Cruzeiro das 6 Pontes no Porto

6 Bridges Cruise

The 6 Bridges Cruise takes place in the traditional Rabelo boat with a duration of 50 minutes. On this cruise, you will have the opportunity to discover the 6 emblematic bridges that connect two banks of the river (Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia), as well as the traditions of the famous Port Wine.

The Rabelo Boats exists since the XIII Century

The Rabelo Boat is a Portuguese vessel, typical of the Douro River, which traditionally transported the barrels of Port Wine from the Alto Douro, where the Wine Estates are located, to Vila Nova de Gaia - Porto, where the wine was stored and later sold and shipped to other countries.

Cruise on a t raditional Rabelo Boat between the banks of Porto and Gaia lasting 50 minutes

Take advantage of this magnificent cruise of the 6 bridges to contemplate the magnitude of this complex landscape classified as World Heritage by Unesco, composed of its vibrant colors, and its natural elements involved in the most symbolic historical elements.

Come and enjoy this magnificent 50 minutes journey, which will allow you to sail peacefully along the Douro River, between the banks of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia, aboard a traditional Rabelo boat. This Portuguese vessel, full of history and tradition, was once used to transport wooden barrels with port wine.

Along this fantastic route you will get to know each of the 6 emblematic bridges, which unite the two banks of the river, Ponte da Arrábida, Ponte Luís I, Ponte Infante D. Henrique, Ponte Maria Pia, Ponte São João and Ponte do Freixo All of them different and characterized by the uniqueness of their architecture and beauty. Allow yourself to pay attention to the building details as you pass by each one of them, and let yourself be enchanted by their curious stories and symbology.

6 Bridges Cruise in Rabelo Boat

Embarkation of passengers at the Vila Nova de Gaia Quay (Rota do Douro)

  • Start of the 6 Bridges Cruise in a typical Rabelo boat (50 minutes)
  • Cruise along the banks of Porto and Gaia, passing by the bridges of the Douro River

Disembarkation of passengers at the Vila Nova de Gaia Quay

End of our services

  • Children up to 3 years Free
  • Children from 4 to 12 years old 50% discount

The voucher issued for this cruise does not contain a specific schedule, so you should go to Rota do Douro Quay afterwards and book the desired schedule, subject to availability;

You can choose one of the following times subject to availability on site: between 10:00 a.m and 12:00 p.m , and between 02:00 p.m and 06:00 p.m (departure every 30 minutes);

This program includes a guide or audio guide during the cruise (Portuguese, English, Spanish and French)

This cruise requires a minimum number of participants

rabelo boat tour porto

Telephone: (+351) 259 336 164

Mobile: (+351) 935 184 454

Email: [email protected]

Horário:  Segunda a Sexta das 9h às 18h

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What are the rabelo boats?

One of the most popular symbols of Porto is the rabelo boat. On this article, I will tell you the…

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One of the most popular symbols of Porto is the rabelo boat. On this article, I will tell you the history of the rabelo boats and let you know how to do a Douro river cruise in Porto (also known as the 6 Bridges cruise ) inside a rabelo boat. Let’s go!

The history of the rabelo boats

real rabelo boat porto

The rabelo boars (the flat boats nowadays laying quietly by the riverside) used to be the nautical horses that carried barrels of Porto wine from the Douro valley vineyards to the Port Wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia.

ancient photo rabelo boat port wine

How to do a Douro river cruise in a rabelo boat

The first thing I should tell you is that you can take a river cruise in a rabelo boat both in Porto as well as in Douro Valley. Both are fantastic experiences; on the Porto one you get to admire the city seen from the waters (it’s stunning, truly) and in Douro Valley you get to see the magnificent wine terraces and wineries of the region.

Local tip: whether you do a river cruise in Porto or in Douro Valley, make sure to show up at least 15 minutes in advance – the first people entering the boat get the best seats!

How to do a Douro river cruise in a rabelo boat in PORTO

6 bridges cruise porto

There are several ways to take a Douro river cruise in Porto , on a rabelo boat, also known as the 6 Bridges Cruise:

  • Get a simple online ticket to the 6 bridges cruise . It currently costs 15€ /person and it is the cheapest option.
  • Get the combined ticket to the combined ticket to the 6 Bridges Cruise + Hop On Hop off bus tour + Port wine cellar . It currently costs 35€ /person and it allows you to save money, as these activities are quite expensive when bought individually. For instance, the 6 bridges cruise is currently set at 15€ / person, a guided tour with wine tasting at a Port wine lodge starts around 15€ / 20€ and the hop on hop off bus tour in Porto costs around 22€ / person. Therefore, the total would be around 45€, so with the combined ticket to the 6 Bridges Cruise + Hop On Hop off bus tour + Port wine cellar you save around 10€ / person.
  • Get the combined ticket to the 6 bridges cruise + City train tour + Port wine cellar for 29€ / adult and 16€ / child (aged 4 – 10 years old). This is a great option if you are traveling with kids as they love the city train! 🙂

Whatever your choice is, I recommend you to book it in advance as it is one of the most popular activities in the city.

Make sure to check my article about the best river cruises in Porto , as it is very detailed, with information on prices, schedules, best tour operators, etc.

How to do a Douro river cruise in a rabelo boat in DOURO VALLEY

best-douro-river-cruises

You can also take a Douro river cruise in Douro Valley, a magic region where Port wine (and some of the best Portuguese wines) are produced. There, and unlike in Porto, most river cruises do take place on traditional rabelo boats, which is awesome.

If you want to spend a few days in the region or even if you are just planning to stay overnight in Douro Valley , I highly recommend you to book the online ticket for the 2h Douro river cruise or the online ticket for the 1h Douro river cruise , as both take place on traditional rabelo boats.

The ticket for the 1h Douro river cruise costs 12,50€ and the ticket for the 2h Douro river cruise costs 25€. Tickets are the same price whether you buy online or on site, but if you don’t buy online and just try to buy on site you risk running out of places on the boats, as it is one of the most popular activities in the douro valley.

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Porto Neighborhoods: The 9 Best Areas to Stay

Porto is a port city in Portugal, located on the river Douro and is home to some of the country’s most iconic landmarks. Its neighborhoods

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Porto is famous for its bridges spanning across the Douro River and Porto’s metropolitan area. The town has a total of six bridges that are

Rabelo Boats in Porto

Rabelo Boats in Porto

Rabelo boats are the traditional Portuguese cargo boats which back in the day were used to transport Port wine from the vineyards to Vila Nova de Gaia. Nowadays, they are used as tour boats for sightseeing.

A Rabelo is a traditional Portuguese cargo boat originally used to transport the barrels of Porto wine from the wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia to Porto. Nowadays, the boats are used as sightseeing cruises that sail down the Douro River and offer a different perspective of Porto.

Sightseeing cruises

The Rabelo cruises depart from Ribeira and cross under all the city ’s bridges until the river mouth into the Atlantic Ocean . These river cruises are nicknamed six bridge cruises.

Rabelos offer an amazing 360 º degree panoramic view of the river , the city’s bridges , and the waterfront buildings . It also offers an amazing view of Gaia and its wine cellars .

Book a boat trip in Oporto

The price of the boat trip is € 15 ( US$ 16.20) and you can book it on our website:

A cruise along the river costs between € 12 ( US$ 12.90) and € 15 ( US$ 16.20) .

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Rabelo Boat Tour in Porto

rabelo boat tour porto

If you’re traveling to Porto, Portugal, you’ll want to take a Rabelo boat tour. These flat-bottomed boats have a unique history as vessels used to transport barrels of port wine during the 18th century. Not only do they offer an unique mode of transportation, but they also include a traditional tavern experience and local snacks.

rabelo boat tour

One of the best ways to experience Porto’s riverside is on a rabelo boat tour. These boats have a traditional design and are designed for both open and enclosed areas. During your tour, you’ll have the chance to see how a rabelo is used to transport goods, people, and objects.

Historically, Rabelo boats were used to transport Port wine barrels from vineyards to wine cellars in the city. Today, these boats are used for other purposes, such as tourism tours, group tours, and special events. Rabelo boats are a unique way to experience the Port Wine region, and many cruises include a traditional tavern experience and local snacks.

The history of the Rabelo boat tour in Porto is closely connected with that of the region’s famous fortified wine. These boats were used for many purposes, from transporting goods to carrying people. The boats’ history dates back to the 10th century, when no roads or trains were available. In those days, the rabelo boats were flat-bottomed, had long oars placed over the stern, and were pulled upstream by men or oxen. They could take up to 30 days to reach the wine estates.

During this time, the Rabelo boats were the only means of transporting wine casks. They were usually manned by a crew of six or seven men and boasted a square sail. In the first generation, the boats had a single mast, but in the second generation, the mast was attached to the bow. Governance was based on the long oar at the stern. Today, the Rabelo boats are still used as part of tourism and group tours in Porto.

Activity level

The Douro rabelo boat tour is a scenic journey that takes place over the Douro River. The tour is about an hour long and passes between vineyards on beautiful terraces. It is not recommended for those with limited physical ability. You may want to wear sturdy and comfortable shoes if you are unsure of your level of physical fitness.

The Rabelo boat is one of the most iconic symbols of Porto. It was originally used to carry barrels of port wine in the 18th century. Nowadays, it is a unique mode of transportation. While on a Rabelo boat tour, you can also sample local snacks and enjoy the experience of a traditional tavern.

If you are looking to take a river cruise in Porto, you’ll probably be wondering how much it will cost you. There are several different options for a rabelo boat tour, and the cost will vary depending on how many people you want to bring. Some of the options are public, while others are more exclusive.

A rabelo boat tour offers a unique perspective of Porto. Once used to transport barrels of port wine, these boats have been transformed into a unique mode of transportation. These boats depart from Ribeira in the city center and sail down the Douro River, passing under all six bridges and ending at the mouth of the river. These tours are often referred to as six bridge cruises, and they provide panoramic views of the city.

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Rabelo Boats

The Rabelo Boats are a distinctive hallmark of the Douro River and the city of Porto. These boats were used to transport the Port wine barrels from the winemaking region of Alto Douro to the cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia.

Although the history of these boats dates back to the 13th century, it was only in 1792 that their presence on the Douro River began to be documented. This is a boat designed to navigate mountain rivers and withstand the strong currents of the Douro. Unlike other boats, the Rabelo Boat does not have a keel, but rather a flat bottom constructed with overlapping planks. This construction technique originated in the Nordic regions and differs from the Mediterranean.

Barcos Rabelo - Rabelo Boats

With a length ranging from 19 to 23 meters, the Rabelo Boat could carry 40 to 100 Port wine barrels and a crew of up to 12 men. Thanks to its loading capacity and resistance, these boats became the ideal means of transportation for the wine produced in the Alto Douro region .

The Rabelo Boats are a historical symbol of wine transportation in Portugal.

However, with the arrival of the train in the Douro in 1887, the use of Rabelo Boats began to decline. From then on, the river was no longer the only option for transporting goods. Nevertheless, these boats continued to be used for decades. In fact, it is believed that the last voyage of a Rabelo Boat to transport wine barrels on the Douro River took place in 1971.

Today, Rabelo Boats are mainly used for tourist excursions on the Douro River. Tourists can enjoy a boat ride while contemplating the landscapes of the Douro Valley and the cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia.

Barcos Rabelo - Rabelo Boats

One of the most prominent events of the year in Porto is the “Regatta of Rabelo Boats,” which takes place on June 24th on the occasion of the feast of St. John. The regatta starts at the mouth of the Douro River and ends at the Luís I Bridge . During this competition, Rabelo Boats compete with each other in an exciting race that attracts thousands of spectators.

In short, Rabelo Boats are an important part of the history and culture of Porto and the Douro Valley. These traditional boats have witnessed many historical events and continue to be a very popular tourist attraction today.

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Take a tour on a Rabelo Boat to see the city and its bridges from a different perspective. You can book here .

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The Rabelo Boat: Barco Rabelo

The Rabelo Boat in the begining of the XX century, at Régua, Douro Valley.

Rabelo Boat in 1911, at Régua, Douro Valley.

Before the construction of the railway or roads, the Port Wine reached Vila Nova de Gaia cellars through the masterpiece of naval carpentry called the Barco Rabelo and through the courage of the men who operated it. These Douro drivers went up and down the turbulent waters of the river, facing strong, fast, and often deadly currents.

Despite their fragile appearance the Barco Rabelo transported between 40 and 100 barrels of wine and 7 to 12 men through canyons, submerged rocks, and steep slopes. The Barco Rabelo is the typical cargo boat on the Douro River that sailed with this function for the last time in 1971.

The Barco Rabelo is a cargo transport boat with distinctive features, such as being a wooden mountain river boat without a keel, boasting a flat bottom, square sail, and measuring 19 to 23 meters in length, often given names with faith-related connotations. Although the Barco Rabelo’s existence predates the 18th century, it wasn’t until 1792 that the Companhia Geral da Agricultura das Vinhas do Alto Douro legislated their use. Due to the absence of shipyards in Porto at the time, these boats were constructed on the beaches upon request.

Embarking barrels of Port Wine at Pinhão before sailing to Vila Nova de Gaia.

Barco Rabelo in 1911, at Pinhão, Douro Valley.

If you find yourself in Porto on June 24th, St. John’s Day (Festas de São João), don’t miss the chance to live an unforgettable experience on the night of the 23rd to the 24th by attending the Rabelos Boat Regatta, organized by the Confraria do Vinho do Porto. This event aims to immortalize the past of this vessel type, which played a significant role in the history and economy of Port Wine and celebrates tradition.

Today, Rabelo boats can still be found along the Douro River on both the Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia banks, ready to welcome visitors. You can take a tour between the banks or opt for “The Cruise of Six Bridges” over the river, an ideal choice for those seeking a privileged view of Porto and later enjoying a glass of Porto Wine at the wine cellars of Gaia.

The Barco Rabelo Pinhão Tour stands as a great boat tour option on the Douro River, offering numerous reasons to partake in this experience and escape the hustle and bustle of the city environment. This Rabelo boat tour will treat you to unique and breathtaking landscapes: the iconic Port Wine houses nestled in the mountains, the terraced vineyards, the vibrant colors of the vegetation, land, and vineyards, the tranquility of the river waters, the serenity, and the imaginative freedom to contemplate how it was possible to navigate the river laden with wine barrels.

On our Douro Day Tour, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a Barco Rabelo Boat Trip in Pinhão, which is one of the most breathtaking Douro Boat Tours available. To book this unforgettable experience, please visit our website or our app at app.cooltouroporto.com for more information. It’s a must-do when visiting Porto and arguably one of the best tours in Portugal.! This experience should engage all your senses, documented through photography and guided by specialists.

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Discover the Perfection of the Douro

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At Companhia Turística do Douro, we offer more than just cruises – we provide unique experiences that capture the soul and beauty of the Douro.

With our fleet of traditional Rabelo Boats, each journey becomes a memorable adventure, revealing the secrets and stories of one of the most fascinating wine regions in the world. Join us and be enchanted by the magic of the Douro!

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Live the Douro: A Visual Journey

Discover the essence of the Douro, where every landscape is an invitation to an extraordinary experience on a Rabelo Boat

Our Clients Reviews & Testimonials

Félix morais (portugal).

In the heart of the Alto Douro Wine Region! Our post-wedding tour with Companhia Turística do Douro was simply perfect! The prepared menu was divine, and we felt genuinely welcomed aboard the Rabelo boat. The team’s professionalism was remarkable. We highly recommend this unique experience!

Sophie Dubois (France)

Thank you, Companhia Turística do Douro! We left the Douro deeply impressed with the attention to detail by Companhia Turística do Douro. ️ From the efficient booking process on the website to disembarkation, everything was perfect. The sailors were knowledgeable and passionate about the region.

Giuliana Assunção (Brazil)

A wonderful journey through the Douro! The tour offered a unique perspective on the region and its historical vineyards. The Audio Guide App was an excellent touch, providing detailed information about the sights we saw. It’s clear that this organization is committed to delivering an outstanding experience!

Emily Johnson (United States)

Helpful and dedicated team! The staff at Companhia Turística do Douro were extremely professional throughout our tour. They served us a wonderful Port Wine with great friendliness, and the crew’s availability made our day in Pinhão unforgettable. Highly recommended, I plan to return with family and friends! ❤️

Madalena Sousa (Portugal)

The serenity and beauty of the entire region on one cruise! It was our last day in the Douro, and we had already seen so much beauty, yet this tour managed to surprise us once more. We opted for the 1-hour tour, and it was the pinnacle of our visit! Exploring the Alto Douro Wine Region with Companhia Turística do Douro was genuinely enchanting.

Hiroki Takahashi (Japan)

An unforgettable experience in the heart of the Douro! From the start, Companhia Turística do Douro impressed us with their attention to detail and hospitality. The tour through the Douro was a dream journey – the views are absolutely spectacular, and the onboard team made everything even more special. We learned so much about the region! We can’t wait to return.

Laura and Michael Smith (Canada)

A magical tour through the Douro! We were amazed by the beauty and tranquility of the Douro during our tour with Companhia Turística do Douro. Everything was organized perfectly, from the easy booking on the site to the warm welcome onboard. The team has a deep knowledge of the region’s history and culture, enriching our experience with fascinating facts. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an authentic way to explore this wonderful region!

Olivia Martinez (Spain)

Enchanting Douro, Unforgettable Moments! As a solo traveler, I was looking for an experience that would allow me to connect deeply with the essence of Portugal, and Companhia Turística do Douro delivered just that. The 2-hour tour was a perfect blend of scenic beauty, cultural immersion, and relaxation. The audio guide was an excellent companion, providing rich insights into the Douro’s history and viticulture. The Port Wine tasting while cruising past the quintas was a highlight, offering a taste of the region’s soul. Truly an exceptional way to discover the Douro Valley!

Oksana Ivanenko (Ukraine)

The johnson family (united kingdom), enjoyed your experience we'd love your feedback to help us create more unforgettable moments.

rabelo boat tour porto

Our Location

Meeting point (ctdouro - boarding pier).

Cais A, Tv. da Marginal, 5085-044 Pinhão (In front of Snack-Bar Praia Bar) GPS coordinates: 41.1896, -7.5464

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R. da Praia, 5085-042 Pinhão (In front of LBV 79 Restaurant) GPS coordinates: 41.1898, -7.5480

CTDouro - Administrative Office

R. da Praia 12, 5085-042 Pinhão GPS coordinates: 41.1906, -7.5479

Parking Lot (Close to Douro River)

Free and a 1-minute walk to our Boarding Pier GPS coordinates: 41.1899, -7.5482

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Boat Tour in Douro Valley in a Traditional Rabelo - Pinhão - One Hour

Boat Tour in Douro Valley in a Traditional Rabelo - Living Tours

Introduction

Embark this one-hour tour in a traditional Rabelo boat.

See the most amazing and magic sceneries from the Douro Valley while sailing through the Douro River . Marvel at the terraced vineyards and the various beautiful villas. Fall in love with the Alto Douro Wine Region , the first demarcated region in the world.

The boat capacity is limited in order to respect the security distance needed. 

rabelo boat tour porto

Discover the Alto Douro Wine Region.

Enjoy a trip in the traditional Douro River boat , the Rabelo .

See the most spectacular landscapes in the Douro Valley.

Glide through a section of the Douro River  not seen from the main roads .

DEPARTURE AND ARRIVAL PLACE

Pinhão pier

Approximately 1 hour.

From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., from April to October

From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., from November to March

Frequency: every hour

Full description

We will take you through the Douro River in a traditional boat , the Rabelo,  in a one-hour tour . The Rabelo boat is a traditional craft from the Douro Valley that was used to  deliver the Port Wine from the Alto Douro, to the cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia.

This tour offers you a privileged view of the Douro Valley , gliding through the Douro River and with sceneries not seen from the main roads. Marvel at the amazing, magical and unique landscapes of this demarcated region , the first in the world, with its terraced vineyards and many villas .  The  Alto Douro Wine R egion was considered a  World Heritage Site by UNESCO  in 2001 and is a particularly representative section of the extraordinary scenery of the  Douro Demarcated Region.

We will depart from Pinhão , a small town in the heart of the Douro and if you wish, we will stop along the way to dive in the refreshing waters of the Douro River .

  • Douro River panoramic boat trip in a  Rabelo boat.
  • Individual audio guide.
  • Meals, drinks or other services not specified.
  • Personal expenses.
  • Gratuities (optional).

Cancelation rules

No cancellation fee if you cancel until 96 hours prior to the activity date.

Cancellations less than 96 hours or no show, a fee of 100% will be charge.

Additional info

  • From November to March the last visit is at 4 p.m.
  • The boat ride is subject to weather and other specific conditions of navigability and may be canceled or changed without prior notice.
  • You will always receive the details at the time of confirmation.
  • Departure and return times may vary as they are subject to third-party companies. The exact details will be indicated in the confirmation of the reservation (after the same is done). 
  • You must be at the indicated place to start the activity at least 10 minutes before to avoid delays because for logistical reasons, it is not possible to delay the program and wait for you in case you are late. 
  • You must print your voucher and present it. 
  • The program is in general panoramic but there is usually an audio guide available in Portuguese, English, French, and German.  
  • Please reconfirm your starting time and location 48 hours before the cruise.  Living Tours Porto contacts:  [email protected]   | +351 227 662 833 

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Nearest airport.

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The voucher is valid for 1 year after the date of purchase

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Douro Valley Private Experience in a Rabelo Boat

personalized tour in the Douro - Living Tours

Douro River Private Boat Tour

River Douro kayak tour - Living Tours

Kayak Tour in the Douro River From Tua to Pinhão

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rabelo boat tour porto

Private Transfer from Porto to Douro Valley (Pinhão)

rabelo boat tour porto

Picnic in the Douro Valley at Quinta da Roêda

rabelo boat tour porto

Visit to Bomfim Estate with Wine Tasting

rabelo boat tour porto

Visit to Quinta do Seixo with Wine Tasting

rabelo boat tour porto

Wine Tasting Experience in Quinta da Roêda

rabelo boat tour porto

Visit and Wine Tasting at Panascal Estate

( the voucher is valid for 1 year after the purchase date).

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Magnífico Douro

WELCOME TO THE DOURO VALLEY

Magnífico Douro p rovides incredible and transformative experiences and memories in the very special and intense Douro Valley

How? Through programs, boat tours, kayaking, hiking, biking, fantastic wine estates, gastronomy, spa, exclusive accommodations and much more.

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Dona Antónia

ELECTRIC RABELO BOAT

Magnífico Douro Company has the only 100% electric rabelo boat, The Dona Antónia, with a 36 person capacity.

Audio guia site pequena

AUDIO GUIDE ON YOUR MOBILE PHONE

We provide free audio information about what we see on the tour, to listen on your own mobile phone.

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MOTOR BOAT TOURS

Enjoy the refreshing water of the Douro River aboard our open bow Mastercraft X25 boat, just cruising or doing activities like ski, wakeboard, wakesurf, buoy.

Marén Ritter - Germany

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The Best Cruises in the Douro River

Douro Bridges Cruise

Douro Cruise 1 Day 6 bridges

Amazing cruise in a typical “Rabelo” boat between the riverbanks of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia

Sail along the banks of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia in a typical Rabelo Boat and discover the beauty of the Douro River. With appealing prices and a 50-minute duration, the 6 Bridges Cruise has become the most popular boat tour. Enjoy a 10% discount on an online booking!

Douro Bridges Cruise

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Cruise Programme

Cruise Schedules

April - September

First Departure: 10:00 a.m.

Last Departure: 06:00 p.m.

October - March

First Departure: 11:00 a.m.

Last Departure: 04:00 p.m.

  • If you book online, the issued voucher for this cruise has no specific time , so you will need to exchange it for an updated voucher at the pier , with the departure time of your choice (subject to availability on site)
  • You may choose one of the following times, subject to availability on site: from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. , and from 02:00 p.m. and 06:00 p.m. (departure every 30 minutes)
  • This programme includes a guide or audio-guide during the tour (Portuguese, English, Spanish and French)
  • This cruise requires a minimum number of participants

Departure from Porto

Departures from Régua

Departure from Pinhão

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Douro Bridges Cruise

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rabelo boat tour porto

The History of the Rabelo Boat Race – Saint John Day

The Rabelo Boat Regatta is unique in the world.

Organized by the Confraria do Vinho do Porto, this regatta – with one of the rarest boats still built – is traditionally held on the Douro River, in Porto, during the afternoon of June 24th, Saint John’s Day, coinciding with the Summer Solstice.

The Rabelo Boat is a keel-less vessel, steered with a rabelo – a long oar that commands the boat at the stern – , has its origin long before the 17th century and translates nautical knowledge from the Eastern Mediterranean with clear Nordic influences.

Manned by brave men who fought against the strong currents in the Douro River, they were used to transport Port Wine from the Douro Demarcated Region to the Lodges in Vila Nova de Gaia. The last voyage of these boats took place in 1963 and the filming of it was a rare piece of the national television (RTP) collection.

In 1983, the Confraria do Vinho do Porto organized the first Rabelo Boat Regatta to draw attention to these unique boats and encourage their preservation as a symbol of Port Wine.

The annual regatta begins at the mouth of the Douro River, near Afurada, and the Rabelo Boats carry the names of many Port Wine brands on their sails, racing towards the Dom Luís I bridge.

The competition is between crews fighting the wind, the current, and each other to be the first to reach the finish line, while spectators watch from the river banks. The spectacle of this unique, traditional event is a gift of Port Wine to the cities of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia and to all who visit.

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rabelo boat tour porto

Douro Travel Guide Book cruises and activities

Experiences » Douro Cruises » Mini Cruises

Cruise of the Bridges in Porto

Douro Cruises

Rabelo Boat trip along the riverside area of the city of Porto, crossing the 6 bridges over the Douro River near the city of Porto: Luís I Bridge, Maria Pia Bridge, São João Bridge, Arrábida Bridge, Freixo Bridge and Infante Bridge.

  • Boarding at Ribeira Quay, Porto
  • Start of Rabelo Boat Cruise
  • 50-minute cruise along Porto and Gaia riverbanks, Douro Bridges, and Douro mouth.
  • Disembarkation at Ribeira Quay
  • End of our services

DEPARTURE DATES

  • Every day, from January to December

SUMMER TIME

WINTER TIME

MEETING POINT

  • Ribeira Quay, Porto. View location »

Information:

  • PRINTED PAPER VOUCHER MUST BE PRESENTED AT BOARDING
  • Program available all year round
  • This cruise requires a minimum of participants

Price includes:

  • Douro Bridges Cruise

Price does not include:

  • Personal extras
  • Services not mentioned

Bookings by:

rabelo boat tour porto

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COMMENTS

  1. 6 Bridges Cruise

    6 Bridges Cruise. €15 / per Person. The 6 Bridges Cruise takes place in the traditional Rabelo boat with a duration of 50 minutes. On this cruise, you will have the opportunity to discover the 6 emblematic bridges that connect two banks of the river (Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia), as well as the traditions of the famous Port Wine.

  2. Rabelo Boats and the Douro river cruises in Porto

    How to do a Douro river cruise in a rabelo boat in PORTO. There are several ways to take a Douro river cruise in Porto, on a rabelo boat, ... a guided tour with wine tasting at a Port wine lodge starts around 15€ / 20€ and the hop on hop off bus tour in Porto costs around 22€ / person.

  3. Magnífico Douro

    We opted for the two-hour tour in a rabelo boat departing from Pinhão. It was a very nice and pleasant walk. The boat is quite spacious and was very clean. The staff is friendly and approachable. The application becomes very useful, as it provides information as we pass through the different locations. We still drink beautiful Port wine!

  4. Rabelo Boat Tours

    Glide down the Douro River from Tua to Pinhão in a 12 km stretch, savoring the silence, the stunning vineyard landscape, and the refreshing and calm waters of the Douro River. You are taken by rabelo boat to Foz Tua Pier on a regular one-hour tour up the section of the Douro River which will then be descended by you in kayak. € 60.00.

  5. Rabelo Boat: A Traditional Vessel for Transporting Port Wine in

    Today, Rabelo boats are primarily used for sightseeing cruises that sail down the Douro River and offer a different perspective of Porto. These boats take visitors on a tour of the six emblematic bridges that connect two banks of the river (Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia), as well as the traditions of the famous Port Wine.

  6. Rabelo Boats in Porto

    Experience Porto from a different perspective on a Rabelo boat, a traditional cargo boat that used to carry Port wine. Enjoy the panoramic view of the city's bridges, the waterfront buildings, and the wine cellars in Gaia.

  7. Rabelo Boat Tour in Porto

    Experience the history and beauty of Porto on a rabelo boat tour, a flat-bottomed boat that used to transport port wine. Enjoy the scenic views, local snacks, and a traditional tavern experience on this unique cruise.

  8. Rabelo Boat Cruises

    Built with similarities to the traditional rabelo boats but designed for the transport of passengers, there are several tourist boats in the Douro with Rabelo type construction. ... Rabelo Boat Cruise - Porto / Régua / Porto (Downstream) 60€ / person. Rabelo Boat Cruise - Porto / Pinhão / Porto (Upstream) ... Douro Tours; Guides. Visit ...

  9. Rabelo Boats: Emblematic boat of the Douro River, Porto

    Learn about the Rabelo Boats, the emblematic boats that transported Port wine barrels on the Douro River for centuries. Find out how to enjoy a boat ride, a regatta or a visit to a winery on these traditional vessels.

  10. Experience the Rabelo Boat: A Journey Through Douro Valley Wines

    The Rabelo Boat: Barco Rabelo. October 4, 2023. Rabelo Boat in 1911, at Régua, Douro Valley. Before the construction of the railway or roads, the Port Wine reached Vila Nova de Gaia cellars through the masterpiece of naval carpentry called the Barco Rabelo and through the courage of the men who operated it. These Douro drivers went up and down ...

  11. Companhia Turística do Douro

    The Rabelo boat ride was not just a tour; it was a journey into the heart of Portugal's wine country, with every moment creating a lasting memory. The Port Wine tasting was a delightful touch, adding an authentic flavor to our experience. A must-do for any traveler to Portugal!

  12. Douro River Tour in a Traditional Rabelo Boat

    Embark this one-hour tour in a traditional Rabelo boat.. See the most amazing and magic sceneries from the Douro Valley while sailing through the Douro River.Marvel at the terraced vineyards and the various beautiful villas. Fall in love with the Alto Douro Wine Region, the first demarcated region in the world.. The boat capacity is limited in order to respect the security distance needed.

  13. Rabelo Boat Tours at the Magnífico Douro River

    Know More. ELECTRIC RABELO BOAT. Magnífico Douro Company has the only 100% electric rabelo boat, The Dona Antónia, with a 36 person capacity. AUDIO GUIDE ON YOUR MOBILE PHONE. We provide free audio information about what we see on the tour, to listen on your own mobile phone. MOTOR BOAT TOURS.

  14. The Rabelo Boat

    The Rabelo Boat. Various references to this boat prove its origins lie way back in the 10th century.The rabelos were purpose designed for the river Douro and its complex navigational challenges as well as for the transport of casks of wine. Its characteristics enable it to navigate both more easily and at less risk those fast-flowing turbulent ...

  15. 6 Bridges Douro Cruise. Travel along Porto and Gaia riverbanks!

    Amazing cruise in a typical "Rabelo" boat between the riverbanks of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. Sail along the banks of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia in a typical Rabelo Boat and discover the beauty of the Douro River. With appealing prices and a 50-minute duration, the 6 Bridges Cruise has become the most popular boat tour.

  16. Pinhão: 2-Hour Rabelo Boat Tour with Audio Guide

    Pinhão: 2-Hour Rabelo Boat Tour with Audio Guide. 4.2 / 5 973 reviews. Activity provider: Magnifico Douro. Add to wishlist. View all 10 images. 1 / 10. Enjoy a 2-hour traditional Rabelo boat tour on a very quiet breathtaking stretch of the Douro river. Cruise between wonderful vineyards and terraces, reaching the Tua area before returning.

  17. Rabelo

    Instrumental in moving goods and people up and down the river were the rabelo boats, a type of cargo boat unique to this river. ... Sérgio é o fundador da Porto Running Tours, corre regularmente desde 1999 e desde 2015 que guia visitas em corrida na Invicta enquanto revela algumas das suas mais fascinantes histórias.

  18. Pinhão: Rabelo Boat 1-Hour Tour

    This tour will take place rain or shine. The boats are closed. From $13.32 per person. Check availability. Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today. Give this as a gift. Sort by: Juan - Spain August 22, 2023 - Verified booking. Beautiful walk along the Duero.

  19. Rabelo boat tours, Porto, Aveiro and the Douro river for groups and

    The Rabelo boats of Portugal, mostly from the North and the city of Porto are very authentic boats and intriguing boats that add much to the charm of Porto and the Douro river. ... About Rabelo boat tours, Porto, Aveiro and the Douro river for groups and team building. Events & meetings: Team building, group events. Type: Boat tour, boat team ...

  20. Porto-Portugal Tour

    This tour is the most complete experience that you can have on the Douro Valley, mixing the history and culture, the best wines and a relaxing tour on a typical boat from Douro. I can customize this tour accordingly to your requests. Itinerary - Pick up from the agreed location in Porto - Visit the city of Lamego - Lunch break - Rabelo Boat ...

  21. Rabelo Boat Cruise

    Monday to Friday, April, May and October. 73€. Monday to Friday, June to September. 80€. Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays. 98€. Children from 4 to 11 years old. 50% discount. Children up to 3 years old.

  22. Rabelo Boat

    The Rabelo Boat Regatta is unique in the world. Organized by the Confraria do Vinho do Porto, this regatta - with one of the rarest boats still built - is traditionally held on the Douro River, in Porto, during the afternoon of June 24th, Saint John's Day, coinciding with the Summer Solstice. The Rabelo Boat is a keel-less vessel, steered ...

  23. Cruise of the Bridges in Porto

    Rabelo Boat trip along the riverside area of the city of Porto, crossing the 6 bridges over the Douro River near the city of Porto: Luís I Bridge, Maria Pia Bridge, São João Bridge, Arrábida Bridge, Freixo Bridge and Infante Bridge. Book now.