Carnival makes first move into South America.

The voyages will be aboard their new 113,300 ton Carnival Splendor and will start operating in South America from Janaury 2009, with 14 to 18 day sailings visiting Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Ecuador, Chile & Peru.

3 special South America departures will be operated:

• Fort Lauderdale to Buenos Aires - six port 17 day cruise
• Buenos Aires to Santiago (Valparaiso) Chile -  six port 14 day cruise
• Santiago to San Francisco - six port 18 day South America/Mexixan Riviera cruise.  

"South America is truly one of the world's most beautiful cruising regions, with magnificent architecture, diverse cultures and cuisine, and a wide variety of unique shore excursion options," said Bob Dickinson, carnival president and CEO.

He noted that "the uniqueness of the South America cruises, combined with the amenities of an innovative brand new Carnival vessel is expected to appeal to both experienced and first time cruises".

Featured on the ship are Carnival Cruise Lines signature amenities such as cell phone and Wi-Fi service, a reservations-only supper club and the Carnival Seaside Theatre - a massive LED screen displaying movies, concerts and other programming.