Peru Cruises

Peru, a country steeped in history and natural beauty, offers visitors an exhilarating blend of diverse landscapes, ancient cultures, and warm hospitality. From the Andes mountains to the Amazon rainforest, and the incredible Machu Picchu to the stunning coastlines, Peru is a destination that captivates every traveller’s heart. Fun fact: Peru is home to the Nazca Lines, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which features large geoglyphs etched into the desert floor—some of which are over 2,000 years old! A cruise to Peru allows you to experience rich traditions, sample delectable cuisine, and explore the breathtaking scenery while enjoying the comforts and amenities of your luxurious ship.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to Peru

• Princess Cruises operates a fleet of 17 ships, with 3 that feature itineraries including a visit to Peru. The Crown Princess and Sapphire Princess are highly regarded for their spacious staterooms and diverse dining experiences, which showcase the finest culinary options from around the world. Notably, the Crown Princess offers a unique film festival experience under the stars, offering a memorable evening for all guests. Most departures typically occur from Los Angeles or London (Dover), providing seamless embarkation for your Peruvian adventure.
• Holland America Line has a fleet of 11 ships, with 3 ships that sail to Peru. The Oosterdam and Zuiderdam are particularly notable for their elegant atmosphere and focus on cultural immersion through food and local experiences. These ships often include interesting lectures and local culinary demonstrations onboard. Departures happen primarily from Fort Lauderdale or San Antonio, ensuring smooth connections to the stunning coastal regions of Peru.
• Norwegian Cruise Line operates a total fleet size of 20 ships, with 1 dedicated to itineraries including Peru. The Norwegian Jade is known for its vibrant onboard activities and freestyle cruising, allowing passengers flexibility in dining and entertainment choices. Departures typically take place from Miami or Callao (Lima), providing an easy access point to immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Peru.
• Cunard features a fleet of 4 luxury ships, with 1 that offers itineraries to Peru. The Queen Victoria provides an elegant cruising experience, known for its outstanding dining and traditional afternoon teas. Departures most frequently occur from Santiago de Chile or Hamburg, ensuring a delightful embarkation into this beautiful South American destination.
• P&O Cruises operates a fleet of 7 ships, with 1 ship offering itineraries that include Peru. The Aurora is known for its classic cruising experience and friendly service, creating a welcoming onboard atmosphere ideal for travellers. Most cruises depart from Southampton, making it convenient for UK guests to start their adventure to Peru.

Luxury and Small Ship Options in Peru

• Oceania Cruises consists of 8 ships, with 6 that offer itineraries including Peru. The Marina and Vista are well-loved for their luxurious accommodations and award-winning dining experiences, featuring delectable regional cuisines. Departures are most frequent from Miami or Callao (Lima), ensuring a smooth entry into the breathtaking landscapes of Peru.
• Azamara Cruises operates a fleet of 4 ships, with 3 providing itineraries featuring Peru. The Azamara Onward and Azamara Journey focus on immersive cultural experiences and often have late-night port stays, allowing guests to enjoy local nightlife. Departures usually take place from Miami or Panama City, enabling easy access to your Peruvian adventure.
• Seabourn features a luxury fleet of 5 ships, with 2 that include itineraries to Peru. The Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Ovation are celebrated for their intimate cruising and finely tailored service, providing an unparalleled all-inclusive luxury experience. Departures commonly occur from Miami or Barbados, allowing for a luxurious entry to the captivating culture and beauty of Peru.
• Explora Journeys operates a fleet of 2 ships, both offering itineraries to Peru. The EXPLORA I and II are designed for luxury and relaxation, featuring wellness programs and exceptional cuisine. Departures usually occur from Miami or San Juan, setting a serene tone for your explorations of this stunning region.
• Fred Olsen operates a small fleet of 3 ships, with 2 dedicated to Peru itineraries. The Bolette and Balmoral are appreciated for their personal touch and classic cruising experience. Departures typically occur from Southampton, ensuring a pleasant embarkation for UK travellers excited to explore Peru.

Top Harbours and Activities in Peru

• Callao (Lima) – The primary port for most Peruvian cruises, Callao is close to the capital city of Lima. Explore the historic district and its colonial architecture, visit the Larco Museum, or indulge in the culinary scene, as Lima is regarded as South America’s gastronomic capital. Afterward, enjoy some time on the beautiful beaches around the area.
• Pisco – Known for its namesake spirit, Pisco is famous for its beautiful vineyards and the renowned Pisco Sour cocktail. Take a tour of the local distilleries to learn about the production process or visit the nearby Paracas National Reserve to explore incredible wildlife and scenery. Enjoy local dishes in the area, with seafood being a highlight!
• Puerto Plata – While traditionally known for its resorts, Puerto Plata is an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the Dominican Republic, with stunning beaches and adventure-focused activities. Enjoy cable car rides up the majestic Mount Isabel de Torres or relax on Playa Dorada for a day in the sun with local seafood dishes.
• San Juan, Puerto Rico – While technically not in Peru, San Juan is often visited during cruises, offering beautiful historic sites such as Castillo San Felipe del Morro and vibrant streets of Old San Juan, filled with colourful Spanish colonial architecture. Engulf yourself in local culture by tasting mofongo or enjoying refreshing piña coladas during your visit.
• Valparaíso – A charming port city in Chile, Valparaíso is renowned for its stunning hills and vibrant artwork. Explore the picturesque streets lined with colourful houses, ride the funiculars for panoramic city views, or indulge in the local gastronomy at cafes in this historic and artistic city.

The Best Times to Cruise to Peru

The climate in Peru varies by region but is generally mild and inviting year-round. From January to March, summer temperatures in coastal areas typically range from 20°C to 28°C, creating a perfect atmosphere for beach activities and exploration. Spring (April to June) is a popular time to visit, with temperatures averaging 15°C to 25°C, facilitating comfortable sightseeing and local celebrations. The winter months (July to September) are cooler, with temperatures dropping to about 10°C to 20°C on the coast; however, this season provides breathtaking views of the Andes as the skies clear without the heat of summer. As the weather warms in autumn (October to December), expect temperatures between 12°C and 22°C. This is also an excellent time to witness local harvest festivals.

Costs of Cruising to Peru

A typical one-week cruise to Peru generally costs between £800 and £1,500, with prices varying based on the cruise line and selected accommodations. Luxury cruises usually start at around £3,000 and can rise significantly based on included amenities. Onshore, expect to spend approximately £10 to £25 for meals at local restaurants, while drinks generally range from £3 to £8, allowing you to indulge in local flavours and specialties throughout your visit.

The stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and friendly locals of Peru are ready to welcome you! Start planning your unforgettable cruise holiday through Cruise1st now and embark on an incredible adventure through this magnificent region!