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Portugal River Cruises

Find a River Cruise that explores Portugal. There are 66 adventures to choose from, that range in length from 6 days up to 17 days. The most popular month for these cruises is July, which has the most tour departures. Find here the best 10 day Portugal itineraries .

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95 river cruises through portugal with 88 reviews.

• River Cruise

The Best of Porto with a Luxury Douro Cruise - 5 nights

The Best of Porto with a Luxury Douro Cruise - 6 nights

Douro Experience 2024

A very pleasant 8 day experience but really more like a five day cruise. The cruise information was incomplete, leaving out interesting opportunities along the way (Port museums and prehistoric rock art,) most particularly an excursion to Salamanca, which turned out to be a highlight for us. The food was good but not as interesting as Portuguese restaurants in Porto or even at home in Canada.

Picturesque Solo Douro Tour

Discover Lisbon, Porto and the Douro Valley (port-to-port cruise)

Vida Portugal: Vineyards & Villages Along the Douro

From Portugal to Spain: Porto, the Douro Valley (Portugal) and Salamanca (Spain) (port-to-port cruise)

we could not fault this trip at all, the boat was lovely, staff were great they went above and beyond. food was great . the scenery was beautiful well worth the trip. looking at going on others

Gems of the Douro (Port to Port Cruise)

Portugal, Spain & the Douro River Valley (2024) (Porto to Lisbon, 2024)

Douro River Valley (2024) (Porto to Porto, 2024)

Vida Portugal: Vineyards & Villages Along the Douro with 3 Nights in Lisbon 2024

Secrets of the Douro & Lisbon

Enticing Douro 2024

Flavors of Portugal & Spain 2024 Start Porto, End Vega de Terrón

Madrid & Secrets of the Douro

River cruises in portugal reviews.

The 8 day cruise on the Duoro from Porto to Salamanca return was one of the most memorable travel experiences for me. Although there were only 7 English speaking guests (in which my partner and 1 were included) amongst mainly French guests , we never felt excluded in any way. The Purser Mike and the Guest coordinator Susannah(? with the lovely long curly hair) went over and beyond our expectations in making us feel welcome and included. All announcements were made in French and English and we never felt that the information relayed was lacking.. It was the same with all the other staff and crew members right down to the deckhands who worked very hard to give us a most enjoyable experience. Nothing was too much for them and they went over and beyond to ensure we got everything we requested . Foodwise it was 5 star cuisine for lunch and dinner each day- mostly French-exquisitely presented with satisfyingly adequate portions and delicious at all times. Complimentary Cocktails and wines were available all day (unlike other cruise companies) . Coffee, tea , refreshments sparkling and still water were also on tap 24/7.The breakfast buffet was more than adequate although it tended to be monotonous . In saying this it still fulfilled its purpose for us. The entertainment on board was also of a high standard esp the Flamenco dancing . There were also other activities like quizes, aline dancing lesson , keepfit session , which appeared to be enjoyed by all who participated. The tours were well organised and we had excellent guides who were professional and informative. I have been on a river cruise with another reputable company in the past but the experience with Croisi Europe far surpassed my expectations. The quality and value for money was outstanding and i will not hesitate to sail with them again.

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Regions in Portugal

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Popular Cruise Ships

• AmaVida from AmaWaterways
• Scenic Azure from Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours
• AmaDouro from AmaWaterways
• MS Gil Eanes from CroisiEurope River Cruises
• MS Amalia Rodrigues from CroisiEurope River Cruises
• Miguel Torga from CroisiEurope River Cruises
• Emerald Radiance from Emerald Cruises
• Travelmarvel Douro Serenity from Travel Marvel
• S.S. Sao Gabriel from Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection
• Avalon Alegria from Avalon Waterways
• MS Estrela from Travel Marvel

Travel Styles

• 10 Best River Cruise Companies (with Reviews)
• Portugal Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 10 Day Portugal Itineraries 2024/2025 (With Reviews)
• Discover the Best Portugal Vacation Packages 2024/2025

International Versions

• Deutsch: Flusskreuzfahrt Portugal
• Français: Portugal : Croisières fluviales
• Español: Crucero fluvial Circuitos en Portugal
• Nederlands: Riviercruise Rondreizen in Portugal

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Heading to Portugal and looking to experience the country in a unique way? If you are sick and tired of the same old bus tours, booking a river cruise for a day could be the way to go. The main rivers in Portugal are the Tagus river, the Douro river, the Guadiana, Minho, and Lima, with the most popular cruises sailing the first two. Coming from Spain, the Tagus river is the longest on the Iberian Peninsula, over 1,000 kilometers long, and flows through Abrantes, Entrocamento, Santarem, Almada, Vila Franca de Xira, and Lisbon. The Douro river is the most popular for cruises, particularly wine river cruises. Located in the North of the country, it gave its name to the region of Douro near Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. If you are overwhelmed by endless river cruise options in Portugal, here are our top 9 Portugal river cruises 2022.

1. Porto to Douro Valley All-Inclusive Cruise

One of the most popular cruises in Porto is a 9.5 hour all-inclusive Douro river cruise that allows guests to spend a full day discovering the landscapes of the Douro valley. Hop on a traditional Portuguese Rabelo boat in Porto which will take you to Peso da Regua, Pinhao, and Sabrosa. The cruise includes two spots to wine estates where you will get to taste some of the finest wines produced in the vineyards. You will also get to stop at viewpoints to enjoy the scenery and taste a typical Douro lunch which includes an olive oil tasting. The whole river cruise includes a tour guide to teach you about the area, available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and French. This cruise is always ready to sell out so book ahead of your trip to Porto!

Book All-Inclusive Douro Cruise

2. Lisbon to Cascais Yacht Sailing Cruise (Private)

Organized by Taguscruises Boat Tours, this private 12-person river cruise sails off the Tagus river and Atlantic ocean to the quaint coastal town of Cascais. From Lisbon to the Portuguese Riviera, guests enjoy a ride on a luxury yacht that is between 7 and 18 meters long, featuring toilets, a kitchenette, an audio system, and a full crew. The departure is from Belem, cruising along the coast so you get to see the Lisbon sights, and then heads east to Cascais bay. Here, the yacht is anchored for 2 to 4 hours for some swimming. Soft drinks are included, but the food is not so pack a lunch.

Book Lisbon to Cascais Private Cruise

3. Aveiro Moliceiro River Cruise

Located in Aveiro, known as the Venice of Portugal, this cruise allows you to sail on the freshwater of the River Vouga on the colorful boats known as moliceiros. You will get picked up by your guide in Porto, either at a meeting point or your accommodation and they will drive you to Aveiro. Throughout the drive, you will get to learn about the history and development of Portugal. In Aveiro, you will ride a Moliceiro, a traditional Aveiro boat throughout the stunning river canals, with a stop at Costa Nova do Prado beach.

Book Aveiro Moliceiro Cruise

4. Douro & Regua River Cruise

Departing from Porto, this Douro and Regua cruise on a large boat allows you to discover the Port wine region. The cruise includes a large breakfast, as well as lunch while you admire the Douro valley and goes through the 14-meter Crestuma-Lever Dam and the Carrapatelo Dam. Audio guides are also included in four different languages. The cruise stops at Regua where you can enjoy the town with friends. The route back is done by train.

Book Douro & Regua Cruise

5. Rio Guadiana Cruise

This river cruises upon the Rio Guadiana river allowing you to see the real Algarve and discover its cuisine and culture. On this full-day cruise, you will get to follow the river that forms the border between Portugal and Spain, as well as top at Foz de Oleite and Quinta do Rio to explore the sights. Your guide will teach you about the history and cultural heritage of the Algarve throughout the discovery. Unlike many Portugal cruises, this one features an included lunch and entertainment as you will get to enjoy regional cuisine with live music playing in the background.

Book Guadiana Cruise With Lunch & Live Music

6. Lisbon Sunset Tagus River Cruise

If you prefer a shorter cruise, this wine cruise on the Tagus river allows you to sail the river while discovering popular sights such as the 25th of April bridge, the Monument of Discoveries, and the Belém Tower. You can choose to have the cruise at sunset to enjoy a beautiful view, featuring alcoholic drinks and snacks.

Book Lisbon Sunset Tagus Cruise

7. River Douro 6 Bridges Cruise

Sail on a traditional “Six Bridges” cruise in Porto along the Douro river along the route of the Rabello Boats. This panoramic cruise provides gorgeous views of Porto and allows guests to follow in the footsteps of the old wine merchants that took the wine to wine cellars. You will get to snap stunning photos of Ribeira and Vila Nova de Gaia from the river, while a guide tells you about the history of the city. The cruise arrives at the last bridge where you can see the sandy beaches of Foz do Douro where the river finally pours into the ocean.

Book River Douro 6 Bridges Cruise

8. Private Pinhao Yacht Cruise

Douro river cruises are often busy so for a more luxurious and personalized experience, book this private yacht cruise along the river from Pinhao. The boat offers guests an opportunity to enjoy the Douro valley from an indoor glassed lounge with 360-degree views while enjoying a glass of Port wine. The boat also includes an outdoor deck where guests can sit outside and enjoy the panoramic views.

Book Pinhao Yacht Cruise

9. Affordable Tagus River Yellow Boat Cruise

For those looking to explore Lisbon in a unique way, the Tagus River yellow boat cruise cruises down the Tagus River, passing by the bridge, the Belem Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery, and other iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites. The ticket for the journey also includes access to public trams and the Santa Justa lift, as well as discounts on products and services. You can hop in the yellow boat whenever you feel like sailing through the Tagus River, as well as stop at local monuments and sights to roam on your own.

Book Affordable Tagus River Yellow Boat Cruise

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One of the most popular cruises in Porto is a 9.5 hour all-inclusive Douro river cruise that allows guests to spend a full day discovering the landscapes of the Douro valley. Hop on a traditional Portuguese Rabelo boat in Porto which will take you to Peso da Regua, Pinhao, and Sabrosa. The cruise includes two spots to wine estates where you will get to taste some of the finest wines produced in the vineyards. You will also get to stop at viewpoints to enjoy the scenery and taste a typical Douro lunch which includes an olive oil tasting. Laura…we are having difficulty finding this cruise, where it departs Porto in Rabelo boat. Can you provide link? Thanks

Here is the link https://www.getyourguide.com/porto-l151/around-the-douro-valley-all-included-t73660/?partner_id=3CB51HG&utm_medium=online_publisher&placement=content-middle&cmp=city-porto

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Portugal Cruises & Small Luxury Cruise Ships

10 best portugal cruises for 2024-2025, flavors of portugal & spain - cruise only, enticing douro, portugal to spain - porto, the douro valley and salamanca, delightful douro, hike in porto, the douro valley, and salamanca, islands of the azores: basalt peaks to volcanic vineyards, sail into the green: azores ahoy, delightful douro with lisbon, the douro river, the spirit of portugal, 10 best luxury cruises to portugal for 2024-2025, 10 best douro river cruises for 2024-2025, top 10 douro river & portugal cruise ships for 2024-2025, scenic azure, emerald radiance, ms amadouro, ms infante don henrique, ms miguel torga, ms amalia rodrigues, ms gil eanes, ms fernao de magalhaes, ms vasco de gama, best portugal cruise lines for 2024-2025.

• Ponant   has provided innovative, exclusive, and constantly refreshed itineraries for over 30 years. Since the 15th century, Portugal has wielded influence on the Atlantic Ocean. On the explorer ships,  Le Bougainville ,  Le Dumont-d'Urville , and  Le Champlain  see religious buildings, squares, and historic places reflect this feel, together creating a solid and attractive sense of identity.
• CroisiEurope  is a Strasbourg-based, Europe river cruise operator. During a Douro River cruise in Portugal, explore incredibly majestic sites such as the Vila Real and the gardens of the manor house of Solar de Mateus. The Douro Valley is home to delicious treasures and takes you along the Port wine route. Several ships available for this cruise include  MS Infante Don Henrique ,  MS Amalia Rodrigues ,  MS Vasco de Gama ,  MS Miguel Torga , and  MS Gil Eanes .
• Star Clippers Americas   reimagines the legendary clippers that crossed the oceans in the 19th century and offered guests the chance to experience the unique thrill of sailing aboard a Tall Ship. The  Royal Clipper  sails across Portugal, including ports of call in Lisbon, Portimao, and Funchal. 
• Lindblad Expeditions   has garnered numerous awards for its commitment to environmental stewardship, conservation, and geographic education. Embark  National Geographic Endurance  to explore Lisbon, enchanting Sintra, and Portugal's scenic wine country. 
• AMA Waterways . The   newest Douro River ship, AmaDouro, features spacious, elegantly appointed staterooms. Most include balconies to take in views of Portugal's breathtaking hills and terraced vineyards along the river.
• Silversea Cruises   has four ships in its fleet of ten that cruise to Portugal, including Silver Spirit,  Silver Moon , Silver Dawn, and  Silver  Whisper.   Discover Portugal's glorious year-round weather, century-old cities, miles of stunning coastline, and fantastic wine. 
• Emerald Waterways   is a cruise line headquartered in Switzerland, that sets the benchmark in comfort across its fleet of innovative ships. Its stylish suites combine contemporary design with generous extras to guarantee an exceptional stay. On a river cruise in Portugal aboard  Emerald Radiance , wind through the picturesque Douro Valley, flanked by peaceful villages steeped in centuries of incredible history.
• Sea Cloud Cruises   sails passion by tradition. Onboard the  Sea Cloud Spirit , the sails are still traditionally set by hand – a real piece of work.

Get Inspired to Travel to Porto

Douro river luxury, douro river wine tasting cruises, douro river hiking itineraries, portugal cruise tips & travel guide, portugal overview.

• Porto is the country's major port city and also the departure point for many of our cruises; here, you'll find 16th century buildings, Baroque churches, and charming streets for an evening stroll.
• Lisbon , the capital city, is another coastal town considered to be one of Europe's most beautiful cities; home to Castle of São Jorge and other sites over 400 years old.
• Régua , Pinhão , Trás-os-Montes, and Vila Real have gained acclaim in Portugal as being among the finest wine-making regions in all of Europe, which is a staple part of several of our elite wine-tasting tours.

Best Time to Take a Douro River Cruise (Portugal & Spain)

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Douro River Cruises

• ITINERARIES

Welcome to the Douro River

A 2,000-year legacy of winemaking awaits you throughout Portugal's lush Douro River Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site… including the city of Porto, famous as the home of Port wine, carried in barrels along the golden Douro River aboard traditional rabelo boats, sailing past whitewashed quintas surrounded by vineyards…

Ms andorinha on the douro river, ms andorinha – a new riverboat inspired by the destination.

Purpose-built for cruising to historic quintas and villages along the golden Douro River from coastal Porto to the Spanish border, our newly built riverboat, ms Andorinha, offers spacious accommodations for just 84 guests, with 12 300-sq.-ft. suites plus more 225-sq.-ft. cabins, to maximize the onboard experience in every way. Add a small pool atop the Sun Deck, lounge and dining venues, plus built-in amenities designed to delight, and experience the advantages of a riverboat truly inspired by the destination.

The Douro River Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Winemaking traditions in portugal's douro valley.

White-painted quinta estates – sprawling farms surrounded by terraced vineyards – are a particularly popular feature of Portugal's historic Douro River Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its multicultural heritage, the unique grape varieties that grow in its fantastic climate, and a winemaking culture that stretches back centuries. The region entices with museums and historic sites in Porto, its chief port on the Atlantic… ancient monasteries and castles along the river… picture-perfect villages like Pinhão and Pocinho… and lush winemaking estates set within cliff-lined riverscapes.

Portugal's Rabelo boats

Only on the douro… the romance of the rabelo.

With a name that translates to "little tail" (for the long piece of timber extending from its stern that's used to steer it), the traditional wooden Rabelo boat carried passengers and cargo along Portugal's Douro River for centuries. Found nowhere else in the world, this flat-bottomed, shallow-draught sailboat became the fastest and most efficient way to transport casks of prized Port wine between Douro Valley vineyards and the city of Porto at the river's mouth. Although no longer used commercially, these iconic workhorses can still be seen plying the waters of the Douro today.

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Experience the Douro River with Tauck

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TAUCKS EVENTS

Inspired by the Destination

For 90+ years, the Tauck family has had a passion for sailing — aboard small ships and yachts at sea, riverboats along great inland waterways, and at home on the rivers and lakes of Connecticut and New York. When we began blending our land experience with our strong passion for cruising in our first European river cruise back in 1992, we knew that no "ordinary" river cruise experience would do for our guests. We wanted them to travel Europe's rivers in the same beyond-the-ordinary Tauck style they experienced on our land trips. With that in mind, we searched to find a company to partner with that would share our values and our commitment to "do the right thing" by our guests... and found it in another family-owned company, Scylla. Together, we crafted a river cruise experience that was ahead of its time and inspired by the destinations we explore.

Tauck's River Cruise Guide

Douro river facts.

Find interesting Douro River facts – from key cities along its banks to history, culture, cuisine and more.

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Tauck's European river cruise guide will help you find the right Danube, Rhone, Rhine, Seine or Douro river cruise for you.

Why Take A Tauck River Cruise

Tauck River Cruising means traveling in good company, exclusive access to cultural experiences, distinctively inclusive pricing and more!

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Portugal River Cruises

Explore the wonders of Portugal with its’ proud history and exquisite port wines, on your 5-star Douro River river cruise. 

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 Capture your sense of imagination 

From uncovering rich cultures and World Heritage-listed sites to marvelling at hilltop wine estates, experience the pristine beauty of Portugal.

A truly timeless place awaits, to discover the hidden gems of the Douro Valley 

From discovering the historic treasures and delicious local produce in Porto, to admiring the prehistoric rock art sites of the Côa Valley spend your days immersed in the beauty that Portugal has to offer.

Discover Portugal

• Experiences

An enchanted world where you'll experience extraordinary moments

Why travel on a scenic portugal river cruise  .

Our ultra-luxury Scenic Azure Space-Ship has been designed to be the ultimate 5-star ultra-luxury river cruise experience of a lifetime for up to only 96 guests. Designed to take you to extraordinary regions, allowing you to relax and unwind as you explore multiple magical towns and cities with ease, an all-inclusive Scenic journey will inspire and excite you.

Innovative Scenic Space-Ship

Our 5-star ship, the Scenic Azure, has set the standard for ultra-luxury river cruising on the Douro. It has an abundance of premium experiences and luxurious outdoor, dining, and wellness areas for only up to 96 guests, along with an almost 1:2 crew-to-guest ratio. It features spacious suites, a Vitality Pool, and the ability to dock in the heart of towns, allowing you to more time to explore onshore. 

  Find out more

Luxurious Suites

Our generously sized suites are elegantly appointed with premium amenities, including a queen-size Scenic Slumber bed and pillow menu. The Balcony, Junior and Royal Suites on Scenic Azure feature our Scenic Sun Lounges – some of the largest balconies offered on European waterways - so you can relax and view Portuguese the way of life as you cruise by. 

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Up to 5 Dining Options

Whether you prefer fine dining, a relaxed café setting or dining in the privacy of your suite, you’ll find delectable options to suit your tastes and mood. Premium international beverages^ – wine, beer, cocktails, spirits – are included and available all day, every day. It’s more than outstanding food and wine – it’s the fresh flavours of the region prepared by our innovative chefs. 

Scenic Freechoice

Personalise your river cruise and pursue your own interests as you set off on unique excursions in Portugal. Whether it’s wandering the elegant town of Lamego with its many fine Baroque structures or sampling flavours in the Côa Valley and visiting Casa Painova for a tasting of their almond, olive and fruit products, the choice is yours. 

Scenic Enrich

Scenic Enrich experiences are exclusive to our guests and place you at the heart of the world’s most refined art, music and architecture. You’ll go behind the scenes to enjoy moments inaccessible to the ordinary traveller. From witnessing a private concert at the beautiful São Francisco Church, to wandering the quaint streets of Provesende with locals, these carefully curated experiences are destined to be the highlights of your journey. 

Featured Itineraries

Delightful Douro

The soul of Portugal

Unforgettable Douro

A truly timeless place

Unforgettable Douro & Gems of the Seine

Glimpse back at time gone by

Where we travel in

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• Expeditions
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• Lisbon to Porto

Portugal’s River of Gold

• From $3,999
• 8 Guided Tours
• 2 Countries
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• 2024 2025 2026

Portugal’s River of Gold Map

Enjoy the Douro’s beauty & history

Experience the renaissance of Lisbon, newly invigorated with trending galleries and restaurants. Explore two of Iberia’s oldest university towns: Coimbra, Portugal and Salamanca, Spain. Roam the port warehouses of Porto. Enjoy traditional cuisine, wine and fado singing. Cruise the Douro River Valley, the world’s oldest demarcated wine region and a UNESCO Site. Our 10-day cruisetour includes a hotel stay in Lisbon and the added bonus of a visit to Spain.

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To learn more about each port of call and our included as well as optional excursions, click on the individual days below.

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*All amenities on board Viking Longships; amenities vary on other ships.

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More days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city, or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities. Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

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Portugal & Spain Revel in the vibrant Douro River Valley.

From the brilliant green of the terraced, hillside vineyards to the warm-hued buildings blanketing such towns as Porto and Salamanca, you may be hard-pressed to leave the sun-deck. When you do, you’ll be delighted to discover that the limestone streets, medieval villages, and—perhaps most importantly—the region’s cuisine, are equally spectacular.

Learn more about why a river cruise with Uniworld is the best way cruise.

Douro River Valley

Porto to Porto | 8 days

As you follow the Douro River through Portugal and into Spain, you’ll cruise past steeply terraced hillsides, quaint villages and acres of ripe vineyards. Enjoy private tastings of Port....

Ship: S.S. São Gabriel

Countries: Portugal, Spain

River: Douro

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Portugal, Spain & the Douro River Valley

Porto to Lisbon | 11 days

Following the Douro River through Portugal and into Spain, you’ll cruise past steeply terraced hillsides, quaint villages and acres of ripe vineyards. Enjoy private tastings of Port and explore ...

4.3 /5 (419 reviews)

From $3,899 per person

Wine Roads of France & Portugal

Bordeaux to Lisbon | 18 days

The Southern European climates and historic towns of both Bordeaux and Portugal are as complimentary as their palettes—expect bold reds and excellent dessert wines, from Sauternes to Port....

Ships: S.S. Bon Voyage, S.S. São Gabriel

Countries: France, Portugal, Spain

Rivers: Dordogne, Douro, Garonne

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Best river cruises in Porto

I already wrote about the famous 6 bridges cruise in Porto, but the truth is that a lot of people…

I already wrote about the famous 6 bridges cruise in Porto , but the truth is that a lot of people simply prefer to have a more intimate river cruise in Porto, so I decided to write this Complete Guide of the best river cruises in Porto.

Important note: Please do not mistake these with the best river cruises in Douro Valley ! The river cruises on this article that you are reading now refer to the best river cruises in Porto city.

If you are in a hurry: best river cruises in Porto – a snapshot

If you are in a hurry, these are the best options for:

• Best river cruise in Porto with Wine and Tapas
• Best river cruise in Porto for bachelor / bachelorette parties
• Best river cruise in Porto for solo travellers
• Top river cruise on a PRIVATE Yacht
• Best river cruise with a local Fisherman!

Sightseeing Sailboat Cruise on the Douro River

The Sightseeing Sailboat Cruise on the Douro River is one of the best river cruises in Porto for large groups (either bachelor / bachelorette parties or holidays with your extended family) because, given its size (49 foot), it can accommodate a loooot of people.

Something else that I love about this river cruise in particular is that it’s a really pretty sailboat, with a very comfortable interior room open to the outside. Beware though, that most of the time (especially when it’s not windy) they use the engines of the boats instead of the sails.

Moreover, and unlike the very touristy 6 bridges cruise, the Sightseeing Sailboat Cruise on the Douro River provides translated explanations of what you are about to see, and hence skipping the loud speakers altogether.

You can book your Sightseeing Sailboat Cruise on the Douro River online.

Sightseeing Sailboat Cruise on the Douro River – Details

Mar douro river sailing cruise.

The Mar Douro river sailing cruise is another great option to navigate the waters of the Douro river on a classic 31-foot motor sailor boat.

The skipper, Raul, is a really charismatic person with tons of nice stories about the Marina, the Douro river and the city itself. He is also quite generous with his Port wine servings, so I am sure you are going to end the trip feeling a bit tipsy 😀

The only thing I don’t like about the  Mar Douro river sailing cruise is that the indoors area is small, dark and not particularly comfortable, so I don’t recommend this tour for bad weather days.

You can book your Mar Douro river sailing cruise online.

Mar Douro river sailing cruise – Details

Douro river party boat.

I know how hard it is do organise bachelor / bachelorette parties not only because I organised it for some of my friends, but also because we welcome a lot of such groups on our Full day private tour of Porto 🙂 And hence it is my pleasure to introduce you to the ONLY party boat in Porto , a boat that can accommodate more than 50 people on board!

The idea is quite simple: a large boat, a DJ, and a bar. Plenty of music, no places to sit down (it’s a PARTY boat, not a place to take a nap! :D) and the opportunity to mingle with like minded travellers. Naturally, you can also make the trip private, if you wish to do so. 

I think this is a great, great option for large groups of friends and yes, I have included this on one of my friends bachelorette party 🙂

There is only ONE slot everyday, so hurry up and book your party river cruise in Porto online.

Party river cruise in Porto – Details

Douro captain sailboat cruise.

Douro Captain sailboat cruise is one of the most versatile river cruises in Porto. After all, it goes out into the river three times a day, every day; and it provides both group trips (for those of you that want to make new friends) and private trips (for those, like me, that prefer a private experience 🙂

Ricardo’s team is not only very friendly but also gives you lots of tips to make the most of your days in Porto, while filling your glass with a Port tonic cocktail. No wonder, then, that it is the most popular river cruise in the city!

To finish up the experience, we even got to take a quick spin out on the ocean, sailing directly into the sunset – a once in a lifetime experience that will engrave Porto in our happy memories.

You can book your Douro Captain sailboat cruise online.

Douro Captain sailboat cruise – Details

Private yacht cruise with tapas.

Another fantastic yacht river cruise in Porto with wines and tapas included (again, massive foodie here!) is this Private yacht cruise with tapas .

I really like it because it is designed to be a private tour from the start, meaning that you have the undivided skippers’ attention, complete privacy AND nobody can steal the best cheeses from you 😀

Indeed, the crew (who is super nice, by the way – I really enjoyed their company!) will always make sure that your glasses are ful and that your stomach is happy. I particularly enjoyed the regional cheese from the Azores islands, and I think you will like it too 🙂

You can book your Private yacht cruise with tapas online.

Private yacht cruise with tapas – Details

River cruise with a local fisherman.

Sometimes what we need is a bit of simplicity, but mostly authenticity, on our holidays and experiences around the world. With that in mind, I decided to include on this article about the best river cruises in Porto a River cruise with a local fisherman 🙂

Indeed, Paulo and Daniel are both former fishermen and now wonderful hosts. They will tell you all about their fishing days, the Douro river, make sure your glasses of wine are always topped and take fantastic photos of you. 

The boat is small (only 20 foot long!), inspired by ancient fishing boats and specially built to allow you for a closer look at the local fishing culture.

This is truly a unique experience , better suited for down-to-earth people, that you will not forget 🙂

You can book your River cruise with a local fisherman online.

River cruise with a local fisherman – Details

Glamorous porto yacht tour.

The Glamorous Porto Yacht Tour tour is by far the fanciest river cruise in Porto, particularly for those of you that prefer to yachts over sailing boats. 

This yacht is indeed very fancy, with really nice (and comfortable) sofas both outdoors and on the covered area inside. It is suuuuper nice and makes for a very relaxing trip. 

Moreover, the boat is so large that it allows for several groups to have their own private area (at the bow, the stern, or up top).

The couple that runs this river cruise is Nancy and Fernando, and precisely because this is a family business, they have different schedules for every day of the week, so I recommend you to book the Glamorous Porto Yacht Tour as soon as possible to avoid missing out. They always try to include one schedule that allows for a sunset cruise, which is great!

The only thing I didn’t super like about my trip was that they only serve ONE glass of a welcome drink (sangria), which I find a bit awkward given how generous we, the Portuguese, are with wines.

You can book your Glamorous Porto Yacht Tour online.

Glamorous Porto Yacht Tour – Details

Douro river boat cruise with port wine.

The Douro river boat cruise with Port wine is also a good option for those who want an intimate and uncomplicated boat trip, as the trip takes place on a small boat (maximum 6 people). But don’t worry because despite its small size, the boat is very comfortable and even has an awning to protect you from the sun 🙂 The skipper is called Jonas, a young man who, in addition to being very friendly, has a lot of knowledge about the city and Port wine. He will welcome you with a tasting of 3 Port wines (one of each style), which is the perfect note to start this river cruise in Porto.

Moreover, being a small unpretentious boat, it has two advantages that some of the best river cruises in Porto do NOT have: it welcomes both solo travellers (hiey!) AND pets on board 🙂

You can book your Douro river boat cruise with Port wine online.

Douro river boat cruise with Port wine – Details

Related tours, related articles.

Sadly for demographics, Portugal is the third-oldest country in Europe and the fifth oldest in the world. So, is Portugal…

While you’re preparing to have the time of your life in Porto visiting the famous monuments and drinking the best…

You can’t visit Porto without exploring Foz, one of the most intriguing areas in Porto’s bounds where the Douro river…

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11 Best River Cruise Itineraries to Book in 2023 and 2024

By Paris Wilson

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The best river cruises have always had a mystique to draw travelers in—even those who are new to cruising. For history buffs, they could be an excellent way to visit ancient sites or historical landmarks. For those that love the outdoors, river journeys are a way to experience the natural landscape of the dream destinations. This year, the river cruise market has been anticipating more travel, so consider booking these once-in-a-lifetime voyages as early as you can. 

Here, we’ve highlighted 11 of the most exciting river cruise itineraries to book for this year and next—from Amazonian expeditions to kid-friendly European voyages , these cruises have something for every kind of traveler.

Colombia's Magdalena River with Amawaterways

Amawaterways is now accepting reservations for its highly anticipated cruises on Colombia's Magdalena River departing from both Cartagena and Barranquilla in 2024. Both seven-day itineraries explore Colombia's rich musical and cultural history, along with a chance to experience the country's natural wonders and local cuisine. Amawaterways is the first major river cruise line to highlight Colombia’s beauty with these types of voyages. Ship amenities are plentiful, as both vessels feature staterooms with balconies, a main restaurant, a fitness center with three spa treatment rooms, and a sun deck with a relaxing whirlpool.

Family river cruises on the Danube and Rhine with Emerald

Emerald is opening up two of its Europe river itineraries to younger guests, with  kid-friendly menus and exciting onboard activities such as video games, movies, and tournaments. Children must be 10 years old or older to take part in Emerald’s kid-friendly voyages. Both itineraries have been modified and feature destinations the whole family can enjoy. The Danube Explorer includes stops in Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary . While the Jewels of the Rhine explores the Netherlands, Germany, France, and Switzerland.

Mississippi River Cruises with Viking

Float down the mighty Mississippi with Viking's first U.S. voyages. Featuring five different itineraries with stops in New Orlean s, Memphis, and St. Paul, you’ll explore the French Quarter, enjoy authentic Memphis barbecue, and get an up-close look at America’s national bird, the bald eagle. In celebration of its 25th anniversary, Viking is offering special fares, reduced airfare and a$25 deposit on select voyages.

Black history and culture in France with Amawaterways

During Amawaterways' Black History cruise, guests aboard the AmaKristina will sail through the South of France along the Rhone River. The journey from Arles to Lyon will include stops in Avignon, Viviers, Tournon, and Vienne. After arriving in Lyon, passengers will stay in Paris for an exclusive guided tour showcasing jazz, food, and wine, all while shining a light on Black heritage.

Amazon River voyages with Seabourn

Journeying through the Amazon's small channel of the Boca dos Botos, Seabourn's expedition team, will immerse you in the region's one-of-a-kind ecosystem. The three itineraries are broken up into regions: Flooded Forests and Blackwater Tributaries; The Frontier Amazon; and The Peruvian Amazon. Each major region exemplifies a new, unique environment that differs from the next. Take in the natural beauty of the flora and fauna as you share space with sloths, howler monkeys, and more. 

Christmas markets in Europe with Scenic

Scenic Cruises is amping up the holiday cheer with six itineraries this November and December. Each city will showcase a unique Christmas experience as you stop in Amsterdam , Munich, Paris, and Prague, just to name a few of the festive ports in store. It will be a holiday like no other as you dock at quaint riverside villages aglow in fairy lights. Walk over the cobblestones with mulled wine in hand while you browse handmade goods and enjoy festive treats and age-old traditions.

Viking's Nile River Cruises

Follow the footsteps of the ancient Egyptians with Viking's voyages down the Nile . Delve into the history of those that called Cairo home, built the Pyramids, and looked upon the great Sphinx. With stops in Luxor, Quena, and Esna before docking in Aswan—it’s a timeless voyage you won’t want to miss. As part of Viking’s anniversary sale, a $25 deposit is applicable for this booking. 

India’s Golden Triangle aboard Uniworld

Immerse yourself in India’s “Golden Triangle”—Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra. The 10-day itinerary features visits to the Taj Mahal, Rajbari temple complex, and Mother Teresea’s home. While en route, you’ll enjoy meals created with fresh ingredients, take part in welcome and farewell gala dinners, and have complimentary house wine, local spirits and beer, soft drinks, and tea served throughout your voyage. 

Portugal's Douro River with Scenic 

Experience the past and present of Portugal as you travel through the Douro River Valley. The river flows from Spain to the Northern Portuguese countryside, which is known for its wine production. Five different tours are being offered with stops in Lisbon , Porto, Madrid, and Salamanca. Passengers will have the chance to explore charming villages, see the Palace Duques de Bragança, kayak along the Pinhão River, and sample delicacies of the region. Plus, every stateroom aboard Scenic's ship comes with private butler service to ensure the journey is truly stress free.

Aqua Expeditions Mekong River cruise

Along with visits to bustling cities like Phnom Penh and Ho Chi Minh City , Aqua Expeditions' Mekong River cruises also visits serene ports in the countryside. Imagine kayaking to floating villages, watching silk weavers at work, and biking to village markets. Beyond the beautiful sights in Cambodia and Vietnam, the ship, Aqua Mekong , is a marvel in itself. The vessel has 20 suites that feature full-length windows and onboard amenities include a cinema, top deck plunge pool, and sun deck with lounge chairs and cabanas. If you book a river cruise between now and 2025, you can receive 30 percent off your voyage.

There's a new option for a river cruise through Portugal's wine country

Editor's Note

Avalon Waterways is the latest river cruise line to launch sailings on the Douro.

The Denver-based brand on Thursday unveiled its first vessel on the vineyard-lined river in Portugal, which has been one of river cruising's fastest-growing destinations in recent years.

Dubbed Avalon Alegria, the 102-passenger ship will sail seven-night voyages on the Douro out of Porto, Portugal, starting next week.

For more cruise news, guides and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Stops on the voyages will include the river towns of Regua, Pinhao and Pocinho, which serve as gateways for visits to the many wineries and historic sites that line the Douro River Valley.

Avalon executives unveiled Avalon Alegria on Thursday during a naming ceremony along the waterfront of Pinhao that included an appearance by former "Saturday Night Live" comedienne Cheri Oteri.

Oteri served as godmother of the vessel during the ceremony.

"It's like my wedding day. I've never been so honored and flattered," Oteri told nearly 100 invited guests at the start of the ceremony after being escorted into the event on the arm of an Avalon executive.

Sticking with the wedding analogy, the Primetime Emmy Award-nominated funny woman joked that "tonight, if the ship's a-rockin', don't come a-knockin'."

Later in the ceremony, Oteri cut a white ribbon that sent a bottle of sparkling Portuguese Cava smashing against Avalon Alegria's hull.

Avalon tapped Oteri to christen Avalon Alegria because of her work bringing happiness and joy into the world as a comedienne and actress, Avalon President Pam Hoffee said at the event.

"Alegria" means "happiness" in Portuguese, Hoffee noted.

"When we named our ship happiness ... we couldn't have thought of a better godmother than Cheri Oteri," Hoffee said.

The ceremony mostly took place inside the ship's main lounge due to pouring rain outside. It was followed by a reception and gala dinner on board.

Built at a shipyard in Portugal, Avalon Alegria is part of Avalon's popular Suite Class of ships, which began debuting in 2011 and features a large number of extra-wide cabins called Panorama Suites.

Related: Why I still think Avalon Waterways has the best cabins in river cruising

Avalon Alegria has 37 Panorama Suites, which offer 200 square feet of living space. That's about 30% more square footage than the standard river ship cabin.

Avalon has long touted the Panorama Suites as a key difference between its vessels and those of other river lines in Europe that cater to North Americans. The suites make up nearly 80% of the cabins on Avalon's Suite Class ships and have several unusual features. Among them: floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall panoramic windows that stretch 11 feet wide and open up 7 feet wide.

Founded in 2004, 20-year-old Avalon is known for a young fleet of ships with a stylish, contemporary design, and Avalon Alegria is no exception. Public areas feature modern furniture, clean lines and lots of glass walls that flood the spaces with light.

Among the standout features of Avalon Alegria is the line's first decktop pool.

Avalon Alegria is notably smaller than the typical Avalon ship, as it was designed specifically to fit into the locks and under the bridges that line the Douro River.

Like other river cruise lines that cater to North Americans, including AmaWaterways, Uniworld River Cruises and Viking, Avalon has grown notably over the past two decades. With the addition of Avalon Alegria, it now has 15 ships in Europe. It also operates one ship in Asia on the Mekong River.

Attendees at Thursday's unveiling included leaders of some of North America's biggest travel agency groups, local officials, the ship's designers and builders, and Avalon executives.

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Travel + Leisure Readers' 10 Favorite River Cruise Lines of 2023

Readers had high praise for the incredible service and interesting itineraries on these river cruise lines in our annual "World’s Best Awards" survey for 2023.

Paul Brady is the news director at Travel + Leisure and the brand's expert on cruise travel. He has been covering the travel industry for more than 15 years for outlets including Condé Nast Traveler , Skift , and The Huffington Post .

How Voting Works

What readers loved, the full list.

Courtesy of Avalon Waterways

A river cruise might just be the best way to see the world. Though many well-traveled readers have yet to hop aboard a river ship, those that have return home with high praise for this unique style of exploring. It makes sense: river cruises allow for slow and thoughtful enjoyment of a destination, while onboard amenities offer the kind of luxury found in five-star hotels. And it’s not just Europe: this year’s award winners have a global outlook, with operations on the Continent, yes, but also in Egypt, Southeast Asia, South America, and even closer to home in the U.S.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, Travel + Leisure asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 165,000 T+L readers completed the 2023 survey, an increase of nearly 25 percent over pre-pandemic voting levels. A total of more than 685,000 votes were cast across over 8,500 unique properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.).

For the cruise category, respondents were asked to rate individual ships; the results were separated by ocean cruises and river cruises. 

Ships were specifically rated on the criteria below:

• Cabins/facilities
• Itineraries/destinations
• Excursions/activities

For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses. 

No. 2 Tauck held steady compared to last year, as voters praised the line for its faultless service and interesting itineraries. Its newest ship, Andorinha, launched in 2021 on the Douro River of Portugal, which is in huge demand among travelers these days. Another line that’s making waves is No. 4 Viking, which added a couple of intriguing river ships in 2022: one, Viking Osiris, sails Egypt’s Nile River; another, Viking Mississippi, travels between St. Paul, Minnesota, and New Orleans. “We loved our trip with Viking,” one voter wrote. “My husband had resisted going on a cruise for years, but now, after our sail on the Danube River, he’s hooked.”

Moving up several spots from its 2022 ranking was No. 3 Grand Circle Cruise Line, which offers value-minded itineraries across Europe. “My wife and I have been on seven of their ships on 10 different trips since 2004,” said one devotee. “Like all of those ships, River Aria is comfortable, clean, serves fantastic food, and has a great staff.”

Another surprise was this year’s top river cruise line: Aqua Expeditions rose from the fourth spot in 2022 to take the crown as the world’s best river cruise line this year. Read on for more on why it impressed.

Aqua Expeditions

Stevie Mann/Courtesy of Aqua Expeditions

The brand’s three river ships are anything but ordinary: Aqua Mekong takes travelers on epic adventures in Cambodia and Vietnam, with temple touring and more recent history both on the agenda. Meanwhile Aqua Nera and Aria Amazon navigate the Peruvian stretch of this legendary river. All three vessels, none with more than 20 suites, offer a sense of privacy and exclusivity that’s nearly impossible to find short of chartering one’s own yacht . “It was just amazing,” marveled one guest, who traveled aboard the Aqua Nera , which entered service in 2021. Food is another focus for the line, which has partnered with the Peruvian chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino, an expert on Amazonian ingredients, for culinary-minded voyages this year. 

1. Aqua Expeditions

Reader Score: 99.09

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 95.69

3. Grand Circle Cruise Line

Reader Score: 94.97

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 94.75

5. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 94.36

Reader Score: 92.37

7. Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Reader Score: 90.15

8. AmaWaterways

Reader Score: 90.14

9. Avalon Waterways

Reader Score: 89.20

10. Emerald Cruises

Reader Score: 86.21

• Expeditions
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Portugal’s River of Gold

• From $5,599
• 8 Guided Tours
• 2 Countries
• Dates & Pricing
• 2024 2025 2026

Portugal’s River of Gold Map

Enjoy the Douro’s beauty & history

Experience the renaissance of Lisbon, newly invigorated with trending galleries and restaurants. Explore two of Iberia’s oldest university towns: Coimbra, Portugal and Salamanca, Spain. Roam the port warehouses of Porto. Enjoy traditional cuisine, wine and fado singing. Cruise the Douro River Valley, the world’s oldest demarcated wine region and a UNESCO Site. Our 10-day cruisetour includes a hotel stay in Lisbon and the added bonus of a visit to Spain.

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To learn more about each port of call and our included as well as optional excursions, click on the individual days below.

Itinerary and shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.

More features, services and excursions included

One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call

Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)

Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner

24-hour specialty coffees, teas  & bottled water

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Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase

Visits to UNESCO Sites

Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances

Your Stateroom Includes:

River-view stateroom

Bottled water replenished daily

110/220 volt outlets

Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows

Private bathroom with shower, heated floor & anti-fog mirror

Premium Freyja® toiletries

Plush robes & slippers (upon request)

40" or 42" flat-screen Sony® TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, plus CNBC, CNN, FOX & more

Telephone, safe, refrigerator

Individual climate control

*All amenities on board Viking Longships; amenities vary on other ships.

Pre & Post Cruise Extensions

More days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city, or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities. Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

Pre: Lisbon

From $899 | 2 Nights

Pre: Madrid

From $1,449 | 3 Nights

Post: Road to Santiago

From $849 | 2 Nights

Post: Barcelona

From $1,499 | 3 Nights

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My latest river cruise adventure included kayaking, biking and hiking — here's how yours can, too

I am at the back of an inflatable kayak on Portugal's famously scenic Douro River, paddling wildly against the current, when it hits me: River cruising sure has changed.

I have found myself in this kayak — looking ridiculous in a full-body wetsuit and getting soaked by passing rains, but having a blast — as part of a half-day outing from the newest river cruise ship on the Douro, Avalon Waterways' Avalon Alegria .

It's the sort of outing that you never used to see on the schedule on river cruises.

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When I started writing about cruising more than two decades ago, river sailings were for a sedentary, retiree crowd. But in recent years, some river brands, including Avalon, have been targeting a more active and younger set of vacationers with active outings.

As I'm seeing on a four-night preview sailing aboard Avalon Alegria, which begins its first sailing with paying passengers later this week, you now can have a much more outdoorsy experience when river cruising than you could just a few years ago.

The cruise brands that are adding more active options on river cruises — Avalon being a leader of the trend — are doing it as part of offering a wider swath of options on their trips that include both active and non-active excursions.

Related: Why I still think Avalon Waterways has the best cabins in river cruising

On every sailing, Avalon now offers a choice of included daily tours that fall into three broad categories: Classic, Discovery and Active.

For example, during a day docked at Porto, Portugal, on this cruise, we had the choice of a walking tour through the heart of the historic city (the Classic option), a wine experience that included tours and tastings at the centuries-old port wine cellars on the opposite bank of the river (the Discovery option) and a biking tour of the riverbank with a biologist (the Active option).

A bike ride along the ocean

In short, you now can be as active as you want when cruising with some river brands — in addition to Avalon, AmaWaterways has added more active options to its ships.

During the Porto stop, I signed up for the bike tour, which was an invigorating and scenic spin down the southern bank of the Douro to the point where it meets the Atlantic Ocean, followed by a ride southward along the ocean for several miles.

Led by a guide, the seven bikers in my group covered 9 miles in all — a not insubstantial distance — over a leisurely 2 1/2 hours. The time span included several stops to take in the views.

We dismounted our bikes several times to walk along boardwalks through the Douro River estuary near the ocean and down to the beach. As we did, our biologist guide offered a running commentary on the migratory and local birds we were seeing and explained the natural landscape.

It was a blustery day, and the waves were up on the ocean, offering a show as they crashed over rocky outcroppings along the beach, sending spray skyward.

It was the most strenuous of three active tours that I have done over three days on board. For the most part, the active outings that Avalon offers on its trips are relatively mild in their adventure level. They're not meant for the hard-core adventure traveler.

On my second day on board Avalon Alegria, I signed up for what was billed as a hike through the vineyards lining the Douro near the village of Pinhao. But a hike was an ambitious way to describe it. It was more of a walk.

We didn't go far — just 1.3 miles, according to one of my fellow tourgoers who tracked it on her phone. But it was a truncated outing that was unique to this preview sailing, Avalon Alegria's active travel coordinator told me later, due to christening festivities planned for the ship the same day.

I wasn't complaining. After traveling by van to the Quinta do Bomfim vineyard, which covers the hills surrounding Pinhao, we set off at a slow pace upward into the estate's undulating rows of grape vines, walking on the stone-lined tractor paths between them.

We stopped often, including at a small orange grove tucked into the middle of the vineyard, where we plucked ripe and juicy oranges off the branches to eat along the way.

The outing was as much a winery tour as it was a walk in the vineyards, as we soon looped around to the estate's production facilities, where we saw the rooms where grapes are turned into wine and stored in giant oak barrels.

The experience ended with a tasting of the port wines made at the estate — a common activity on trips on the Douro.

The vineyard-lined Douro River Valley is famous as the origin of every bottle of port wine in the world, and pretty much every tour that river cruise lines offer in the valley has some element related to this wine that made the valley famous.

A lovely kayak to 'Love Island'

The kayaking outing was also relatively modest in its ambitions. Setting off from a small beach along the banks of the Douro, our group of about two dozen kayakers (two to a kayak) was led by guides on a short loop that first took us down the river just a few hundred feet to another small beach where we landed for a photo. We then paddled back upriver to a middle-of-the-river lump of land called Love Island.

At the latter destination, we stopped to hear the legend of a clandestine romance between a noblewoman and a humble farmer that gives the island its name. Their love, we were told, came to a sudden end after a storm rose up as they fled to the island. They were fleeing, according to the legend, after the farmer had killed a rival suitor — and it was that rival's spirit that caused the storm.

It was a quick stop where our guides offered us the chance to dive off an overlook into the water. Then we were back into the kayaks for the short trip back to our departure point.

The entire kayaking portion of the outing, which Avalon is still testing as an option for its Douro sailings, lasted just an hour.

If you're looking for just a taste of kayaking that isn't too strenuous and gets you outdoors, it's a perfect excursion. If you're hoping for a more serious kayaking adventure, you'll likely be disappointed.

We suspect that most would-be Avalon river cruisers fall into the former camp. As it has added more active options, Avalon has been drawing a younger crowd looking for more active outings, for sure. But younger, in this case, is relative, as is the activity level that these travelers are seeking.

The average age of an Avalon cruiser has dropped from 68 to 62 in recent years, a top marketing executive at the company told me during this sailing — a significant drop. But even travelers closer to 60 years old than 70 years old on average are not a traveling cohort that necessarily wants to kayak for miles or for hours.

As someone who is quickly approaching that age, I know this firsthand.

My take: Avalon knows its customers.

If you're looking for a river cruise with active options that aren't so active that you'll have trouble keeping up, Avalon Waterways could be the perfect cruise for you.

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Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.