During the cooler months of the year in the US, American cruisers often take some time to get away from the chill by embarking on a ship destined for ports in the sunny Caribbean. A few cruisers, though, opt instead to take their winter ocean voyage a little farther away, and head for the beautiful beaches and rhythmic samba music of the eternally winter-free destination of Brazil.
The Atlantic coast of South America presents a different kind of cruise experience than the Caribbean. With a cuisine, culture, and climate all its own, Brazil offers cruisers unique opportunities to experience gorgeous beaches and beach-goers, high-fashion shopping, and a uniquely passionate culture defined by music and dance.
Santos
The beginning and ending point of many Brazilian cruises, Santos is the gateway between sprawling, exciting São Paolo—the largest city in Brazil—and the Atlantic Ocean.
Ilha Grande
A protected tropical island park, Ilha Grande has no large dock facilities, so cruisers are ferried to shore by tender. Aside from fantastic opportunities to get close to nature, the island’s quaint village of Vila do Abraão also features restaurants where guests can enjoy amazingly fresh seafood and other local specialties.
Búzios
Located on a quiet little bay, cruisers get to this popular beach town by tender. This rustic fishing village features excellent eateries and shopping, as well as a statue of French model and actress Brigitte Bardot, who spent many vacations here during her heyday in the 1960s.
Rio de Janeiro
One of the busiest port cities in South America, the “Marvelous City” of Rio de Janeiro draws countless tourists every year to experience famous sights like the beaches at Copacabana and Ipanema, as well as the massive Christ the Redeemer statue atop Corcovado Mountain.
Salvador
A little rough and tumble in places, Salvador offers a fascinating historic district and the Mercado Modelo, where visitors can get a little souvenir shopping done.
Ilhéus
Gorgeous architecture and a rich historic old town are the defining features of beautiful Ilhéus. The port of call also has excellent beaches that are perfect for snorkeling, fishing, or simply relaxing.
