AMADEUS River Cruises Unveils First Douro River for Program 2028

AMADEUS River Cruises has unveiled the itinerary and shore excursion program for its newest vessel, AMADEUS Douro, marking the company’s first venture into Portugal. Purpose-built for the Douro River, the ship joins the AMADEUS fleet in May 2028, offering eight-day round-trip cruises from Porto.

Operating seasonally from March through November, the new itinerary, “Portugal & the Golden Douro River,” will take guests through the heart of the UNESCO-listed Douro Valley, one of the world’s oldest demarcated wine regions. All shore excursions are included in the cruise fare, offering guests an opportunity to experience the region’s highlights without additional excursion costs.

“We are delighted to introduce the next chapter of the AMADEUS experience with our first sailings on the Douro River,” said Marcus Leskovar, president of AMADEUS River Cruises. “This itinerary is about more than experiencing the remarkable scenery of the Douro Valley. Through our carefully curated excursions and cultural experiences, guests will have the opportunity to connect with Portuguese traditions, meet the people behind the region’s winemaking heritage, savor its cuisine and discover the history that makes this part of Europe so special.”

Included Shore Excursions and Cultural Experiences

A defining feature of the new Douro itinerary is its comprehensive program of included shore excursions. Unlike other AMADEUS itineraries, where shore excursions are available at an additional cost, all shore excursions on AMADEUS Douro are included in the cruise fare. The program brings together guided sightseeing, vineyard visits, wine tastings, and culinary experiences across some of the region’s most celebrated destinations.

The journey begins in Porto, where guests embark on AMADEUS Douro before enjoying an evening illumination cruise showcasing the city’s iconic riverside landmarks. As the ship sails east through the Douro Valley, guests will visit Quinta de São Luiz, a historic wine estate where a guided tour of terraced vineyards and traditional wine cellars concludes with a tasting of selected Port wines.

Further into the valley, guests will discover Castelo Rodrigo, a historic hilltop village overlooking the Portuguese countryside. Its cobblestone streets, 16th-century façades and distinctive Manueline architecture offer a glimpse into Portugal’s rich past, including the influences of its former Jewish community.

The itinerary also crosses the Spanish border for a full-day excursion to Salamanca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its architectural beauty and university heritage.

Back in Portugal, the journey continues with a visit to Lamego, home to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies and its monumental staircase of 686 steps, decorated with traditional Portuguese tiles. Guests will also sample regional specialties, including cured ham, Bola de Lamego, and locally produced sparkling wine.

In the heart of the Douro Valley, an evening at Quinta da Pacheca offers another memorable culinary experience. Surrounded by historic vineyards, guests will enjoy a special dinner featuring traditional Portuguese cuisine in a setting that celebrates the region’s longstanding relationship with wine.

The cultural discoveries continue in Guimarães, widely regarded as the birthplace of Portugal.

The journey concludes in Porto, where a guided sightseeing tour introduces guests to the city’s historic quarter and landmarks, including the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, São Bento Railway Station, Porto Cathedral, and the colorful Ribeira district. A visit to one of the city’s historic Port wine cellars, complete with a guided tasting, provides a fitting finale to the experience.

Beyond its shore excursions, the itinerary features a collection of AMADEUS Experiences designed to bring Portuguese traditions and flavors to life. Guests can participate in a Portuguese language class, enjoy a traditional folklore performance, discover the art of opening vintage Port, and watch a demonstration of how Portugal’s beloved pastéis de nata custard tarts are prepared.

A New Ship Designed for the Douro River

Purpose-built for the Douro River, AMADEUS Douro represents a new addition to the company’s growing fleet of river cruise vessels. Designed specifically to navigate the river’s narrower passages and historic locks, the ship reflects AMADEUS River Cruises’ continued investment in its own fleet and expansion into new European destinations. The vessel will combine contemporary design with hybrid propulsion technology designed to improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions.

Accommodating 107 guests in 52 staterooms and three suites, accommodations will include spacious suites with private wraparound balconies and staterooms featuring floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors with French balconies, offering panoramic views of the passing scenery.

Public spaces will include an expansive Sun Deck with a swimming pool and lounge, as well as Café Vienna, the signature gathering place found across the AMADEUS fleet. Onboard dining will celebrate regional Portuguese flavors, complemented by a carefully selected range of local wines.

AMADEUS Douro will make its debut in May 2028, with the inaugural season continuing through November. Future sailing seasons are planned from March through November, with eight-day voyages sailing round-trip from Porto/Vila Nova de Gaia.