Lead Pricing
| Interior | Outside | Balcony | Suite |
|---|---|---|---|
| Request Price | Request Price | Request Price | Request Price |
Art inspires. Awakens your emotions and stimulates your thoughts.
In the quiet calm of morning, your private veranda becomes a place of true inspiration. Surrounded by the magnificence of the dawning day, at one with the vista of sea and sky, in awe of nature and the vast beauty of this world. The shoreline of the next port slides closer and closer into view, and with it an undeniable anticipation of things to come and the promise of limitless possibilities.
Silversea creates exceptional ocean journeys with unique opportunities to explore remote ports-of-call from an intimate haven of incomparable luxury, each voyage a unique masterpiece. Discover genuine European expertise reflected in every detail, from our tranquil all-suite accommodation and uncompromising service to distinctive fine dining and a carefree all-inclusive philosophy.
Our guests hail from across the globe, yet share an appreciation for the spectrum of choice offered in Silversea’s array of exotic destinations and exclusive explorations ashore. By blending these elements together with enrichment experiences, each new port becomes more than a destination, it becomes a state of mind, transcending the traditional concepts of cruising. It is this distinction that has earned Silversea the reputation of World’s Best.
ALL-INCLUSIVE VALUE
COMPLIMENTARY BEVERAGES SERVED THROUGHOUT THE SHIP An extensive selection of fine wines, champagne, spirits, bottled water and soft drinks are yours to enjoy — all courtesy of Silversea.
IN-SUITE BEVERAGE CABINET STOCKED WITH OUR COMPLIMENTS Besides the chilled bottle of champagne that awaits you, every suite features a beverage cabinet stocked with your preferred assortment of complimentary beverages.
COMPLIMENTARY IN-SUITE DINING AND 24-HOUR ROOM SERVICE A formal dinner served course-by-course, a late-night snack, or a full breakfast delivered at your request — with no charge and no tipping.
COMPLIMENTARY SILVERSEA EXPERIENCE® A shoreside event exclusively for Silversea guests on select voyages. Recent outings have included dinner in the desert in Namibia and a concert at the ruins of Ephesus.
A FULL SPECTRUM OF ENTERTAINMENT AND ENRICHMENT Production shows, classical concerts, and folkloric performances. Multi-tiered show lounge. Lectures by world affairs experts, renowned authors and destination specialists.
COMPLIMENTARY TRANSPORTATION INTO TOWN Roundtrip transportation from the pier to the heart of town in most ports of call.
Silversea … The art of travel. The art of good living.
A quiet sanctuary to escape to on your cruise. The sitting area has plenty of room to relax. Large picture windows frame panoramic ocean views. The perfect backdrop for breakfast in bed. Silver Wind Vista Suites accommodate three guests.
One bedroom: 240 ft² / 22m²
One bedroom: Suite 738: 325 ft² / 30m²
SUITE FEATURES:
Large picture window providing panoramic ocean views
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Sitting area
Marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Unlimited Standard Wifi
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
A Silversea signature, the Veranda Suite is spacious and welcoming. Veranda suites offer floor-to-ceiling glass doors which open onto a furnished private teak veranda. Each spectacular sunset feels like it is yours alone. Some Veranda Suites accommodate three guests. A must for the world’s best cruise line.
One bedroom: 295 ft² / 27m² including veranda
SUITE FEATURES:
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Sitting area
Marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Unlimited Standard Wifi
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
The Midship Veranda Suite offers unbeatable views. A Silversea signature. Spacious and welcoming. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a furnished private teak veranda. Each spectacular sunset feels like it is yours alone. The Midship Veranda Suite offers a preferred central location with identical accommodation to a Veranda Suite. No top cruise line would be complete without such a luxury.
One bedroom: 295 ft² / 27m² including veranda
SUITE FEATURES:
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Sitting Area
Marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Unlimited Standard Wifi
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
A mark of distinction. Sumptuous. Spacious. Rich textures and panoramic views surround you with distinguished luxury. The perfect summary of The Medallion Suite offered by the world’s best cruise line.
One bedroom: Suite 741: 667 ft² / 62m²
One bedroom: Suites 801–804: 490 ft² / 45m² including veranda
SUITE FEATURES:
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors (Suites 801–804 only)
Three large picture windows providing panoramic ocean views (Suite 741 only)
Living room with sitting area
Separate dining area (Suite 741 only)
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with full-sized tub and separate shower (Suite 741 has full-sized whirlpool bath and shower)
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Unlimited Premium Wifi
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at Officer’s Table
For those wanting more space, Silver Suites are ideal. Stylish and sophisticated. Separate dining and living rooms. Larger verandas. Situated midship on the Silver Wind. Perfection in design for comfortable living. Silver Suites accommodate three guests.
One bedroom: 541 ft² / 50m² including veranda
SUITE FEATURES:
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Living room (with convertible sofa to accommodate an additional guest)
Sitting area
Separate dining area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Unlimited Premium Wifi
Flat screen TV(s)
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Stately. Commanding and majestic. Perfect for entertaining. The Royal suite lives up to its name. Enough living space to roam. The pinnacle of good living. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two bedroom by adjoining with a Veranda Suite.
One bedroom: 736 ft² / 69m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,031 ft² / 96m² including veranda
SUITE FEATURES:
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two-bedroom has additional veranda
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with full-sized whirlpool tub; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down duvet covers
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Unlimited Premium Wifi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Expertly designed and exquisitely appointed. The Grand Suite on the Silver Wind ideal for entertaining friends or enjoying a quiet dinner “at home”. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two bedroom by adjoining with a Veranda Suite.
One bedroom: 1,019 ft² / 95m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,314 ft² / 122m² including veranda
SUITE FEATURES:
Two teak verandas with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two-bedroom has additional veranda
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with full-sized whirlpool tub; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down duvet covers
Plush robes and slippers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Unlimited Premium Wifi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content
The name says it all. A stylish apartment. Prestigious and classic. For those who seek the superlative level of space, comfort and service on board. The Owner’s Suite is available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two bedrooms (as illustrated) by adjoining with a Vista Suite so you can enjoy your luxury cruise in style.
One bedroom: 587 ft² / 55m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 827 ft² / 77m² including veranda
SUITE FEATURES:
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two- bedroom has additional large picture window
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with full-sized whirlpool tub and separate shower (Suite 737 only; Suite 734 has tub/shower combination), plus a powder room; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with shower
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Unlimited Premium Wifi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in Le Champagne, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Stately. Commanding and majestic. Perfect for entertaining. The Royal suite lives up to its name. Enough living space to roam. The pinnacle of good living. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two bedroom by adjoining with a Veranda Suite.
One bedroom: 736 ft² / 69m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,031 ft² / 96m² including veranda
SUITE FEATURES:
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two-bedroom has additional veranda
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with full-sized whirlpool tub; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down duvet covers
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Unlimited Premium Wifi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Expertly designed and exquisitely appointed. The Grand Suite on the Silver Wind ideal for entertaining friends or enjoying a quiet dinner “at home”. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two bedroom by adjoining with a Veranda Suite.
One bedroom: 1,019 ft² / 95m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,314 ft² / 122m² including veranda
SUITE FEATURES:
Two teak verandas with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two-bedroom has additional veranda
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with full-sized whirlpool tub; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down duvet covers
Plush robes and slippers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Unlimited Premium Wifi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content
The name says it all. A stylish apartment. Prestigious and classic. For those who seek the superlative level of space, comfort and service on board. The Owner’s Suite is available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two bedrooms (as illustrated) by adjoining with a Vista Suite so you can enjoy your luxury cruise in style.
One bedroom: 587 ft² / 55m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 827 ft² / 77m² including veranda
SUITE FEATURES:
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two- bedroom has additional large picture window
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with full-sized whirlpool tub and separate shower (Suite 737 only; Suite 734 has tub/shower combination), plus a powder room; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with shower
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Unlimited Premium Wifi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in Le Champagne, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Al fresco dining with panoramic ocean views. Warm clubby spaces for evening cocktails with friends. The plush comfort of your ocean-view suite after a day of incredible sights. Welcome home to the luxury cruise ship, Silver Wind. Timelessly elegant yet luxuriously relaxed, Silver Cloud’s sleek sister ship strikes the perfect balance of yacht-like intimacy combined with the space, amenities and diversions typically reserved for larger vessels. Warm welcomes and gracious personalized service inspire our guests to call Silver Wind their “home away from home” – join us and discover the charms of Silver Wind.
Ship Profile & Stats
- Length: 514 ft
- Tonnage: 17400 tons
- Maiden Voyage: 1994
- Refurbished: 2017
- Passenger Capacity (dbl): 296
- Crew Nationality: International
- Officer Nationality: Italian
- Dining Staff Nationality: International
- Ship Registration: Italy
Ship Facilities
- The Bar
- Saletta
- Internet Cafe
- Laundrette
- 1 Swimming Pool(s)
- The Restaurant
- 4 Elevator(s)
- Library
- 2 Whirlpool(s)
- Casino
- Boutiques
- Conference / Card Room
- Show Lounge
- La Terrazza
- Panorama Lounge
- The Humidor
- Pool Bar
- Pool Grill
- Observation Lounge
- Fitness Centre
- Spa / Beauty Salon
Cruise Itinerary
| Date | Activity | Arrive | Depart |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02 Mar '22 | Ushuaia, Argentina |
05:00 PM | |
| 03 Mar '22 | At sea | ||
| 04 Mar '22 | At sea | ||
| 05 Mar '22 | At sea | ||
| 06 Mar '22 | South Georgia, South Atlantic Ocean |
06:30 PM | overnight |
| 06 Mar '22 | South Georgia, South Atlantic Ocean |
overnight | |
| 07 Mar '22 | At sea | ||
| 08 Mar '22 | South Georgia, South Atlantic Ocean |
overnight | |
| 08 Mar '22 | South Georgia, South Atlantic Ocean |
12:00 PM | |
| 09 Mar '22 | Port Stanley, Falkland Islands |
07:00 AM | 04:00 PM |
| 10 Mar '22 | At sea | ||
| 11 Mar '22 | At sea | ||
| 12 Mar '22 | West Point, Falkland Islands |
06:00 AM | 11:30 AM |
| 13 Mar '22 | Saunders Island, Falklands |
03:00 PM | 08:00 PM |
| 14 Mar '22 | Puerto Deseado, Argentina |
08:00 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 15 Mar '22 | At sea | ||
| 16 Mar '22 | At sea | ||
| 17 Mar '22 | Camarones, Argentina |
09:30 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 17 Mar '22 | Puerto Madryn, Argentina |
08:00 AM | 08:00 PM |
| 18 Mar '22 | At sea | ||
| 19 Mar '22 | At sea | ||
| 20 Mar '22 | Buenos Aires, Argentina |
01:00 PM | |
| 21 Mar '22 | Buenos Aires, Argentina |
All itineraries and ports of call at the discretion of the cruise line subject to local weather conditions and may change without notice.
19 Night cruise departing from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires onboard Silver Wind.
As if the pristine terrain and plethora of wildlife of the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and Antarctica wasn’t enough! Prepare for one of the world’s most phenomenal phenomenons with the total lunar eclipse of 2021. Be on the eclipse’s path and experience total blackout as the moon blocks out 100% of the sun’s light on 4th December. We cannot stress how exciting this is – be one of the lucky few to join us aboard.
Highlights of this cruise:
Ushuaia, Argentina
A southerly frontier – on the cusp of wild nature and extraordinary adventures – the excitement in Ushuaia is palpable. Prepare for memorable exploits amid the extremes of this southerly location – as you adventure into the colossal scenery of the fractured Tierra del Fuego and beyond. Known as the ‘End of the World’ Ushuaia looks out across the Beagle Channel, and is surrounded by the Martial Mountains to the north. Despite its remote location, Ushuaia is a surprisingly busy and lively resort, with lots to keep its visitors entertained. For many people, Ushuaia is their last glimpse of anything resembling a city, before they jump off the map into the wilderness, to answer the call of immense national parks or Antarctic expeditions. One of the most dramatic landscapes on the planet – Argentina’s land of fire, National Park Tierra del Fuego, is a place of titanic natural forces and limitless beauty.
South Georgia, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
Charcoal-black mountains ladled with snow, giant glaciers and thriving wildlife combine to make South Georgia one of the great natural islands. Adventure to these far flung lands – where the animals are in charge and humans come a distant second. Here you’ll witness a cacophony of calling birds, natural set pieces like elephant seals clashing and thrashing, and crowds of colourful king penguins stretching out as far as the eye can see. An overseas territory of the UK, these isolated, subantarctic islands once formed a remote whaling centre – and you can still visit the former whaling stations. Nowadays the giants of the sea are free to cruise the icy waters uninhibited.
Stanley, Falkland Islands
Tiny Stanley, capital of the Falklands, seems in many ways like a British village fallen out of the sky. Many homes are painted in bright colours, adding visual appeal to this distant outpost. Not far offshore, the wreck of the Lady Elizabeth, is one of the many vessels remaining as a silent testimonial to the region’s frequent harsh weather conditions. The islands, also known by their Spanish name of Islas Malvinas, are home to arguably more tuxedo-clad inhabitants of the penguin variety than human residents. Various species, such as Gentoo, Magellanic and the more elusive King penguins, either live here permanently or use the Falklands as a stopover on their migration route. Darwin found the islands’ flora and fauna fascinating – no doubt you will, too.
West Point Island, Falkland Islands
Located slightly northwest of West Falkland, West Point Island is used for sheep farming and nature observations. Peale’s dolphins and the distinctive black and white markings of the Commerson’s dolphin can usually be seen in the waters around West Point Island. Rolling moorland and steep cliffs make for great photographic opportunities, but the main attraction is the Devil’s Nose, a cliffside colony of Black-browed Albatrosses nesting side-by-side with feisty Rockhopper Penguins. Magellanic Penguins and Magellanic Cormorants can also be found on the island.
Puerto Deseado, Argentina
Puerto Deseado (Port Desire) is a city and fishing port located along the estuary of the Deseado River in the Patagonia region of Argentina. The estuary is a natural reserve and was visited in 1833 by Darwin, who described the area as one of the most secluded places he had ever seen, a “rocky crevice in the wild plain.†Puerto Deseado has a population of 15,000, with an economy based primarily on the fishing and tourism industries. Tourists come to Puerto Deseado mostly to view the estuary’s diverse fauna. Among other sea birds, there are two types of penguins (Magellanic and Rockhopper) as well as the incredible black and white Commerson’s dolphins that may be spotted jumping out of the water during mating season. The port is also a spot from which Isla Pinguino (the Island of Penguins) can be easily reached, just over 12 miles south/southeast from Puerto Deseado. On land, visitors can visit the rail museum (EstacioÌn del Ferrocarril PatagoÌnico) or study the examples of Spanish and English architecture and sailing artifacts that remain from both countries attempting to settle here in the 17th and 18th centuries.
Puerto Madryn, Argentina
Approaching from Ruta 3, it’s hard to believe that the horizon line of buildings perched just beyond the windswept dunes and badlands is the most successful of all coastal Patagonia settlements. But once you get past the outskirts of town and onto the wide coastal road known as the Rambla, the picture begins to change. Ranged along the clear and tranquil Golfo Nuevo are restaurants, cafés, dive shops, and hotels, all busy—but not yet overcrowded—with tourists from around the world.Puerto Madryn is more a base for visiting nearby wildlife-watching sites like PenÃnsula Valdés and Punta Tombo than a destination in its own right. The town’s architecture is unremarkable, and beyond a walk along the coast there isn’t much to do. Indeed, even the few museums serve mainly to introduce you to the fauna you’ll see elsewhere. The exception is the beginning of whale season (May through July), when the huge animals cavort right in the bay before heading north—you can even walk out alongside them on the pier. During these months it’s worth the extra expense for a room with a sea view.The many tour agencies and rental-car companies here make excursion planning easy. Aim to spend most of your time here on one- or two-day trips exploring the surroundings. Note that competition is fierce between tourism operators in destinations such as Puerto Madryn and Puerto Pirámides on PenÃnsula Valdés. Take information that tour operators and even the tourism office give you about these with a grain of salt: they often exaggerate Madryn’s virtues and other areas’ flaws.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Glamorous and gritty, Buenos Aires is two cities in one. What makes Argentina’s capital so fascinating is its dual heritage—part European, part Latin American. Plaza de Mayo resembles a grand square in Madrid, and the ornate Teatro Colón would not be out of place in Vienna. But you’ll know you’re in South America by the leather shoes for sale on cobbled streets and impromptu parades of triumphant soccer fans. Limited-production wines, juicy steaks, and ice cream in countless flavors are among the old-world imports the city has perfected.