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The Douro - Perfect for Explorers
Passing through one of the world’s oldest wine regions and visiting no fewer than four world heritage sites, this cruise along the Douro is the perfect way to experience the bucolic, sun-dappled way of life that is customary in Northern Spain and Portugal.
Winding its way through lush greenery, breathtaking mountain ranges and picturesque gorges, the Douro is undoubtedly one of Europe’s hidden gems. This charming waterway will allow you take in the stunning, raked vineyards of Northern Portugal, the quaint beauty of Iberia’s medieval towns and the history and splendour of Northern Spain’s finest cathedrals.
Most river cruises along the Douro set off from Porto, the home of port wine, before cutting a leisurely course upstream towards Salamanca.
Day 1 - Porto
Welcome to Porto. You will be met at the airport and transferred to the ship where a warm welcome awaits you from your Captain and crew as you board your luxury Emerald Radiance river cruise ship. Tonight, enjoy dinner on board with your fellow travellers. Your Cruise Director will also conduct a port talk to review the activities and itinerary for the days ahead.
Day 2 - Porto - Pinhao
Today, enjoy a full day sailing the windy turns and twists of the Douro Valley. A UNESCO world heritage site this area is sparsely populated by small quaint villages and typical communities working vineyards and small farms. In the afternoon, your Cruise Director will host a lecture on board showcasing the history and wine culture of the region. Later, arrive in the village of Pinhão which is situated on a river bend surrounded by terraced hillsides producing some of the world’s best Port. Tonight, your captain will be delighted to host the welcome dinner and cocktail reception.
Day 3 - Pinhao - Vega de Terron
Begin your day with a visit to a beautiful Quinta vineyard in the heart of the Douro Valley. Alternatively, join the EmeraldACTIVE walk through the vineyards. Later, sail to Vega de Terrón, your gateway into Spain.
Day 4 - Salamanca
Founded in Roman times, the city of Salamanca is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, the seat of the Spanish language, and still a lively student town. Board your coach this morning in Vega de Terrón and travel to this beautiful golden city for a guided walking tour passing through its grand squares and medieval structures, where you will feel like stepping back in time.
Day 5 - Pocinho
This morning, arrive in Pocinho and either embark on an excursion to the Côa Valley Museum or take part on the Emerald Active canoeing experience. The Côa Valley Museum is a concrete structure that details pre-historic stone carvings made by the early inhabitants of the Douro, which were uncovered during the construction of the nearby dam.
Day 6 - Regua
Today you will have a choice to visit the marvelous baroque village of Lamego and the picturesque Our Lady of Remedies Sanctuary where history stands still. As part of your EmeraldACTIVE feature, walk up the stairs of the Our Lady of Remedies Sanctuary.
Day 7 - Porto
Located at the mouth of the Douro River, Porto is a fascinating eclectic mix of modern and ancient architecture. Enjoy your city tour passing by numerous landmarks of this beautiful city.
Day 8 - Porto
After breakfast disembark your river cruise ship and transfer to Porto airport for your onward or homebound flight.
There's nothing quiet like an Emerald Waterways river cruise. From Europe to Southeast Asia and beyond, Emerald have put there stamp on deluxe river cruising, combining state -of-the-art Star Ships with carefully planned itineraries plus the promise of exceptional Emerald Value so you can be sure of an unforgettable holiday that offers inspiring moments and excellent value for money.
Tour Inclusions
Your Cruise Includes
- 7 nights on board an Emerald Waterways Star-Ship
- Airport transfers to and from the ship
- The services of an Emerald Waterways Cruise Director
- Port taxes and charges
- All tipping and gratuities
Included Excursions
- Visit Quinta in the heart of Douro Valley
- Tour Salamanca
- And Much More
Emerald Plus
- Sunset Illumination Cruise
- Cook Demonstration on Board
- And Much More
Emerald Active
- Guided Walk through Vineyards
- Yoga lesson on Board
- And Much More
Dining Highlights
- 19 Superb meals including 7 Breakfasts (B), 5 Lunches (L), 7 Dinners (D)
- Captains Welcome Reception & Dinner
- Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks served with luch and dinner on board
