View our latest SAT newsletter for travel inspiration and product highlights in South America.
South American Tours
South American Tours
SAT NEWS - REGIONAL CRUISES
     May 2025
  
Dear Travel Partner,
 
In this newsletter, we’re excited to share an overview of the diverse regional cruises we offer across South America. Whether your clients dream of navigating the dense Amazon rainforest, witnessing the icy wonders of Patagonia and even Antarctica, or encountering the unique wildlife of the Galapagos Islands — an expedition cruise offers a comfortable and enriching way to explore some of the world’s most remote and awe-inspiring destinations.

With itineraries starting from just 3 nights, these cruises can easily be integrated into any itinerary. Charter options for groups are also available.

Discover some exclusive promotions below – we look forward to enhancing your bespoke travel programmes with these unforgettable cruise experiences.
 
All the best,
Your SAT Team
 
Also check out our Website, Facebook & Instagram    
Photo credit: Aqua Expeditions
AMAZON RIVER CRUISES
Cruising the Amazon is one of the most immersive ways to experience the planet’s most biodiverse tropical ecosystem, offering access to remote, untouched areas rarely seen by others. Itineraries typically combine expertly guided rainforest exploration with onboard relaxation. Multiple daily small-group excursions, by skiff or on foot, include wildlife observation and meaningful cultural encounters — from birdwatching and swimming with the iconic pink river dolphin to visiting indigenous communities and conservation initiatives.
The Amazon spans several countries and regions and each reveals distinct landscapes, biodiversity, and characteristics:
 
Ecuador’s Amazon region makes up just 2% of the basin, yet it is among the most biodiverse. Cruises depart from Coca, offering close-up wildlife encounters via narrow tributaries. A key highlight is the Yasuní National Park - a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.
 
Brazil's Amazon covers over 45% of the country, boasting vast waterways and unique sites such as the 'Meeting of the Waters' of the Rio Negro and Solimões, and the Anavilhanas Archipelago — a paradise for biologists. Ideal for travellers seeking sweeping views and the grand Amazonian scale.
 
Peru offers the widest selection of luxury Amazon cruises. From Iquitos, voyages lead into the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve - the world's largest protected flooded forest. Wildlife is abundant year-round, but the cruise programmes vary significantly by season: low-water season (May–Sep) is best for hiking and active exploration, high-water (Oct–Apr) for skiff-based exploration of remote tributaries and flooded forests.
Amazon River Cruises from Coca, Ecuador
M/V Anakonda and M/V Manatee 
Anakonda is the only cruise operator to navigate the Ecuadorian Amazon. This local family business with a strong committment to sustainability, conservation and community engagement, operates two boutique sister ships.
The M/V Anakonda is Ecuador's only luxury Amazon cruise ship. With just 18 suites, it offers all the comforts of a 5-star boutique hotel, including panoramic river views, private balconies, outdoor hot tubs, fine cuisine and a personalised service.
The M/V Manatee Amazon Explorer — featuring 14 suites — is a first-class vessel, ideal for travellers seeking a more casual, yet still immersive and well-appointed, rainforest adventure.
All 3-, 4- and 7-night itineraries depart from Coca and travel along the Napo and Aguarico Rivers, venturing deep into Yasuní National Park and the surrounding protected areas. Optional activities such as kayaking and glamping in the jungle can be added to further enhance the experience.
 
Photo credit: Anakonda
Contact SAT Ecuador
Amazon River Cruises from Manaus, Brazil
M/Y Tucano
Amazon Nature Tours offers genuine small-group expedition cruises in Brazil’s central Amazon aboard the M/Y Tucano, a fully refurbished yacht-style vessel.
The 4- or 6-night cruises depart from Manaus and include up to 5 daily rainforest excursions by motor launch, kayak or on foot. The shallow draft enables navigation further into remote tributaries where the forest is at its most pristine and wildlife encounters are more frequent and authentic. While not a luxury cruise, the eco-friendly M/Y Tucano offers comfort with just 9 cabins across 3 categories, all of which have air conditioning, as well as refined public spaces and an openable, glass-panelled salon.
 
Photo credit: Amazon Nature Tours
Contact SAT Brazil
Amazon River Cruises from Iquitos, Peru
Aqua Nera and Aria Amazon
Aqua Expeditions - a regional company with global presence in Peru, Ecuador and Asia and now part of the PONANT Explorations Group - offers world-class cruises on the Peruvian Amazon aboard two award-winning ships.
Launched in 2020, the Aqua Nera remains the newest and most luxurious cruise ship operating on the Peruvian Amazon. This state-of-the-art, forward vessel features 20 spacious suites inspired by the region's mystical blackwater lagoons. With a 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio, guests enjoy a highly personalised service combined with premium comfort and amenities — from a plunge pool and spa to a gym and cinema.
Similarly, the preceding Aria Amazon is also custom-built for comfort and style, with 16 suites featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and eco-friendly technology. Social areas include a jacuzzi deck, a massage room and observation decks.
With 3-, 4- and 7-night itineraries, each journey takes guests deep into the heart of the rainforest and combines contemporary design, expertly guided excursions and gourmet cuisine crafted by the renowned Peruvian chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino.
 
Photo credit: Aqua Expeditions
Delfin I, II and III
Delfin Amazon Cruises — the world’s first Relais & Châteaux cruise — offers 3–4 night premium river adventures aboard its three elegant vessels.
Delfin I offers an intimate experience with just 4 suites, each with a private terrace and a whirlpool, ideal for those seeking privacy, comfort and personalised service. A good option for families or small group charters.
Delfin II has 14 spacious cabins, including 4 master suites and interconnecting options for families, as well as welcoming communal areas. Availability is limited as it is often used for exclusive charters.
Finally, the largest of the fleet and ideal for groups, Delfin III, accommodates up to 44 guests in 22 luxury suites, and includes a plunge pool, spa, gym and an expansive sun deck for relaxing between excursions.
Delfin`s onboard cuisine blends Peru’s culinary heritage with fresh Amazonian ingredients and refined service.
 
Photo credit: Delfin Amazon Cruises
M/V Zafiro and M/V La Perla
Jungle Experiences is a family-run Peruvian company offering boutique Amazon river cruises that provide an authentic experience in comfort.
The M/V Zafiro is a luxury cruise ship featuring 19 spacious suites (some with balconies and panoramic views), an outdoor jacuzzi, an observation deck, a massage room, a gym and fine locally inspired cuisine. Programmes range from 3-, 4- to 7-nights, with some cruises including an additional free night at the company owned DoubleTree by Hilton Iquitos.
The M/V La Perla is a more affordable option with only 14 cabins, all with exerior windows and 3- and 6-nights itineraries. It offers modern amenities and Amazonian charm including a hammock area. 
 
Photo credit:Jungle Experiences
Coming soon: New Ultra-Luxury Amazon River Cruises
Pure Amazon by A&K Sanctuary (Jul 25)
This state-of-the-art riverboat will offer 3-, 4-, and 7-night itineraries through the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. With just 12 beautifully appointed cabins featuring regionally inspired designs and panoramic views, and a 1:1 staff-to-guest ratio, Pure Amazon promises an intimate and highly personalised rainforest experience.
Amazon Explorer by &Beyond (Sep 26)
The exclusive 74m (242ft) expedition yacht combines the sleek elegance of an ocean-going vessel with an intimate, small-scale design. With accommodation for up to 32 guests in 15 spacious suites, as well as a refreshing pool and a splash pool on the upper deck, the Amazon Explorer offers 3-, 4- and 7-night journeys. 
Contact SAT Peru
EXPEDITION CRUISES IN PATAGONIA & ANTARCTICA
Expedition cruises to Patagonia and Antarctica offer travellers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore some of the most remote and awe-inspiring destinations at the 'End of the World'. From the legendary Cape Horn to the icy landscapes of the White Continent, travellers can set sail from Ushuaia in Argentina or Punta Arenas in Chile — the southernmost gateways to these extraordinary regions.
 
Alongside the major cruise operators that offer Antarctic cruises, there are also smaller boutique options available to book through SAT. We can also assist with personalised pre- and post-cruise programmes in Argentina and Chile, completing your clients’ journey.
Southern Patagonia Cruise: A Journey to Cape Horn
 
Photo credit: SAT Chile Famtrip Australis
M/V Ventus Australis & Stella Australis
The Chilean company Australis offers expedition cruises through the dramatic fjords and southernmost waterways of Patagonia, aboard the custom-built vessels Ventus Australis and Stella Australis. Each ship accommodates up to 200 passengers in 100 comfortable cabins (different categories available, all featuring exterior windows).
The journey navigates through the Magellan Strait and the Beagle Channel — and, weather permitting — landing at Cape Horn. Highlights include towering glaciers such as Pía, Aguila and Condor; visits to historical sites such as Wulaia Bay; walks through native Magellanic forests and sightings of Magellanic penguins and cormorant colonies.
Two different 4-night routes are available, either from Punta Arenas to Ushuaia or vice versa. Both feature daily guided shore excursions and expert-led Zodiac tours, as well as an all-inclusive onboard experience with gourmet dining, an open bar, evening briefings and multilingual service.
 
Cruise season: Late September to early April
Contact SAT Chile
Antartic Cruises from Ushuaia, Argentina
 
Photo credit: Antarpply Expeditions
M/V Ushuaia
Antarpply Expeditions offers small-ship cruises to the White Continent, departing from Ushuaia to Antarctica and the sub-Antarctic islands.
Originally built for the U.S. NOAA, the ice-strengthened M/V Ushuaia has been refurbished for expedition crusing. With spacious decks, an open-bridge policy and just 46 cabins and suites, the vessel accommodates a maximum of 90 guests - ensuring an immersive and personalised experience. 
The 9-night* Classic Antarctica itinerary crosses the legendary Drake Passage to explore the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. This region is known for its dramatic scenery, historic sites and exceptional biodiversity - from penguin rookeries and seal colonies to frequent whale sightings.
For those seeking a more in-depth exploration, 3 special themed itineraries — the 11-night Polar Circle Quest, the 10-night Weddell Sea Quest and the 21-night Classic South Georgia — offer extended routes, with just one departure per season.
Daily shore excursions, Zodiac landings, close-up wildlife encounters, guided walks and expert-led lectures are conducted by an international team of naturalists and polar specialists. Fine cuisine and a strong commitment to environmental stewardship complete the experience.
  
Cruise season: Mid-October to end of March
 
*Some departures offer an extra day in the area of the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands.
Contact SAT Argentina
Antarctic Air-Cruise Expeditions from Punta Arenas, Chile
 
Photo credit: Antarctica21
Antartica21 Air Cruises
For travellers seeking a smoother yet still immersive way to experience Antarctica, Antarctica21 pioneered an innovative fly-and-cruise model that avoids the rough seas of the Drake Passage. Instead of sailing from South America, guests take a short 2-hour flight from Punta Arenas to King George Island on the Antarctic Peninsula, where a boutique expedition vessel awaits. This approach saves time and offers added comfort.
Antarctica21 operates small, modern ships such as the Ocean Nova and the Magellan Explorer and, from 2026, the newly built Magellan Discoverer - America's first hybrid-electric polar cruise ship. Each vessel carries up to 76 guests, allowing for an intimate on-board atmosphere and greater flexibility for shore landings.
Several itineraries are available to suit different interests and travel durations. These include the popular 7-night  Classic Antarctica Air-Cruise, the longer 9-night Polar Circle Air-Cruise and the 5-night Antarctica Express Air-Cruise, which offers a shorter more affordable option with the chance to visit Cape Horn. For a more in-depth experience, the 17-night Antarctica & South Georgia Air-Cruise includes a visit to the wildlife-rich shores of South Georgia. The Inaugural Voyage of the Magellan Discoverer is planned for Dec 2026.
Optional add-ons, such as guided sea kayaking, hiking and snowshoeing in the spectacular polar landscape, are available on most departures.
 
Air-Cruise season: Mid-Nov to end of March

Please Note: Antarctic flights operate based on weather conditions and itinerary changes may occur. In the event of a delay, an alternative program in Chilean Patagonia will be offered, while awaiting favourable flying conditions.
Contact SAT Chile
LUXURY GALAPAGOS CRUISES
Around 1,000 km off Ecuador’s mainland, the Galápagos Islands boast a unique ecosystem of volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, and remarkable wildlife such as marine iguanas and giant tortoises. Most of the archipelago is uninhabited and protected as a national park and marine reserve.
 
Cruising is the most efficient and immersive way to explore the islands, with access to remote sites that are unreachable by land-based travel. With minimal transfers and seamless logistics, guests experience a wider variety of ecosystems and endemic species.
Galápagos cruises operate year-round (with seasonal wildlife highlights) and follow an all-inclusive concept. This includes daily guided landings in small groups of up to 16 guests per naturalist guide.
 
This newsletter focuses on exceptional new vessels in the high-end segment — ideal for discerning travellers seeking comfort, exclusivity, and expert-led exploration.
New Luxury Cruises in the Galapagos
M/C Hermes
The brand-new M/C Hermes by Via Natura sets a new standard for ultra-luxury cruising in the Galápagos. As the first mega-catamaran of its kind, it combines the privacy of a small vessel with upscale amenities. Accommodating just 20 guests, the vessel offers a highly exclusive experience with a nearly 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio.
Each of the 12 spacious suites has floor-to-ceiling windows, a private balcony and a jacuzzi with panoramic ocean views. For the highest level of comfort, two interconnecting main deck suites can be combined into a 70 m² (754 ft²) Owner's Suite. On 3-, 4- and 7-nights itineraries, guests enjoy expertly guided island excursions by day and refined on-board services, including butler service, a hammam and a complimentary selection of premium beverages.
 
Photo credit: Hermes Galapagos Luxury Cruise
M/Y Galapagos Explorer by &Beyond 
The M/Y Galapagos Explorer by &Beyond is one of the most exclusive ways to explore the Galapagos Islands. This 38m (124ft) luxury expedition motor yacht, launched in 2024, hosts just 12 guests and is attended by 12 crew and 2 naturalist guides, ensuring a highly personalised and intimate experience.
The vessel features 4 stylish cabins and 2 spacious suites, as well as indoor and outdoor dining areas and a panoramic sundeck with a jacuzzi and lounge area. Natural materials and soft tones create a relaxed on-board atmosphere, enhanced by floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows.
Guests can choose between two 7-night itineraries, exploring either the eastern or western Galápagos Islands in comfort and style.
 
Photo credit: &Beyond
M/Y Tribute
Launched in April 2025, the M/Y Tribute offers boutique cruises for up to 16 guests, with two 4-night and one 6-night itinerary available.
This 43m (141ft) luxury motor yacht features 7 suites, including the spacious Panorama and Premium Suites, as well as the 50m² Owner's Suite which offers guests a private living and sleeping area.
Designed for comfort and style, the vessel features inviting social spaces, including Freddy’s Lounge, a cocktail bar, an ocean-view dining area and a coffee and chocolate corner. After island excursions, guests can unwind in the jacuzzi on the sun deck or enjoy a massage in the private spa area.
 
Photo credit: Galapagos Tribute Yacht
M/Y Aqua Mare
In June 2022, Aqua Expeditions marked a new era of luxury in the Galápagos, by launching the first superyacht to cruise the archipelago. At 50m (164m) in length and with 30% more indoor space than comparable vessels, Aqua Mare offers unmatched comfort for up to 16 guests.
Built by Italian shipyard CRN and designed by Zuretti in contemporary timeless luxury, the yacht features 7 spacious suites, including an 80m² Owner’s Suite with private steward service. Onboard amenities include a panoramic main lounge, sun deck with Jacuzzi, aft dining area, and a beach club.
With a 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio and two bilingual naturalist guides, Aqua Mare delivers a personalised experience on two 7-night itineraries exploring either the eastern or western Galápagos Islands.
 
Photo credit: Aqua Expeditions
Contact SAT Ecuador
EXCLUSIVE PROMOTIONS 
Special Promotion for Aqua Nera & Aria Amazon
 
Whether planning ahead or travelling solo, Aqua Expeditions invites travellers to experience the Peruvian Amazon in style with these exclusive savings:
 
Early Bird Bonus – Aqua Nera & Aria Amazon
Book early and enjoy 20% off select Design Suites:
20% discount* aboard Aqua Nera & Aria Amazon on Design Suites 101 and 103 for departures in 2025
20% discount* aboard Aqua Nera on Design Suites 101, 102, 103, and 104 for departures in 2026 and 2027
*Valid for new bookings made until 30 June 2025. Subject to availability.
Savings not applicable to Christmas and New Year sailings.
Not valid for solo travelers.
Solo Traveller Special – Aqua Nera
Enjoy a waiver of the single supplement fee (normally +25%) on select departures:
No Single Supplement Fee* aboard Aqua Nera on Suites 105 and 106 for departures in June and September 2025 & 2026 
*Valid for new bookings made until 30 June 2025. Subject to availability.
Special Promotions for M/V Zafiro and M/V La Perla
 
Explore the wonders of the Peruvian Amazon aboard the boutique river cruises M/V Zafiro and M/V La Perla, and take advantage of two exclusive offers:
 
Special 2025 Departures – M/V La Perla
Book a 4-day expedition aboard the M/V La Perla and enjoy discounts on selected departures:
20% discount* on the following departures in 2025:
11 June l 27 July l 6 August l 27 August l 12 November l 19 November
Early Booking Discount for 2026
Secure the best early booking rates and enjoy 20% off:
20% discount* on all suites aboard the M/V Zafiro
20% discount* on all cabins aboard the M/V La Perla
*Valid for new bookings made until 30 July 2025. Subject to availability.
M/C Hermes – July to October Special
 
Take advantage of this limited-time offer and receive a free domestic air ticket when booking your Galápagos adventure aboard M/C Hermes.
Free Domestic Air Ticket* Included for select departures between July and October 2025.
*Valid for new book made until 31 July 2025. Subject to availability.
Special conditions apply.
Family Special with Antarpply Expeditions – 2025–26 Season
 
Create unforgettable family memories in Antarctica: Book a Superior Triple Cabin or Triple Suite aboard the M/V Ushuaia
1 child under 16 years travels free of charge when accompanied by 2 full-paying adults*
*Valid for select departures during the 2025–26 season. Subject to availability.
Early Booking Promotion with Antarctica21 Air Cruises
 
Antarctica21 rewards early planners with outstanding savings:
Book the Classic Antarctica or Polar Circle Air Cruise for the 2025–26 or 2026–27 seasons and enjoy:
Up to US$1,500 discount* per person on select departures aboard Magellan Explorer and Magellan Discoverer 
US$1,000 discount* per person on Patagonia & Chilean Fjords Sea Voyages 
*Valid for new bookings made until 30 June 2025. Subject to availability.
Contact us for more information and to make a booking.
  
FLIGHT NEWS SOUTH AMERICA
New International Airport Opens in Lima
The new Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima began its trial phase on 15 May, with full operations due to start on 1 June 2025.
No flights will operate between midnight on 31 May and noon on 1 June during the final switchover to the new terminal!
SAT has adjusted all affected flights and conducted site inspections to ensure smooth operations and best service for our guests.
The new terminal, located directly in front of the existing one, will replace the current facility, which will be repurposed for commercial use. The Costa del Sol Wyndham Airport Hotel, which is still connected to the old terminal, will remain open and offer shuttle transfers (20–30min) to the new terminal. The hotel group is also developing two new properties next to the new terminal: a 5-star hotel is set to open on 1 July, followed by a 3-star hotel at a later date.
Air Canada expands in South America
Air Canada is significantly strengthening its presence in South America by introducing several new destinations and resuming flights for the 2025/26 winter season:

 
From Toronto (YYZ):
 
- Rio (GIG) from Dec 4, 3x weekly
 
- Lima (LIM) from Dec 5, 2x weekly
 
- Cartagena (CTG) from Dec 20, 1x weekly
 
From Montreal (YUL):

- Lima (LIM) from Dec 5, 2x weekly
 
- Santiago (SCL) from Dec 16, 3x weekly
 
- Cartagena (CTG) from Dec 20, 1x weekly
sales@southamericantours.com southamericantours instagram facebook linkedin youtube
Argentina Chile Brazil Uruguay
Peru Bolivia Ecuador Colombia
South American Tours - Global Sales Office
Frankfurt am Main | Germany
Phone: +49 (0) 69 4058970 | Mail: sales@southamericantours.com
www.southamericantours.com
South American Tours - Sales Office North America
Mail: sales-america@southamericantours.com
South American Tours - Sales Office Italy
Mail: sales.italy@southamericantours.com
Imprint
South American Tours de Uruguay Agencia de Viajes S.A. | Ing. Carlos M. Maggiolo 438 Ap. 102 | 11300 Montevideo | Uruguay
Tel.: +59 82 71 19 211 | E-mail: info@southamericantours.com
Managing Director: Federico Büker | Registered Office: Montevideo | Local Court: Montevideo | Commercial Register: 31 (Ministry of Tourism) | VAT identification no.: 215224020014
Unsubscribe