All aboard for the cruise of a lifetime on the beautiful Douro River!
We set sail from the historic and enchanting town of Porto – perhaps having tasted some of the sumptuous array of the local Port wines. Soon we are gliding through dramatic narrow canyons past timeless terraces and sun soaked vineyards along the banks. Our journey takes us to some of the most impressive views along the way including a full day of sailing through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Douro Valley. Travel to the beautiful 'Golden City' for a walking tour, and later on in the week you'll have the chance to visit the marvellous Baroque village of Lamego, stopping to see the picturesque Shrine of Our Lady.
The Douro forms part of the border between Portugal and Spain and is 560 miles long in total, with the navigable section being 130 miles, from Porto to the Spanish border
The scenery is lush and unspoilt with medieval villages peppering the spectacular countryside, and grapes, olives and almonds growing in the fields as far as the eye can see.
You will of course want to try the fabulous variety of local wines, along with local delicacies and delicious tapas. The culinary experience on board is the epitome of fine dining with complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner.
And you’ll not be short of something to do. Spend your afternoons at leisure on board or venture out with one of the optional land tours. You might take a leisurely stroll through the fascinating riverside towns and pretty villages where we stop, or you may be tempted by some of the other optional activities on offer, such as a guided tour of Salamanca, wine tasting and vineyard walks, Portuguese cooking demonstrations or cocktail making lessons.
Of course, you are free to do as much or as little as you wish on your cruise – Gym or Gin and Tonic? Sightseeing or Sun-lounger? It’s entirely your call. This cruise is the ultimate in relaxation, cultural exploration and fine dining, and that’s before the superb after-dinner entertainment on board from no other than Fairport Convention and Plumhall.
Fairport Convention are still one of the busiest bands around. The current line-up of Simon Nicol (lead vocal, rhythm and electric guitars), Dave Pegg (backing vocals, bass guitar, mandolin), Ric Sanders (violin) and Chris Leslie (lead vocal, fiddle, bouzouki, banjo, mandolin and woodwind) still packs venues on its frequent tours.
Joining Fairport on this incredible journey along the Douro river are Michelle Plum & Nick Hall, collectively known as 'Plumhall'. They delighted the audience with their incredible music at Costa Festival in Ibiza 2024 so much that we had to invite them back. Their original songs have earned them widespread acclaim and having toured previously with Fairport Convention, they are a superb fit for the Douro cruise.
With only 56 cabins on board, this really is a once in a lifetime opportunity not to be missed.
Also check out other Music events in Porto, Entertainment events in Porto, Workshops in Porto.
