South America Cruise Recap

Life Onboard Scenic Eclipse

Scenic Eclipse isn’t just a cruise ship—it’s what they call a “Discovery Yacht,” and it truly feels like a floating luxury hotel with a very intimate atmosphere.

My Daily Life Onboard

• Waking up to ocean views from my private verandah
• Coffee delivered by my butler
• Multiple incredible dining options, all included
• Lounges and quiet spaces with panoramic views

Butler Service

• Morning coffee delivered to your room
• Help unpacking and packing
• Drinks, snacks, and anything you need brought to you
• Laundry and daily details handled seamlessly

The Marina

One of the coolest parts of Scenic Eclipse is “The Marina”—the back of the yacht actually opens directly into the ocean.

• Paddleboard
• Kayak
• Swim right off the yacht
• Float in beautiful destinations

Mahjong with a View

We ended up playing a lot of mahjong onboard, and there were so many beautiful places to play—observation lounges, outdoor deck areas, and cozy indoor spaces with ocean views.

Itinerary Highlights

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Our journey began in Buenos Aires, a city full of energy, culture, and amazing food.

Montevideo, Uruguay

After a short city tour, we traveled into the countryside to visit Estancia La Rábida, a traditional working ranch.

• A 3,650-acre farm with corn, wheat, and barley
• Over 650 milking cows producing thousands of liters of milk daily
• I even milked a cow
• Stunning scenery where farmland meets coastal cliffs along the Río de la Plata
• Traditional Uruguayan asado and regional wines

Punta del Este, Uruguay

We began with a scenic drive through Punta del Este, often called the “Saint-Tropez of Latin America.”

• Upscale neighborhoods and famous wavy bridges
• Casa Pueblo designed by artist Carlos Páez Vilaró
• A 13-story structure inspired by birds’ nests
• Filled with artwork, terraces, and winding corridors

Porto Belo / Camboriú, Brazil

• Scenic drive to Balneário Camboriú
• Cable car ride through the Atlantic Forest to panoramic viewpoints
• Stop at Laranjeiras Beach
• Schooner boat ride back along the coastline

Or, if you’re like me and prefer adventure, I chose to zip line from 240 meters high instead of spending the day on the beach—and it was incredible.

Ilhabela, Brazil

• Small boat ride to the ecological sanctuary of Ilha das Cabras
• Snorkeling in crystal-clear waters
• Tropical fish and peaceful natural surroundings
• Great local shopping

And if you love Havaianas, this is a great place to stock up because they were about half the price compared to the U.S.

Paraty, Brazil

One of my favorites! We explored the only fjord in Brazil by speedboat.

• Jungle-covered mountains
• Quiet, secluded setting far from crowds
• Swim stops at pristine beaches
• Stops included Engenho Beach, Costa Beach, and Ilhote Grande

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The perfect grand finale—iconic, vibrant, and unforgettable. From dramatic mountains to world-famous beaches, Rio is full of energy and beauty.

• Disembarked around 9:30am
• Met our private guide right at the port
• Returned to the airport around 6:00pm for a 9:30pm flight

What we fit into one amazing day:

Final Thoughts

This itinerary is perfect for travelers who want:

• A mix of culture, nature, and luxury
• Something beyond the typical Caribbean or Mediterranean cruise
• Smaller, more intimate ship experiences
• Truly immersive, unique destinations