Princess Cruises is set to return to Antarctica for the 2026/27 season, offering immersive South America itineraries.
Princess Cruises return to the White Continent includes new scenic routes and five immersive itineraries for the 2026/27 season.
A key development for the upcoming season is the deployment of the 3,560-guest Majestic Princess, a Royal-class ship making its debut in South America. The vessel will sail five distinct itineraries between November 2026 and January 2027, with six departures ranging in length from 15 to 33 days.
New to the programme is scenic cruising through the Beagle Channel Fjords and Glacier Alley—routes that will take guests past hanging and tidewater glaciers flowing from the Darwin Mountain Range.
The line also continues to operate under its commitment to environmentally responsible Antarctic tourism through membership in the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators (IAATO).
“From the natural wildlife, rugged coastlines and unique culture, the ultimate highlight of our upcoming 2026/27 cruise season is our return to Antarctica where we offer our guests the rare chance to visit one of the most remote and awe-inspiring places on earth,” said Terry Thornton, Chief Commercial Officer at Princess Cruises.
Programme Overview
The 2026–27 deployment features:
- Two overnight scenic experiences in the Antarctic Peninsula
- 17 destinations across 10 countries
- 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Peninsula Valdés from Puerto Madryn and Sitio Roberto Burle Marx from Rio de Janeiro
Key itineraries include:
- A 15-day Cape Horn & Glaciers sailing with scenic cruising and an overnight in Buenos Aires
- A 17-day Antarctica & South America itinerary with four days in the Antarctic region
- An 18-day Brazilian sailing featuring Rio, Uruguay, Barbados, and an overnight in Buenos Aires
The itineraries provide access to several major natural and cultural sites. Scenic cruising includes Gerlache Strait, Elephant Island, South Shetland Islands, and Glacier Alley.
Wildlife sightings may include whales, porpoises, leopard seals, and multiple species of penguins, particularly in the Falkland Islands, which host over one million penguins annually.
On land, cultural and visual landmarks such as Rio de Janeiro’s Corcovado and Sugarloaf mountains, Buenos Aires’ La Recoleta Cemetery, and Chile’s fjord-lined coast offer contrasting highlights to the icy landscapes of Antarctica.
Princess Cruises’ South America itineraries also highlight regional culture, from Argentina and Uruguay’s tango to Brazil’s samba. Guests can explore urban centres such as Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro, with opportunities to experience the region’s distinct food and wine cultures along the way.
Bookings made by June 14th, 2025 will include early reservation incentives. While pricing details are subject to variation, early bookings may include onboard credit of up to US$1,200 per stateroom and up to US$400 in shore excursion credit.
Further offers—such as fare reductions and upgrade opportunities—are also available during the early booking window.
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