South America: The Cruise of a Lifetime
By Louise Wilson
My husband and I embarked on a South American cruise aboard Holland America’s Oosterdam from December 4th to the 18th last year, and it was truly the trip of a lifetime. From breathtaking scenery, the amazing wildlife and exceptional service, every part of the journey was fantastic.
The Oosterdam felt rather comfortable for a smaller ship. It was also recently refurbished in April 2025 with new carpeting, linens and furniture. The welcoming staff and excellent food made every day aboard a pleasure. We flew into Santiago, Chile, where Holland America arranged seamless transfers from the airport to the Sheraton Santiago Hotel and then to the ship in San Antonio the next day. Everything was smooth and stress-free thanks to them.
Ship: MS Oosterdam
Adventure and Incredible Scenery
The first stop on the cruise was in Puerto Montt, where we crossed whitewater rafting off our bucket list. In Puerto Chacabuco, we explored by kayak through pristine waters surrounded by mountains and the wilderness. Sailing through the Chilean Fjords was just as great, with incredible landscapes and large glaciers around every turn. You could see them from our cabin’s balcony, and it was such a wonderful view.
Penguins, Glaciers, and Bucket List Moments
At Punta Arenas, we visited Magdalena Island to see Magellanic penguins in their natural habitat, followed by a daylight cruise through Glacier Alley where we saw 5 glaciers appear one after another. In Ushuaia, we explored Tierra del Fuego National Park before cruising around Cape Horn in surprisingly calm waters. The highlight of the entire trip came at Volunteer Point in the Falkland Islands, where we spent time among King, Gentoo, and Magellanic penguins. Seeing baby Gentoo penguins with their parents and watching the penguins wander freely around us was an unforgettable experience. I’m thrilled that I was able to cross it off the bucket list too!
Exploring South America’s Cities
Montevideo offered a wonderful change of pace with its modern feel, walkable streets and incredible food. The best lunch we had here would have to be the beef ribs with fries, salad, and a bottle of wine which cost only about $40 USD! Our final stop was Buenos Aires, where we explored colourful neighbourhoods, visited the city’s oldest coffee shop, and toured the cemetery where Evita Perón is laid to rest. It was the perfect ending to our journey.
Service That Made the Difference
What truly tied the trip together was the exceptional service from Holland America. From the moment we arrived in Chile until the end of the cruise, everything was handled professionally and efficiently. The crew were kind, attentive, and committed to ensuring everyone had a wonderful time.
Final Thoughts
The cruise offered the perfect combination of adventure, scenery, culture, and relaxation. From whitewater rafting and kayaking to the glaciers, penguins, and amazing cities, every stop offered something special. If I had to choose one standout moment, Volunteer Point in the Falkland Islands would be at the top of the list. Seeing the penguins has always been a dream, but the entire journey was filled with experiences we will remember for the rest of our lives. I’m so happy my husband and I were able to experience this trip together.
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