AmaWaterways Extends Portugal River Cruise Season through End of December

Citing “exceptional demand,” AmaWaterways has extended its 2022 and 2023 Douro River cruise seasons through December. The extension adds 14 sailings that run roundtrip from Porto onboard the AmaDouro.

“Full of rich culture, inspiring architecture and enticing cuisine, our Portugal sailings have always been extremely popular,” said Kristin Karst, co-founder and executive vice president of AmaWaterways. “This demand inspired us to extend both our 2022 and 2023 season through until the end of December, giving guests another reason to travel and experience all that Portugal has to offer during this special time of year.”

While the region, which is known for its mild winters, doesn’t have Christmas markets on the level of Germany’s famed markets, there are markets in Lisbon and Porto to be enjoyed, as well as an overall festive spirit, Janet Bava, chief marketing officer told Travel Market Report.

The extensions of the 2022 and 2023 seasons, which are already starting to fill up, Bava said, includes additional dates for the line’s Enticing Douro itinerary, a seven-night sailing that cruises along the Douro River Valley. Highlights include the historical city of Salamanca, a guided hike in Porto and a traditional Portuguese lunch at a country estate in the small village of Entre-os-Rios.

Travelers wishing to stay longer can add three nights in Lisbon pre-cruise, including a tour of the city and a morning excursion to the mountain village of Serra de Sintra.