River cruise vessels are four levels and average 255 feet in length. Most carry 130 passengers in 65 suites with a crew of 30. Suites are over 135 square feet with private baths, air conditioning and large picture windows or private balconies. Public areas will include a viewing deck, pool and jacuzzi with elevators between floors. Restaurants, lounges and bars are standard. Expect a gift shop and dance floor depending on the vessel.
Cruise tours are a return trip to either Porto or Vila Nova de Gaia, located on opposite banks of the Douro estuary. Trips can last a week to eleven days and travel up the Douro as far as Spain before returning. A typical six-night voyage reaches the Renaissance city of Salamanca as a midway destination.
A daily schedule includes all meals on board except for scheduled specialty meals ashore. Dinners on board include unlimited wines and port. After breakfast the vessel will usually cruise for the morning until reaching one of many river destinations. Typically this leaves the afternoon and/or evening free for exploration and guided tours depending on the cruise package, which usually includes one or more local shows. Each voyage is hosted by a professional cruise director.
Travelers flying to Portugal for a Douro river cruise will arrive at Porto Airport directly or as a connection via Lisbon. Some cruise packages may include airfare, especially those made through European bookings. Pre and post-cruise packages are available for extended stays in either Porto or Lisbon. Return shuttle service from Porto Airport to the cruise vessel should be included in the travel package.
