South America & Rio Carnival Gay Group Cruise 2025
9 nights from/to Buenos Aires, Argentina
February 28 – March 09, 2025
MSC Cruises Poesia
Cruising to the beat of the music! Experience the unmatched beauty of South America on gay group cruise around South America. On this 9-night cruise you'll set sail round-trip from the contemporary urban capital of Argentina, Buenos Aires. The highlight of our cruise will be two days in exciting Rio de Janeiro to celebrate the annual Rio Carnival! When you set sail with MSC Cruises to South America, you’ll discover a land of tropical mystery, soaring mountains and an unconventional European influence. It's the perfect time to get away for the South American summer. And you will sail on MSC Cruises ship, Poesia!
This is the land of Samba and Tango, a continent where you can still taste the atmosphere of a lost world.
South America is an experience to be lived through the senses; let yourself be swept away by its high spirits and lively culture. A journey on an MSC Cruise is an experience, a chance to discover the natural beauty offered by environmental sanctuaries straight out of an adventure novel: endless white beaches and crystal clear waters. The main coastal cities are real gems waiting to be discovered, explore these cultural melting pots with an MSC excursion: all to the beat of the music.
This is a truly out of the ordinary journey. Enjoy the glittering expanse of Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro, delve into the history of Montevideo in Uruguay, lose yourself amongst the colonial style palaces of the Argentinian quarter of San Telmo in Buenos Aires.
Because South America, a lively land bursting with contradiction, should be experienced to the very maximum.
Your Ship - MSC Poesia
MSC Poesia is an innovative cruise ship with an elegant style that brings traditional craftsmanship to creative designs. Step aboard and you’ll enter a refined world of comfort. Whether your reason for being on board is a family vacation, a luxury treat or a romantic escape, MSC Poesia is a ship that offers a truly inspiring cruise experience.
The MSC Poesia is the perfect ship on which to embark on your next cruise. This ecological cruise ship is a love letter to the poetry of the sea with its creative craftsmanship.
You’ll be surprised by the serenity of the features aboard, such as the poolside cinema, Zen Garden, and mesmerizing foyer waterfall. And let’s not forget the MSC Aurea Spa wellness center — treat yourself to a Balinese or Thai massage after a stop in the steam room or sauna.
If you like staying active, the MSC Poesia has you covered with a number of activities, like basketball, tennis court, shuffleboard, mini golf, and the state-of-the-art gym. And then there are three swimming pools and four whirlpools to relax in.
The bars and lounges aboard the MSC Poesia vary in theme — the Mojito cocktail bar will have you toasting your good luck while Grappolo d’Oro will immerse you in the wonderful world of wine. When it’s time to eat, you’ll enjoy a variety of global palates, from the authentic Japanese Sushi bar Kaito to the dining rooms rooted in Italian and Mediterranean traditions.
Entertainment & Leisure
The superb amenities on board include 3 swimming pools, 4 whirlpool baths and a giant poolside cinema screen. Kids and teens are also well served, with their own clubs and parties, a dedicated Dinosaur Play Area, video games and even a disco!
From the moment you wake up to the moment you go to bed, you can enjoy a wide variety of activities and entertainment. Compete in sports tournaments, take part in dance classes, watch Broadway-style theater shows, go wild at themed parties or try your luck in the casino: the choice is yours!
Spa & Relaxation
From the spectacular foyer waterfall to the Zen Garden, authentic Japanese Sushi bar and opulent MSC Aurea Spa wellness center with its steam room, sauna and divine massages designed to pamper body and mind, MSC Poesia is full of great places to unwind.
Sport & Fitness
If you’re wanting to stay in shape during your cruise, there are many sports and fitness activities available on board, including a basketball court, tennis court and state-of-the-art gym. For milder exercise, there’s also shuffleboard and mini golf.
Restaurants and Buffet
A choice of 3 distinct dining venues promises something special for every taste, while the wide range of bars and lounge on board offer refreshment and relaxation in the ideal atmosphere for every moment.
Bars & Lounges
From the sophisticated Grappolo d’Oro wine-tasting bar to the glamorous Mojito cocktail bar and the luxurious Hitchcock Lounge cigar room, there is a refreshing choice of original bars and lounges in which to enjoy a drink with friends or family.
South America & Rio Carnival 2025 Cruise Itinerary
Date
Port
Arrive
Depart
28 Feb
Buenos Aires, Argentina
6 PM
01 Mar
Montevideo, Uruguay
7 AM
2 PM
02 Mar
Fun Day at Sea!
03 Mar
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
7 PM
04 Mar
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
11 PM
05 Mar
Buzios, Brazil
9 AM
7 PM
06 Mar
Ilhabela, Brazil
9 AM
7 PM
07 Mar
Fun Day at Sea!
08 Mar
A Day at Sea!
09 Mar
Buenos Aires, Argentina
8 AM
Day 1 - Buenos Aires, Argentina
Welcome to elegant, cosmopolitan Buenos Aires, with its European colonial architecture and colorful mix of cultures. Each district has its own style: enjoy Palermo with its mansions and parks; shop in the chic boutiques of Soho and Hollywood; and soak up the Italian flavor of La Boca where tango dancers and artists display their talents for passersby. Buenos Aires heart is the spacious, palm-dotted Plaza de Mayo, the ideal place to begin a tour of the area and explore its historical and political connections; its mismatched medley of buildings includes the famous Casa Rosada, or government house. An amble westwards from the plaza will take you along Avenida de Mayo, the city’s major boulevard, offering an impressive display of Art Nouveau and Art Deco architecture. At its western end, Avenida de Mayo opens onto the Plaza del Congreso, presided over by the Congreso Nacional building, the seat of the federal parliament.
Day 2 - Montevideo, Uruguay
Montevideo exudes European charm and elegance, with broad boulevards, fountains, stately squares, and irresistible sidewalk cafes. Take in the Art Nouveau pedestrian mall, Art Deco Centenary Stadium, and American Embassy designed by I.M. Pei. Most of the nation’s countryside is farm or ranchland, and the life of the cowboy, or gaucho, is part of the local lore. A shore excursion on your MSC South America cruise can be the opportunity to discover Montevideo. It may appear humble at first, but this is a seriously cool, confident city. If you’ve ever seen a fictionalized version of Havana on TV or film, it’s quite possible it was actually shot in Montevideo’s Ciudad Vieja, so reminiscent are its streets of those in the Cuban capital.
Day 3 - A Day at Sea!
A day at sea gives you the opportunity to recharge before docking at your next port. Enjoy the many amenities your ship has to offer by pampering yourself with a relaxing spa day, catching an entertaining show with talented performers, or savoring an evening of fine dining at one of our many restaurants. Stick to your fitness goals by heading to the gym or hitting the mat for a mindful yoga session. Peruse a variety of shops to discover fashionable outfits, accessories, and jewelry. With endless attractions and activities, your sea day experience will be one for the books.
Days 4 & 5 - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Samba on down to Rio, easy going except for the days of frenetic, feather-festooned Carnaval. No journey to Rio would be complete without a visit to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World—Christ the Redeemer. At the top of Corcovado Mountain, this 125-foot-tall statue of Jesus Christ spreads its arms over Rio and offers breathtaking panoramic views of Guanabara Bay. The aerial views over Rio are breathtaking, and even the concrete skyscrapers that dominate the city’s skyline add to the attraction. As the former capital of Brazil and now its second-largest city, Rio has a remarkable architectural heritage, some of the country’s best museums and galleries, superb restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife – in addition to its legendary beaches.
Day 6 - Buzios, Brazil
On a peninsula north of Cabo Frio, Armação dos Búzios, or just Búzios, is an immensely scenic resort full of high-spending beautiful people, and a very popular port of call on holidays to Brazil with MSC Cruises. Armação, the main settlement, is built in a vaguely colonial style, its streets lined with restaurants, bars, and chic boutiques, and has been nicknamed “Brazil’s St Tropez.” It comes then as little surprise to find that it was “discovered” by none other than Brigitte Bardot, who stumbled upon it while touring the area in 1964. Within walking distance of all Búzios’ settlements are beautiful white-sand beaches – 27 in total – cradled between rocky cliffs and promontories and lapped by crystal-clear waters. The beaches are varied, with the north-facing ones having the calmest and warmest seas, while those facing the south and east have the most surf.
Day 7 - Ilhabela, Brazil
Without a shadow of a doubt, Ilhabela is one of the most beautiful spots on the Brazilian coast between Santos and Rio. You’ll feel surrounded by nature when you step ashore from your MSC cruise ship.
Of volcanic origin, the island’s startling mountainous scenery rises to 4,495 feet and is covered in dense tropical foliage. With 83 percent of the island protected within the boundaries of the Parque Estadual de Ilhabela, the dozens of waterfalls, beautiful beaches, and azure seas have contributed to the island’s popularity. Old or new, most of the buildings are in simple Portuguese-colonial styles – as far removed from brash Guarujá as you can get. The island is a haunt of São Paulo’s rich who maintain large and discreetly located homes on the coast, many of which have mooring facilities for luxury yachts or helicopter landing-pads.
Days 8 & 9 - A Day at Sea!
Whether you want to bask in the sun or jump in the water to cool off, a day at the pool is time well spent. A wide selection of pools allows you to choose the perfect environment while attendants stand by to meet your every need. Take your taste buds on a trip around the world with our extensive dining options. Boasting buffets, international cuisines, a wellness corner, and more, your ship offers a variety of delicacies to satisfy pallets of all preferences.
Day 10 - Buenos Aires, Argentina
Welcome back to elegant, cosmopolitan Buenos Aires, with its European colonial architecture and colorful mix of cultures, chic boutiques, lively markets and, of course, incredible steaks and excellent wines. Gay Buenos Aires, the gloriously flamboyant and self-confident capital of Argentina, is increasingly being recognized as the Gay Capital of Latin America. History, culture, food, passion, and beautiful people. What more could you want?
South America & Rio Carnival Gay Group Cruise 2025 Rates
(Updated 13.11.24. - Current prices/availability.)
Category
Description
Double Occupancy
$ USD
No Perks Included
INTERIOR STATEROOMS
IB - Interior Bella Stateroom (Guaranty*)
Surface approx. 151 sq. ft., deck 5-15; Relaxing armchair; Bathroom with shower, vanity area and hairdryer; Comfortable double or single beds (on request); Interactive TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar
IR1 - Deluxe Interior Stateroom
Surface approx. 151 sq. ft., deck 5-11. Relaxing armchair; Bathroom with shower, vanity area and hairdryer; Comfortable double or single beds (on request); Interactive TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar
IR2 - Deluxe Interior Stateroom
Surface approx. 151 sq. ft., deck 5-11. Relaxing armchair; Bathroom with shower, vanity area and hairdryer; Comfortable double or single beds (on request); Interactive TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar
IM1 - Junior Interior Stateroom
Surface approx. 151 sq. ft., deck 12-15
Relaxing armchair
Bathroom with shower, vanity area and hairdryer
Comfortable double or single beds (on request)
Interactive TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar
OCEANVIEW STATEROOMS
OB - Oceanview Bella Stateroom (Guaranty*)
Surface approx. 172 – 183 sq. ft.; Window with sea view;; Relaxing armchair; Bathroom with shower, vanity area with hairdryer; Comfortable double or single beds (on request); Interactive TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar
OO - Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom (Obstructed View)
Surface approx. 172 sq. ft., deck 8. Window with sea view; Relaxing armchair; Bathroom with shower, vanity area with hairdryer; Comfortable double or single beds (on request); Interactive TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar
OR1 - Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom
Surface approx. 183 sq. ft., deck 5. Window with sea view; Relaxing armchair; Bathroom with shower, vanity area with hairdryer; Comfortable double or single beds (on request); Interactive TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar
OR2 - Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom
Surface approx. 172 sq. ft., deck 8. Window with sea view; Relaxing armchair; Bathroom with shower, vanity area with hairdryer; Comfortable double or single beds (on request); Interactive TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar
BALCONY STATEROOMS
BB - Balcony Bella Stateroom (Guaranty*)
Surface approx. 194 sq. ft. with a balcony that is approx. 54 sq. ft. Sitting area with sofa; Bathroom with shower, vanity area with hairdryer; Comfortable double or single beds (on request*); Interactive TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar
BP - Deluxe Balcony Stateroom (Partial View)
Surface approx. 194 sq. ft. with a balcony that is approx. 54 sq. ft, deck 12. Sitting area with sofa; Bathroom with shower, vanity area with hairdryer; Comfortable double or single beds (on request*); Interactive TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar
BR1 - Deluxe Balcony Stateroom
Surface approx. 161 sq. ft. with a balcony that is approx. 54 sq. ft., deck 8-9. Sitting area with sofa; Bathroom with shower, vanity area with hairdryer; Comfortable double or single beds (on request); Interactive TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar
BR2 - Deluxe Balcony Stateroom
Surface approx. 161 sq. ft. with a balcony that is approx. 54 sq. ft, deck 10-15. Sitting area with sofa; Bathroom with shower, vanity area with hairdryer; Comfortable double or single beds (on request); Interactive TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar
BL1 - Premium Balcony Stateroom
Surface approx. 194 sq. ft. with a balcony that is approx. 43-54 sq. ft, deck 8-9. Sitting area with sofa; Bathroom with shower, vanity area with hairdryer; Comfortable double or single beds (on request); Interactive TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar
BL2 - Premium Balcony Stateroom
Surface approx. 194 sq. ft. with a balcony that is approx. 54 sq. ft, deck 10-15. Sitting area with sofa; Bathroom with shower, vanity area with hairdryer; Comfortable double or single beds (on request); Interactive TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar
BA - Deluxe Balcony Aurea Stateroom
Surface approx. 194 sq. ft. with a balcony that is approx. 43 sq. ft, deck 9-11. Sitting area with sofa; Bathroom with shower, vanity area with hairdryer; Comfortable double or single beds (on request); Interactive TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar
SUITES
SL1 - Premium Suite Aurea
Surface approx. 280 sq. ft. with a balcony that is approx. 43 sq. ft, deck 15; Balcony; itting area with sofa; Spacious Wardrobe; Bathroom with bathtub, vanity area with hairdryer; Comfortable double or single beds (on request); Interactive TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar
All prices are per person, double occupancy, and include all meals, accommodations and entertainment!
Taxes of $250.60pp, gratuities, and optional insurance are additional.
First deposit of $199 per person is required upon booking. Balance payment due 90 days prior to sailing.
Optional shore excursions will be offered.
Prices are cruise only and DO NOT INCLUDE return airfare! Please ask for airfare add-ons back to your home city.
Fares are subject to availability and may change without prior notice.
Also included are the traditional gay group escort and activities, subject to minimum participation.
Traveling alone? Ask about our single roommate share program to help you avoid the single supplement of 100% of the per person double occupancy rate.
Please ask for further details.
As long as the group minimum space requirements are met, then an onboard gay group host will be assigned. On our Hosted Group Cruises, we will have a representative on the cruise with you. We will have nightly meet ups and we will usually have a group shore excursion. A non-hosted Group Cruise is a cruise we organize, and we will arrange for a nighly meet up, but there will not be our representative onboard.
Cancellation Fees • 109 days to 61 days: Deposit is Non-Refundable;
• 60 days to 46 days: 50% Penalty
• 45 days to 16 days: 75% Penalty
• 30 days until departure: 100% Penalty