

77-night Circle South America Grand Voyage
Aboard
Azamara Quest
From
Miami, Florida
1 Sailing
Jan 5, 2028
Published prices from
$23,999
per person*
taxes & fees included
A coastal town full of character and color.

4.9/5 ⭐Google 600+ Reviews | A+ Better Business Bureau

Overview
Castro is the vibrant capital city of Chiloé Island, located in the Los Lagos region of southern Chile. Nestled on the shores of the inland Chiloé Sea, it is renowned for its distinctive wooden architecture, most notably the colorful palafitos (stilt houses) that line its waterfront. Castro serves as a cultural and historical hub for the archipelago, offering a unique blend of Chilote traditions, rich maritime heritage, and a relaxed, artistic atmosphere, all set against a backdrop of lush green landscapes.
Castro is a popular and increasingly frequent cruise port of call for itineraries exploring the Chilean Fjords, Patagonia, and sometimes repositioning cruises to or from Antarctica. Cruise ships typically anchor offshore in the natural harbor, and passengers are brought ashore by tender boats to the town's small pier. A visit to Castro offers cruise passengers a charming and authentic experience of Chiloé's unique island culture, with opportunities to explore its iconic stilt houses, visit historic wooden churches, and savor local seafood in a picturesque setting.
Wander along the waterfront of Castro's neighborhoods, particularly the Gamboa and Pedro Montt sectors, to admire the iconic palafitos. These vibrant, multi-colored wooden houses built on stilts over the water are a unique architectural symbol of Chiloé and offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Tip: Some palafitos now house guesthouses or restaurants, offering a chance to see their interiors or enjoy a meal with a view.
Discover the magnificent Church of San Francisco, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the finest examples of Chiloé's unique wooden churches. Its striking yellow and purple facade dominates Castro's main square, and its interior showcases intricate wooden craftsmanship.
Tip: Take time to appreciate the detailed joinery and the warm glow of the wooden interior, a testament to Chilote carpentry traditions.
Relax in Castro's lively Plaza de Armas, the main town square. It's surrounded by the Church of San Francisco, local shops, cafes, and administrative buildings, offering a pleasant spot to people-watch and soak in the local atmosphere.
Tip: Look for local artisans selling handicrafts around the square, including traditional Chilote woolen goods.
Gain insights into Chiloé's rich history and unique culture at the Museo Regional de Castro (Regional Museum of Castro). The museum houses archaeological artifacts, tools, and exhibits detailing the island's indigenous heritage, colonial past, and maritime traditions.
Tip: It's a small but informative museum that provides excellent context for understanding Chiloé's distinct identity.
Indulge in Chilote cuisine, renowned for its seafood and unique preparations. Don't miss trying Curanto al Hoyo (a traditional dish cooked in an earth oven, often recreated for tourists), or fresh seafood empanadas and salmon.
Tip: Many restaurants near the palafitos or in the city center offer fresh catches. Ask for the "pescado del día" (fish of the day).
Consider a short boat tour in the Chiloé Sea (if available and time permits) to get a different perspective of the palafitos from the water and observe the local fishing boats. You might also spot some marine wildlife.
Tip: Small local boats often offer quick tours from the main pier, giving you great photographic angles of the stilt houses.



Aboard
Azamara Quest
From
Miami, Florida
1 Sailing
Jan 5, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included


Aboard
Azamara Quest
From
Miami, Florida
1 Sailing
Jan 5, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included


Aboard
Azamara Quest
From
Miami, Florida
1 Sailing
Jan 5, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included


Aboard
Azamara Quest
From
Valparaiso (Santiago), Chile
1 Sailing
Jan 24, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included


Aboard
Azamara Quest
From
Valparaiso (Santiago), Chile
1 Sailing
Jan 24, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included


Aboard
Silver Cloud
From
Puerto Williams, Chile
1 Sailing
Feb 29, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included


Aboard
Sirena
From
Miami, Florida
1 Sailing
Jan 5, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included


Aboard
Sirena
From
Callao (Lima), Peru
1 Sailing
Jan 19, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included


Aboard
Insignia
From
Valparaiso (Santiago), Chile
1 Sailing
Feb 14, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included


Aboard
Seabourn Pursuit
From
Buenos Aires, Argentina
1 Sailing
Mar 23, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included

Our expert consultants and customer service teams are standing by to help with all of your cruising needs.
I was having some trouble finding the right cruise for the right price as a single traveler, but thanks to [our Cruise Expert] I was able to find it with Cruise Web. Thank you very much [our Cruise Expert]!
Camille G.
We have worked with [our Cruise Expert] several times and she makes it so easy and a pleasure to work with. She is very knowledgeable.
Linda F.
[Our Cruise Expert] was informative and very pleasant to work with. I'm not familiar with booking travel online and he made my experience pleasant.
Sharon E.
I would like to mention that for many years I really appreciate to have [our Cruise Expert] taking care of my cruises in the states. So, i'm glad to give five stars for him
Rudi D.
I am working with [our Cruise Expert] as my travel agent...he has been very helpful...he is very informative and knowledgeable about the places that I want to go on my Cruise....I would use [our Cruise Expert] and Cruise Web again to book another cruise...thank you...
Priscilla B.
[Our Cruise Expert] does an exceptional job of planning (with you) and coordinating a trip of your dreams! I can't wait to get started on the next one.
Sheralyn H.
Great working with [our Cruise Expert]! He was a tremendous help and steered us in the right direction every time! Helped us make memories for a lifetime!
Wendy F.
[Our Cruise Expert] always works hard to secure the bookings we have chosen and guides us through the process. She is always available to help and her advise is spot on.
James C.
We are residents in another country, and have used [our Cruise Expert] for years as we try to cruise around the entire world. She offers great service and stellar communication.
Dave O.
[Our Cruise Expert]does a wonderful job for me. I have had no glitches and I can count on things running smoothly when [our Cruise Expert] makes my arrangements.
Barbara H.