15 Day Brazil's Vibrant Coast

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Cruise Length

15 Days

Cruise Starts

Bridgetown

Cruise Finishes

Rio de Janeiro

15 Day Brazil's Vibrant Coast Itinerary (Viking)

Countries Explored: Barbados, French Guiana, Brazil

Cruise Line

Viking

34 Reviews

Ship

Viking Octantis

Passengers

378

Crew

260

Launched

2022

Cruise Code

VKBVC-R

Overview

Enjoy a tropical sojourn south from Barbados and along the Brazilian coast, on a journey dotted with vibrant cities, historic architecture, lush rainforests and white-sand beaches. From sleepy Îles du Salut and lively Belém, 'Gateway to the Amazon,' to bustling Rio de Janeiro, you will encounter a melting pot of cultures, rhythms and flavors that makes this region one of the most intriguing on the planet.

Itinerary

Arrive and meet your fellow travelers and expedition leaders on board your ship. Settle in to your stateroom and attend a briefing for the following day.

While cruising to our next port of call, you can spend the day learning more about oceanic currents and ecosystems as you travel across the world's second-largest ocean. Join the Viking Resident Scientists to deepen your understanding of our planet.

Call on Île Royale (Royal Island), one of the three Îles du Salut that belong to the French Guiana mainland. These three 'Islands of Salvation' were a much-feared penal colony for the most notorious French criminals. You will see monkeys in the wild, as well as tropical birds and small rodent-like mammals as you explore, then admire scenic views over the whole island.

Study how currents off the coast of Brazil influence the larger oceanic currents of the Atlantic. Learn more about the Brazil Current, a warm water current that flows south along the Brazilian coast to the mouth of the Plata River.

Today, explore the city at the mouth of the Amazon; bustling Belém is known for the many mango trees that grace its boulevards and squares. Witness the fascinating vestiges of old Portugal along its streets: the soaring neoclassical baroque Cathedral of Sé, the waterfront Ver-o-Peso market brimming with all manner of local goods and the intricately painted azulejos on colonial buildings.

Enjoy a second day to explore Belém. Experience life along the numerous channels that comprise the Guamá River during a journey to the village of Boa Vista do Acará, where you will meet the locals, known as Ribeirinhos. You will also have an opportunity to stroll through the historic Cidade Velha (Old City), marveling at local landmarks before enjoying a cooking demonstration and tasting of a traditional specialty.

Relax on board and visit The Nordic Spa. So you can deepen your understanding of this area, Viking Resident Scientists offer lectures and workshops.

Navigate the maze of waterways that wind their way through the heart of Recife Antigo, the old city, and past opulent colonial buildings that line the banks. Learn how an NGO is helping the once-struggling Ilha de Deus (God's Island) prosper through sustainable practices. Marvel at the power of Primavera Falls, or spend the day relaxing in the Brazilian countryside at a working farm.

Relax on board and join the Viking Resident Scientists to deepen your understanding of the undersea geology of the region.

As the first capital of Brazil, Salvador de Bahia's roots go back to the 16th century. The city has preserved many Renaissance buildings while retaining its unique blend of European, African and South American influences. Enjoy a walking tour through the maze of bustling streets to explore this diverse and vibrant city. Learn about the complex ecosystem of Dunes Park during a guided hike and discover the Atlantic Forest while cruising the Pojuca River.

Learn about the importance of the Abrolhos Seascape, the south Atlantic's largest and most biodiverse ecosystem. Spread across 37,000 square miles, this seascape is home to a large concentration of unique coral structures and is an important habitat for endangered sea turtle species.

Búzios was a sleepy fishing port before French actress Brigitte Bardot visited in 1964. Soon wealthy international visitors started to arrive, attracted by its beautiful beaches, lush landscapes and a tranquil, carefree atmosphere. Discover Búzios charm as you stroll the cobbled streets, browsing the art galleries and boutique shops of this upscale resort. Anchor offshore on a catamaran for a swim or snorkel among colorful coral reefs and tropical fish.

The Cidade Maravilhosa, or 'Marvelous City,' is blessed with a stunning setting so unique that UNESCO gave it World Heritage Site status. Gaze at the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue perched atop Corcovado mountain and admire the azure-blue waters as they lap against the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema. Take a cable car to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain and marvel at the panoramic vistas below.

Disembark your ship and transfer to the airport for your flight home or extend your cruise with a stay in Paraty or Iguazú Falls.