The Douro is one of Europe’s most unspoilt and beautiful rivers and, although a mere 550 miles in length, offers an extraordinary variety of scenery with steep emerald slopes dotted with wild olive groves, terraced vineyards and picturesque farmhouses, alongside the renowned port houses and traditional quintas. From its meagre beginnings in the hills north of Madrid, the river flows through northern Portugal in a meandering flourish to the ocean and the city of Oporto. Our cruise aboard the 100-passenger MS Estrela offers the opportunity to sail this delightful river at a leisurely pace and where vessels once laden with barrels of port drifted to Oporto, we will cruise along its tranquil waters, relaxing on board whilst admiring the ever-changing scenery and stopping each day for fascinating excursions.
Our journey offers an exploration of the beautiful landscapes of Spain and Portugal, combining the historic cities of Castile with the timeless beauty of the Douro Valley. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the valley remains deeply rooted in tradition, particularly in the production of port and table wines, some of which we will have the opportunity to sample. We will begin our tour in Spain with a two night stay in the beautiful city of Avila with its remarkably preserved Medieval walls before heading to Salamanca, long regarded as one of Europe’s great centres of learning with its grand buildings and the country’s most magnificent square, Plaza Mayor. From nearby Vega de Terron we embark the wonderfully comfortable MS Estrela for our navigation of the Douro which will take us on a wonderfully scenic path, past sleepy villages and a tranquil countryside of almond and citrus trees. As we cruise downstream, we will discover restored palaces, places of pilgrimage, historic towns, Baroque estates and working quintas before our cruise concludes in Oporto where we will have ample time to explore the atmospheric riverside quarter, elegant churches and unique architecture of this endlessly fascinating city.
This is the perfect trip for those who enjoy seeing something different every day, as each port of call has its own unique character waiting to be discovered whilst on one of our included guided excursions. There will also be plenty of time to relax on board as the vessel gently cruises through wonderful scenery; let the world slip by and delight in awe-inspiring panoramic views from the comfort of the Lounge or the Sun Deck.
Estrela
For our cruise along the Douro we have exclusively chartered the MS Estrela from our associates at APT. The vessel was launched in 2024 and designed to reflect the beauty of the region with abundant natural light and a tranquil atmosphere in which to relax and enjoy the ever-changing scenery. The spacious cabins are arranged over three decks, while public areas include an elegant restaurant and a lounge and bar with floor-to-ceiling windows. The expansive Sun Deck features a swimming pool, a bar and comfortable seating, providing the perfect setting from which to watch the world gently pass by as you take in the region’s glorious landscapes from your floating hotel.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Avila, Spain.
Fly by scheduled flight to Madrid. On arrival transfer to Avila and check into the Hotel Palacio de los Velada, a wonderful 16th century palace in the heart of the city, for a two night stay. The remainder of the day is at leisure before we meet for dinner this evening.
Day 2 Avila.
Spend the morning exploring the Medieval walled city of Avila. A walking tour through the cobbled streets of this UNESCO World Heritage City will include Spain’s first Gothic cathedral, integrated into the city walls, the 11th century Basilica of San Vicente and the Convent of Santa Teresa. After lunch in a local restaurant the afternoon is at leisure and you may wish to return to the hotel to relax or perhaps walk along the city walls, which extend for over 1700 metres, with views down to the Plaza del Mercado Grande as well as out to the surrounding countryside. This evening is free to dine independently in the hotel or at one of the city’s restaurants to sample some of the local delicacies.
Day 3 Salamanca & Vega de Terron, Portugal.
Check out of the hotel after breakfast and drive to Salamanca, a city rich in culture and tradition. Salamanca has been famous as a seat of learning since the early 13th century and boasts an impressive architectural heritage. 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, formerly a bullfighting site. We will also visit the Gothic ‘New Cathedral’, which was actually constructed in the 16th century, replacing the original 12th century cathedral. After lunch we continue to Vega de Terron to embark the MS Estrela.
Day 4 Almeida or Foz Coa.
This morning we have a choice of excursions. You may wish to 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, resembles 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 walking 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 Palaeolithic, Neolithic and Iron Age, and the region has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Return to the ship for lunch and spend the afternoon cruising towards Pinhao.
Day 5 Pinhao, Douro Valley.
Awake in 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. A morning drive takes us through steep terraced vineyards that stretch up the riverbanks and afford breathtaking views. During a visit to one of the local quintas, we will learn about the production methods and will have the opportunity to sample some of the local wines. Spend this afternoon cruising through the scenic Douro Valley.
Day 6 Regua.
From our berth in Regua, we visit the 18th century Mateus Palace and its gardens. This elegant palace is still owned by the Count of Vila Real and is one of the best examples of Baroque architecture in Portugal. On 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 craftsmanship on the ceilings, as well as some beautiful paintings from the 17th and 18th centuries. Stroll around the romantic gardens, which feature a 100 foot long cedar tunnel and formal garden, and visit the villa’s pretty chapel. After lunch on board we visit the historic 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 Portuguese Baroque style. It is richly decorated with enormous panels of blue and white tiles, with an impressive staircase of nearly 700 steps.
Day 7 Douro Valley & Entre-os-Rios.
This morning is spent cruising towards Entre-os-Rios from where we visit the Quinta de Aveleda, located in the heart of the Vinho Verde region, which is known for its fresh, lightly sparkling wines with a delicate fruit character. After exploring the beautiful park and gardens, with rare specimens of trees, shrubs and flowers which surround the Manor House, we will learn about the wine produced here for generations.
Days 8 & 9 Oporto.
After a leisurely morning of cruising we arrive in Oporto, our base for the next day and a half. Join a guided tour of Portugal’s second largest city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This attractive city was originally a Celtic-Iberian settlement and became a prosperous Roman village thanks to its natural harbour. We will explore narrow streets lined with 16th century arcaded buildings, Baroque churches and chapels, as well as the city’s iconic 19th century iron bridge, built by the school of Gustave 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. We will also visit 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. Also visit the Serralves Estate. Created in 1989, the grounds hold the leading museum for contemporary art in Portugal with regular exhibitions of both Portuguese and international artists. We will also find the villa built between 1925 and 1944, the most notable Art Deco style building in Portugal, and the surrounding park which spans 18 hectares with a mix of formal gardens, woodlands and farmland. We will have time to walk the paths, view the sculptures and see some of the 200 species of plants. We also see the British Factory House. Built between 1786 and 1790, this was the social club for the merchants of the British owned port houses in the city. Since 1814 it has been named the British Association and today, it is used for receptions, dinners and celebrations by its members. During a tour of the building, see some of the historic rooms and view the hand-painted maps and luxurious furniture.
Day 10 Oporto to London.
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £400 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 28 September to 7 October 2027 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| E Lower Deck cabin with window | £4995 | £4595 |
| B Main Deck cabin with French balcony | £5495 | £5095 |
| CT Main Deck cabin with French balcony | £5695 | £5295 |
| P Upper Deck cabin with French balcony | £5895 | £5495 |
| S Upper Deck suite with French balcony | £6495 | £6095 |
| OS Upper Deck owner’s suite | £7195 | £6795 |
| E Lower Deck cabin with window for sole use | £5995 | £5595 |
| B Main Deck cabin with French balcony for sole | £6495 | £6095 |
Tour Reference Code: RCES280927
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Two nights accommodation at Hotel Palacio de los Velada in Avila with breakfast • Dinner on Day 1 & lunch on Days 2 & 3 • Seven nights aboard the MS Estrela on a full board basis • House wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch & dinner • Shore excursions • Noble Caledonia onboard team including Guest Speaker • Gratuities • Transfers • Port Taxes • Airport Taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, dinner on Day 2.
Please be aware that our website does not display real-time availability. As a result, the categories and prices listed above are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please call us at 020 7752 0000 and speak with one of our experienced Travel Consultants.
Estrela
For our cruise along the Douro we have exclusively chartered the MS Estrela from our associates at APT. The vessel was launched in 2024 and designed to reflect the beauty of the region with abundant natural light and a tranquil atmosphere in which to relax and enjoy the ever-changing scenery. The spacious cabins are arranged over three decks, while public areas include an elegant restaurant and a lounge and bar with floor-to-ceiling windows. The expansive Sun Deck features a swimming pool, a bar and comfortable seating, providing the perfect setting from which to watch the world gently pass by as you take in the region’s glorious landscapes from your floating hotel.
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Ship Directory
Ship Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the ship or click on the adjacent Directory to download.
SHIP TECHNICAL DETAILS
Cabins: 56
Length: 80 metres
Built: 2024AIR-CONDITIONING
All cabins are air-conditioned with individual controls allowing you to regulate the temperature. All public rooms on the vessel are air-conditioned.ALARM
An alarm will be sounded in the event of an emergency. Please follow the instructions provided on board for what to do should an emergency occur.BARS/BEVERAGES
The bar in the main lounge is open every day and offers a wide variety of cocktails, spirits, wine and beer for sale. Barista made coffee will be available and included with the light breakfast and light lunch in the lounge and can be purchased throughout the day outside of the set mealtime hours.
The bar on the sun deck is open every day and offers a wide variety of cocktails, spirits, wine and beer for sale.CABIN SIZES & FACILITIES
There are 56 spacious and well-designed cabins on board. All feature individually controlled air-conditioning, an en-suite bathroom with shower, ample storage space, television, dressing table, hairdryer, safe and mini-bar. The cabins and suites are configured with twin beds which can be arranged separately or together as a double bed.
Lower deck cabins measure between 13.5 and 14.5 square metres and feature a non-opening window. Main Deck cabins measure 15 square metres and benefit from a French balcony with electric slide-down windows providing wonderful views and access to fresh air. Upper Decks cabins and suites measure 15 or 18 square metres, whilst the two Owner’s Suites measure 22 square metres. All Upper Deck suites feature a French balcony with electric slide down windows, whilst the Owners Suites enjoy dual aspect views with forward and side facing windows.DAILY PROGRAMME
A daily programme, detailing the following day’s arrangements as well as any specific information about the day’s activities, is produced on board and delivered to your cabin TV each evening.DRESS CODE
During the day, comfortable and casual attire is appropriate. Evening attire is smart casual though you may like to bring something a little dressier for the welcome and farewell dinners, for example, a jacket and tie for gentlemen and occasion wear for ladies.ELECTRICITY
Electric current is 220V. If you have a dual-voltage small appliance (curling iron etc.) you will need a European two round pin adapter to plug into the wall socket. If you have not brought the correct adapter with you, these are for sale at reception.EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
Your modern river cruise vessel has been built to the highest safety standards, equipped with the latest technology and is crewed by a reliable and well-trained team. However, in the unlikely event that an emergency should occur during your cruise, please remain calm and follow the instructions of the crew. Life vests are stored in containers on Sun Deck and will be handed out by the crew in case of emergency. During the safety briefing, you will be shown how to fit and wear the life vest.
We request that, as soon as you enter your cabin, you read carefully the safety instructions fixed on the inside of your cabin door.FIRE SAFETY
Should you discover, sense or smell fire, please advise Reception immediately (dial 800) and wait for further instructions from the crew. Please note that smoking is permitted in designated smoking areas only.FIRST AID
A first aid kit is available at the reception desk. There is no doctor on board. If you are feeling unwell and need a doctor, please contact Reception or your Cruise Director. Medical services can be called from shore.GRATUITIES
Gratuities have been included in your holiday price.HOUSEKEEPING
Your cabin will be cleaned once a day and you will be provided with an evening ‘turn down’ service.LAUNDRY
A laundry service is available on board. Laundry bags and a price list can be found in the closet of your cabin. Please fill in the laundry list and leave it, together with the bag of items to be laundered, on your bed. Your items will be returned within 48 hours. In the interest of safety, please do not use an electric iron in your cabin. An ironing-only service is available at a reasonable cost. Dry cleaning services are not available on board. In the interest of the environment, towels will not automatically be changed every day. We ask that you put used towels on the bathroom floor if you wish them to be change for fresh towels.LIFT
There is a life on board that services the Lower, Main and Upper Decks.LOST PROPERTY
Lost property can be handed into the ship’s reception. Please ensure you have all your belongings with you before you return home. Should you leave any items on board the ship, please contact Noble Caledonia. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection and to advise of any associated costs.MEALS
The restaurant is located on the Main Deck and features floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows so that you can enjoy the passing scenery as you dine. All meals on board are prepared by the highly skilled Executive Chef and his team and consist of European-style food with specialties from some of the regions through which you will be cruising. The restaurant has open seating, allowing you to sit where and with whom you like at each meal.
Enjoy a light breakfast in the Lounge or a more extensive breakfast served buffet-style in the Restaurant. A light lunch is served in the Lounge or enjoy a combination of a delightful buffet and hot dishes served to order in the Restaurant. In the evening enjoy a four-course served dinner in the restaurant. In addition, house wine, beer and soft drinks are included at both lunch and dinner.
If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten free and low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department. We regret that not all dietary requirements can be guaranteed. If you have any specific or special foods that you require, we recommend that you take some with you although we will endeavour to accommodate your needs. Once on board please speak to the Chef or Maitre D’ at dinner on your first night on board to reconfirm your needs.PAYMENTS ON BOARD
The ship offers a cash-free system during your cruise and purchases are charged to your onboard account. The day before your cruise ends you will receive an itemised invoice for any charges incurred. Please review the invoice carefully before settling your bill. All onboard charges will be in Euros, payable with Visa, Mastercard, American Express, debit card or cash at the end of the cruise. Personal cheques are not accepted. Regrettably, the ship is not able to offer a money-changing service on board as this would be contravening official regulations.POOL
Your ship has a swimming pool on the Sun Deck so you can unwind without missing any of the beautiful scenery. Please note there is no attendant on duty.QUESTIONNAIRES
We are always looking for ways to improve our holidays and the services provided and in order to do this we welcome feedback from our guests. Your comments are important to us therefore we request that you complete the questionnaire that will be provided to you on board.QUIETVOX/AUDIO SYSTEM
Noble Caledonia has arranged for all passengers to have access to a ‘Quietvox’ audio system for use during the shore excursions. Further details shall be provided to you following your embarkation.RECEPTION
Reception is staffed 24 hours a day. Please note however that from 22:00 until 07:00 hourly security checks are made by the night auditor, and your call may not be immediately picked up.SAFE
Your cabin is equipped with a small safe for your personal use. We recommend placing valuables in the safe whenever you are away from your room.SAFETY
In accordance with international law, the Captain has full control over the ship and every person on board must obey his or her lawful commands. Whenever the ship is entering a lock, please do not lean out of your window. On the ship, we recommend wearing sturdy shoes as surfaces can be slippery. Please walk slowly and always use the handrail when going up or down stairs, both inside and outside the vessel.SMOKING
Smoking is allowed in the designated areas on the Sun Deck. Please never throw any cigarette ends overboard – the breeze could carry the smoldering end into a cabin if the sliding glass door is open. There is a strict non-smoking policy in the interior of the vessel and in the outside restaurants and bars.TELEPHONE
To make an internal call please dial the corresponding cabin number. To make an external call, please contact Reception who will advise of the rates.TOILETRIES
A selection of toiletries are provided including shampoo, shower gel, soap and facial tissues.WI-FI
Complimentary Wi-Fi internet is available for your use whilst on board. Please note that the connection may at times be unreliable, particularly when sailing. For the best reception, we recommend use within the public areas whilst the ship is docked.Please note: These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
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Deck Plan
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000