Highlights of the Douro Valley & Salamanca River Cruise - MS Porto Mirante
Tour Overview
Explore Portugal - one of the oldest countries in Europe - while meandering along the beautifully tranquil Douro River. Experience Portugal's wine-making traditions and explore the country’s fascinating history.
See for yourself why the Douro Valley has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status as we sail along its picturesque riverbanks. Explore this enchanting region with an itinerary that encompasses a mixture of authentic local experiences, sightseeing and plenty of opportunity to taste Portuguese port and wine. Experience the city of Porto, where you can roam the port warehouses or visit Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal. Enjoy free time in the quaint town of Lamego or see Mateus Palace and its iconic gardens. Visit the walled village of Castelo Rodrigo or learn about the palaeolithic rock art of the Côa Valley. Explore historic Salamanca, a UNESCO Site and one of Iberia’s oldest university towns, or the imposing fortress of Almeida. This river cruise captures the scenic beauty of the Douro Valley - ideal for wine aficionados, history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
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Highlights
Itinerary
DAY 1
Location: Porto
Meals Included: Dinner
Arrival in Porto - After arriving in Porto, we'll transfer to our beautifully crafted ship. From the moment you board, the welcoming crew is at your service. Relax and settle into your accommodation before sitting down to our first delicious meal on board.
DAY 2
Location: Porto
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Porto - This morning, we'll explore Porto on a coach tour of the city, passing through the terraced streets of the old town and taking in the charming atmosphere. Along the way, we will pause to appreciate the stunning architecture, bell towers, baroque churches, and intricate tiles that are typical of traditional Portugal. Including the Porto Cathedral, situated in the elevated Batalha district, that stands beside the historic walls that once safeguarded the city. Its façade resembles that of a fortress, featuring defensive battlements. Originally built in the 12th century, this landmark has undergone several renovations throughout the years.
This afternoon, we’ll set sail for Régua, giving us the perfect opportunity to enjoy the ship's five-star facilities - enjoy the scenery along the Douro whilst chatting with fellow explorers on the sun deck, take a dip in the refreshing splash pool or head to the bar for a cool drink.
After docking this evening in the charming town of Peso da Régua, we'll visit the 126-acre Quinta da Pacheca, known as the first quinta to bottle wine under the name of its owner, the aristocrat Mariana Pacheco Pereira. The estate dates back to the 18th century and is one of the most beautiful properties in the region. Here we'll stop for dinner accompanied by a selection of their wines, while enjoying dramatic views over the Douro.
DAY 3
Location: Castelo Rodrigo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Castelo Rodrigo or Foz Côa Engravings Museum - Enjoy a lazy morning sailing, relaxing over a leisurely breakfast. While we cruise down the river, you’ll have the opportunity to test out our brand-new facilities or lounge on the sundeck with a book - although we make no promises that you’ll be able to concentrate with views like these.
In the past, the Douro river was untamed and difficult to navigate, especially for the flat-bottomed boats that frequently sank in its waters. Today, the river has been controlled with dams and locks that have raised the water level, resulting in a landscape similar to Scotland's lochs and adding to the beauty of the valley - which we'll have time to appreciate as we sail this morning.
You have a couple of choices to choose from for this afternoon.
Choose to visit the historic 12th-century walled village of Castelo Rodrigo, tucked away in the picturesque highland ranges bordering Spain. The village is home to a well-preserved Gothic castle, a rare example of Leonese-style architecture. It's said that Saint Francis stayed here as the church was a resting place on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. From Castelo Rodrigo, enjoy unobstructed views of the Spanish border and beyond - you can also see the town of Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo and the Monastery of Santa Maria de Aguiar.
Alternatively, you can choose a tour of the Foz Côa Engravings Museum. The vast area of the Côa Valley boasts a fascinating collection of outdoor rock art. Whilst you won’t see the actual rock art on your guided tour of the indoor museum, you can engage with portable art pieces, see replicas of engraved panels, and enjoy interactive displays that utilise cutting-edge digital technology. Following the tour, you'll have some time to wander the outdoor spaces. There's also an opportunity to hike to a scenic viewpoint; however, keep in mind that this path includes numerous steps and may be physically challenging.
Please make your choice of excursion prior to travel.
DAY 4
Location: Salamanca
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Salamanca or Almeida - Today you have a choice of tours:
On this full day tour, we head across the border and visit historic Salamanca, one of several UNESCO World Heritage Sites on this journey, regarded by many Spaniards as their nation’s most beautiful city. Located in western Spain, Salamanca combines history, culture and vibrant energy. This morning, you will have some time at leisure to explore Salamanca on your own. Maybe visit the Casa Lis Art Nouveau & Art Deco Museum or the city's famous Plaza Mayor where many love affairs began. It was common from the mid-14th to the mid-20th century for men and women to walk in opposite directions around the gardens at the centre of the square to set up dates. If you're still looking for your one true love, you’re (unfortunately) out of luck as this tradition has faded out over time but the Plaza Mayor is still a must-see with a grand square with intricate facades and bustling cafés - a great place to stop and relax.
Then we'll embark on a guided tour of the city and visit Salamanca's two cathedrals.
The old cathedral, built in the 12th century, is a beautiful example of Gothic and Baroque architecture featuring a stunning fresco of the Final Judgement in the Apse. The new cathedral shares a wall with the old one. It was built in the 16th century in a matching Gothic style to keep harmony with the old cathedral. Here you can enjoy the elaborately carved choir before continuing our guided tour of the city.
Over a local lunch including typical Spanish tapas, we'll be seduced by the fiery passion and energy of a traditional flamenco show before we head back to the ship.
On this morning's tour, we head to the fortified town of Almeida, which endured a lengthy siege during the Peninsular War. Once deemed unassailable, the fortress bravely withstood French attacks for 12 days until a massive explosion in its ammunition depot left it vulnerable to invasion. The blast was so immense that some granite debris was reported to have been scattered as far as three miles away. Evidence of the town's defensive architecture remains intact, featuring casemates, watchtowers, concealed passages, and cannon embrasures in various sections of the fortress.
This formidable structure consists of a network of bulwarks, ravelins, platforms, and deep trenches, surrounded by a moat with just two entrances, both secured by bomb-proof gates. While the fortress walls may appear typical from ground level, a bird's-eye view reveals an intricate 12-point star design. This layout effectively eliminated blind spots, allowing defenders to direct fire at the enemy from multiple angles, thus enhancing their defensive capabilities.
Next, we’ll explore the captivating Museu Histórico Militar de Almeida, which showcases an array of weaponry, uniforms, and military artefacts from different historical periods. These exhibits are housed in underground chambers that once served as storage and refuge during sieges, creating a unique atmosphere to delve into Almeida's military heritage.
After some leisure time in the village, we'll make our way back to the ship for lunch, then spend the afternoon unwinding onboard as you wish.
DAY 5
Location: Quinta da Avessada
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Pinhão and Lamego or Mateus Palace - On arrival after a leisurely breakfast, we'll enjoy free time before lunch in the picturesque town of Pinhão, which sits on a bend of the Douro, encircled by a terraced hillside. Here, some of the world's best port and table wines are produced. Join our guide for an orientation walk or wander through the town of white buildings and terracotta-coloured roofs and visit the delightful train station decorated with azulejos - Portuguese hand-painted tiles - celebrating Pinhão history with images of the grape harvest.
After lunch back on board, you have a couple of excursions to choose from this afternoon.
The historic city of Lamego is known for its church, the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios, which is situated at the top of a beautifully tiled baroque staircase. If you’re up for a challenge, it’s worth taking the 686 steps from the top of the staircase back to the town at the bottom for stunning views of the city - don't worry, you can stop to admire the fountains, mosaics and hedges along the way.
Other highlights of this delightful town include an ancient Moorish castle, a Gothic cathedral and elegant 18th-century villas. Head to the Avenida - the town's grand boulevard - for tea in one of the open-air cafés and to test your bargaining skills at the market stalls.
Alternatively, you can visit Mateus Palace and its iconic gardens. Wine aficionados will recognise the palace from the label of Mateus Rosé, whose logo depicts the impressive facade. The owner of Mateus Palace was offered a few pennies commission for every bottle sold. However, he turned it down in favour of a one-off lump sum. This was a major mistake as the brand became one of the most successful wines, exported to over 100 countries and it continues to be Portugal's number one-selling wine. Despite this financial misstep, the well-preserved Mateus Palace is still one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Portugal. Here, there'll be time to explore the gardens surrounding the palace, decorated with boxwood hedges, statues and a fragrant cypress tunnel and view the magnificent structure from all angles.
DAY 6
Location: Lamego
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Quinta da Avessada - Spend the morning relaxing onboard as cruise down the winding Douro river through its majestic valleys. The rugged terrain and dramatic cliffs create a striking backdrop for a relaxing morning enjoying breakfast and unwinding on the sundeck.
For lunch, we'll visit Quinta da Avessada - an estate renowned for its exquisite Moscatel wines, where a traditionally cooked lunch awaits.
We'll follow the quinta owner on a guided tour as he entertains us with stories about the area's history and wine-making traditions. Stepping into the heart of the production process, we'll explore the vineyards, witness the meticulous cultivation of the muscat grapes that become Moscatel wine and learn about the unique characteristics of the terroir and the viticultural practices that make this wine so exceptional - and, of course, we'll taste the local wines with the rustic lunch.
Back on board, you will have some free time to explore the town of Peso da Régua, where we are moored overnight.
After dinner, enjoy a Portuguese folklore show on board.
DAY 7
Location: Guimaraes
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Vila Nova de Gaia Port Cellar or Guimarães - Spend this morning enjoying the five-star facilities onboard, heading up to the sun deck to enjoy a coffee whilst chatting with newly-made friends as our ship makes its way back to Porto.
This afternoon, you can choose to return to Vila Nova de Gaia, on the riverbank opposite Porto, for a port tasting or join the tour to Guimarães, known for its foundational role in Portuguese history.
Porto is synonymous with delicious port wine - all the famous port producers are here, including Cálem, Sandeman and Ferreira - and it wouldn't be a tour of Porto without a visit to one of them in Vila Nova de Gaia. It's said that port was invented, almost by accident, when a pair of English brothers fortified Portuguese wine with grape brandy before taking it back to England in the late 1600s. We'll learn more about its fascinating history and production on our visits and, of course, you'll get the chance to sample various port styles at the end of our visit.
Alternatively, explore Guimarães, known as the birthplace of Portugal. The city is believed to be the hometown of Portugal's first King who was born in the Romanesque castle which overlooks the city from its hilltop. On our tour, we'll visit the Paço dos Duques de Bragança. Once the home of the first Duke of Braganza, the palace has been beautifully restored, and the preserved architectural treasures housed here tell the tale of this historic city.
Here, there’ll be chance to find lunch in one of the city’s many cosy cafes. Don’t be surprised if you hear the locals ask for café com cheirinho. Coffee with a splash of wine, fruit, or pomace brandy is practically a requirement for a lazy afternoon in the city.
This evening, we'll enjoy a Chef's dinner during your last night on board, expertly served by our restaurant staff under the supervision of the maître d’.
DAY 8
Location: Porto
Meals Included: Breakfast
Return home
Ship Details
MS Porto Mirante
Ship Overview
Experience the thrill of a European adventure with the opulence of a luxurious boutique hotel.
Between onshore adventures, relax in the comfort of the spacious and stylish accommodations of the MS Porto Mirante.
Step on board the beautifully crafted ship MS Porto Mirante, a spacious 80-metres long with cabins and amenities spread over four decks. This brand new, state-of-the-art ship offers a first-class service to each and every guest.
The sun deck is a space to unwind, enjoy a drink in the sky lounge, and chat with fellow adventurers. And when the weather gets too warm, cool off in the pool or relax on a lounger - all while admiring the panoramic vistas.
Our restaurant offers an intimate yet relaxed fine dining experience with informal seating for easy conversation with brilliant like-minded explorers.
The spacious cabins are spread over 3 decks, with individually controlled air-conditioning, a contemporary bathroom with a rain shower and double or twin beds.
Ship Details
Ship Name:
MS Porto Mirante
Adults Only Areas:
kids allowed
Ship Children Facilities:
none
Ship Nursery:
none
Smoking Areas:
some
Ship Size:
boutique
Ship Style:
luxury
Ship Type:
river
Ship Kind:
Riverboat
Ship Currency:
EUR
Ship Language:
en
Ship Capacity:
120
Ship Crew Count:
42
Number of Decks:
4
Number of Cabins:
60
Ship Launch Year:
2024
Ship Length (Meters):
80 M
Ship Width (Meters):
11 M
Ship Speed (Knots):
12 Kn
Deck Plans
Diamond Deck
LoungeBarStern CabinsForward CabinsStandard Cabins
Emerald Deck
Engine RoomFitnessForward CabinsStandard Cabins
Ruby Deck
RestaurantKitchenStern CabinsForward CabinsStandard Cabins
Sun Deck
Splash PoolWheelhouseSky LoungeBarChairs/Sun Loungers
Cabins
Enjoy your cabin, your way. Marvel at the views from your floor-to-ceiling glass doors or slide them away when the weather is warm to extend your living space onto your private French balcony. The hotel-style bed can also be configured as a double or twin.
Standard Cabin - The Emerald (Lower) Deck (Grade E,ED,ES,ESS)
Our Standard cabins on the Emerald Deck are complete with modern amenities that make you feel perfectly at home. The spacious cabin (16 square metres) features a fixed window overlooking the river. It also includes air conditioning, hairdryer, safe, TV, telephone, desk, lounge chair and table and tea/coffee-making facilities. The hotel-style beds can be configured as a double or twin, and the modern ensuite bathroom features a relaxing rain shower.FeaturesIndividual climate controlFixed windowTwin beds which can be configured as doubleNespresso machine and tea making facilitiesEnsuite bathroom with walk-in showerShampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soapTowels and hairdryerDesk & chairLounge table and chairTelephone and flat-screen TVSafe & mini fridge
Forward Standard Cabin - The Diamond (Upper) Deck (Grade DF)
Our Forward cabins on the Diamond deck are a spacious 16 square metres with superior quality fittings and all the luxuries of home - plus a few extras!Each cabin includes air conditioning, hairdryer, safe, TV, telephone, a desk, double wardrobe and tea/coffee-making facilities available in every room. The cabin also features an ensuite bathroom with a relaxing rain shower.Enjoy your cabin, your way. Marvel at the views from your floor-to-ceiling glass doors or slide them away when the weather is warm to extend your living space onto your private French balcony. The hotel-style bed can also be configured as a double or twin.*Please note: this image is of a standard cabin, forward and stern cabins do not have a table and chair.FeaturesIndividual climate controlFloor to ceiling windows with French style balconyTwin beds which can be configured as doubleNespresso machine and tea making facilitiesEnsuite bathroom with walk-in showerLuxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soapTowels and hairdryerSitting stool*Telephone and flat-screen TVSafe & mini fridgeRiviera Plus (2024 and 2025 only)10% off hairdresser services10% off onboard laundry services10% off spa treatment or massageLuxury toiletriesLocally inspired giftsBottle of champagneIndulge in the luxury of?Riviera Plus?when you stay in an upper deck cabin or suite. In your well-appointed cabin, you’ll find a range of extras to make your experience extra special.
Forward Standard Cabin - The Emerald (Lower) Deck (Grade EF)
Our Forward cabins on the Emerald Deck are complete with modern amenities that make you feel perfectly at home. The spacious cabin (16 square metres) features a fixed window overlooking the river. It also includes air conditioning, hairdryer, safe, TV, telephone, desk and tea/coffee-making facilities. The hotel-style beds can be configured as a double or twin, and the modern ensuite bathroom features a relaxing rain shower.*Please note: this image is of a standard cabin, forward and stern cabins do not have a table and chair.FeaturesIndividual climate controlFixed windowTwin beds which can be configured as doubleNespresso machine and tea making facilitiesEnsuite bathroom with walk-in showerShampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soapTowels and hairdryerSitting stool*Telephone and flat-screen TVSafe & mini fridge
Standard Cabin - The Diamond (Upper) Deck (Grade D,DS)
These exquisitely designed cabins create the feeling of home in a fraction of the space. Our 16 square metres Standard Cabins on the Diamond Deck are finished to an exceptionally high standard with superior quality fittings in the most refined taste. The floor-to-ceiling glass doors of your French balcony slide away to extend your already spacious living space.The cabin includes air conditioning, hairdryer, safe, TV, telephone, a desk, double wardrobe, a lounge chair and small table and tea/coffee-making facilities available in every room. The hotel-style beds can be configured as a double or twin, and the room features an ensuite bathroom with a rain shower.FeaturesIndividual climate controlFloor to ceiling windows with French style balconyTwin beds which can be configured as doubleNespresso machine and tea making facilitiesEnsuite bathroom with walk-in showerLuxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soapTowels and hairdryerDesk & chairLounge table and chairTelephone and flat-screen TVSafe & mini fridgeRiviera Plus (2024 and 2025 only)10% off hairdresser services10% off onboard laundry services10% off spa treatment or massageLuxury toiletriesLocally inspired giftsBottle of champagne
Forward Standard Cabin - The Ruby (Middle) Deck (Grade RD)
Our Forward cabins on the Ruby deck are 16 square metres with superior quality fittings and all the luxuries of home.Enjoy your cabin, your way. Marvel at the views from your floor-to-ceiling glass doors, or slide them away when the weather is warm to extend your living space onto your private French balcony. The hotel-style bed can also be configured as a double or twin.Each cabin includes air conditioning, hairdryer, safe, TV, telephone, a desk, double wardrobe and tea/coffee-making facilities available in every room. The cabin also features an ensuite bathroom with a relaxing rain shower.*Please note: this image is of a standard cabin, forward and stern cabins do not have a table and chair.FeaturesIndividual climate controlFloor to ceiling windows with French style balconyTwin beds which can be configured as doubleNespresso machine and tea making facilitiesEnsuite bathroom with walk-in showerShampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soapTowels and hairdryerSitting stool*Telephone and flat-screen TVSafe & mini fridge
Standard Cabin - The Ruby (Middle) Deck (Grade R,RDM)
Enjoy the feeling of home in a fraction of the space in our exquisitely designed, spacious cabins. Our 16 square metres Standard Cabins on the Ruby Deck are finished to an exceptionally high standard with superior quality fittings. The floor-to-ceiling glass doors of your French balcony slide away to extend your already spacious living area, and each cabin has a private ensuite bathroom, complete with a relaxing rain shower.Each cabin includes air conditioning, hairdryer, safe, TV, telephone, a desk, double wardrobe, a lounge chair and small table and tea/coffee-making facilities available in every room. The hotel-style beds can be configured as a double or twin.FeaturesIndividual climate controlFloor to ceiling windows with French style balconyTwin beds which can be configured as doubleNespresso machine and tea making facilitiesEnsuite bathroom with walk-in showerShampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soapTowels and hairdryerDesk & chairLounge table and chairTelephone and flat-screen TVSafe & mini fridge
Stern Standard Cabin - The Ruby (Middle) Deck (Grade RDS)
Our Stern cabins on the Ruby deck are 16 square metres with superior quality fittings and all the luxuries of home.Enjoy your cabin, your way. Marvel at the views from your floor-to-ceiling glass doors, or slide them away when the weather is warm to extend your living space onto your private French balcony. The hotel-style bed can also be configured as a double or twin.Each cabin includes air conditioning, hairdryer, safe, TV, telephone, a desk, double wardrobe and tea/coffee-making facilities available in every room. The cabin also features an ensuite bathroom with a relaxing rain shower.*Please note: this image is of a standard cabin, forward and stern cabins do not have a table and chair.FeaturesIndividual climate controlFloor to ceiling windows with French style balconyTwin beds which can be configured as doubleNespresso machine and tea making facilitiesEnsuite bathroom with walk-in showerShampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soapTowels and hairdryerSitting stool*Telephone and flat-screen TVSafe & mini fridge
Stern Standard Cabins - The Diamond (Upper) Deck (Grade DT)
Our Stern cabins on the Diamond deck are a spacious 16 square metres with superior quality fittings and all the luxuries of home - plus a few extras!Each cabin includes air conditioning, hairdryer, safe, TV, telephone, a desk, double wardrobe and tea/coffee-making facilities available in every room. The cabin also features an ensuite bathroom with a relaxing rain shower.Enjoy your cabin, your way. Marvel at the views from your floor-to-ceiling glass doors or slide them away when the weather is warm to extend your living space onto your private French balcony. The hotel-style bed can also be configured as a double or twin.FeaturesIndividual climate controlFloor to ceiling windows with French style balconyTwin beds which can be configured as doubleNespresso machine and tea making facilitiesEnsuite bathroom with walk-in showerLuxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soapTowels and hairdryerSitting stool*Telephone and flat-screen TVSafe & mini fridgeRiviera Plus (2024 and 2025 only)10% off onboard laundry services10% off hairdresser services10% off spa treatment or massageLuxury toiletriesLocally inspired giftsBottle of champagne
Dining
Our restaurant offers an intimate yet relaxed fine dining experience with informal seating for easy conversation with brilliant like-minded explorers.
Restaurant
The ship's restaurant is located on the Ruby Deck. Experience exceptional service from our attentive and discrete, English-speaking crew while you enjoy a variety of first-class cuisine. Pair seasonal menus with a glass of wine from our carefully curated wine list, including a selection of regional favourites. (cover)
Entertainment
Your ship's facilities
- Panoramic observation lounge and bar
- Sun deck with sun loungers, splash pool and bar
- Main restaurant
- Fitness area
- 24hr self-service tea and coffee
- Boutique gift shop
- Free Wi-Fi
- Lift between accommodation decks
- Laundry service
Atrium
On the Diamond Deck, you'll find our spacious atrium, bar and lounge area. Sink into the sumptuously soft armchairs and sofas with a freshly made cup of tea and watch the verdant landscapes and charming towns and villages sail by through our floor-to-ceiling windows. And in the evening, enjoy pre- and after-dinner drinks with your fellow travellers while discussing the highlights of the day accompanied by the soothing tones of the ship's pianist.
Sun Deck
Relax on our open-air Sun Deck, which features a selection of comfortable chairs and sun loungers - both in and out of the shade - before taking a dip in the refreshing splash pool. Then to the bar for a cool drink and that book you've been meaning to read for ages in the sky bar. Fair warning: we can't guarantee the panoramic views won't distract you!Please note: The Sun Deck is only accessible by stairs.
Enrichment
Excursions
On our river cruises we love to take you right into the heart of each town or city you visit along the way, and during your cruise local guides will offer a variety of guided walking tours, panoramic coach tours and/or visits to museums and local cultural favourites such as a wine tasting in Burgundy and a train journey through the Swiss mountains. You will have a good mix of touring and free time to learn about the history and the little quirks of each place, with plenty of time to explore at your own leisure. Please check the itinerary of the cruise for more specific details.
Onshore Experiences
We are a well-travelled collective - made up of our guests as well as our team. We'll admit it - we're obsessed with travel.But that's not our only interest. We also love architecture, history, the arts, and gastronomy - everything that makes a culture unique. And we plan our itineraries to ensure we're catering to those interests. Perfecting every excursion to ensure you get the most out of your onshore adventures.Most days are filled with full or half-day excursions. Whether that's a city tour, an introduction to a brand-new town or a more in-depth visit to a specific landmark or attraction. You'll see the very best of every destination. Not just the legendary locations, we'll uncover the top-secret local spots too.World-famous landmarksYou'll get to experience some world-famous destinations in the company of our passionate local guides. Sites like the Benedictine Melk Abbey on the Danube, spectacular Pont du Gard on the Rhône, Keukenhof Gardens - the world's largest flower gardens - on the Dutch Waterways and Cologne with its cathedral, the largest Gothic church in Northern Europe.A taste of your destinationFood has the uncanny ability to reveal the softer parts of the destination most tourists overlook. Recipes passed down through the generations slowly become ingrained within a culture, featuring fresh local produce and traditional cooking techniques. Our excursions often include delicious local produce perfected over centuries - sample cheese in Switzerland and chocolate in Germany (it's not a cruise for those watching their weight), wine tasting in the world-famous wine region of Burgundy and port in the port wine cellars of Porto.For even more, why not choose one of our Gastronomy themed departures?Authentic cultural experiencesOur river cruise itineraries deliver authentic and engaging moments to fully immerse you in the culture. You'll remember being seduced by the fiery passion of flamenco dancing after a cruise along the Douro. Hold on to that feeling of wonder you felt as you watch the glassblower creating the most beautiful vase out of a glowing mass. And tell the stories you heard during a Hungarian folklore show to your grandchildren at bedtime. The memory of these authentic cultural experiences will last a lifetime.
Kids and Teens
Please note: there are no children's facilities on board MS Porto Mirante.
Health & Fitness
Fitness Centre
For those who are a little more energetic - or just looking to work off all those delicious meals - our fitness centre is located on the Emerald Deck.
Gratuities
Giving a gratuity is entirely at your discretion, so we have not included these in your holiday cost, and we don't add it as a set percentage.
If you would like to tip the staff, a good guideline is to give €8-12 per person per day should you feel that is appropriate.
If you do choose to give a gratuity, there will usually be an envelope is left in your cabin on the final evening. This is for you to be able include any tips, and you can then drop it off at reception the following morning. The tips are divided equally between the crew.
Should you also wish to give a gratuity directly to your Riviera Travel Cruise Director and Concierge, this is also at your discretion.
Useful Information
Age Restrictions
The minimum age limit is 12 years old at the date of departure. We reserve the right to limit the number of children on any particular cruise. Any minor must be accompanied by and share a cabin with an adult aged 21 or over. If the adult is not the minor’s parent, a ‘Parental Consent Guardianship Form’ must be signed by a parent or legal guardian prior to sailing.
Air Conditioning
Our ships are fully air-conditioned throughout. Each cabin has individual air-conditioning and heating controls.
Disabled Facilities
We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your holiday with us.Please take a look at our Passengers with Reduced Mobility FAQs page for more information.Alternatively, you can contact us online or call us on 01283 688 164 to discuss these concerns. Our ships are not adapted for wheelchair access. If you are intending to take a wheelchair or mobility scooter with you, it is essential that you contact us to let us know.Wheelchairs and mobility scooters can be used on excursions but they cannot be used on board the ships due to safety reasons and must not be left in corridors, the lounge or restaurant or any other public areas. They must be stored in your cabin.River cruises operate with a smaller crew than ocean cruises and do not have the crew available to personally attend to passengers with reduced mobility, therefore a travelling companion would need to be able to help with any physical needs.The itinerary we include with our river cruises involves shore excursions visiting places with cobbled streets which can be on an incline making navigation of these streets difficult for anyone with reduced mobility.If you can’t do many shore excursions, river cruising in Europe can still be very enjoyable and worthwhile. Cruising down the Rhine, Danube or any of the European rivers we offer gives you the opportunity to take in the spectacular scenery and there is a lot to enjoy from the comfort of the ship. Please contact us with any concerns you may have.Whilst most of our ships have a lift on board, it does not operate to all decks.We include mobility information regarding lifts between decks on each ship under the deck plan section of the page. You may wish to view all of our ships before booking.
Dress Code
There is no requirement to bring formal dress - smart/casual is acceptable for both day and evening as there is no dress code enforced. However, men are requested not to wear shorts for dinner or vest tops at any time in the dining room. You may wish to wear a jacket and tie for dinner. The Chef's Dinner offers the opportunity, should you wish, for more special attire.
Drinks Packages
We have a drinks package included for all European river cruises in 2024, 2025 and 2026.Superior Drinks PackageFor all 2024 and 2025 European river cruises:Over lunch in our restaurants enjoy unlimited drinks from a choice of:Red, white, rosé and sparkling house wine, including non-alcoholicDraught beer, including non-alcoholicA selection of soft drinks and juicesThen from 6 pm until midnight in our bar and restaurants, enjoy all of the above, plus unlimited drinks from a choice of:Our cocktail and mocktail of the dayHouse spirits and mixers (including gin, vodka, rum and whisky)A recommended regional wine during dinnerMartini & Sherry pre-dinnerPort & Brandy after dinnerAll-inclusive drinks packageAvailable on 2026 European river cruise departuresAvailable from 10am to midnight each day:Red, white, rosé and sparkling house wine, including non-alcoholic?A choice of draught beer, including non-alcoholic?A selection of soft drinks and juices??Our cocktail and mocktail of the day?House spirits and mixers including vodka, gin, rum, whisky, martini, sherry, brandy, port and Baileys (excluding liqueurs)Daily recommended wines ?Tea and coffee from the barView more about our drinks packages.
Facilities and Services
Details on the facilities on each ship can be found in the individual river cruise ship pages.Hairdressing servicesMost ships, with the exception of the MS Douro Elegance and MS Douro Splendour, offer a hairdressing service.Medical servicesThere are no on-board medical personnel, although specific crew members will have basic first aid training. However, the ship can stop at any time to transfer any passenger requiring emergency medical attention to local medical facilities.If you have any concerns about your health whilst on tour, please see your Cruise Director or Concierge. They will be able to advise you about chemists and availability of doctors, etc.In an emergency you could always phone our emergency number as issued on your itinerary.Laundry serviceA limited laundry service is available on board, except on the day of disembarkation.A dry cleaning service is not available.LibraryThere is a small library on board with a selection of books, games and puzzles.Gift shopThere is a gift shop on board.LiftsThere is a lift between all three internal decks but not the sun deck on most ships.
Laundry Service
A limited laundry service is available on board, except on the day of disembarkation. A dry cleaning service is not available.
Medical Facilties
If you have any concerns about your health whilst on tour, please see your Cruise Director or Concierge. They will be able to advise you about chemists and availability of doctors, etc. In an emergency you could always phone our emergency number as issued on your itinerary. There are no on-board medical personnel, although specific crew members will have basic first aid training. However, the ship can stop at any time to transfer any passenger requiring emergency medical attention to local medical facilities.
Onboard Lifts
On the MS Emily Brontë, MS Oscar Wilde, MS Thomas Hardy, MS Robert Burns, MS William Wordsworth, MS George Eliot, MS Douro Elegance and MS Douro Splendour there is a lift between all three internal decks but not the sun deck. All other ships have lifts, but these do not operate to the lower deck or the sun deck; with the exception of the MS Swiss Ruby which has no lift.
Smoking and E-Cigarette Policy
Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is not permitted anywhere on board except for designated areas on the sun deck. More and more countries in Europe are adopting a stricter legislation on smoking in public places.Smoking is not allowed on any public transport and there may be other restrictions in hotels, bars and restaurants.
Special Dietary Requirements
Breakfast: In the morning a full breakfast is served which includes healthy options and your choice of eggs made to order.Lunch: For lunch enjoy salads from the buffet, soup and a choice of main courses, including local dishes, plus dessert.Dinner: The four course a la carte dinners include a selection of international and regional specialities.We cater for most dietary requirements, please ensure you advise our sales team when making the booking.
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi available for your convenience
What's Included
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Full board during your cruise from dinner on your day of arrival until breakfast on your final day*
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Free drinks package
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Complimentary on-board tea and coffee
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Complimentary on-board Wi-Fi (connection speeds may vary)
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All visits and excursions as mentioned
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Return flights
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Coach travel as mentioned
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Transfers from the airport to and from the port of embarkation
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English-speaking expert guides
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The services of a Riviera Travel Cruise Director
What's Not Included
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Insurance
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Optional
Any item listed as optional or not mentioned within the itinerary or inclusions
Check out our Q&As
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Do you require a visa for this holiday?
UK Citizens do not require a visa to enter Portugal or Spain however must have a valid passport. For the most up-to-date passport and visa information visit https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/portugal/entry-requirements and https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/spain/entry-requirements
Customers from other countires will need to check visa requirements. We are unable to accept responsibility if you are unable to travel because you have not complied with any passport/entry/immigration requirements. ...more ...less -
Is there a supplement for solo travellers?
Yes, please enquire for details if the Single price for a cabin is not displayed.
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What is the fitness level required to do this tour?
We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your holiday with us. If you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the holiday due to reduced mobility we would encourage you to contact us to discuss these concerns.
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What currencies are required for this tour?
Euros
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
For almost 40 years
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I have reduced mobility; can I still travel?
We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your holiday with us. If you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the holiday due to reduced mobility we would encourage you to contact us to discuss these concerns
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Do I require travel insurance?
It is a condition of booking that you carry suitable travel insurance.
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What is my luggage allowance?
You will receive details of your luggage allowance with your final travel documents, which are sent approximately 10 days prior to your date of departure.
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
Tuesday - Tuesday
Apr 08, 2025 - Apr 15, 2025Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Riviera Travel requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 101 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of riviera travel charges.
Up to 101 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 100 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.
At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Highlights of the Douro Valley & Salamanca River Cruise - MS Porto Mirante
8 Days Starting and ending in Porto, Portugal
Visiting: Porto, Castelo Rodrigo, Salamanca, Quinta da Avessada, Lamego, Guimaraes
Tour operator:
Ship Name:
MS Porto MiranteShip Capacity:
120
Age range:
18-99
Special diets catered:
Please advise requests
