Douro Experience

Douro Experience

266 Views
8 Days From

$1563

Douro Experience

8 Days Starting and ending in Porto

Visiting: Porto, Pinhão, Régua, Vega de Terrón Pier, Barca d'Alva Pier, Barca d’Alva, Bitetos Douro, Cais da Lixa

Tour operator:

A-ROSA River Cruises

Ship Name:

A-ROSA ALVA

Ship Capacity:

126

Age range:

1-99

Tour operated in:

English , German

Trip Styles:

River Cruise

From: $1563

NB: Prices correct on 21-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Imagine relaxing on the sun deck with your favourite cocktail in hand, admiring the terraced vineyards and quaint villages of the wonderful Alto-Douro Valley. Beginning in Porto, famed for its colourful merchants houses and churches tumbling down the hillside towards the mighty Atlantic, expect an immersive journey of cuisine, culture and history surrounded by truly spectacular vistas. On shore, enjoy included highlight dining experiences and port tastings. On board, enjoy sumptuous flexible dining including the best of Portuguese cuisine with cooking demonstrations and two evenings of cultural entertainment. In each port, choose to explore the enchanting, sleepy villages and towns independently or take an excursion to gems such as Spain’s ‘Golden City’ of Salamanca, stunning Mateus Palace or perfectly-preserved Guimaraes.

Highlights

  • Admiring the terraced vineyards and quaint villages of the wonderful Alto-Douro Valley.

  • Porto, famed for its colourful merchants houses and churches tumbling down the hillside towards the mighty Atlantic.

  • On board, enjoy sumptuous flexible dining including the best of Portuguese cuisine with cooking demonstrations and two evenings of cultural entertainment

  • In each port, choose to explore the enchanting, sleepy villages and towns independently or take an excursion to gems such as Spain’s ‘Golden City’ of Salamanca, stunning Mateus Palace or perfectly-preserved Guimaraes.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Porto

Paul Allen

Location: Porto

Arrive in Porto for your embarkation on the A-ROSA ALVA in Vila Nova de Gaia for the start of your 7-night cruise. In Porto you’ll find the old and the new happily rubbing along side by side. The gleaming azulejo tiles adorning church walls and townhouse facades are one of the typical sights of Portugal’s second-largest city. And all around you'll find your senses lost in the sound of clinking port glasses, the taste of fresh Atlantic cuisine and the beauty of its architecture. The old town – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – is pure poetry. Let the Douro welcome you with open arms, while you soak up the ship’s atmosphere on the sun deck and enjoy your first hours in Portugal

Day 2 : Régua - Pinhão

Location: Pinhão, Régua

Depart Porto.

ARR - | DEP 7:00

The scenery in this region is simply magical, thanks to the pristine river, which meanders past steep slate slopes and terraces clad with vines. It’s so beautiful even UNESCO have recognised it, claiming it as a World Heritage Site back in 2001. There’s lots to discover here. The Douro Museum is a fascinating first stop – you will find it set inside a restored wine warehouse and for wine afficionados there’s no better intro to this region. For a taste of local life, take the wander uphill from the port and you’ll be rewarded by an atmospheric old town. There’s an optional excursion to Lamego available from Regua, so you could choose to spend today visiting one of Portugal’s most important pilgrimage sites.

ARR 13:00 | DEP 14:00

Sailing into the port here will be a true highlight of your journey. Circled by enchanting vineyards and quintas, the town itself is an unspoilt gem and perfect for exploring on foot – you can easily venture into the countryside too. Be sure to take a look at the Linha do Douro train station, which is decorated with richly-coloured azulejo tiles.

Included off-ship dining experience - Set high above the Douro Valley and boasting panoramic vistas across the countryside, you’ll visit Quinta da Avessada this evening. Enjoy a tour of the vineyard and an authentic local dinner accompanied by their famous wines.

ARR 17:00 | DEP -

Day 3 : Pinhão - Vega De Terrón

Location: Vega de Terrón Pier, Pinhão

This morning, you will be treated to another included off-ship experience - the opportunity to enjoy port wine tasting at one of the finest Douro Valley estates, Quinta da Roeda.

ARR - | DEP 13:00

A traditional taste of life in the slow lane, this sleepy village is made for leisurely ambles down quiet cobbled streets and admiring the lush landscapes of its glorious surrounds. You can easily hop over to explore western Spain from here too.

ARR 19:00 | DEP -

Day 4 : Vega De Terrón - Barca D'alva

Location: Barca d'Alva Pier, Vega de Terrón Pier

Amble the quiet streets and see friendly locals go about their day, but its most famous export, its Port, will invite you to linger a little longer. Its position means it’s the ideal place to sample other local towns and regions too - perhaps getting an authentic taste of life in Western Spain, or enjoying the superb flora and fauna of the area's countryside, bathed in sunshine.

ARR - | DEP 12:00

With lovely cottages dotting the terraced hillside, this pint-sized place offers pretty vistas and a petite village but its main drawcard is altogether bigger: it’s the closest we’ll come to Spanish Salamanca. Choose to take an optional excursion here and discover what is arguably Spain’s most beautiful city. Home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, a walk through Salamanca is like stepping into the history books. Hewn from sandstone, this magical place glows pinky-gold in the sunshine earning it its nickname ‘The Golden City’.

ARR 12:30 | DEP -

Day 5 : Barca D’Alva - Pinhão

Location: Barca d’Alva, Pinhão

We depart Barca d’Alva and sail back downstream towards Porto.

ARR - | DEP 12:30

We overnight in sleepy Pinhão.

ARR 18:30 | DEP -

Day 6 : Pinhão - Régua - Bitetos

Location: Régua, Bitetos Douro

We are departing Pinhão towards Régua.

ARR - | DEP 7:00

We return to Regua this morning, you’ll be familiar by now with the pretty historic centre here. Take a walk to the popular viewing platforms São Leonardo da Galafura and São Salvador do Mundo and enjoy the panoramic views of the river landscape. Why not join an excursion to the Mateus Palace and Gardens. You might just recognise it from somewhere - the rosé wine label of the same name!

This afternoon, enjoy scenic sailing along the Douro before arriving in Porto. This evening, you'll have the opportunity to soak up the city's atmosphere as night falls and the streets come alive with tiny bars and local restaurants.

ARR 9:00 | DEP 14:00

A tiny port climbing up the Douro Valley, Bitetos squeezes in more than its fair share of history. Dotted around town, you'll find crumbling remains, just the tip of the iceberg of the many Roman ruins that scatter this area. Narrow medieval alleys navigate up hilly streets alive now with the sounds of day-trippers rather than the boatmen who plied this river for centuries. A riverfront beach, mini marina and access to acres of exciting walks and hikes make Bitetos prime territory for exploring the area's al fresco delights too.

ARR 18:30 | DEP -

Day 7 : Bitetos - Caix Da Lixa - Porto

Paul Allen

Location: Cais da Lixa, Porto

We are leaving Bitetos and sail back towards Porto.

ARR - | DEP 07:00

Enjoy stunning sunset views across the Douro Valley as you sail to Caix da Lixa this evening.

ARR 8:30 | DEP 9:00

Welcome back to fascinating Porto. Porto has many links to the UK, most particularly the production of port wine. Visit a wine cellar and appreciate this famous tipple – it’s a must here! The atmospheric centre, the Ribeira, is recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. It’s a glorious maze of crumbling rainbow-coloured buildings presiding over winding cobbled streets. Discover the shining azulejo facades on church walls and town houses.

Optional tours of Porto and Guimarães are available if you’d like to explore with an expert.

ARR 10:30 | DEP -

Day 8 : Porto

Paul Allen

Location: Porto

Disembark after breakfast.


ARR DISEMBARKATION | DEP -

Ship Details

A-ROSA ALVA

Image Of Ship

What do you have in mind when it comes to Portugal? Spectacular cliffs, the taste of port wine or melancholic fado? Everything's right. Come aboard our A-ROSA ALVA, discover the beauty of the Douro and have a look directly into the soul of Portugal! The port of departure and destination of our trips on the Douro is Porto. So you have plenty of opportunities to stroll through the beautiful old town, enjoy the view from Portugal's highest church tower or enjoy one of the 365 Bacalhau dishes, Portugal's favourite dried fish. And don't miss out on a trip to Salamanca in Spain, which is an UNESCO World Heritage City with its university from the 13th century. For many years, A-ROSA ALVA has been frequented by guests from non-German speaking countries. Therefore, she is a popular ship for people who like to mix and mingle with travellers from all corners of the world.

Ship Name:

A-ROSA ALVA

Adults Only Areas:

kids allowed

Ship Children Facilities:

available

Ship Nursery:

none

Smoking Areas:

some

Ship Size:

boutique

Ship Style:

premium

Ship Type:

river

Ship Currency:

EUR

Ship Language:

de+en

Ship Capacity:

126

Number of Decks:

4

Number of Cabins:

63

Ship Launch Year:

2019

Ship Length (Meters):

79.8 M

Ship Width (Meters):

11.4 M

Ship Speed (Knots):

12 Kn

Deck 1

A-Rosa Alva 2 Bed outside cabin AA-Rosa Alva 2 Bed outside cabin SSaunaSPA Relaxation AreaMassageAtrium with drink station

Deck 2

A-Rosa Alva 2 Bed outside cabin CMarket RestaurantGymAtrium with drink station

Deck 3

A-Rosa Alva 2 Bed outside cabin DA-Rosa Alva 2 Bed outside suite FLunge outdoor areaLoungeStage /Dance FloorBarOnboard ShopReception

Deck 4

WheelhouseOutdoor ShowerSwimming PoolOutdoor Restaurant with awnings

A place where you can take time out during a trip full of new experiences. Our cabins were made for this. For us, quality is the magic word. It’s what turns a place to sleep into a home. A home featuring premium materials, modern equipment, soothing colours and an elegant design. An A-ROSA cabin combines all of this in a generously sized room.

2-bed outside cabin, C (Grade C )

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin with drop-down panorama window. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe.

2-Bed Outside Cabin (Grade F )

Generously sized Balcony Suite with balcony, sofa, bathroom with daylight and walk-in closet. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Additional services: check-in and personal welcome from 12.00 h, Suite cocktail with the hotel manager, fresh flowers and fruit, laundry and ironing service.

2-bed outside cabin, D (Grade D )

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin with drop-down panorama window. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe.

2-bed outside cabin, F (Grade F )

Generously sized Balcony Suite with balcony, sofa, bathroom with daylight and walk-in closet. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Additional services: check-in and personal welcome from 12.00 h, Suite cocktail with the hotel manager, fresh flowers and fruit, laundry and ironing service.

2-Bed Outside Cabin (Grade A )

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe.

2-Bed Outside Cabin (Grade D )

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin with drop-down panorama window. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe.

2-bed outside cabin, S (Grade S )

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe.

2-Bed Outside Cabin (Grade C )

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe.

2-bed outside cabin, A (Grade A )

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe.

2-Bed Outside Cabin (Grade S )

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe.

The water carries with it the delicate fragrances of the unique surrounding landscapes. The aroma of the approaching sea, Mediterranean herbs and sweet apricots from Wachau linger in the air. Promising vineyards line the banks of the river, and in the cities, you can enjoy the aromas of typical spices and try fine cheese delicacies or flavorful dumplings at market stalls. Our chefs make sure you also get to know your holiday regions with culinary specialities at their very best, which are always prepared to perfection with fresh ingredients. There is something to satisfy everyone’s tastes at our changing gourmet buffets, where you can also discover and enjoy completely new dishes. Watch over our chefs’ shoulders during tastings and workshops and take the best cooking ideas home with you. Copying allowed!

However, your enjoyment is our main priority.

We will serve you refined menus and our trained sommeliers will present you with suitable wines. Another master of his craft awaits you behind the bar: Our bartender’s ambition is to serve you the best version of your favorite drink. Worked up an appetite? Discover the A-ROSA gourmet trips: the ultimate way to enhance your enjoyment! A river cruise to sophisticated cuisine awaits, with selected dishes by top chefs and exquisite wines. With the help of our chefs and wine experts, you can perfect your culinary knowledge even further. Go on this trip for the sake of your taste buds and for the people back home who you love to cook for at small dinner parties – and of course, for your own personal indulgence.

Wine & Culinary: all aboard for fantastic cuisine

Saint Teresa of Ávila famously said we should be good to our bodies so that our souls would be happy living there. We share this sentiment – and that’s why we’re particularly proud to serve excellent food on our cruises. With our buffets that change regularly and our live-cooking sessions, every guest is sure to find something that takes their fancy – and you can be certain it has been freshly prepared to perfection with a lot of love, expertise and the best-quality ingredients. Enjoy your food paired with just the right wine, grown on the hillsides that the river itself created over millions of years. The only difficulty will be deciding what to try first, since it’s all included in your Premium All-Inclusive fare.

Are you looking for a more exclusive experience? Simply choose A-ROSA Dining and enjoy the finest cuisine on all cruises that last five nights or longer. We’ll bring the region’s specialities straight to your plate as part of a multi-course meal. Enjoy everything from juicy Wachau apricots to Mediterranean herbs from the south of France, the tastiest Dutch cheeses and spicy Hungarian dumplings – all while dining completely undisturbed in a separate part of the restaurant.

Bon appétit!

The Market Restaurant

The Market Restaurant is the ship’s Dining Room (no table reservations needed). It has an open kitchen and Buffet station. The A-ROSA ALVA’s dining room menu features low-calorie, itinerary-based (regional) specialties and traditional Mediterranean dishes. Food on board is prepared with fresh locally sourced ingredients and products.Dining is a truly un-regimented affair – unlike other river vessels, the dining room opens its welcoming arms when you are ready, rather than at a specified time. A lavish buffet with a la minute cookery stations entices you with fresh ingredients and plenty of choice. In addition, a speciality waiter service restaurant offers an alternative option, with a new menu every night and the opportunity to dine here up to three times during the week. Weather permitting, you can choose to dine al fresco around pool as you watch the beautiful scenery pass by.On some evenings, served onboard will be a themed 3-course-dinner in a reserved part of the restaurant. A-ROSA advises guests to sign up for this evening at the reception or with the Maître as seats are limited. On these evenings, the buffet restaurant is also open as usual.The themed evenings are at an extra charge.

Time may fly during an exciting shuffleboard or giant chess game or even practice your putting game. What really matters is that you take all the time in the world to do whatever you want.

Bar

The Bar can be located on Deck 3.

The Sun Deck

Time on the sun deck can be measured in sunsets, laps in the pool, glasses of wine or the number of new friends you’ve made. But for most, time just stands still as you take in Europe’s fabled towns and picturesque countryside from your chaise lounge. The motto topside on the sun deck is “anything is possible, but nothing is required… just enjoy.”

A-ROSA Bike Excursions

Experience our bike packages on the Danube, Rhine, Douro, Rhône and Seine specially created together with our partner terranova. Terranova offers high-quality bike tours for over 35 years. Explore the heart of Europe by bike during your river cruise.General services – valid on all riversall bike tours are guided by a tour guide who is familiar with the areathe bike tours are accompanied by a mini bus with bicycle trailer and the possibility to provide transportation for participantsterranova tour guide with lots of information about the country and its peopletechnical support during the tourrental bike: use of the terranova e-bike with saddlebag. You can also order a touring bike upon requestall transfers by bus or taxi according to the programmefull service during the day tours: drinking breaks, picnicsone exclusive multi-course dinner in the Winery on boarddetailed travel informationguided tours & entrances includedadditional services included according to the offer

Excursions

Some of our excursions will take you to the places where some of the greatest artists of the 19th and 20th centuries created their works. Not only art lovers, but also history buffs and fans of adventure stories will be in their element. Medieval castles, monasteries and villages are ready to tell their stories. Our expert guides know more than any guide book about the Eiffel Tower, Empress Elisabeth’s life, Cologne Cathedral and Rotterdam’s hyper-modern architecture. Do you fancy admiring the white horses of the Camargue from a jeep? Want to ride on a horse-drawn waggon through the Puszta? Travel to the Budapest Parliament by segway? The sights you’ll encounter on our routes are world-famous. By offering our guests special ways of discovering these sights, we open up completely new perspectives for you. A-ROSA excursions delight not only guests with a hunger for new experiences and a thirst for knowledge; gourmets will also have their fill of treats. Our tours for connoisseurs offer regional cuisine with local specialities and world-famous vineyards with fine wines. Because all senses matter when it comes to new perspectives.

A-ROSA Family Cruises

Traveling with children is an incredible opportunity to witness their growth and development. Each day brings new experiences, flavors, and adventures that they get to discover for the first time. And the best part? Everyone can embark on this adventure together - from the littlest toddler all the way up to the beloved grandparents! These are moments you'll cherish forever as unforgettable memories made in each other's company. So why not plan your next vacation with everyone onboard? You won't regret it!

On our A-ROSA family cruises we have very special offers for families. You can choose between cabins of all categories, optionally with an additional bed or a spacious family cabin. Our all-round carefree package “Premium All-Inclusive” will make your family holiday even more perfect. It includes a whole host of benefits and services, such as: high-quality buffets and live cooking, high-quality drinks throughout the day, 15 % discount on spa treatments, free Wi-Fi and much more.

A-ROSA have a very generous family programme where children up to 15 years old travel free of charge, and there is a kid's club during the school holidays.

Wellness Cruises with A-ROSA


The SPA-ROSA philosophy focuses on the flow of your energy. We invite you on a journey into your body and soul. In our SPA-ROSA, we embody sustainability, health and individuality. Experience treatments using local products and active ingredients from the German Wadden Sea tidelands and let all your senses be pampered.

Gymnasium

If walking the town wasn’t enough exercise, you can continue in the well-equipped gymnasium with modern cardio equipment. If desired, you can also work out with a personal trainer who can put together an individual training plan for you.

Heated Swimming Pool

The ship's top deck features a heated swimming pool, complete with a shower and a large sunbathing area with loungers. 

SPA-ROSA

Experience beauty and anti-ageing treatments with facials, as well as comforting warmth in the sauna or sanarium, which let you bene?t from more vitality and radiance. When selecting products, we deliberately chose the German producer BABOR and the company La mer from Cuxhaven for you. Both stand for extraordinary results in the treatments, innovations, high skin compatibility and responsibility towards their personnel and the environment. Your SPA-ROSA feels a responsibility to give you the greatest possible recuperative effect during your cruise. We hope that, long after your holiday is over, you will often hear someone say, ‘You look so relaxed.’Active recreation is offered in the especially developed exercise programme. Deep relaxation and intense well-being can be found with these treatments unique to A-ROSA.

Sports & Games

Time may fly during an exciting shuffleboard or giant chess game or even practice your putting game. What really matters is that you take all the time in the world to do whatever you want.

Our crew is passionate about their jobs and aims to give every guest an unforgettable holiday experience. If you are satisfied, our crew is happy to accept a tip as recognition of their service. Most guests honour their efforts with €5 to €10 per guest and day. A tip box for the entire crew will be available at reception at the end of the cruise. Naturally, you are free to give employees individual tips at any time, or to settle tips using your onboard account.

Most guests on board the A-ROSA ALVA honour their efforts with €8 to €12 per guest and day. At the end of the cruise, there is a tip box for the entire crew and the bus drivers of your excursions. The tips for your local guides, who accompany you throughout the trip on the bus, are not included in this arrangement. Tips can be given in cash, in euros. Of course, you can also give a tip directly to a crew member at any time; this can also be done through your onboard account.

Age Restrictions

All guests under the age of 18 are to be in a cabin with an adult, and must remain supervised at all times, and their safety is the responsibility of the accompanying adult(s). Children 2 to 15 years old sail free when using the existing bedding in the cabin and are accompanied by at least 1 adult. If the accompanying° adult is not a parent or legal guardian, written permission from the parent or legal guardian is required. Please be aware that cabins with French Balconies/Full Balconies may be unsafe° for small children if left unsupervised and are not recommended for children under the age of 7. By confirming the reservation with payment, the guest/travel agent acknowledges that they are aware and will comply with these terms and conditions.

Animals

It is forbidden to bring animals on board the ships.

A-ROSA is Green

For over fifteen years, A-ROSA has been the market leader for premium holidays on the Danube, Douro, Rhine, Rhône and Seine. What is it that makes city breaks by ship so appealing? The opportunity for guests to discover different cities, towns and landscapes. For us it’s a privilege to be able to explore iconic destinations and lesser-known locales – and we love to share it with our guests. While we will always do all we can to give our guests a care free holiday, we will always care aboutthe people and places our visits touch.Our cruises take us right into areas where people live, which is one of the reasons why inland navigation is subject to very strict regulations – particularly compared with navigation at sea – and rigorous inspections. As a recent study shows, all things considered, inland navigation is the most environmentally friendly mode of transport, surpassing even train travel. The factors taken into account for the study included impact on the climate, air pollution, accidents and noise pollution.At A-ROSA we’re aware that past and present environmental challenges require a long-term approach. That’s the only way we’ll be able to preserve both quality of life in urban areas and the natural environment for future generations. As a company we believe that this is our responsibility, and our actions in all areas of environmental protection put us at the very forefront of our industry.Lasting responsibility: As part of our sustainability strategy, we review and refine the actions listed here on an ongoing basis.

Dietary Requirements

Please contact your head chef at the start of your cruise regarding any dietary restrictions. If you have not yet notified us of your food allergies/intolerances, we kindly ask you to contact us.

Disabled Facilities

The ship has steps only, which may restrict mobility. The A-ROSA ALVA has a lift between deck 1 and deck 3. The A-ROSA SENA has a lift between deck 1 and deck 4. It is not allowed to use the lift during safety instruction and in case of emergencies. The sun deck is only accessible via stairs. For individual advice, please contact the A-ROSA Service Center on tel. 0381-202 6001.

Dress Code

Feel free to dress as you like, comfortably and casually, on board and during shore excursions. Please remember to wear warmer clothing on deck in the evening. Firm shoes are recommended for excursions on land. Smart-casual clothing is recommended when visiting the restaurant on board. We request, however, that you do not wear swimwear or sportswear, nor go barefoot, in the restaurants and bars. We recommend that men wear long trousers in the restaurant in the evening.

FullBoardPlus

A-ROSA offers two distinct tariff types: "A-ROSA Premium all-inclusive", for the discerning customer and "A-ROSA Basic", a no-frills option that covers the essentials.Refined breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets, along with an embarkation snack and afternoon coffee and cake. Many cruises also feature seasonal extras such as sandwiches or a midnight snack. Guests who have booked the A-ROSA Premium all inclusive rate have the following high-quality drinks included throughout the day: tea, coffee and coffee specialities, soft drinks, beer, as well as sparkling wine and a selection of wines, cocktails and long drinks. Certain specialities and beverages bear a surcharge; these include champagne.

Language on Board

The languages on board our A-ROSA ALVA are English and German. Documents are available in English and our international hosts are on hand to give assistance.

Laundry

You can have your laundry done on board. This will be charged to your onboard account. Suite guests may enjoy the laundry service free of charge.

Methods Of Payment

The onboard currency is Euro. During the trip, use your cabin card as your own credit card. At the end of the journey you can pay your final account in cash, with EC card or with the following credit cards: MasterCard, VISA, American Express. When paying by credit card or EC/Maestro card, you will need your PIN code. Please make sure that you have your personal PIN code with you. The booking of shore excursions will be billed to your cabin account.

Smoking Policy

Smoking is only permitted on the exterior decks. Please do not throw any cigarette butts overboard, instead use the receptacles provided. Smoking is strictly prohibited throughout the interior as well as in the cabins and suites and on the balconies. Please note that smoking is forbidden in the locks.

Special Dietary Requirements

We attach great importance to your physical well-being and want to meet your needs in the best way possible. Please contact the A-ROSA Service Center prior to your departure, at +49 (0) 381 - 202 6020 or via e-mail: service@a-rosa.de and give us details about your intolerances and dietary requirements. In addition, please contact the reception after your arrival to make an appointment with the chef in order to accommodate your individual needs. We can then assure that you are only offered food that you can enjoy carefree.

Telephone

Incoming calls will be put through to your cabin by reception. The normal roaming charges for outgoing or incoming calls from your cabin will be automatically charged to your onboard account. The ships in the A-ROSA fleet are equipped with an up-to-date GSM telephone system, with which you can dial any number, anywhere in the world. If you would like to make a long-distance call, please proceed as follows: dial the country code, then the local code, then the phone number. Between dialling and the first ring, there is a charge-free pause of up to 30 seconds’ duration, after which call charging starts automatically, even if the call is not answered. Information about the applicable charges can be obtained from reception and from page 11. GSM telephone: the respective call number of your ship is stated on your key card.

Wi-Fi

Guests can access the Internet using Wi-Fi on board the A-ROSA ships. Please take into account that some legs of the cruise may have weaker connections to the Internet. You can get more information on availability, terms of usage and charges at Reception. Use of Internet connections under the valid terms of usage is free of charge for guests with the “Premium all inclusive” rate.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation in a cabin or suite of your choice, with free room service for every cabin category

  • Meals

    FullBoardPlus: quality breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets with many choices. Embarkation snack. Tea or coffee anytime. Many cruises feature seasonal extras.

  • Drinks all day and evening

    High quality drinks throughout the day

  • Destination scouts in key cities

  • Free use of e-bikes in key destinations

  • Port Fees

  • Complimentary half-day excursion and onboard dining experience on cruises of 7 nights or more

What's Not Included

  • International Travel

  • Insurance

Videos

Check out our Q&As

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    Yes

  • How do I book excursions?

    Our optional shore excursions are only bookable on board the A-ROSA ships.

  • Is free Wi-Fi available in the accommodation used?

    Yes

  • Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

    Yes

  • When can I check-in?

    The check-in time and accessing your cabin on embarkation day: For Douro cruises - 15:00. Please be on board no later than one hour before the departure of the ship and have your travel documents and vouchers ready for check-in. You will find your personal on board credit card in your cabin, which also functions as as the key card to your cabin.

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    Yes

  • What is the tipping policy?

    If you are satisfied with our staff, they appreciate a tip in recognition of good service. The distribution and amount of gratuities is of course at your discretion. A gratuities box for the entire crew will be available at reception at the end of the cruise. Naturally, you can also give gratuities to individual members of staff at any time; this can also be done through your on board account.

  • CAN I BRING MY MOBILITY AID ON BOARD?

    You may bring your mobility aid on board, please notifyus prior to your departure and send us all the information about the size and weight of the wheelchair or your mobility aid. Please wait for their approval. A rental of wheelchairs is not possible on board. elevators between the cabin decks are only available on board of A-ROSA ALVA and A-ROSA SENA.

  • HOW LONG CAN I USE MY CABIN ON THE DAY OF DEPARTURE AND HOW LONG CAN I STAY ON BOARD?

    Your cabin will be available on the day of departure until 09:00. You can stay on board until the transfer leaves; individually departing guests are asked to leave the ship no later than 09:30.

  • I NEED TO BRING MY MEDICAL DEVICE ON BOARD. WHAT DO I HAVE TO CONSIDER WHEN CARRYING MEDICAL DEVICES?

    Medical oxygen containers may not exceed a total amount of 60 litres and is permitted only after the containers are registered prior to the cruise. Please send us the technical sheet of the device or the oxygen cylinders in advance to service@a-rosa.de. Important: Please wait for our confirmation and the authorisation of the medical device. A rental of breathing apparatuses is not possible on board. Medical devices that do not meet the technical requirements or the safety regulations of the ship are not allowed on board.

  • WHAT CAN I NOT BRING ON BOARD?

    Travelers are not permitted to bring weapons and ammunition or explosive/flammable substances onto the river cruise ships. This includes flat irons, candles and heaters. Likewise, the transportation of medical devices, which do not meet the technical requirements and the carrying of drugs, is prohibited. If this provision is violated, passengers can be excluded from further transportation without any compensation.

  • ARE CABINS WITH CONNECTING DOORS AVAILABLE?

    Our Rhine ships (A-ROSA AQUA, A-ROSA SILVA, A-ROSA FLORA) and the A-ROSA VIVA offer two cabins with connecting doors on each deck, which are well suited for families with children. On A-ROSA SENA we will have 20 cabins with interconnecting doors on deck 3. We can also recommend our family cabins on board the A-ROSA FLORA, which accommodate up to 2 adults and 2 children. On A-ROSA SENA, the family cabins can be accommodated up to 2 adults and 3 children.

  • HOW DO I SETTLE MY ON BOARD ACCOUNT?

    The on-board currency is the euro. During the cruise, you will be given your own on-board credit card to use, which also serves as your key card for your cabin. At the end of the cruise, you can choose to pay your final account either in cash (Euro) or with the following credit cards: American Express, Mastercard or Visa. For technical reasons, it is unfortunately not possible to pay by Maestro/EC card, debit card or travellers‘ cheques.

  • IS AN A-ROSA CRUISE SUITABLE FOR DIABETICS AND / OR TRAVELLERS WITH FOOD ALLERGIES?

    We attach great importance to your physical well-being and want to meet your needs in the best way possible. Please contact the tour operator with whom you booked your A-ROSA cruise and inform them of your intolerance prior to your cruise. In addition, please contact the reception after your arrival to make an appointment with the chef in order to accommodate your individual needs. We can then assure that you are only offered food that you can enjoy carefree.

  • DO I HAVE TO FOLLOW A SPECIAL DRESS CODE?

    On board and during the shore excursions, you can wear what you like. The dress code is comfortable and casual. Please remember to bring warmer clothes for the evenings out on deck. For the shore excursions, we recommend you bring sturdy shoes. In the restaurants, swimwear or shorts are not appropriate for dinner.

  • WHERE ARE THE OTHER GUESTS FROM?

    A-ROSA has eight ships which are dedicated to the international market: A-ROSA DONNA, FLORA, SILVA, STELLA, VIVA, AQUA, ALVA and SENA. Here, guests are mostly from Germany, Great Britain, Italy, Spain, Israel and the United States. The on-board language on these ships is English and German.

  • ARE THERE WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE CABINS ON BOARD?

    The A-ROSA ships do not have wheelchair-accessible cabins and there are no passenger lifts on board other than the A-ROSA ALVA. The A-ROSA ALVA has an elevator between deck 1 and deck 3 and the A-ROSA SENA between deck 1 and deck 4, but the sun deck can only be reached by stairs, which can result in restrictions.

  • WHEN DOES CHECK-IN BEGIN?

    Check-in time and accessing your cabin on embarkation day: For Danube cruises from Engelhartszell/Passau and cruises on the Rhine, Rhône and Seine at 14:00. For Danube cruises from Vienna at 15:00 at the berth no. 1 For Douro cruises at 15:00. A-ROSA suite guests have the opportunity to check in at any time after 12:00. Please be on board no later than one hour before the departure of the ship. Please also have your travel documents and vouchers ready for check-in. You will find your personal on board credit card in your cabin, which also functions as as the key card to your cabin.

  • WHAT DOCUMENTS SHOULD I BRING ON MY CRUISE?

    Please make sure to bring a identity document (identity card or passport), which are valid in the period during the trip. We recommend that you also carry a photocopy of your identity papers in your luggage. Citizens of other countries should contact their relevant consulates about any visas or other entry documents that may be required.

  • ARE THE A-ROSA SHIPS EQUIPPED WITH A POOL?

    A heated whirlpool can be found on the ships A-ROSA AQUA, and VIVA in the SPA outdoor area on deck 3. On board all other ships, a heated pool can be found on the sun deck. You can find bath towels in your cabin.

  • HOW AND WHEN CAN I BOOK EXCURSIONS?

    English excursions are only bookable on board. We arrange the excursions, but they are implemented by the local agencies, which are the excursion organisers, and thus also your contractual partners.

Reviews of this operator

Jules M  

Wonderful Danube River Cruise on the A-Rosa Donna!

26-Jul-2023

Our party of 4 (2 couples) thoroughly enjoyed a wonderful week on the A-Rosa Donna, Danube river cruise. All the crew from the cleaners to the Captain were first class, all so friendly and helpful, making our holiday a very special time. All the food was excellent, such a variety every day and a great selection of drinks too. We would like to make a special mention to the dining/drinks crew members who went above and beyond to ensure we had everything we needed during our stay, they were brilliant! We have already recommended this holiday to family and friends and will definitely be booking future river cruises with A-Rosa. Thank you!

Trustpilot
Sally Wood McDonald  

Luxury on the River

17-Sep-2023

The Duoro River is beautiful. The ship was immaculate. Staff were all friendly and helpful. The food was incredible!

Trustpilot
Jen  

Romantic Cruise

20-Sep-2023

The crew were fantastic and several went above and beyond. Too many to mention but special thanks to Umat, Stefanie, Ruta and Can. It was our Golden Wedding Anniversary and the Maitre de gave us a table for dinner in the reserved area with linen tablecloth, napkins and roses Also Didi the chambermaid did a wonderful display using the towels in our cabin and rose petals. Certainly a cruise to remember

Trustpilot

1 Select your preferred date

Wednesday - Wednesday

Mar 19, 2025 - Mar 26, 2025
$2346

Wednesday - Wednesday

Mar 26, 2025 - Apr 02, 2025
$1804

Wednesday - Wednesday

Apr 30, 2025 - May 07, 2025
$2105

Wednesday - Wednesday

May 21, 2025 - May 28, 2025
$3068

Wednesday - Wednesday

May 28, 2025 - Jun 04, 2025
$2166

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jun 04, 2025 - Jun 11, 2025
$2166

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jun 11, 2025 - Jun 18, 2025
$5777

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jun 18, 2025 - Jun 25, 2025
$2105

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jun 25, 2025 - Jul 02, 2025
$1804

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jul 02, 2025 - Jul 09, 2025
$1804

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jul 09, 2025 - Jul 16, 2025
$2587

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jul 16, 2025 - Jul 23, 2025
$1563

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jul 23, 2025 - Jul 30, 2025
$1804

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jul 30, 2025 - Aug 06, 2025
$1563

Wednesday - Wednesday

Aug 06, 2025 - Aug 13, 2025
$4693

Wednesday - Wednesday

Aug 13, 2025 - Aug 20, 2025
$2286

Wednesday - Wednesday

Aug 27, 2025 - Sep 03, 2025
$1804

Wednesday - Wednesday

Sep 03, 2025 - Sep 10, 2025
$2105

Wednesday - Wednesday

Sep 10, 2025 - Sep 17, 2025
$2105

Wednesday - Wednesday

Sep 24, 2025 - Oct 01, 2025
$2105

Wednesday - Wednesday

Oct 15, 2025 - Oct 22, 2025
$1804

Wednesday - Wednesday

Oct 29, 2025 - Nov 05, 2025
$1563

Wednesday - Wednesday

Nov 05, 2025 - Nov 12, 2025
$1563

Wednesday - Wednesday

Nov 12, 2025 - Nov 19, 2025
$1563

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    A-ROSA River Cruises allows you to make 1 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 30 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    A-ROSA River Cruises allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform a-rosa river cruises, 30 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    A-ROSA River Cruises requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of a-rosa river cruises charges.

    At 31 days before tour starts: Forfeit 35% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 24 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 17 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 10 days before tour starts: Forfeit 85% of booking price.

    At 3 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.