After a ten-year hiatus, Princess Cruises will once again cruise the Amazon River. Princess Cruises announced a new addition to its South American travel program and it includes sailings along South America’s famous rivers using large, ocean going ships. Here is what Princess Cruises has in store for their 2028 South American travel season.
The long-awaited return after over ten years
Princess Cruises last navigated the famous Amazon waterway back in 2014, leaving adventurous passengers waiting quite a while for its comeback. The company decided 2028 is the ideal year to bring the iconic South American route back to life. You will finally get to cruise the world’s largest river system again without switching over to a tiny expedition vessel.
Key highlights of the Americas deployment
According to company staff, the program in the Americas covers over 250 cruises with an itinerary in the Amazon that includes more of what people like. As an example, travelers can choose between short escapes that take you to the beach or longer ones that will span multiple continents. Those who like to travel to remote destinations and travelers who prefer tropical destinations are sure to be pleased with the program as well.
Exploring the historic port of Santarém
After traveling down the river, the main destination is Santarém, a historic town of the Brazilian Amazon and situated where the Tapajós river flows into the Amazon river. As the oldest settlement in the Brazilian Amazon, this town offers plenty of beautiful beaches and a mixture of historic architecture that you can easily take in at your own pace. A few of the sights worth seeing are the central cathedral and the many historic buildings.
The phenomenon known as the meeting of the waters
One thing Santarém is well known for is the stunning contrast in water. Right in front of Santarém is the muddy and sediment laden Amazon River and the crystal clear blue Tapajós River. For kilometers, the two run parallel without ever touching. This phenomenon of nature appears unreal, even when you see it from your balcony on a ship.
The massive circle South America grand voyage
If you happen to have a large quantity of vacation days to use, the company recently announced an amazing 64-day itinerary covering South America by sea and river. Along with a cruise of the Amazon and a voyage all the way down to Antarctica, the trip includes traversing the Panama Canal. This will certainly be a unique travel experience, as the variety of climates encountered during the trip will have you packing your sun glasses right next to your parka.
A meaningful connection with nature and culture
Chief Commercial Officer, Jim Berra, commented that coming back to this region enables guests to have stronger relationships with nature. It focuses more on the heritage, culture and the day-to-day traditions of communities along the river. This region also offers people insight into the life of those living along South America’s vast river network.
Varied itineraries across the entire hemisphere
Outside of routes into the heart of the jungle, sailing itineraries go all throughout Hawaii, Mexico, and the Caribbean. If cold air suits you, you can sail around New England, Canada, or to the impressive glaciers of Patagonia. Scheduling is flexible to let you find a sailing trip that aligns with your specific vacation interests.
Life onboard a large ocean cruise ship
Large cruise ships traverse thick tropical rainforests, allowing passengers to observe and experience remote nature in luxury. After spending time spotting and photographing birds from the decks, passengers can order and enjoy a freshly prepared pizza to eat while listening to the live entertainment. South America is offered at its most untamed, paired with the luxury of modern cruise travel.
Booking windows and advance planning
Since these remote river cruise destinations draw a lot of bucket-list travelers, it’s best to book your cabin as early as possible to secure the spot you want. Reservations are open as early as the 2028 season, so keep checking back on the official cruise website to see when reservations open up for your date. You really want to avoid being stuck in a cabin without a viewing deck!
Essential preparation for Amazon River travel
Preparation is key before traveling to South America. Entry regulations, health recommendations and proper clothing need to be carefully examined. It’s also important to take along a dependable insect repellent, lightweight clothing that breathes, and a camera to record the experiences of a lifetime along the Amazon. This amazing part of the world is both hot and humid but it is well worth it due to the spectacular views.
