Renowned for its culture, architecture, scenery, cuisine, and Port wine, Portugal is a must-see destination, and there is no better way to discover its heart than from the Douro River!

Named after the Portuguese word for “golden,” the Douro River glitters across Europe’s Iberian Peninsula. View breathtaking panoramic beauty, as you sail past charming villages, terraced vineyards, and historic landmarks. Stop to explore the sights along the way, sipping wine amidst sun-kissed vineyards, tasting the flavors of local cuisine, and discovering rich culture and colorful cities. From Spain’s walled city of Salamanca to the baroque village of Lamego, enjoy excursions that will immerse you in culture and tradition. A Douro River cruise provides active daily exploration balanced with leisure time on board as you float along on the elegant MS Emerald Radiance. Offered through Mayflower Cruises & Tours, Emerald Cruise Line specializes in intimate small ship experiences. The MS Emerald Radiance was custom-built to navigate the winding Douro with an innovative river view design, inviting common areas, and a beautiful sundeck. Your journey will include excellent service and unparalleled views of the Iberian countryside.

The cost for this wonderful all-inclusive trip starts at $5,620.00 per person (double occupancy) and includes the following:

• Round trip bus transportation from Wesbury to the airport with free parking at Wesbury.
• Round trip airfare and all transportation between airports, hotel, and ship.
• 22 Meals: 9 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 8 dinners.
• Wesbury Hosts, Mayflower/Emerald cruise line Tour Directors, and local guides.
• Visit 2 countries – Portugal & Spain with a 2-night pre-cruise hotel stay in Lisbon.
• Travel by motorcoach to Fátima and Coimbra, Portugal en route to the ship.
• Seven-night cruise on the majestic Douro River via the MS Emerald Radiance.
• Choice of cabins: window, French balcony, and balcony suites.
• First-class service delivered by an English-speaking crew.
• Included shore excursions in each port with local guides and personal listening devices.
• Local wine tastings and a special onshore dinner at a vineyard.
• All onboard meals, offering a variety of international cuisine.
• Ports: Porto, Pinhoa, Vega de Terron, Salamanca, Pocinho, Regua, and Lamengo.
• Included regional wines, beer & soft drinks with onboard lunch and dinner.
• Included port charges, taxes, and gratuities.
• Included daily excursions, onboard entertainment, classes, and activities.
• Optional Active Tours (included); Alternative excursions (fee).
• Complimentary Wi-Fi and bottled water.

Our Itinerary: April 23 – May 3, 2025

April 23 – Wesbury to Lisbon, Portugal: Fly overnight to Lisbon, the capital of Portugal for a two-night stay. Lisbon’s wealth of history is the perfect start to a grand journey through Portugal and Spain. During the Age of Discovery, Portugal established important trade routes that helped map the world.

April 24 – Lisbon, Portugal: Upon arrival, your Mayflower Cruise & Tours host will transport you to your hotel. Enjoy a day of rest and free time before a special welcome dinner. Meals: D*

April 25 – Lisbon, Portugal: After breakfast, embark on a panoramic city tour highlighting the Belem Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and the Monument to the Discoveries. The remainder of the day is at leisure to shop, dine, and explore on your own. Meals: B*

April 26 – Fatima to Coimbra and Porto, Portugal: Visit the Sanctuary of Fátima, Coimbra’s famous university, and a lunch stop before arriving in Porto to embark on the MS Emerald Radiance, for the next 7 nights. Meals: B, D*

April 27 – Porto to Pinhoa, Portugal: Set sail from Porto, the “City of Bridges” to Pinhao through the winding Douro Valley, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. View sparsely populated villages, sundrenched vineyards, and small farms. Experience a Portuguese cooking demonstration onboard. This afternoon, arrive in the village of Pinhão, surrounded by terraced hillsides. Tonight, attend the welcome reception! Meals: B, L, D*

April 28 – Pinhao to Vega de Terron, Portugal: Visit the 18th-century estate of Quinta do Tedo Vineyard with spectacular views of the Valley. Learn about wine production and enjoy tasting OR enjoy a guided vineyard walk or river kayak excursion. Sail for Vega
de Terron, the gateway to Spain. Meals: B, L, D*

April 29 – Salamanca, Spain: Visit Salamanca Spain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A guided walking tour highlights the intricately carved buildings of the university, the 12th-century Romanesque church of San Martin, and the House of Shells. Feel the rhythm of a local Tuna Music Band then enjoy free time for lunch and exploration at Plaza Mayor OR take an optional tour of Castelo Rodrigo. Meals: B, D, (Lunch on own)*

April 30 – Pocinho/Regua, Portugal: Disembark for the Coa Valley Museum at Pocinho which houses prehistoric stone carvings uncovered during the construction of a dam OR take the optional Archaeological 4×4 Tour. Return to the ship for lunch and relax on deck as the ship sails on to Régua. Experience an onboard Port wine cocktail lesson. This evening, savor dinner at a traditional vineyard estate. Meals: B, L, D*

May 1 – Regua to Lamego, Portugal: Journey to the baroque village of Lamego, home to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies, a pilgrimage site. Visit the hilltop Sanctuary with its 686-step granite staircase, decorated with Portuguese blue and white “azulejos” tiles OR visit the Mateus Manor House (fee). Return to the ship in Régua and attend a Mosaic Tile Painting Lesson. Meals: B, L, D*

May 2 – Sail to Porto, Portugal: Return to Porto – a city mixed with modern and ancient architecture. The included tour highlights the beauty and history of Castelo da Foz and Castelo do Queijo OR view Porto on foot on an active walk through town. You may also choose a bike tour to the Atlantic Ocean or a visit to Quinta Do Aveleda at an additional cost. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure. This evening, cruise through Porto’s enchanting waters. Meals: B, L, D*

May 3 – Porto to Wesbury: Disembark and bid a fond farewell to this remarkable trip along the “River of Gold.” Meal: B*

*B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

Activity Level

Expect a blend of active port touring with leisurely afternoons on board. Tours vary in length and include walking tours that may require navigating uneven surfaces and stairs. This tour is
not fit for those who require mobility assistance or assistive devices.

Cost

The rates for this adventure start at $5,620/person based on double occupancy.

A deposit of $400/person plus optional trip insurance of $569/person is due at booking.

Download – Portugal and the Douro River Cruise Brochure

To make a reservation or request a full brochure with cabin options and rates, contact the Wesbury Foundation at travel@wesbury.com or by calling Stacey at 814-332-9712.