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Brazil Intensive Cruise: Rio De Janeiro, Paraty & Ilhabela

4.7/5 Based on 3 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Cruise Advisor
Inside
$2,289
Oceanview
$2,499
Balcony
$3,019
Suite
$4,929
* Port charges, taxes and fees included
 Cruise Length
9 Days
 Cruise Starts
Rio de Janeiro
 Cruise Finishes
Buenos Aires
9 Day Brazil Intensive Cruise: Rio De Janeiro, Paraty & Ilhabela Itinerary (Azamara)
Countries Explored: Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina
Cruise Line
Azamara
Ship
Departures
Passengers
690
Crew
408
Launched
2000
Refurbished
2016
Cruise Code
RDJPI-8.1

Overview

Begin your journey in Rio de Janeiro and cruise through to Buenos Aires onboard Azamara Quest and enjoy exclusive savings and cruise inclusions with Azamara and Global Journeys.

Cruise Itinerary

Departs: 22:00

In Rio De Janeiro endless buildings flow around densely-forested mountains that roll down to an evocative waterfront. Incredible natural attractions, spontaneity that transforms everything into a party and world-famous monuments all make this city an unforgettable destination. Ships will dock at Pier Maua.

Top Things to Do in Rio De Janeiro:

  • Ascend Mt. Corcovado to get up close to the Christ the Redeemer statue
  • Relax on Ipanema or Copacabana beach
  • take a cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain
  • explore Tijuca National Park

Arrives: 08:00 Departs: 18:00

Parati, Brazil, enchants visitors with its well-preserved colonial architecture and cobblestone streets. This charming town, nestled between lush mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The historical centre is a delight to explore, with colourful buildings, quaint shops, and vibrant art galleries. Don't miss the Church of Santa Rita, an iconic 18th-century landmark.

Nature lovers will enjoy the nearby Serra da Bocaina National Park, offering hiking trails with stunning views and waterfalls. Parati's bay, dotted with islands and secluded beaches, is ideal for boat tours and swimming in crystal-clear waters. The town also boasts a rich cultural scene, with festivals and traditional cuisine that highlight Brazil's diverse heritage.

Arrives: 08:00 Departs: 18:00

Ilhabela, located off the coast of São Paulo in Brazil, is an archipelago renowned for its pristine natural beauty and adventurous allure. The name Ilhabela translates to 'beautiful island,' a title well-deserved given its mountainous landscape, cascading waterfalls, and stunning beaches. The island is a paradise for outdoor activities, offering excellent opportunities for hiking, sailing, and diving, especially around the wrecks scattered around its waters.

The historic village, with its charming cobblestone streets, hosts quaint shops and cafes, while the island’s coast is dotted with sophisticated beachfront restaurants. Ilhabela also protects a substantial portion of the Atlantic rainforest, making it a vital ecological sanctuary where visitors can experience rich biodiversity and the tranquil beauty of untouched nature.

Arrives: 08:00 Departs: 18:00

Sao Paulo, Brazil's vibrant financial centre, is a melting pot of cultures and one of the most populous cities in the world. This city thrives on diversity, evident in its culinary scene that ranges from traditional Brazilian fare to world-class sushi, making it a gastronome’s delight. The bustling Mercado Municipal offers a taste of local flavours and exotic fruits in a striking setting featuring stained glass and vast domes.

Culturally, Sao Paulo is a powerhouse with an impressive array of museums, galleries, and theatres. The São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP) on Avenida Paulista houses a remarkable collection of Western art, displayed on clear perspex frames that seem to float in midair. For those who seek green spaces amidst the urban sprawl, Ibirapuera Park offers a serene retreat with its expansive grounds and cultural facilities.

Port:Santos

Santos, situated along the coast of São Paulo in Brazil, is best known for possessing the largest seaport in Latin America. This vibrant city combines rich history with an energetic present. The Coffee Museum, located in the city’s historic downtown, pays homage to the coffee boom which profoundly shaped the region's economy and culture.

For those interested in architecture, the seafront promenade features the iconic SESC building, renowned for its innovative design and cultural activities. The city also offers a lush escape with the Orchid Garden, home to a variety of tropical plants and flowers. Santos’ extensive beachfront, marked by the Garden Beach – the longest beachfront garden according to the Guinness Book of World Records – is ideal for leisurely walks or simply enjoying the coastal ambiance.

Spend the day sailing in style aboard your boutique hotel at sea. Indulge in a treatment at Sanctum Spa, stay ship shape with a class at our fitness center, or lounge the day away on our sunny pool deck. In the evening, savor inspired Italian cuisine at Aqualina, or relish in a classic steakhouse experience at Prime C. Plus, you’ll find plenty of exciting evening entertainment, from thrilling shows at Cabaret Lounge to intimate performances in the Living Room.

Arrives: 08:00 Departs: 18:00

Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay, boasts a relaxed atmosphere complemented by a rich cultural tapestry. This city is known for its captivating European-style architecture and broad boulevards like the famous Avenida 18 de Julio, which is lined with shops, cafes, and theatres. Key attractions include the historic Solis Theatre, a beacon of the performing arts, and the vibrant Mercado del Puerto, renowned for its steak and seafood.

The city’s coastline, with its rambla stretching over 20 kilometres along the serene Rio de la Plata, invites leisurely walks and offers ample space for cycling and jogging. Montevideo’s blend of cultural influences is especially evident in its music, particularly in the local tango scene, which visitors can experience in the city's lively milongas (tango clubs).

Arrives: 06:00

Passionate and alive with an infectious energy, Buenos Aires is a breathlessly romantic city, which blends colonial architecture with a down-to-earth Latin American clamour. Famed for steamy tango interplays and expertly seared steaks, this city is a fiery fiesta for the senses.

Visitors can choose to visit Caminito, the colourful street museum, shop at San Telmo Market, stroll through Recoleta Cemetery or cruise the Tigre River delta. Ships will dock at the Terminal de Pasajeros Benito Quinquela Martin which is a 30 minute drive from the airport and a 10 minute drive to the city centre.

Arrives: 09:00

Passionate and alive with an infectious energy, Buenos Aires is a breathlessly romantic city, which blends colonial architecture with a down-to-earth Latin American clamour. Famed for steamy tango interplays and expertly seared steaks, this city is a fiery fiesta for the senses.

Visitors can choose to visit Caminito, the colourful street museum, shop at San Telmo Market, stroll through Recoleta Cemetery or cruise the Tigre River delta. Ships will dock at the Terminal de Pasajeros Benito Quinquela Martin which is a 30 minute drive from the airport and a 10 minute drive to the city centre.

Note: Ship ports may not be located in the starting & ending cities listed. Port and transfer details will be provided in your travel documentation. The provided itinerary is for informational purposes only. Activities and sightseeing attractions listed may not be available or achievable within the time in port.

Life Onboard Azamara Quest

Azamara Quest
Azamara Quest

Modern and intimate, enjoy a boutique cruise journey just as special as the places she visits. Read more

The Azamara Experience
The Azamara Experience

Top tier authentic service complements Azamara’s intimate ships and inclusive amenities. Read more

Access Smaller Ports
Access Smaller Ports

Go places larger vessels can’t get to and linger longer to immerse yourself in unique destinations. Read more

Culinary Experiences
Culinary Experiences

Entice your tastebuds with a world of flavours at every meal, from classic choices to regionally inspired menus. Read more

AzAmazing Evenings
AzAmazing Evenings

Head ashore for a bespoke performance curated to showcase destinations and cultures around the world. Read more

On board Enrichment
On board Enrichment

Enjoy destination focussed programming and continue your cultural journey from shore to ship. Read more

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Azamara Quest Reviews (3) Most Recent 'Azamara Quest' Reviews

4.7
AVG. RATING 4.7 / 5
3 Reviews
5 Star
67%
4 Star
33%
3 Star
2 Star
1 Star
Enjoyable Spain Intensive Cruise   0 , NSW, Australia, May 2025
The cruise comprised eight Spanish port calls, one British, one Portuguese and one French during the 14 nights on board. There were many highlights but we would single out the two full days in Seville as the most enjoyable because it gave us the opportunity to explore the city at our own pace. In addition the call in Seville features a 6 hour daytime ...read more criuse up & down the Quadalquivir River with the ship being towed backwards for the last kilometre into the city. Seville has some magnificent architecture including the Cathedral & Tower,the Alcazar & Palace of Kings, the Plaza d'Espana and the Setas (world's largest wooden structure) - all within walking distance of the ship. Bourdeaux also produced a couple of gems - the Wine Museum and the Bassins des Lumieres (a German WW2 submarine base converted into a visual arts theatre). The only disappointment was the short stop in Lisbon when there was so much to see. We thought that an extra day in Lisbon and one less Spanish port would have been a better balance. Everything on board the Azamara Quest met expectations - good food, service, entertainment and port talks. And Global Journeys, as usual, did a good job throughout the booking process. An enjoyable cruise.
Croatia Intensive by Azamara   0 , ACT, Australia, Apr 2025
First the cruise - this is a well crafted selection of coastal Croatia and a small piece of Montenegro at Kotor, bookended by Venice. The Azamara Quest is an ideal selection for the journey with a very good ratio of passengers to crew (2:1). The crew is very helpful and attentive especially in the restaurants. The food is very good and there is a variety ...read more of restaurants and casual cafes from which to choose. Two restaurants are available if you wish to pay extra specialising in Italian food and steak.

The verandah stateroom plus is a very good option and is serviced daily by a valet, ours was very obliging and left a small sweet treat every evening. Shore excursions are expensive but well run. Try the Tuk Tuk options for local tours and other options is you want to take longer trips to inland areas, islands or nearby towns etc. Chioggia is difficult to get to by private transfer. There is a local bus service from Venice for about €6-7 and takes about an hour. However you still have to get to the embarkation point from the town - you cannot rely on taxis as there are only 4 in the town. The only option is travel from Venice or the airport with pre arranged transfer on embarkation and disembarkation. This is expensive and seems designed for those Northern Hemisphere clients.

If people want to position themselves the day before the cruise starts, spend overnight in Venice or the airport for transfer the following day. As there were only a few of us not using the Azamara transfers, the company didn’t seem interested in helping. Our plans were upset a bit because the bus we planned to get to Padua on May 1 wasn’t running because of a public holiday! Thankfully the other bus company got us back to Venice where caught the train to Venice. A message to Azamara to be a bit more client focussed would help us southerners! Overall it was a great experience which we would recommend and as all the Azamara ships are the same, we’d certainly consider them if we were to cruise again, e.g around Japan
Wonderful Croatian adventure 12 , SA, Australia, Jul 2023
This Azamara cruise was perfect for us. Plentiful good food and wine, very attentive service from all the crew and well organized interesting excursions. The highlights of the cruise for me were Dubrovnik and Montenegro. The only downside was the standard of entertainment, but I wouldn't hesitate to travel with Azamara again.

Brochure

Azamara The Americas (2025-26) Brochure

Azamara The Americas (2025-26)

Enjoy the luxury of having more time in more places with Azamara. Our small ships sail to sought-after locations like Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires but also to lesser-known ports that bring you closest to worldrenowned inland destinations like Machu Picchu and Tierra del Fuego. From ancient civilizations to contemporary cities, unique cultures, colorful...more history, and awe-inspiring natural wonders are part of your journey, no matter which direction you sail in the Americas and the Caribbean.

Availability USD USD Port charges, taxes and fees included.

Azamara Always Included

With Azamara, luxury isn't extra - it's Always Included.
Saturday 31 Jan 2026
Sunday 08 Feb 2026
Ship Azamara Quest
Inside
$2,289
View Cabins
Oceanview
$2,499
View Cabins
Balcony
$3,019
View Cabins
Suite
$4,929
View Cabins
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Azamara. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Azamara. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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