Last updated: 22 October 2026
Sailing from Europe to South America on a cargo ship is one of the most rewarding freighter voyages you can take. You cross the equator, follow the old trade routes south, and call at ports from West Africa to Brazil, Uruguay and Argentina. It is slow travel at its best, and ideal for overlanders, long-term travellers and anyone who wants to arrive without flying.
Two main kinds of ship carry passengers between Europe and South America:
| Ship type | Typical route | Journey time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ro-ro / con-ro | Northern Europe → West Africa → Brazil → Uruguay → Argentina | About 4–6 weeks to Buenos Aires | Often carries vehicles; some have a dedicated passenger deck |
| Container ship | Northern Europe or the Mediterranean → Brazil → River Plate | About 3–5 weeks | Faster, with fewer port calls |
Typical European departure ports include Antwerp, Hamburg, Rotterdam, Le Havre and Tilbury or other UK ports on some rotations. Arrival ports often include Vitória, Rio de Janeiro, Santos, Paranaguá, Montevideo, Buenos Aires and Zárate.
Ro-ro ships calling in West Africa (for example Dakar, Conakry, Lagos or Cotonou) take longer, but give you extra ports to see.
This route is popular with overlanders driving the Americas. Your campervan or 4×4 travels as cargo, sometimes on the same ro-ro ship you sail on. Vehicle space and passenger cabins are booked separately. You will need:
Passenger fares are usually charged per day, roughly US$90–150 per person, including all meals. A six-week voyage to Buenos Aires can therefore cost around US$3,800–6,300 per person, plus booking fees and insurance. Vehicle shipping is priced separately by size.
Read life on a container ship for a typical day at sea.
Yes. Some ro-ro and container ships carry a few passengers from Europe to Brazil, Uruguay and Argentina.
Typically 2–4 weeks, depending on the route and port calls.
Around US$90–150 per person per day, meals included. A 4–6 week voyage usually costs a few thousand dollars.
Yes, usually by ro-ro or container. It is booked separately from your passenger cabin.
Yellow fever vaccination may be required for some ports. Check with a travel clinic well before you go.
Tell us your dates and whether you’re taking a vehicle, and we’ll check suitable ships.
Ask about South America voyages →
