Deckplan
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. Our 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, we will cruise along this lovely river, relaxing on board whilst admiring the beautiful passing scenery and stopping each day for fascinating excursions.
Our navigation of the Douro will take us 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 we 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. Along the way we will 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.
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.
Itinerary
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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. On our final evening we will be entertained by a Portuguese folklore show on board.
Day 8 Oporto to London.
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for the return scheduled flight to London.
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £200 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 4 to 11 June 2025 • 21 to 28 September 2025 | ||
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| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| E Main /Middle Deck Double/Twin Cabin | £3095 | £2895 |
| D Middle Deck Double/Twin cabin | £3295 | £3095 |
| C Upper Deck Double/Twin Cabin | £3495 | £3295 |
| B Middle Deck Suite | £3895 | £3695 |
| A Upper Deck Suite | £4795 | £4595 |
| E Main /Middle Deck Cabin for sole use | £3695 | £3495 |
| D Middle Deck Cabin for sole use | £4095 | £3895 |
| C Upper Deck Double/Twin Cabin for Sole Use | £4295 | £4095 |
Tour Reference Code: RCDOURO25
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.
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.
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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.
VESSEL TECHNICAL DETAILS
Number of cabins: 62
Capacity: 132 passengers
Built: 2015
Length: 80 metres
Width: 11.40 metres
Draft: 1.4 metresAIR CONDITIONING
All cabins have individually controlled heating and air conditioning.
ALARM
An alarm will be sounded in the event of emergency. Please follow the instructions provided on board for what to do should an emergency occur.
BAR/BEVERAGES
All-inclusive drinks are provided on board (excluding premium brands and sparkling wine) between 10.00 am and 11.00 pm daily.
CABINS
All cabins have a bathroom with shower, flat-screen TV, hair dryer, safe, and closet and twin cabins can have a twin or double bed configuration. Cabins 214, 216 and 220 measure 12 square metres. Suites 201 and 202 measure 15.5 square metres. Suites 301 and 302 measure 19 square metres. All other cabins measure 13.3 square metres.
CURRENCY
The currency on board is the Euro. While Visa and MasterCard are accepted, personal cheques and debit cards are not. Regrettably, the ship is not able to offer a money-changing service on board as this would be contravening official regulations.
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 each evening.
DRESS CODE
Comfortable and practical attire is recommended during the day for excursions and something dressier for the evening. More formal dress is required only for the welcome and Captain’s dinner (black tie is not necessary).
ELECTRICITY
Electricity onboard is 220v with 2-pin power outlets. We recommend you take an adaptor with you.
EMERGENCY & SAFETY PROCEDURES
Full details of the ship’s emergency and safety procedures will be provided following your embarkation. Please note there is no doctor on board the vessel.
FIRE SAFETY
On your cabin door is a deck plan displaying your closest (and all other) emergency exits. Emergency exits are marked in green and fire extinguishers fitted in all corridors.
FIRST AID
A number of crew are fully trained and certified to provide First Aid. Further medical assistance can be sought from one of the hospitals along the river in the event of emergency.
GRATUITIES
Gratuities have been included in your holiday price.
GIFT SHOP
There is a small gift shop selling various practical and souvenir items.
HOUSEKEEPING
Your cabin will be cleaned once a day and you will be provided with a ‘turn down’ service at night.
LAUNDRY
Please note there are no laundry facilities on board.
LIFT
There is a lift on board which serves the Main, Middle and Upper Decks.
LOST PROPERTY
Lost property can be handed in to the ship’s reception. Please ensure you have all of your belongings with you before you return home. Should you leave 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 associatedcosts.
MEALS
Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner are served on board. Breakfast and lunch are buffet style with hot and cold items, and dinners are a served set menu with a choice of either two main courses or a vegetarian option. Please note that due to galley restrictions, Croisi Europe is unable to offer a choice at each course.
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 requests 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 the Maitre D’ at dinner on your first night on board to reconfirm your needs.MOORING
Docking space is allocated by the local river authorities. On occasion other river cruise vessels may be required to dock alongside our ship. This may result in restricted cabin views and may also entail us being required to embark and disembark the ship through another vessel’s public area and/or for the other ship’s passengers to do the same.
POST
The vessel’s gift shop may sell postcards and stamps for you to purchase (subject to availability) and, items can be posted on your behalf by the ship’s crew (although as they are unable to do so at every port of call, this could take longer than if you were to post yourself).
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 shore excursions. Further details shall be provided to you following your embarkation.
RECEPTION
Reception is staffed throughout the day and then between 10.00 pm and 7.00 am a night watchman will be on duty.
SAFE
All cabins are fitted with a safe and we recommend you place your valuables inside the safe whenever you are away from your room.
SMOKING
Smoking within your cabin or any of the vessel’s public areas is strictly prohibited. Designated smoking areas are provided and can be advised by the ship’s reception upon embarkation.
SUN DECK
The ship has a Sun Deck with a small pool which is available for guests to enjoy. There may be times whereby it is necessary to close the Sun Deck. Please listen carefully to the Captain and Crew for instruction. Please also note that the Sun Deck and its steps may become slippery if the weather is cool or dew forms.
TELEPHONE
A telephone is available in your cabin for internal calls only.
WATER
Complimentary water is available during breakfast, lunch and dinner. A glass bottle of water will be provided in your cabin upon embarkation which you can replenish using the water dispenser in the lounge. We recommend that you bring a refillable water bottle for use whilst on board and during the excursions.
WI-FI
Wi-Fi is available without charge but please be advised that it is not possible to download large data files. There may also be times when internet connection is slow or not available.
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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Deckplan
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Travelling with You
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Rt Revd Graham James
Graham James became Bishop of Norwich in 1999, serving for almost 20 years in that role before retiring to his native Cornwall. He entered the House of Lords in 2004. Among his national responsibilities in the Church of England he was lead bishop on media issues for a long period, and served on the Lords Select Committee on Communications. For more than a decade, he was a frequent presenter of Radio 4’s “Thought for the Day”. Earlier in his career he travelled widely when serving at Lambeth Palace, and has lectured on cruises for the past 25 years, mainly on historical subjects. His recent books “The Lent Factor” and “A Place for God” reflect the range of his interests and travels.
Rt Revd Graham James will be on the following tour dates: 4 to 11 June 2025 -
Professor Malyn Newitt
Malyn Newitt obtained a BA in Modern History at Oxford in 1961 and a PhD London 1967. He taught at the University of Rhodesia (1962-1965) and at the University of Exeter (1966-1998). At Exeter he served as Dean of Arts and Deputy Vice Chancellor (1995-98). In 1998 he was appointed the first Charles Boxer Professor of History at King’s College London. He retired in 2005.
He has specialised in Portuguese colonial history and, in particular, the history of Mozambique. He is the author of Portuguese Settlement on the Zambesi (1973), The Comoro Islands (1984), Portugal in Africa (1981), São Tomé and Príncipe (1988), with Tony Hodges History of Mozambique (1995), East Africa (2002) (a collection of Portuguese documents in translation) and A History of Portuguese Overseas Expansion (2004).
He has also published three books on the history of Portugal, including Portugal in European and World History (2009) and Emigration and the Sea. An Alternative History of Portugal and the Portuguese was published in 2015.
He was a JP for twenty-four years and is married with three children and eight grandchildren.
Professor Malyn Newitt will be on the following tour dates: 21 to 28 September 2025
Tour Extensions
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If you would like to spend some more time in Portugal we are offering a five night extension with the chance to tour Lisbon, Sintra, Coimbra, Tomar, Guimaraes, and Braga.
Lisbon
The Itinerary
Day 1 London to Lisbon, Portugal. Fly by scheduled flight. Upon arrival transfer to our hotel in Lisbon for a two night stay. Meet later tonight for our welcome dinner. (D)
Day 2 Lisbon & Sintra. Set on seven hills on the banks of the River Tagus, Lisbon has been the capital of Portugal since the 13th century. It is a city famous for its majestic architecture, old wooden trams, Moorish features and more than twenty centuries of history. Following disastrous earthquakes in the 18th century, Lisbon was rebuilt by the Marquis de Pombal who created an elegant city with wide boulevards and a great riverfront and square, Praca do Comercio. Today there are distinct modern and ancient sections, combining great shopping areas with culture and sightseeing in the Old Town, built on the city’s terraced hillsides. During our panoramic tour we will see the Monument to the Discoveries and Belem Tower and visit the famous Jeronimos Monastery. This afternoon we will drive to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sintra where we will visit Sintra National Palace, famous for its magnificent painted ceilings. The palace is the only survivor of the country’s Royal Halls, dating from the Middle Ages. Later enjoy some free time to explore the town which still retains much of its Medieval layout before driving back to Lisbon. (B)
Day 3 Lisbon to Coimbra. Check out this morning and drive to the city of Tomar where we will visit the Convento de Cristo. Founded in 1160 by Gualdim Pais, and headquarters of the legendary Knights Templar, this extraordinary monument is a rambling concoction of Gothic, Manueline and Renaissance architecture. After lunch we will continue our journey to Coimbra and check in to our hotel for a two night stay. Meet for dinner and a Fado performance this evening. (B, L, D)
Day 4 Coimbra. Spend the day in charming Coimbra, the Medieval capital of Portugal for over 100 years and the site of the country’s greatest university for the past five centuries. Visit the stunning 16th to 18th century buildings, including the Paco das Escolas (Royal Palace). We will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant followed by a free afternoon for individual exploration. (B, L)
Day 5 Guimaraes. After breakfast in the hotel we will drive to Guimaraes, the birthplace of Afonso Henriques, the first independent King of Portugal. Guimaraes has beautifully preserved its illustrious past; its Medieval centre is a warren of lanes and picturesque plazas framed by 14th century edifices and on an adjacent hill stands the 1,000 year old castle and the palace built by the first Duke of Braganca in the 15th century. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before checking in to our hotel for an overnight stay. (B, L)
Day 6 Guimaraes to Braga to Oporto. Spend the morning in Braga, an elegant town laced with ancient narrow lanes, plazas and Baroque churches. After lunch we will transfer to the MS Gil Eanes moored in Oporto. (B, L)
Prices per person based on double occupancy
30 May 2025 • 16 to 21 September 2025 Category Price Twin £1995 Single £2495 Price Includes: Five nights hotel accommodation as described, meals as indicated (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner), excursions, Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
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Also of Interest
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An eight night river cruise along the Elbe aboard the MS Elbe Princesse II
Elbe Princesse II
Itinerary at a glance
8 nights
Next Departure:
15 October 2024
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000