Passage along the Douro
Flights from London→Oporto → Regua → Salamanca → Almeida → Coa Museum → Pinhao → Lamego → Oporto→Return to London
Organised by Noble Caledonia.
From
from £3295
per person
Overview
Discover the beauty of the Douro Valley aboard the MS Gil Eanes
The Douro is not the longest, grandest or most historic of Europe's rivers, but it certainly is one of the most untouched and beautiful. From its meagre beginnings in the hills north of Madrid it makes its way through Northern Portugal in a meandering flourish to the ocean and the endlessly fascinating city of Oporto. Noble Caledonia’s cruise aboard the MS Gil Eanes offers the opportunity to sail this delightful river and experience some of the local flavour. Where vessels once laden with barrels of port drifted to Oporto, guests will cruise along this lovely river, relaxing on board whilst admiring the beautiful passing scenery and stopping each day for fascinating excursions.
Noble Caledonia’s navigation of the Douro will take guests from Oporto on a wonderfully scenic path, past sleepy villages and a tranquil countryside of almond and citrus trees to just before the Spanish border. From here, guests will visit Spain's ancient seat of learning, Salamanca, with its grand buildings in rich copper hues and the country's most magnificent square, Plaza Mayor. During this river journey, guests will also visit the world-renowned port wine region, restored palaces, places of pilgrimage and cultural centres. Small towns and settlements perched on the sloping hillsides of the region have retained an aura of Medieval simplicity, its many tiny communities, largely agricultural, clustering around historic churches, monasteries and castles.
Highlights
- Experience a comprehensive guided tour of Oporto, a World Heritage Site famous for its 16th-century architecture, Baroque churches, and iconic 19th-century iron bridge.
- Discover the 18th-century Mateus Manor House, a masterpiece of Portuguese Baroque architecture featuring romantic gardens and a unique 100-foot-long cedar tunnel.
- Enjoy a full-day excursion to the historic Spanish city of Salamanca, home to one of the oldest universities in the world and the impressive Plaza Mayor.
- Explore the Gothic "New Cathedral" in Salamanca, featuring exquisite 16th-century design and craftsmanship.
- Choose between a visit to the star-shaped 17th-century ramparted fortress of Almeida or the UNESCO-listed Coa Museum to view ancient Upper Paleolithic rock art.
- Cruise through the heart of the Douro Valley, one of the world's oldest demarcated wine regions, and enjoy breathtaking views of steep terraced vineyards.
- Visit a traditional local Quinta in the Douro Valley to learn about regional wine production methods and enjoy a private tasting.
- Climb the impressive staircase of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies in Lamego, a stunning 18th-century Baroque pilgrimage site adorned with blue and white tiles.
- Enjoy a relaxing journey across the Crestuma-Lever dam as the MS Gil Eanes sails back towards Oporto.
- Conclude your voyage with an authentic Portuguese folklore show performed on board the vessel.
Explore further
More river cruises
The ship
Itinerary
- 1
Day 1 London to Oporto, Portugal.
Fly by scheduled flight. Upon arrival transfer to the MS Gil Eanes and embark. This evening meet your fellow travellers at the welcome dinner.
- 2
Day 2 Oporto.
This morning there will be a guided tour of Oporto, Portugal's second largest city and a World Heritage Site. This attractive city was originally a Celtic-Iberian settlement and became a prosperous Roman village thanks to its natural harbour. During our tour we will drive through its narrow streets to find 16th century arcaded buildings, Baroque churches and chapels, as well as the city's iconic 19th century iron bridge, built by the school of Gustav Eiffel. We continue along the coastal road of the Atlantic to the mouth of the Douro River to view this wealthy neighbourhood with its fashionable villas and manor houses. Our final visit will be to the city's cathedral, located on the top of Penaventosa Hill. Inside are beautiful examples of golden carved altarpieces and paintings from the Nasoni period, whilst outside we will enjoy the amazing view over the river. The tour will conclude with a stroll and some free time to explore the riverfront promenade of Cais da Ribeira with its pastel buildings, restaurants and buzzing atmosphere. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy a relaxing afternoon on board.
- 3
Day 3 Regua.
From our mooring at Regua we will visit the unique 18th century Mateus Manor House and its gardens. This fine looking palace is still owned by the Count of Vila Real and is one of the best examples of Baroque architecture in Portugal. During our guided tour of the palace we will see the “rare books” library as well as vestments and religious icons, and view the remarkable chestnut wood crafting on the ceilings and some beautiful paintings from the 17th and 18th centuries. Stroll around the romantic gardens which feature a unique 100 foot long cedar tunnel and formal garden and visit the villa's pretty chapel. Return to the vessel which will have sailed to Tavora to meet us. Enjoy lunch on board and continue cruising towards the Spanish border.
- 4
Day 4 Salamanca, Spain.
Today we will enjoy a full day tour to Salamanca, a Spanish city rich in culture and tradition. Salamanca has been famous as a seat of learning since the early 13th century and has an impressive history, with many fine monuments and architecture. The city attracts around 40,000 international students each year, giving it a cosmopolitan and modern feel. Our guided tour will include the University, House of Shells and the classic Plaza Mayor, formally a bullfighting site. We will also visit the Gothic “New Cathedral” which was actually constructed in the 16th century, replacing the original 12th century Salamanca Cathedral. After lunch in a local restaurant, enjoy some free time to explore independently. Maybe visit the Casa Lis (the Museum of Art Nouveau and Art Deco), or simply stroll through the plazas and side streets of this delightful city. Return later to the vessel for dinner.
- 5
Day 5 Almeida or Coa Museum, Portugal.
There will be a choice of excursions today, maybe join a drive to Almeida, one of the finest examples of a ramparted fortification still standing in Portugal. The fortress was built in the 17th century to surround a Medieval castle and, when seen from above, has the appearance of a 12 pointed star. Strategically located on a plateau just 12 kilometres from the Spanish border, it featured in many historic battles during the Wars of Restoration as well as the French invasions of the 19th century. We can explore the narrow streets that preserve the historic atmosphere inside the town as well as walk the fortress walls. Alternatively, we will make our way to the Coa Museum which celebrates the prehistoric art of the Coa Valley. The Coa is a tributary of the Douro where thousands of examples of ancient rock art have been discovered from the Upper Paleolithic, Neolithic and Iron Age and the region has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- 6
Day 6 Pinhao, Douro Valley.
Enjoy a leisurely morning on board as we cruise to Pinhao, located in the heart of the Douro Valley. The region is one of the oldest demarcated wine regions in the world with a microclimate perfect for grape cultivation. An afternoon drive takes us through steep terraced vineyards that stretch up the riverbanks and boast breathtaking views. Visiting one of the local Quinta we will learn about the production methods and will have the chance to sample some of the local wines.
- 7
Day 7 Lamego.
Sail early this morning towards Folgosa where we will disembark and enjoy a half day excursion to the historical and charming town of Lamego. This city houses one of the most important places of pilgrimage in Portugal - the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies. Built in the second half of the 18th century over the remains of a 14th century chapel, it is an excellent example of the Portuguese Baroque style. It is wonderfully decorated with enormous panels of blue and white tiles and has an impressive staircase of nearly 700 steps. During lunch on board we sail back to Oporto crossing the Crestuma-Lever dam. This evening we will be entertained by a Portuguese folklore show on board.
- 8
Day 8 Oporto to London.
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for the return scheduled flight to London.
The Ship
Gil Eanes
Launched in 2015, the MS Gil Eanes has a modern feel and offers a tranquil atmosphere on which to relax and enjoy the picturesque panoramas of the region. Cabins are located over three decks, and have a bright airy feel. Public areas include the restaurant, the lounge bar with floor to ceiling windows, and the Sun Deck with comfortable loungers, and some tables and chairs under a shaded area. There is ample opportunity to watch the world gently pass by as you relax on board your comfortable floating hotel.
Deck plan
Life aboard Gil Eanes
Launched in 2015, the MS Gil Eanes offers a modern and tranquil setting for exploring the Douro. This floating hotel provides a comfortable, intimate atmosphere perfect for guests looking to relax while enjoying panoramic river views.
Quick facts
Year Built
2015
Capacity
132 passengers
Number of Cabins
66 total
Length
80 metres
Currency
Euro
Suites
Accommodation is spread over three decks, featuring stylish décor and essential modern amenities. Guests can choose between standard cabins or larger suites, with many offering scenic French balconies.
- •Standard cabins are 13.3 sq m, with select cabins on Main/Middle decks measuring 12 sq m.
- •Middle deck suites measure 15.5 sq m, while Upper deck suites measure 19 sq m.
- •All cabins feature private bathrooms with showers, flat-screen TVs, safes, and hair dryers.
- •Twin beds can be configured as a double bed.
- •Main deck cabins feature windows, while Middle and Upper deck cabins have French balconies and sliding floor-to-ceiling windows.
Life on board
The ship is designed for relaxation, featuring a lounge bar with floor-to-ceiling windows and an expansive Sun Deck. The atmosphere is friendly and social, supported by a dedicated English-speaking crew.
- •Sun Deck features comfortable loungers and a shaded area with tables and chairs.
- •Lounge bar provides complimentary drinks from 10am to 11pm.
- •Reception desk is staffed from morning until evening.
- •Small gift shop on the Middle deck.
- •Quietvox audio systems provided for shore excursions.
Dining
Meals are served in a single-sitting restaurant on the Main Deck, focusing on local and international cuisine. Dining is inclusive, with a structured service style for evening meals.
- •Breakfast and lunch are buffet-style with hot and cold options.
- •Dinner is a served set menu with a choice of two mains or a vegetarian option.
- •Drinks are included during meal times.
- •Dietary requirements must be notified in advance and confirmed with the Chef or Maitre D' on arrival.
- •The operator cannot guarantee all dietary requests due to galley limitations.
Practical information
Operational essentials to help you plan your cruise, including connectivity, safety, and onboard policies. Please note the ship has specific guidelines regarding connectivity and medical support.
- •Smart casual dress code for evenings; comfortable casual attire for daytime.
- •Wi-Fi is free but limited; large data file downloads are not possible.
- •Electrical outlets are 220v, 2-pin; bring an adaptor.
- •No doctor is on board, though crew are trained in first aid.
- •Smoking is strictly prohibited in cabins and public areas; designated areas apply.
- •No laundry facilities are available on board.
- •Gratuities are included in the holiday price.
- •Lift service is available to all passenger decks.
- •Currency on board is the Euro; credit cards accepted, but no money-changing service.
Ship information may be subject to operational change. Please contact us for the latest details before booking.
Departures & pricing
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 2 to 9 June 2027 • 26 September to 3 October 2027 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| E Main /Middle Deck Double/Twin Cabin | £3495 | £3295 |
| D Middle Deck Double/Twin cabin | £3695 | £3495 |
| C Upper Deck Double/Twin Cabin | £3895 | £3695 |
| B Middle Deck Suite | £4295 | £4095 |
| A Upper Deck Suite | £5195 | £4995 |
| E Main /Middle Deck Cabin for sole use | £4095 | £3895 |
| D Middle Deck Cabin for sole use | £4495 | £4295 |
| C Upper Deck Double/Twin Cabin for Sole Use | £4695 | £4495 |
Tour Reference Code: RCDOURO27
PRICE INCLUDES:
• Economy class scheduled air travel • Seven nights aboard the MS Gil Eanes on a full board basis • All-inclusive drinks from 10am to 11pm (please note that premium brands & sparkling wines are not included) • Shore excursions • Noble Caledonia onboard team including Guest Speaker • Gratuities • Transfers • Port Taxes • Airport Taxes
Not Included:
- Travel insurance.
Please note that availability and prices shown on our website are not updated in real time and may change. For the latest availability and pricing, please call 0800 678 3787