The Legendary Duoro River: Portugal and Spain
Enjoy 50% off on this all-inclusive tour with departures from April to November 2020 from only $1,899 per person
Tour Summary
The Douro, an impetuous river, meanders and cuts through the valley made of steep granite slopes, forming an unforgettable landscape. The work and perseverance of locals have shaped the fertile terraces and created a wonderous landscape of art spread across the slopes. Covered by vineyards, the region produces the wealth of the city that bears its name, Port. The M/S Queen Isabel, intimate, luxurious and comfortable, offers its 118 passengers a splendid cruise through these valleys that have remained unchanged for centuries. This unique setting, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to villages perched among the hilltops, magnificent wine estates and orchards. Experience the medieval and baroque wonders that make the wealth of the ancient kingdom of Portugal. Porto, with its bridges, colorful facades and timeless charm will show you the heart of the Portuguese soul. Take an excursion to Spain and discover Salamanca which is home to the oldest university in Europe, created in 1218. Explore countless civil and religious monuments, two cathedrals, and Plaza Mayor with its beautiful architecture—a precious jewel.
The Itinerary (Porto to Porto roundtrip)
Duration: 8 Days/7 Nights from only $1,899 per person
Ports: Porto – Regua (Lamego) – Pinhao – Vega Terron (Castelo Rodrigo) – Barca d’Alva (Salamanca) – Regua (Mateus) – Porto (Guimarães-Braga)
DAY 1: Porto, Portugal – EMBARK
Upon arrival, transfer to the Port of Porto (Vila Nova de Gaia). Embark upon the 5-star M/S Queen Isabel. This evening enjoy a welcome cocktail and dinner on board.
Included meals: Dinner
DAY 2: Regua/Lamego/Pinhao, Portugal
This morning begin navigating through the Douro River valley where small villages seem suspended among vineyards and olive groves. Following lunch on board, arrive to Regua, gateway to the Alto Douro. We visit Mateus Palace, an elegant 18th century manor, a veritable jewel of Baroque art. Its gardens are a marvel of landscape art, composed of flowering paths, exotic plants, and scented boxwoods. We continue to Pinhao, an important wine center located at the confluence of Pinhao and Douro rivers. We enjoy dinner in the Quinta da Avessada, an interactive museum celebrating the history and culture of wine in the Alto Douro region.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
The countryside of the Douro River Valley
DAY 3: Vega Terron/Castelo Rodrigo, Portugal
Today we sail to Vega Terron, located on the Spanish border, through the deep valleys of the Douro. Widened by its successive dams that regulate its flow, it produces much of the electricity consumed in the country. After lunch on board, depart for Castelo Rodrigo. From the top of a hill, this small medieval village dominates the plateau which extends towards Spain to the east, and the Douro river valley to the North. Walk through the narrow streets of the village, whose houses offer beautiful facades of the sixteenth century and Manueline style windows. Visit the ruins of the castle and the church of the Réclamador before returning to the ship this afternoon. This evening enjoy dinner on board with fellow guests.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Panorama of Sierra Marofa in Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo
DAY 4: Vega Terron/Salamanca, Spain & Barca D’Alva, Portugal
Today is dedicated to the discovery of Salamanca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site for the splendor of its old town. Panoramic tour of the city passing through the Plaza Mayor, one of the most beautiful monumental squares of Spain. Visit the University, founded in 1215. Following, explore the new Cathedral, built between the 16th and 18th centuries, displaying a mixture of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. The facade, highlighted by delicate stone lace, protecting an interior with richly decorated vaults. Enjoy lunch featuring local specialties in a nearby restaurant. Guest will have free time this afternoon to explore this ancient city before boarding the M/S Queen Isabel Barca d’Alva for dinner on board.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
The historical Plaza Mayor main square in Salamanca, Spain.
DAY 5: Regua/Mateus, Portugal
Sail through the romantic valley of the Douro this morning with a picturesque landscape of vineyards that spread over the even the smallest piece of rugged mountainside terrain. Following lunch, depart to Lamego, recognized in 1143AD as the sovereignty of Afonso Henriques. Visit the cathedral, despite the mixture of styles is fascinating with its beauty and its grand scale then on to the Lamego Museum. Housed in an 18th century building, the museum houses a precious collection of sculptures, paintings, and tapestries. This evening, return to the ship for dinner and a lively performance of local music on board.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Caldo Verde Soup
DAY 6: Navigation/Porto, Portugal
This morning we encourage you to absorb the landscape from the sun deck as we sail to Porto. Following lunch on board, depart for a city tour of Porto. Located at the mouth of the Douro, the city dominates the river and bears witness to a rich history of two millennia. Its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and includes many interesting attractions including its bridges and monuments, azulejos, flower-filled balconies, and shopping. Visit the cathedral and the Sé, whose forecourt offers a superb view of the river and the roofs of the city. This Romanesque fortress church, rebuilt in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, is one of the oldest monuments in the city. The chapel of the Blessed Sacrament, which opens on the left arm, houses a beautiful altar with altarpiece of engraved silver. The visit ends with a wine tasting in one of the local cellars. Back on board this evening, enjoy traditional entertainment followed by dinner.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Cathedral Se, Porto, Portugal
DAY 7: Guimaraes/Braga, Portugal
Depart for Guimarães this morning, located northeast of Porto and hometown of the first king of Portugal, Afonso Henriques. Discover the historic city center, along the Largo da Oliveira, then visit the palace of the Dukes of Braganza, whose architecture evokes a feeling of the castles of Burgundy. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing on to Braga, the third largest city of Portugal. Here we witness the exceptional heritage of this city, formerly called the “Rome of Portugal”. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the city while you visit the oldest cathedral in Portugal, the Sé, along with one of the finest monuments of northern Portugal, the Bom Jesus do Monte. Enjoy your last evening with dinner on board the M/S Queen Isabel.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Stairs leading to Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga, Portugal
DAY 8: Porto, Portugal – DISEMBARK
This morning disembark for transfer to the Porto Airport (OPO), or continue on to participate in the optional post-tour extension program.
Included meals: Breakfast/strong>
Pricing per person, based on double occupancy
Category 1: $2,799 $1,399
Category 2: $2,999 $1,499
Category 3: $3,299 $1,649
Category 4: $3,599 $1,799
Category 5: $3,799 $1,899
About the Tour Operator
Known for their experience sailing the world’s most storied rivers and scenic coastlines, Rivages du Monde (Coasts of the World) brings a level of European service, attention to detail and value that is unparalleled. Located in the heart of Paris, Rivages du Monde has operated for 18 years, providing thousands of guests distinctive and memorable journeys. Relatively unknown to Americans, their exclusively chartered river, coastal ships, and yachts are a hallmark to their success and deliver an unpretentious, inclusive, and friendly atmosphere onboard. Onshore, guests enjoy extended times in port led by a team of talented professionals that are knowledgeable and always one step ahead.
About the Ship
The M/S Queen Isabel is a beautiful river ship, and likely the most luxurious sailing on the Douro today. Unique through its level of comfort and elegance, it offers to its 118 guests splendid sailing through the Douro Valley, combined with Portuguese art de vivre. Cabins are refined and well-appointed. A welcoming and professional service staff onboard, combined with delicious cuisine are all contributions to a fascinating discovery of Portugal.
- Guests: 118
- Crew: 33
- Length: 79 meters
- Width: 11,4 meters
- Cabins: 59 spread over 3 decks
- Electrical current: 220v
- Built: 2013
M/S Queen Isabel
Staterooms
The 59 exterior-facing cabins onboard are spread over 3 decks. All cabins and suites are equipped with two twin beds, convertible to one queen-size bed, individual thermostat, flat screen TV, radio, alarm clock, and personal mini-safe. En-suite baths offer premium bath amenities, including bathrobes and slippers.
Main Deck
16 cabins featuring an area of 161 square feet and feature a panoramic elevated window.
Upper Deck
23 deluxe cabins are 161 square feet in size and include a French balcony.
Panorama Deck
18 cabins with 215 square feet each feature both a full balcony and separate window to enjoy river views.
Balcony Suites
Our largest onboard, opt to stay in one of the two balcony suites. At 323 square feet, the suites include a private balcony, living area with seating, and floor-to-ceiling windows.
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- Suite with Balcony-Panorama Deck
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- Suite with Balcony-Panorama Deck
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- Suite Bathroom-Panorama Deck
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- Deluxe Stateroom with Balcony – Panorama
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- Deluxe Stateroom
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- Deluxe Stateroom-Panorama Deck
Common Areas
The M/S Queen Isabel is a truly an upscale floating boutique hotel. The Sun Bridge is equipped with chairs, sun beds and swimming pool. The Panorama Deck features a panoramic lounge with comfortable armchairs for your relaxation and a boutique offering a selection of local items. The restaurant is located on the Upper Deck and offers excellent cuisine with all drinks included at meals. A warm atmosphere, linen-topped tables and fine cuisine served in one service are only a part of this well executed onboard experience. The Main Deck, features a gym and spa (for an extra charge). For your comfort, an elevator serves the Main, Upper and Panorama Decks.
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- M/S Queen Isabel
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- M/S Queen Isabel
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- M/S Queen Isabel Restaurant
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- M/S Queen Isabel Lounge
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- M/S Queen Isabel Pool
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- M/S Queen Isabel Sun Deck
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- M/S Queen Isabel Lounge
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- M/S Queen Isabel Reception
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- M/S Queen Isabel Gym
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DeparturePorto, Portugal
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IncludedRoundtrip Airport Transfers (on program arrival and departure dates)7 nights' accommodation aboard the M / S Queen Isabel in the chosen categoryAll meals, to Include dinner the first day to breakfast on the last dayBeverages during meals on onboard to Include water, house wines and beer, soft drinks, coffee and teaDrinks at meals during excursions Including water, house wines, soft drinks, coffee and teaAll excursions according to the program with tour guide audio systemsOnboard entertainmentTraditional meals onshore where mentioned within the programWine tastingThe services of a Rivages du Monde English-speaking Cruise DirectorPorteragePort taxes & Fees
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Not IncludedAirfareDrinks other than those mentionedGratuities (shipboard, guides and drivers)Travel insurance
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