Douro River

The Golden River

Rusty golden rooftops and sun-drenched vineyards provide the perfect accompaniment to your river cruise down the beautiful Douro. The third-largest river in the Iberian Peninsula, it stretches over 490 miles, 70 of which make up the border between Spain and Portugal.

The steep patchwork green banks are home to vineyards and wine estates, or quintas, which have been producing the country’s signature fortified wine, Port, for centuries. You’ll be able to pick out each unique placard locating the company’s residences, as they dot the awe-inspiring landscape of the Douro Valley, where endless beauty seemingly stretches on forever.

You’ll travel in contemporary style on board Emerald Radiance, our most intimate Star-Ship to date, where comfort and innovation combine with a wealth of world-class amenities. Purpose-built to suit the Portuguese climate, the Star-Ship’s plentiful open-air spaces provide the perfect vantage point from which to enjoy the passing scenery or a cold drink. You’ll also find our spa-style Serenity Pool on the Sun Deck, for a relaxing dip under the Iberian sky.

Great for wine lovers

Where better to enjoy a delectable glass of wine than on the premises in which it began its life? The sunshine truly brings the flavours of the Douro to life, whether it’s one of the region’s renowned table wines or a glass of Port that catches your eye.

“I always wanted to visit Portugal and heard great things about Emerald Waterways. This cruise did not disappoint. The ship was beautiful, the staff were incredible and the cruise was sensational.”

Asland321

Porto

Salamanca

Pocinho

At the mouth of the Douro, Portugal’s second-largest city is recognised primarily for its production of Port wine. Its centre is UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, encouraging historians, creatives, gastronomes and shoppers alike. Its popular district, the Ribeira, boasts authentic cafés and bars, as narrow cobbled streets lead to the riverbank, where traditional Fado bands serenade a passing audience. And, no visit to Portugal would be complete without calling at a wine cellar to taste its Port. In northwest Spain, just an hour coach drive from the Portuguese border, Salamanca, or the ‘The Golden One’, is a true spectacle. Its historic UNESCO World Heritage-listed centre boasts beautiful plazas and pedestrian-only streets, as well as ancient architecture constructed in sandstone. A unique food scene, supplied fresh from the surrounding mountains and countryside, is certain to excite the taste buds after an awe-inspiring day acquainting yourself with the rich cultural heritage of this beautiful city. This picturesque village in northern Portugal lies close to the Pocinho Dam and the Douro River. Its serene waters welcome the adventurous for canoeing experiences, guided by expert locals. The region is dotted with stunning rural wine estates, and makes the most beautiful of settings for special dinners, something you’ll be lucky enough to attend yourself. Archaeology enthusiasts will love the Côa Valley Museum, home to some of the most important Palaeolithic open-air art in the world.