinner, I recommend a slide-on sandal with a low or wedge heel . I find them to be versatile and comfortable. You can wear them with dresses, shorts, pants, and swimwear. Also, if you have the right brand, you can wear them for sightseeing. I like Aerosoles or LifeStride.

LifeStride Sandal with Low Wedge Heel

A low-heeled sandal will take you from day to night with ease.

Dress Shoes for Evenings

As for dressier shoes, ballet flats are probably more practical but I like to have a pair of shoes with heels. While Ballet flats can be dressed up, I like heels for formal nights. They make me feel more put together.

What to Pack in Your Cruise Carry-on Bag

If you are coming from the Northern Hemisphere you have probably endured a long flight and will want to have the ability to clean up a bit when you get on board. After boarding the ship, it could be several hours before your luggage arrives at your cabin. Typically, it gets to your cabin by 8 P.M. But you will want to pack a small bag that will go to your stateroom with you when you arrive.

For a carry-on, I suggest a small backpack. It is something that you can use throughout your trip. It can be used to tote camera equipment on excursions. And, it’s also handy for carrying the layers of clothing you strip off as the day wears on and the temperatures rise.

Your carry-on luggage list should be short. Here are a few necessities you will want in your carry-on.

• Toothbrush and paste
• The one cosmetic item you can’t live without
• Swim Cover-up
• One casual outfit
• Any valuables (jewelry, camera, laptop, etc)
• Important medication

You don’t need a lot in your bag but you will want some basic toiletries such as deodorant as well as a toothbrush and paste to freshen up. Don’t bother with soaps and shampoos. You will have those in your stateroom.

As women, we usually have some form of cosmetics we don’t go out without. For me that is mascara. If you have one of those items, toss it in your bag. It won’t take up much space. If you absolutely must have some color try something compact like e.l.f. Monochromatic Multi Stick, For Eyes, Lips & Cheeks .

Multi Stick for Eyes, Lips, and Cheeks

Give yourself a little refresh after what is sure to be a long travel day.

It should be hot when you arrive and you may want to have your swimsuit and a cover-up. Dinner that first night will be casual. Many people opt for the buffet, therefore there is no need for any special attire. Even if you choose the main dining room you are not expected to dress up. Maybe pack a clean shirt and shorts or a skirt.

If you have brought any valuables such as laptops, cameras, or jewelry you want to be sure to carry them onto the ship.

Also, be sure to have any medication you may need. On rare occasions, luggage gets misplaced and doesn’t find its way to your stateroom until the following day. I’ve personally never had this experience but I’ve heard of it happening.

What Not to Pack for a South American Cruise

Leave the valuable jewelry at home.

Avoid packing a lot of valuable jewelry. It’s just something to worry about losing or having stolen. Also, if you bring jewelry of value, you may want to consider only wearing it on the ship. I was warned about the security of the gold necklace I had around my neck during a walking tour in Valparaiso Chile.

Skip the Hiking Boots

Don’t pack your hiking boots. You won’t need them unless you are doing pre- or post-trip activities where they are necessary. The excursions in port are not significant enough to warrant them. Sneakers will be just fine. If you do have activities planned that will require them, I recommend wearing them so they do not take up valuable real estate in your luggage.

Pass on the Gear

Also, there is no need to pack gear for excursions such as waterproof clothing for kayaking or spikes for walking on glaciers. Necessary, activity-specific gear will be provided by your tour operator.

Remember: Ships Have Laundry Service

A final note about packing for your South American cruise adventure: don’t forget you have laundry service available to you on the ship. However, you may want to avoid it as much as possible as it can get costly.  However, there are usually one or two days when the cruise line offers a special deal for laundry service. Typically, it is a flat rate for as much as you can stuff in a bag. This is when you will want to use it.

And, although a dry cleaning service is available to you as well, try to pack clothes that will not require pressing. Knits are typically the best for this.

Because so many of the clothes on this list can do double duty, you will find that following this South American Cruise Packing guide will give you plenty of flexibility.

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6 Responses

I am unable to download the South American cruise packing list after signing up for newsletter.

I have tried twice to get the printable packing list but still do not have it. Is it listed it in another place? It seems like a S. American cruise requires warm and cold clothes. We will be sailing in late December and early January…

How long does it take to get a packing list?

I’m sorry you have not recieved your packing list. I have done an override in my system and you should have it now. I also sent you an email with an update on this issue. Enjoy your cruise!

Excellent article with valuable tidbits of information! Thank you!

Thank you, Wendy. I’m glad you found it helpful.

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