4 minute read
When it comes to once-in-a-lifetime trips, cruising to Antarctica and South America ranks high on my list. And if you’re like me—someone who craves culture, wildlife, and scenery that stops you in your tracks—Princess Cruises’ newly announced 2026–27 South America and Antarctica season might just be your next great escape. With Majestic Princess making her debut in the region and a lineup of immersive itineraries, this is the kind of cruise that delivers more than a vacation—it delivers stories you’ll tell for the rest of your life.
Majestic Princess Charts Bold New Routes
Starting in November 2026 and running through January 2027, Majestic Princess—a 3,560-guest Royal-Class ship—will explore 17 destinations across 10 countries. She’s also the first in the Princess fleet to cruise through the jaw-dropping Beagle Channel Fjords and Glacier Alley, a region filled with tidewater glaciers cascading from the Darwin Mountain Range.
Even better: Princess Cruises is a member of IAATO (International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators), which means they’re committed to responsible exploration of Antarctica’s untouched wilderness. So you can go big on adventure without compromising on environmental ethics.
Five Itineraries Worth Booking Now
Princess isn’t offering cookie-cutter cruises here. Instead, there are five unique itineraries, six total departures, and plenty of chances to customize the experience depending on what kind of explorer you are. Highlights include:
- 15-day Cape Horn & Glaciers of Patagonia
Includes scenic cruising and an overnight stay in Buenos Aires—perfect for those wanting a balance of wild landscapes and lively culture. - 17-day Antarctica & South America
This one’s for the bucket list: four full days in the Antarctic region, offering a rare chance to explore one of the most remote corners of the planet. - 18-day Brazilian Adventure
With stops in Rio, Uruguay, Barbados, and an overnight in Buenos Aires, this sailing leans into vibrant cities and coastal flair.
And every itinerary gives you a front-row seat to 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, like the Sitio Roberto Burle Marx near Rio or the Patagonia Nature Preserve from Puerto Madryn.
Wildlife Encounters Like No Other
Let’s talk penguins. Over a million of them from five different species call the Falkland Islands home—and you’ll likely see many of them waddling around while ashore. At sea, keep an eye out for whales, porpoises, leopard seals, and seabirds as you cruise through the Beagle Channel and Antarctic waters.
If you’re a nature nerd like me, this cruise is a dream. Binoculars are a must.
Scenic Cruising That’ll Stop You in Your Tracks
I’ve done a lot of scenic sailings, but what Princess has mapped out for this season hits different. We’re talking about sailing past Elephant Island, the Gerlache Strait, and the South Shetland Islands—some of the most iconic landscapes in Antarctica.
And then there’s Cape Horn and Tierra del Fuego, sitting at the edge of the world. Add in the towering ice walls of Glacier Alley, and it’s safe to say your phone’s photo storage will fill up fast.
Dive Into the Rhythm of South America
Cultural immersion is part of the package. Sip caipirinhas in Brazil, dance the tango in Argentina, and eat your way through world-famous steak and wine in Chile. Between Rio’s Christ the Redeemer statue and Buenos Aires’ La Recoleta Cemetery (yes, the final resting place of Eva Peron), the shore experiences are just as awe-inspiring as the days at sea.
Booking Early Has Its Perks
Princess is sweetening the deal for early planners. Book your cruise by June 14, 2025, and you can lock in:
- Up to $1,200 onboard credit per stateroom
- Up to $400 shore excursion credit per stateroom
- Up to $400 in instant savings
- Free stateroom location upgrades
- And up to 40% off select sailings
If you’re serious about snagging the best rates and top cabin locations, this is your window.
I’ve cruised through the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, and even the Alaska Inside Passage—but South America and Antarctica? That’s a different level. With the return of Princess Cruises to these remote, awe-inspiring destinations, and with Majestic Princess making her debut, the 2026–27 season feels like a rare gem. It’s the kind of trip that combines adrenaline, beauty, and cultural depth—all with the signature Princess style.
And I don’t know about you, but I’m already checking my calendar.
