Have questions? We're here.
Porto, Portugal Old Town

Secrets of the Douro

Porto - Porto - Example 8 Day Cruise aboard Emerald Radiance
Talk with an expert
Build your ideal Portugal trip. Call 1.406.541.2677
Start Planning My Trip
Talk with an expert
Start your voyage in Porto by boarding the Emerald Waterways Star-Ship. The Douro, a symbol of Portugal's origin and growth as a nation, has long served as the country's lifeblood. After leaving the pastel-colored city of Porto, travel across the enchanting countryside. The riverbanks are lined with terraced vineyards, far horizons are dotted with ancient sites, and attractive villages are tucked into the rural slopes. Salamanca shines by day and by night, and paddling in Pocinho offers a fresh perspective on the Douro.
Porto Cityscape, PortugalA beautiful square in Porto, PortugalGo for a stroll through colorful SalamancaExplore historic SalamancaExplore beautiful SalamancaRelax in the countryside along the Douro riverTerraced vineyards of the Douro River ValleyPorto, Portugal Old Town
Highlights
  • Visit Quinta do Tedo vineyard in the heart of Portugal’s Douro Valley
  • Experience Roman times in ancient city of Salamanca
  • Explore the Douro Valley a UNESCO World Heritage
  • Admire fascinating modern and ancient architecture
Activities
Places Visited
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
0

Full Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Porto | Embark

Today, travel north along the Atlantic coast and stop in the enchanting town of Nazaré, home to some of the largest waves in Europe. When you arrive in Porto, board your luxurious Emerald Waterways Star-Ship. This evening, join your fellow travelers for dinner on board.

Day 2: Porto | Pinhão

Relax on board today and enjoy a full day of sailing through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Douro Valley. This fascinating area was inscribed because it hones in on two millennia of wine-producing history, where viticulture has shaped the surrounding landscape and small, sleepy villages are peppered with dozens of sun-drenched vineyards. Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner and cocktail reception.

Day 3: Pinhão | Vega de Terrón

Begin your day with a visit to the beautiful Quinta do Tedo vineyard in the heart of Portugal’s Douro Valley, nestled on the confluence of the Douro and Tedo rivers. This 18th-century estate is environmentally sound, creating organic produce by using traditional viticulture methods. Alternatively, enjoy a guided walk through local vineyards, stopping along the way to admire your surroundings. This afternoon, enjoy sailing to Vega de Terrón, perhaps relaxing on the Sun Deck. 

Day 4: Vega de Terrón | Salamanca

Founded in Roman times, the ancient city of Salamanca and its UNESCO World Heritage-listed old quarter has an illustrious past, having been held by the Carthaginians, Romans, and Moors. Travel to the beautiful golden city for a walking tour, starting among the postcard-worthy galleries and arcades that adorn Plaza Mayor. Have the opportunity to see Casa de las Conchas, a building that has been lovingly decorated with more than 300 shells.

Day 5: Pocinho | Régua

This morning, arrive in Pocinho have the opportunity to embark on a canoeing excursion or to visit the Côa Valley Museum. Later, return to your ship for lunch and soak up your idyllic surroundings as you sail towards Régua while taking part in a Port Wine cocktail lesson on board. A rural dinner at a wine estate is certain to be a highlight of your trip.

Day 6: Régua

Today, on an included excursion, visit the marvelous Baroque village of Lamego, stopping to see the picturesque Shrine of Our Lady of Remedies, a structure that stands gracefully over the town.

Day 7: Porto

Located at the mouth of the Douro River, Porto is a fascinating eclectic mix of modern and ancient architecture. Famous for its exports of Port wines, it’s easy to imagine how British merchant ships would have once clustered together in the medieval harbor, waiting to take Port wines across the water. Your included tour of the coastal city touch on the fortified structures of Castelo da Foz and Castelo do Queijo, a building whose pentagonal façades overlook the ocean. This evening, enjoy a charming evening cruise shining a different light on Porto's skyline.

Day 8: Porto | Disembarkation

  • 1 Breakfast
After breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to your fellow guests, taking memories of sun-drenched vineyards with you.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above.
 

Ship/Hotel

Emerald Radiance

Emerald Radiance Exterior

Emerald Radiance

A 112-passenger cruise ship custom-built to sail through the famed Douro River, Emerald Radiance provides a luxurious passage through the beautiful lands of northern Portugal. From sun-soaked vineyards to ancient ruins, your journey through this captivating land is complemented by the features and amenities of this boutique Star-Ship.
Emerald Radiance Atrium
Emerald Radiance Restaurant
Emerald Radiance Pool

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Deals

2 for 1 Fares + Free Air 25065
Book your Emerald River cruise for select 2024-2025 departures by September 30, 2024, and enjoy 2-for-1 fare on your cruise pricing.

An additional bonus savings of up to $1,000 per suite ($500 per person) on select departures. Savings vary by departure.

Free air offers are also available based on suite category when you pay in full 10 months prior to departure. If sailing is within 10 months, you can pay in full within 30 days to receive these offers or 90 days prior to departure - whichever is soonest. Bonus savings options are available in lieu of air with the same payment terms. Amount varies by category cabins.

Single Supplement: A free single supplement is available in 2024 and select 2025 Europe River cruise departures. Full payment is required. Other departure dates may have a 45% single supplement. Single supplement offers do not apply to S, RA, or SA cabin categories.

Flexible Booking Plan allows you to defer your booking to an alternative date or cancel your journey until 90 days prior to departure. Enjoy a Future Travel Credit to use on an alternate tour/cruise, valid for 24 months. The offer is valued at $125 per person—no substitutions, no cash value.

Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
Click for departure dates
Save and Sail 25160
Book your Emerald Europe River cruise for select 2024-2025 departures by August 4, 2024, and enjoy bonus savings of up to $1250 per suite ($625 per person) on select departures. Savings vary by departure. This promotion is combinable with 2-for-1 fares and Pay in full offer. A deposit is required at the time of booking. Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
Click for departure dates
Per person starting at
$8,290 2-3 travelers
Emerald Radiance stateroom
Emerald Stateroom (F)
153ft² (14.3m²), 4 cabins located on the Rivera Deck with Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, Picture window, En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers, Flat-screen TV, and infotainment system.
Emerald Radiance stateroom 2
Emerald Stateroom (E)
160ft² (14.9m²), 4 cabins located on the Rivera Deck with Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, Picture window, En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hairdryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers, Flat-screen TV, and infotainment system.
Emerald Radiance stateroom3
Emerald Stateroom (D)
170ft² (15.8m²), 2 cabins located on the Rivera Deck with Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, Picture window, En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hairdryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers, Flat-screen TV, and infotainment system.
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite (C)
160ft² (14.9m²), 14 cabins located on the Vista Deck with Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, Indoor balcony with open-air system,, En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers, Flat screen TV and infotainment system.
Emerald Radiance panorama 1
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite (B)
160ft² (14.9m²), 6 cabins located on the Vista Deck with Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, Indoor balcony with open-air system,, En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers, Flat screen TV and infotainment system
Emerald Radiance panorama2
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite (R)
188ft² (17.5m²), 2 cabins located on the Vista Deck with Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, Indoor balcony with open-air system, En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers, Flat screen TV and infotainment system.
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite (A)
160ft² (14.9m²), 18 cabins located on the Horizon Deck with Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, Indoor balcony with open-air system, En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers, Flat screen TV and infotainment system.
Emerald Radiance panorama balcony
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite (P)
170 ft² (15.8m²), 2 cabins located on the Horizon Deck with Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, Indoor balcony with open-air system, En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers, Flat screen TV and infotainment system.
Emerald Radiance Owners one bedroom suite
Owner's One Bedroom Suite (SA)
285ft² (26.5m²), 2 cabins located on the Horizon Deck with Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, Private balcony with open-air system, En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers, Flat screen TV and infotainment system.
Emerald Radiance riverview suite
Emerald Riverview Suite (RA)
300ft² (27.9m²), 2 cabins located on the Horizon Deck with Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, Private balcony with open-air system, En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers, Flat screen TV and infotainment system.

Notes

Single accommodations are available on some tours for an additional single supplement rate. Contact us for details of pricing and availability.
Included
  • 7 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 7 Dinners
  • 7 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Choice between Emerald Plus and Emerald Active Excursions
  • Wifi
  • Complimentary Wine, Beer and Soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board
  • The services of an Emerald Cruises Tour Manager
  • Airport transfers to and from the ship
  • Port taxes and charges
  • All tipping and gratuities
  • Including a Welcome and Farewell Reception & Dinner
  • Visit to Quinta do Tedo with wine tasting
  • Guided tour of Salamanca
  • Visit to the Côa Valley Museum
  • Guided tour of Lamego & Our Lady of Remedies Sanctuary
  • Guided tour of Porto
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Travelers are urged to arrange comprehensive travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances that may occur during the tour

When to Go

Inquire

* By providing your phone number, you consent to receive direct phone calls or SMS messages from our Trip Planners to get the process started. We do not share your information with third-parties.
Travel Agents

We Love to Talk Travel

Call 1.800.344.6118
or
Chat Now
Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
Meyer Smolen
TrustScore 4.8 | 254 reviews
TrustScore 4.8 of 5
total score
Based on 254 reviews on
review score
3 days ago
The holiday of a lifetime. The company is Alaksa-owned and thhat makes a big difference to the experineces you get i.e. meet genuine First Nations tribes people. The amount of wildlife was beyond my expectation, and seeing everything on sucha small, intimate boat made it even more spoecial and unique.
Liz O
review score
3 days ago
Adventure Life covered all the details in planning our trip to Ireland. Any questions we had were answered immediately. Any trip glitches, which always happen when traveling, were resolved immediately. There were no worries, just fun!
Kathleen Weller
review score
3 days ago
It was an outstanding, up-close, educational vacation of nature, culture, history, animals and geology! It was everything they promised! Binoculars were plentiful on the boat, but I'm glad I brought my own. Food was excellent. Rooms had black-out shades. Pack/wear multiple layers of clothing (I carried a small backpack when off the ship). Crew were delightful and very accommodating! Remember to jump FEET FIRST first when taking the optional polar plunge! Spend as much time outdoors as you are able and ENJOY!!!
Janet Dutton
review score
1 week ago
Excellent travel advice and service This is my second experience working with Adventure Life. I’m sold. Jess Heuermann is an experienced traveler and provides a lot of useful information when planning a trip. These are the questions I like to ask at the outset - What’s it like to go here, there, what would you suggest, what do people report, can we add any additional side trips? Jess took the time to answer my questions and seek additional information to share with me. Petchie Colina is outstanding in helping with travel logistics and final preparations. Adventure Life has excellent guides and offers private guides and small group adventures. We enjoyed the opportunity to talk with the guides and drivers to learn more about their countries, cultures and histories. A highlight was having the guides pick local restaurants where we could share meals together. Highly recommend.
Claire Cordon
review score
1 week ago
Our six-day tour in Iceland went smoothly with one exception. We had asked for two rooms each night. Somehow we were booked with one room with three beds. It could not be fixed at the first hotel in Reykjavik because the hotel was fully booked. Once informed of the problem, however, Adventure Life rebooked for two rooms for the remainder of the trip. As an 85-year-old traveler, I appreciated that one could participate at different physical levels at many of the stops. Iceland is a great place to visit but on the expensive side.
Mary Warren
More Reasons

Why Travel With Adventure Life

All News

Recognized By

Plan My Trip
We love travel, talk with an expert 1.800.344.6118