Best time to cruise South America

[STM]

We've just about decided to book the Rotterdam for 2008 - the 16 day SA Explorer. What would be the best time (between Jan. and March) to see the most, and enjoy the best weather? We're pretty realistic about what to expect vis a vis rough seas, rain etc.

[RuthC]

Last time I did that cruise it was 22 days starting early January; next time is 20 days starting late January (both include Antarctica).

In areas near the equator it's going to be hot/humid all the time, so I suppose it really doesn't make much difference from January-March. It's when you get further south that the temperatues will change. Remember that January is like July in the northern hemisphere; March is like September.
I would rather be at those very southern ports in January when it's at it's "warmest". We had some pretty chilly winds down there. Punta Arenas was downright cold.

[R&CCruisers]

We did this trip (not the Antarctic segment) the first 2 weeks in February, 2005 and it was very mild with calm seas. However, the sailing before us had been very cold and rough so anything is possible. Pack accordingly and enjoy--it's a wonderful trip and I'd do it again!

[STM]

Thanks Ruth! I think we'll be leaning towards early March. We're from the northeast so less that optimal weather conditions don't bother us - just the pesky job of packing light tho' appropriately. Did you use HAL flights or book your own - wondering about their Air/Sea department as well.

[RuthC]

I can't exactly remember if I did the flights or if HAL did them; I think I did them.
My TA made the arrangements. I booked a coach round-trip from home to Miami, stayed overnight there, then went business class to Rio on an ovenight flight. I did business class from Santiago to Miami on the return, then picked up the return on that Miami-home portion. That doesn't sound like a HAL plan. ;)

When I go next January I think I'll fly to Rio without a break. Last time I boarded the ship in Rio, but we had two days and an overnight and I never left the ship---I was exhausted! I don't feel like I've been to Rio. It might be a better idea to get the rest after the flight, but before boarding by doing one night in a hotel there.
I'll have to think about it.

Guess that doesn't give you any info on HAL's air/sea dept, does it? :rolleyes: