Cruise on the River Douro

Douro cruise

As the romantically named River Douro (River of Gold) meanders through Northern Portugal to the Atlantic Ocean near Porto it is celebrated for its rich and ever-changing landscapes. Best appreciated by boat a cruise on the River Douro can take you to the heart of wine country past terraced vineyards and orchards, whitewashed villages and eye-catching gorges, canyons and lakes.

On a River Douro cruise aboard a luxurious and modern yacht you can visit locations and landscapes that would otherwise remain inaccessible and have fun and unusual experiences such as passing through dams, including the Carrapatelo Dam, one of the biggest locks in Europe, with a change in level of 35m! A delightful way to discover this unique landscape while learning about its history and culture and relaxing and enjoying some of the region’s famous wines and port! Our hotel ships include the Spirit of Chartwell, the luxury craft refurbished for Queen Elizabeth II’s diamond jubilee celebrations and the ultimate for Douro cruising. Please request a River Douro cruise brochure for full details. We also offer a wide range of boats for day and half day cruises both for private charter and public cruises. Public cruises start at just € for a 50 minute cruise in Porto.

On the River Douro cruise the yachts sail through the magical Douro valley, a designated UNESCO Heritage Site, taking in a number of dramatic vistas and waterfront towns. Depending on the route and duration chosen these can include: Porto the region’s vibrant capital and neighbouring Vila Nova de Gaia which is famous for its Port wine cellars and is at the hub of the industry. Sailing on to Régua the voyage is marked by a constantly changing landscape and a series of dams that take you to the heart of the Port wine region. Here you will find Vila do Pinhão characterised by its abundant vineyards and terraces. As the river winds on to Pocinho the full diversity of the local flora is revealed and the riverbank is tranquil and beautiful. Just a few kilometres on you’ll reach Foz Côa, the town that borders the Archaeological Park of Côa with its prehistoric cave paintings and an open air museum, classified as a National and World Heritage site. Finally Barca d’Alva marks the end of the Portuguese Douro, a sleepy and attractive border town conducive to moments of quiet introspection and peaceful contemplation of the beauty of the river winding through the lush, green landscape. It is renowned for its production of almonds, olive oil, honey, oranges, cheese and, of course, Douro and Port wine.
Douro cruise

The most relaxing, romantic and comfortable way to explore this beautiful region River Douro cruises can also be combined with on land tours and longer cruises are available. You can also charter a yacht for the exclusive use of your party.

We currently have day cruises available on the River Douro and 2, 3 and 4 day holiday cruises and themed cruises to celebrate events such as New Years Eve, Valentine’s Day and the wine harvest. Please use the form below to request your Douro river cruise brochure.