Douro River Escape from Porto for 3 Nights
Overview
UNIQUE EXPERIENCE
Embark on an unparalleled journey along the Douro River aboard the Spirit of Chartwell.
Here, elegance and tranquility meet to create a truly memorable experience, where every moment is marked by the region’s cultural and gastronomic richness. With stunning landscapes in the background and a team dedicated to providing high-quality personalized service, this trip
promises to awaken your senses and create lasting memories. Allow yourself to immerse yourself in this unique adventure, where each meal is a celebration of the authentic flavors of the Douro.
Prepare yourself for an experience that transcends the ordinary and that will last in your memory.
Itinerary
Your Itinerary
PORTO
Your journey begins in the historic city of Vila Nova de Gaia, located on the southern bank of the Douro River, directly opposite the vibrant city of Porto. As you step aboard the Spirit of the Chartwell, you are not merely boarding a ship but entering a piece of living history. This vessel, famously redesigned to carry Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II during her Diamond Jubilee procession on the River Thames, exudes an atmosphere of regal elegance and intimate luxury.
With a capacity for only 30 guests, the embarkation process is swift and personal, feeling more like arriving at a private floating club than a commercial cruise.
PINHAO & RéGUA
The ship departs early in the morning, beginning its upstream journey into the Douro Valley. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board as the urban landscape of Porto gives way to the verdant, terraced hills that define this world-famous wine region. The morning is designed for relaxation and sensory indulgence. As the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, with vineyards clinging to steep slate slopes, you are invited to a special "Culinary Delight" presentation.
The ship’s chef will demonstrate the preparation of a traditional Portuguese dish, offering insights into the local flavors and techniques that make the region’s cuisine so distinct.
PORTO & RéGUA
The day begins with a morning sail downstream towards Régua, the commercial capital of the port wine region. After breakfast, you will disembark for a guided tour of Lamego, one of the most historically significant cities in northern Portugal. Lamego is famous for the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios, a stunning baroque church perched atop a hill and accessed by a monumental staircase adorned with blue and white azulejo tiles.
Your guide will walk you through the town’s rich history, concluding with a tasting of local products, likely including the region's famous sparkling wines and cured meats (bôla de Lamego).
PORTO
On your final morning, the Spirit of the Chartwell departs Entre-os-Rios at 7:00 AM for the final leg of the journey back to Vila Nova de Gaia. As you enjoy your last breakfast on board, take a moment to reflect on the weekend’s experiences while watching the river widen as it approaches the Atlantic.
The morning light over the river offers a serene backdrop for farewells with new friends and the crew who have attended to your every need. The ship arrives at the Gaia pier around 9:00 AM. Disembarkation is scheduled for 10:00 AM, concluding your luxurious escape.
Book This Tour
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Terms & Conditions
Booking Conditions
- Deposit: 20% of total price required at booking
- Final Payment: Due 30 days before departure
- Confirmation: Booking confirmed upon deposit receipt
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations must be in writing. Charges apply:
- More than 15 days before departure: 75% charge
- Less than 14 days or no-show: 100% charge
Important Terms
- Travel insurance: recommended
- Reservations must be made directly with DouroAzul at its headquarters or via email at reservas@douroazul.pt, or through one of its distribution companies, travel agents, wholesalers, or recognized tour operators
Source: DouroAzul official terms
Inclusions & Exclusions
INCLUDED IN THE CRUISE
- Meals on board
- WiFi and video on demand
- Activities and entertainment
- Show Cooking with renowned chefs
- Tours and guided visits
NOT INCLUDED
- Private tours
- Selected wines/drinks from the bar
- Shop products
- Other items not mentioned under “included”
- Transfers to and from the ship
Frequently Asked Questions & Tips
Enjoy an exceptional dining experience on board the Spirit of Chartwell, where every meal is a celebration of the region’s authentic flavors. Enjoy carefully selected fine wines from the most prestigious wineries in the Douro region while admiring the stunning views of the Douro River.
SERVICES AND AMENITIES
- Sun Deck
- Activities and Entertainment
- WiFi
- Cooking Show with renowned chefs
- Meals on board
- Tours and guided visits highlighted in the program
- Video on Demand
- Meals outside the ship highlighted in the program