Cruise Advice
Duration
9 Nights
Journey Type
Cruise only (Please call for flight options)
Ports
6 Ports
25-26 January
Setting sail from Lima (Callao)
Peru's underrated capital enjoys a fine setting on the Pacific coast, and the handsome colonial-era buildings surrounding the Plaza de Armas give clues to Lima's distinguished history. For three centuries this was the capital of the Spanish Americas, when the city grew rich on the back of plundered Inca gold. Modern Lima can be a little hectic, the roads often clogged with traffic, but the historic centre has an undeniable charm to it, and in recent years a clutch of innovative restaurants have helped to put Peruvian cuisine on the map.
Don't miss
The pre-Columbian citadel of Pachacamac is a must see, just a few miles from the city and a key Inca site.
27 January
Peru: Pisco
Pisco is best known for its eponymous grape brandy, the key ingredient in a pisco sour cocktail. From here you can explore the desert landscapes of the Paracas Reserve, discover the rich marine life of the Ballestas Islands or fly over the mysterious Nazca Lines.
28 January
At sea
29 January
Chile: Iquique
Situated in the far north of Chile, the golden sands of Iquique attract both sunseekers and thrillseekers; surfing and paragliding are particularly popular here thanks to the clear skies and the wind coming in off the Pacific. The city is also home to some charming old mansions, remnants of a 19th century nitrate mining boom.
30 January
Chile: Antofagasta
31 January
At sea
1 February
Chile: Coquimbo
The busy port of Coquimbo is the gateway to the charming colonial city of La Serena, one of the oldest in Chile, where you’ll find attractive architecture and a fine stretch of beach. Other nearby sights include the fertile Elqui and Limarí Valleys, home to excellent wineries and ancient petroglyphs.
2-3 February
Arriving in Valparaíso
Characterful, colourful and a little chaotic, the port city of Valparaíso enjoys a somewhat awkward setting, scattered across 45 vertiginous hills. Thanks to this difficult topography the city streets are punctuated by steep staircases and funicular elevators, and energetic explorers will be rewarded with wonderful views of the pastel hued buildings that hug the slopes. Valparaíso's most famous former resident was the great Chilean poet Pablo Neruda, and you can visit one of his former residences, La Sebastiana, which now houses a small museum.
Our tip
Amble through the city, taking the really cheap cable cars when you can to help you up and down the hills!
Your home from home
Arguably one of the finest ships at sea returned to the ultra-luxury cruise sector in 2023, newly refurbished and enhanced.
What we love
Following extensive refurbishment, Crystal Serenity has emerged reinvigorated with contemporary, spacious accommodations and an industry-leading space to guest ratio. The array of social areas, wide-ranging entertainment and world-class dining options deliver the ultimate in luxury cruising.
| Capacity | 740 Guests |
|---|---|
| Style | A new era of Crystal: Reduced guest capacity means nearly one staff member per guest and together with enhanced contemporary accommodations, award-winning cuisine and extensive entertainment options means this is a true luxury experience. |
| Inclusions |
|
Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Where to stay in Lima
We like the Country Club Lima Hotel for a bit of colonial style.
See more of Peru
Travel south from Lima to Nazca to see the extraordinary Nazca Lines – well worth the journey, and stay on at the beach if you have time to spare.
Where to stay in Valparaíso
The 23 room Palacio Astoreca comprises two buildings, including a completely restored national monument.
Around Valparaíso
For contrast, visit clean and orderly Viña del Mar just up the coast.
