- Chile Cruises
- The South American Passage: From Santiago
This unforgettable journey along South America’s coast offers a blend of cultural discovery, breathtaking scenery, and unique wildlife encounters. Experience the vibrant cities, tranquil seas, and rugged landscapes of Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, and the Falkland Islands.
Depart from the UK on your scheduled flight to Santiago.
Lunch & Dinner
Today you will be met and transferred to the port to board your ship in Santiago where your Holland America Cruise Ship awaits.
From December 2027, all South America itineraries will operate on Nieuw Amsterdam, replacing Oosterdam. Any sailings departing from December 2027 onwards will be onboard Nieuw Amsterdam.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Settle in for a blissful day at sea, where the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean surrounds you and the freedom to do as little or as much as you like awaits. With no port stops today, it’s the perfect time to experience the amenities the ship has to offer. Start your morning with a leisurely breakfast, appreciating fresh pastries and coffee as you gaze out over the vast horizon. Perhaps you'll spend your day lounging by the pool, enjoying a refreshing dip or relaxing with a book under the sun.
For those seeking world-class entertainment, the ship’s grand theatre is the place to be. Every evening brings spectacular performances, from dazzling Broadway-style shows and captivating live music to comedy acts and cultural performances. Sit back in the plush seating, let the curtains rise, and prepare to be thoroughly entertained.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Puerto Montt is a picturesque city nestled between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Known for its stunning natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Explore the picturesque towns of Puerto Varas and Frutillar, set against the backdrop of the snow-capped Osorno Volcano and shimmering Lake Llanquihue.
The city boasts a vibrant waterfront, with bustling markets, seafood restaurants, and a lively port area. Its architecture blends modern buildings with traditional German-style houses, reflecting the city's diverse cultural influences.
Please Note: This stop requires a tender, there will be limited access for wheelchair users
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Situated in the heart of Chilean Patagonia, Puerto Chacabuco serves as the gateway to some of the region's most breathtaking natural wonders. Surrounded by majestic fjords, dense forests, and towering mountains, this remote port offers a tranquil escape into the wilderness. Puerto Chacabuco is a tranquil and scenic destination, offering visitors a chance to experience the untamed beauty of southern Chile.
Please Note: This stop requires a tender, there will be limited access for wheelchair users
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Cruising the Chilean Fjords offers an unforgettable journey through one of the most stunning and remote regions in the world. This breathtaking region, carved by ancient glaciers, features dramatic fjords flanked by snow-capped mountains, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, as seals, dolphins, and even penguins are often spotted in these pristine waters. As your ship navigates the tranquil passages, you’ll feel immersed in the untouched wilderness of Patagonia, a place of unparalleled serenity and grandeur. This is nature at its most majestic, offering unforgettable vistas at every turn.
With no stop in a port today, you can Indulge in a day of pure relaxation and entertainment as you sail across the open sea. Perhaps you'll treat yourself to an exquisite meal in one of the ship’s specialty restaurants, or for the ultimate relaxation, head to the spa for a hot stone massage or another rejuvenating treatment. If you're feeling a little adventurous, why not step into the excitement of the casino? Whether you’re a seasoned player or a complete beginner, you can take advantage of complimentary casino lessons led by the ship’s expert gaming professionals. Gain insight, sharpen your skills, and enjoy some one-on-one coaching to help you confidently take your place at the tables — and who knows, you might even hit a lucky streak!
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Scenic cruising through the Sarmiento Channel offers a mesmerizing journey through one of the most picturesque waterways in southern Chile. As you cruise through its narrow, winding waters, you’ll be surrounded by towering cliffs, lush forests, and pristine glaciers, all set against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks. You'll be treated to an unforgettable journey through one of the most remote and untouched regions of the world, where nature’s beauty is on full display at every turn.
The day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Lounge by the sparkling pool with a cocktail in hand, explore the duty-free shops, or simply find a peaceful spot on deck to watch the beautiful South American Coastline. As evening falls, get ready for another night of exceptional dining, dazzling entertainment, and memorable moments as you continue your unforgettable journey at sea.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Navigate through the Strait of Magellan, a historic 560-kilometer waterway between South America and Tierra del Fuego, an archipelago at the southernmost tip of South America, split between Chile and Argentina.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Your stop today will be Punta Arenas, located near the southern tip of Chile, is a lively city that serves as a gateway to Patagonia's rugged beauty. The city boasts attractions like Plaza de Armas with a statue of Ferdinand Magellan, the Maggiorino Borgatello Museum, and sweeping views of the city and strait from Cerro de la Cruz Viewpoint. To the south, the Cockburn Channel connects the Strait to the Beagle Channel, offering stunning vistas of fjords and glaciers, with highlights such as Pia Fjord, where waterfalls cascade into the water and ice calves from Pia Glacier, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle.
Please Note: This stop requires a tender, there will be limited access for wheelchair users
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Cruising through Glacier Alley near Ushuaia, Argentina offers an unforgettable experience amidst some of the most stunning landscapes in the world. Located in the Beagle Channel, Glacier Alley is a breathtaking stretch of coastline lined with towering glaciers, dramatic mountains, and rugged cliffs.
Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world, it serves as a gateway to Antarctica, and its unique location makes it a popular starting point for expeditions to the Southern Ocean and Patagonia. The city is known for its charming atmosphere, with colourful houses, a bustling harbour, and a rich history tied to exploration.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Cape Horn, where the Atlantic and Pacific oceans collide, offers an exhilarating and awe inspiring experience. Cruising Cape Horn is a historic journey, renowned explorers like Magellan, Drake, and Darwin navigated these waters as it was once a vital route for sailors navigating between the oceans before the Panama Canal was built. Today, the area is a symbol of maritime adventure, with its breathtaking views, and the raw power of nature on full display.
As there is no stop in port today, why not unwind in one of the ship’s many bars and lounges, each offering a unique ambiance. From chic cocktail bars with panoramic ocean views to laid-back poolside lounges, you can sip on expertly crafted drinks while mingling with fellow travellers or simply watching the world go by. In the evening, enjoy live music, themed parties, or signature cocktails created by skilled mixologists.
For the creative at heart, why not take part in one of the many craft and activity workshops offered onboard? From Origami and painting classes to Modern brush lettering, these hands-on sessions allow you to unleash your creativity, learn a new skill, and perhaps even take home a beautiful handmade souvenir to remind you of your voyage.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Stanley, the southernmost capital in the world, is the heart of the Falkland Islands, a British territory rich in history and culture. Nestled among the archipelago's two main islands and smaller surrounding isles, Stanley proudly showcases its British heritage with iconic red telephone boxes and traditional pubs. Once a base for whaling and sealing, the Falklands' economy now thrives on fishing and tourism.
Please Note: This stop requires a tender, there will be limited access for wheelchair users
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
If you’re seeking a little more activity, take part in a fitness class, try your hand at Pickleball, or join in on one of the many enrichment activities offered onboard — from cooking demonstrations to art auctions or trivia games. If retail therapy is more your style, browse the boutique shops filled with duty-free treasures, from designer fashion and fine jewellery to unique souvenirs.
If you're craving a moment of peace and quiet, head to the onboard library — a hidden gem filled with a wide selection of books, travel guides, and board games. Find a cozy corner to get lost in a novel or join a friendly group for a board game.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
As your unforgettable South American cruise draws to a close, spend your final day at sea relaxing and reflecting on the incredible destinations you've explored. Take this opportunity join your fellow guests and friends for a celebratory farewell dinner, while reflecting on the memories created throughout your journey. The night is yours to enjoy, whether you want to catch a final show, try your luck at the casino, or relax with a nightcap under the stars.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Montevideo, Uruguay’s capital, offers a relaxed, cosmopolitan charm often overshadowed by Buenos Aires across the Río de la Plata. Its approachable atmosphere, excellent steakhouses, and mix of neighbourhoods make it uniquely appealing. The revitalized Ciudad Vieja boasts colonial architecture and Art Deco gems. Modern eastern suburbs, with their skyscrapers and beachfront cafés, provide a Miami-like vibe. Whether enjoying a stroll along the Malecon or savouring local cuisine, Montevideo leaves a lasting impression.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Enjoy a free day exploring the vibrant city often called the "Paris of South America." Discover iconic neighbourhoods like Recoleta and Palermo, celebrated for their stunning architecture, lively plazas, and charming café culture. With your ship staying overnight in port, take the opportunity to experience the dynamic nightlife of Buenos Aires—perhaps even step onto the dance floor for a Tango or two!
Breakfast
Disembark in Buenos Aires. Enjoy free time for last-minute exploration before your return flight to the UK. Alternatively, extend your stay to fully experience the city’s vibrant culture.
Your flight lands back in the UK today.
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The order of events and sightseeing may vary according to local conditions or for operational purposes. For this reason, we have indicated approximate times only. Holland America will inform you of any schedule changes as they are informed of them during your cruise. Our intention is to adhere to the day-to-day itinerary as printed; however, order of events and sightseeing may vary according to the local conditions.
Have It All Cruise Package
For one simple fare, you can save with Have It All, a package available for pre-cruise purchase and specially designed to give you the best possible experience. By purchasing this package, you will receive the below:
Price: from £60.00 per person per day
This package upgrade can be added to your booking exclusively through Mercury Holidays and not directly with Holland America. To upgrade, please contact our Customer Experience team anytime, up to 14 weeks before departure.
If booking more than 14 weeks before departure a deposit of £500.00pp will need to be paid at the time of booking with the full amount payable at 14 weeks prior to departure. The deposit applies to adults and children. If you are within 14 weeks of travel then the full balance of the holiday will be payable.
Your passport should have an ‘expiry date’ after the day you plan to leave Chile. You can visit Chile for up to 90 days without a visa.
The Chilean immigration authorities will give you a tourist card (‘tarjeta de turismo’), an A5-sized white form. Keep it safe and give it to immigration when you leave the country.
To enter Argentina, your passport must be valid for the proposed duration of your stay. If you are a resident in Argentina, your passport must be valid for entry. You can visit Argentina without a visa for business or tourism for up to 90 days.
To enter Uruguay, your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay and have at least one blank page for an entry stamp. You can visit Uruguay without a visa for up to 90 days.
Please note that final flight details, including terminal, airline and baggage allowance, will be confirmed on your final documentation which will be sent to you approximately 21 days before departure. A printed E-ticket is no longer required at check-in, all you need to do is present your passport to the staff at the desk and your boarding pass will be given to you.
We strongly recommend that you and all members of your party are suitably insured as soon as you book your holiday. It is a condition of booking that you must have suitable travel insurance. It is important that you purchase travel insurance that suitably covers your participation in whatever activities you may undertake at the time that you make your booking. To assist you with this, we have arranged travel insurance in partnership with Holiday Extras, including up to a 20% discount, which is given to all Mercury Holidays customers. To arrange your insurance with Holiday Extras, please visit https://www.mercuryholidays.co.uk/info/insurance for more details. Please ensure you provide us with the name of your insurer, policy number and their 24 hour emergency contact number as soon as possible. Mercury Holidays will not be liable for any costs incurred by you due to your failure to take out suitable travel insurance from the date of booking.
It is your responsibility to check any health and vaccination requirements applicable to your booked arrangements. We can only provide general information about this. Health and hygiene facilities and disease risks vary from country to country. You should take health advice about your own needs as early as possible and in good time before your departure. Sources of information include; www.fco.gov.uk, www.travelhealthpro.org. uk, www.hpa.org.uk, your General Practitioner or a specialist clinic.
Medical Facilities & Emergencies
Remote regions lack advanced medical facilities, including intensive care and surgery. Ship doctors and nurses provide basic care, but serious cases may require evacuation, which depends on weather conditions, distance from a port and feasibility for medical evacuation to travel the distances required for evacuation.
Medications & Motion Sickness
The ship’s medical facility stocks a limited supply of both regular and emergency medications, so bring extra supplies of your regular and any necessary medications in your hand luggage. In case of unexpected delays, bring extra medication for beyond your cruise and a list of your medication in case you need refills. Seas can be rough—if you are prone or concerned about motion sickness, we advise you to consult your doctor and bring medication.
Health, Vaccinations & Insurance
Travellers should be in good health; those with medical conditions should consult their doctor before travel. Up to date vaccinations are strongly recommended. Comprehensive travel insurance, including emergency evacuation (minimum $100,000 coverage), is strongly recommended due to high costs and limited evacuation options.
Special Medical Needs & Age Requirement
If you need medical assistance (e.g., oxygen, mobility aids), inform the team when booking. Children must be at least 12 months old to sail to remote destinations.
This cruise is accessible to most people with an average level of fitness and normal mobility. It involves moderate days of walking on uneven paths and small hills, and getting on and off the cruise ship. This tour may not be suitable for anyone with walking difficulties.
We recommend that you exchange your currency before you leave the UK On board our ships, U.S. dollars are the only currency accepted. We also accept U.S. travellers' checks. In most ports of call, you may easily exchange your currency into the local currency at banks, airports, and major hotels. All onboard purchases and services in US Dollars are charged to your account by using your stateroom keycard. Cash is not accepted for individual transactions, e.g. bars, shops, spas, shore excursions. Cash is accepted in our casinos. Whilst in the Chilean Ports, the currency used is Chilean peso. For Uruguay it will be Uruguayan Peso and Argentina is Argentine pesos. It is advised that you order the smaller denominations when getting your currency ordered.
PLEASE NOTE: There is not an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) available on board.
As normal practice you may be asked for your credit card details on check-in for your cruise in order to cover any extras incurred during your stay. If you do not have a credit card, you may be asked for a cash deposit or use a debit card. MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted in hotels as well as American Express.
You will need to take some extra money with you to cover any extras not mentioned on your itinerary and personal purchases, such as souvenirs, extra drinks and snacks. Approximately £400-500 per person should be sufficient for the duration of your Cruise. Please also bear in mind that there will be several shopping opportunities throughout your tour.
PLEASE NOTE: There is not an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) available on board.
Tipping
The Crew Appreciation charge is paid to Holland America Line team members and represents an important part of their compensation. An 18% service charge is automatically applied to all beverage purchases, bar retail items, specialty restaurant cover charges, all for-purchase a la carte menu items, and all Spa & Salon services. Local sales taxes are applied where required.
Tipping is customary on most cruise liners, a daily charge will be applied to your onboard account. If you would like to adjust the amount or make your own tipping arrangements, please visit the customer service desk onboard at the start of your cruise.
The maximum number of travellers on your cruise will be dependent upon the Cruise ship capacity. (1,964 max cruise capacity). Please note: your cruise is shared with international clients from other companies.
Excursions during your cruise are in shared services, meaning that these excursions are not exclusive to Mercury Holidays customers, you will have an English-Speaking local guide present during these excursions ensuring that you always have first-hand knowledge. This guide will only be available during excursions.
Transportation to and from the airport will be provided by private transfers for your group.
Your stateroom category is based on an inside cabin (a cabin without a window or balcony). If you'd like more space or a view, you can upgrade to a different stateroom type online at the time of booking. If you have already booked, please call our Travel Specialist who can assist in amending your cabin type.
All tour cruise ships/hotels have private bathroom facilities and air-conditioning where needed. Rest assured that all accommodation used by Mercury Holidays is regularly inspected by our staff and partners to ensure standards meet your needs.
In addition to breakfast, lunch and a multi-course dinner, you can enjoy afternoon tea, hearty salads, comfort classics, global cuisine, an ice cream bar, hot hors d’oeuvres during the cocktail hours, and the traditional late-night snack. Complimentary In-Room Dining is available 24 hours a day. Drinks are payable onboard, however there are beverage package options available to pre book.
Vegetarian and Vegan meals can be catered for onboard. Please advise Customer Experience about other dietary requirements or allergy information.
The dress for each evening is listed in the Daily Programme and on the Navigator App.
Upon arrival at Santiago’s Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport, you will be met after exiting baggage claim and Customs by a Southbound representative holding a Mercury sign who will assist with your transfer to the hotel. Should you have difficulty locating the guide, please wait at “La Pica Restaurant” opposite the main exit between gates 3 and 4.
To ensure you meet the correct representative, always ask them to confirm your name; authorised guides will have it on their list. If in doubt, call Southbound Travel at (+56 9) 9639 1191 for assistance.
Boarding Procedures
Guests are encouraged to complete the Online Check-in process at hollandamerica.com and, if possible, download the Holland America Line Navigator App. Once Online Check-in is complete, travellers should either print their Boarding Pass or access the electronic version via the Navigator App.
At the pier, guests must present their Boarding Pass, have their passports and applicable visas verified, and have their photo taken if one was not uploaded through the app. Stateroom keycards will be delivered directly to staterooms.
Important Notes:
• Online Check-in must be completed prior to the sail date. • Required documents for check-in include: o Boarding Pass (available via Express Docs) o Proof of citizenship o Applicable visas
To comply with U.S. security regulations, Holland America must submit guest information to law enforcement at least 60 minutes before departure. This requires all information to be submitted no later than 90 minutes before the ship’s departure. Guests who do not complete Online Check-in beforehand or arrive late to the terminal risk being unable to board. Costs incurred to join the vessel at the next port will be the guest’s responsibility.
Ship Identification Card:
Upon completing check-in, guests will receive a ship ID card, which serves as identification for embarkation, disembarkation, onboard purchases, and access to staterooms. When boarding or leaving the ship, guests should carry their ship ID card along with a government-issued photo ID. Terminal security may also require a valid picture ID.
Embarkation Details:
Boarding begins at 12:00 p.m., and all guests must check in no later than 90 minutes before the published sailing time. Passports will be collected during check-in for secure handling by staff, as some ports require face-to-face immigration inspections. Guests are encouraged to bring photocopies of their passport pages as a precaution.
Although embarkation may start as early as 11:30 a.m., preparation of staterooms will be underway, with readiness anticipated by approximately 1:00 p.m. Guests are welcome to relax in bar, lounge, or pool areas while waiting. Checked baggage will be delivered to staterooms later in the afternoon.
Holland America ensures an organised and seamless embarkation process, allowing guests to start their cruise stress-free.
Please exit the ship in plenty of time to allow you to be at Exit Gates 1&2 by 09:00, your representative will be there waiting with a Mercury sign, please be prompt as this will be a group transfer.
If you have booked an extension in Buenos Aires, please proceed to Exit Gates 1&2 and a driver will be waiting to take you to your hotel. In the event you require assistance locating your transfer please call Phone: (+54 11) 4312-6077. Mobile: (+54 9 11) 6878-1562
If you need to contact our agency representatives during your stay, the details are:
For your Cruise:
For any other queries, please call Holland America 24 hr contact number: 001 206 626 7382
Email address: Holland America Line Groups UK groups@hollandamerica.co.uk
For your transfers and hotels:
Eurotur SRL Viamonte 486 Buenos Aires - Argentina Telephone +54 11 4312 6077
E-mail: customer.care@eurotur.tur.ar
When calling from a UK no. Emergency contact: ARGENTINA +54 911 6878 1562
When calling from a local number in Argentina: 11 6878-1562 / 11 4992-136
Emergency e-mail address: 247@eurotur.tur.ar
Southbound Travel Address: Av. Nueva Providencia 2353, 3rd floor
Contact number - Operations Department: +562 2241 1049
Telephone 24 hour: +569 9639 1191
E-mail: emergency@southbound.travel
