Embark on an 11-day river cruise aboard the Emerald Radiance. Sail the legendary Douro River, a vital artery in Portugal’s cultural and historical development. Begin in Porto, known for its colorful facades and maritime heritage, then travel through the scenic Douro Valley. Encounter sloped vineyards, centuries-old landmarks, and quiet towns tucked into hillside terrain. Explore the golden city of Salamanca, a UNESCO-listed treasure, where history and energy meet in every plaza. Enjoy a unique kayaking experience in Pinhao, offering a new perspective on the river and surrounding landscape. This curated journey highlights the Douro’s enduring legacy and its role in shaping northern Portugal’s identity.
Highlights
Explore Barcelona’s historic quarters and scenic Mediterranean coast
Wander Las Ramblas and sample traditional tapas and local flavors
Tour Douro Valley’s vineyards and attend a cooking demonstration
Stroll Salamanca’s Plaza Mayor and visit its ancient university
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.
Upon arrival at Barcelona Airport, transfer to your hotel for an included three-night stay in Catalonia’s dynamic capital. After check-in, enjoy time at leisure to explore the city at your own pace. Discover Barcelona’s vibrant character as you stroll through its historic quarters, browse lively local markets, or walk along the scenic Mediterranean coastline. This energetic and culturally rich city offers a diverse range of experiences to suit all interests.
Day 2: Barcelona
1 Breakfast
Today’s guided city tour offers a blend of panoramic sightseeing and immersive walking experiences, showcasing Barcelona’s most iconic landmarks and architectural highlights. Discover the bold creativity of renowned Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí with visits to Park Güell and exterior viewings of his celebrated masterpieces, La Sagrada Família and Casa Milà. Walk along the bustling Las Ramblas Avenue, absorbing the city’s vibrant energy, and enjoy tastings of traditional local appetizers, including Barcelona’s signature dish, tapas.
Included Excursion
A guided city tour of Barcelona (incl. Park Güell)
Day 3: Barcelona
1 Breakfast
The many charms of Barcelona are yours to explore at leisure today, with a full day of independent discovery at your fingertips. Consider revisiting the stunning La Sagrada Família, one of Gaudí's greatest creations, admiring once again the Basilica’s unique architectural design. Or leisurely stroll through the Gothic Quarter, Barcelona’s cultural hub, taking in the centuries of history. You might also like to spend time at Montjuïc, Barcelona’s famous hill, where you can marvel at the beautiful gardens and panoramic city views. Be sure to sample plates of delicious tapas at a lively local café, or savor iconic Spanish dish, paella, at a beachside restaurant. Your tour director will be more than happy to help you plan the perfect day in Barcelona.
This morning after breakfast, transfer from your hotel to the airport for your onward flight to Porto, leaving with treasured memories of your wonderful stay in captivating Barcelona. In Portugal’s historic city of Porto, embark on your luxury cruise.
Relax on board today and enjoy a full day of sailing through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Douro Valley. This fascinating area is celebrated because it builds 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.
EmeraldPLUS
Portuguese cooking demonstration on board
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. Alternatively, embark on a kayak excursion along the river, taking in the impressive views from the heart of the Douro Valley.
This afternoon, enjoy sailing to Vega de Terrón, perhaps relaxing on the Sun Deck.
Included Excursion
Visit to Quinta do Tedo with wine tasting
EmeraldACTIVE
Kayak experience in Pinhão
EmeraldACTIVE
Guided active walk through the vineyards
Founded in Roman times, the ancient city of Salamanca and its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Quarter have an illustrious past, having been held by the Carthaginians, Romans, and Moors.
Travel to the beautiful ‘Golden City’ for a walking tour, which includes exploring the postcard-worthy galleries and arcades that adorn Plaza Mayor. You can also have the opportunity to see Casa de las Conchas, a building that has been lovingly decorated with more than 300 shells, and Salamanca’s university, one of the oldest universities in Europe that dates back to 1218.
This morning, you are docked in Pocinho from where the team takes you to the charming medieval town of Castelo Rodrigo. On your tour, you can have the chance to uncover the secrets of this small village’s fortress history and try some typical local products. Later, return to your Star-Ship for lunch and soak up your idyllic surrounds, enjoying a Port wine cocktail lesson on board as you sail towards Régua.
Included Excursion
Tour to Castelo Rodrigo
EmeraldPLUS
Port wine cocktail lesson on board
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Archaeological tour by 4x4 at the Côa Valley Museum (extra expense)
On today’s 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. If you’re feeling active, enjoy an invigorating walk down the 686 steps from the Sanctuary to the main square. On the same day you can experience a rural lunch at Quinta da Pacheca, one of the finest estates of river Douro and learn about the Portuguese mosaic painting tradition.
Included Excursion
Guided tour of Lamego
EmeraldPLUS
Rural lunch at Quinta da Pacheca
EmeraldPLUS
Mosaic tile painting lesson on board
EmeraldACTIVE
Walk down the steps of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies
DiscoverMORE
Visit to Mateus Manor House (extra expense)
Located at the mouth of the Douro River, Porto is a fascinating and eclectic mix of modern and ancient architecture. Famous for its export of Port wines, it’s easy to imagine how British merchant ships would have once clustered together in the medieval harbor, waiting to take their produce across the water.
Your included tour of the coastal city will touch on the fortified structures of Castelo da Foz and Castelo do Queijo, a building whose pentagonal facades overlook the ocean. For those who wish to see the charms of Porto on foot, the active walk through the town will bring you closer to the vibrant daily life of the locals.
Included Excursion
Guided tour of Porto
EmeraldPLUS
A cruise through Porto
EmeraldACTIVE
Guided active walk in Porto
DiscoverMORE
Visit to Quinta da Aveleda (extra expense)
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Guided bike tour to the Atlantic (extra expense)
Day 11: Porto | Disembarkation
1 Breakfast
After breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to your Star-Ship and 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. Please refer to the terms and conditions for further information.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$10,8902-3 travelers
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
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 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 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 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 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 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.
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 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.
I could not be happier with my Adventure Life experience, from beginning to end. I travel a lot, and I think your company and personnel do an outstanding job. I truly appreciate your professionalism, attentiveness, and flexibility. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend your company and would be happy to serve as a reference.
