Douro Delights with Splendours of the Mediterranean

Departures & Pricing

Upgrades, transfers, accommodation and more can be quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.

Itinerary

1. 1

   Arrive Porto, Embark Ship

   Arrive in Porto and transfer to your purpose-built river ship. MS Estrela has the best vantage point to take in the city's incredible sights as you embark on an illuminations cruise around Porto.

2. 2

   Porto

   The choice is yours when it comes to the sightseeing activities on offer today. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure before a Signature Experience tonight.

   Freedom of Choice — Porto Exploration

   Explore Porto’s 16th-century Old Town and take a scenic cable car ride, savouring panoramic views of the city below. Then, indulge in a tasting of the city’s famous port wines and sample the rich flavours of the region.

   Freedom of Choice — Portuguese Tart Cooking Class

   Put on your baker's apron for a hands-on class devoted to Portugal’s most beloved sweet, the pastéis de nata. Guided by a renowned chef, discover the secrets behind its delicate, flaky pastry and silky custard filling as you take part in the preparation process yourself. As the tarts emerge warm from the oven, savour your freshly baked creation, perfectly paired with a glass of Portuguese port.

   Freedom of Choice — Active Walking Tour of Porto

   Set out on an active walking tour of Porto through the medieval streets and the old harbour quarter of Ribeira. Stroll through cobbled streets and discover neighbourhoods of colourful 18th-century houses and quaint eateries.

   Signature Experience — Palácio da Bolsa

   Head to the Palácio da Bolsa for a guided tour, followed by a cocktail reception and traditional fado performance in the Arabian Hall.

3. 3

   Porto, Entre-os-Rios

   Sail this morning through the sun-soaked Douro Valley on your way to Entre-os-Rios. On arrival, set out on your sightseeing activity.

   Freedom of Choice – Traditional Village Visit

   Wander through a charming Schist village, tucked into the rolling hills of Penafiel. Admire the warm golden stone houses and meandering narrow streets, carefully restored using traditional methods, and soak in the rhythms of authentic Portuguese village life. Discover hidden courtyards, and experience the timeless character of a community that has preserved its heritage for generations.

   Freedom of Choice – Winery Tour and Tasting

   Visit Quinta da Aveleda, a family estate crafting wines in the Vinho Verde region since the 1870s. Meander through the lush vineyards and learn the secrets behind their acclaimed vintages. Conclude your visit with a curated tasting of fine wines paired with artisanal cheeses, savouring the flavours that define this historic estate.

4. 4

   Régua

   This morning, enjoy a relaxing cruise to Régua. While you sail, you may wish to join a hands-on tile-painting experience in the Main Lounge. Discover the traditional craft of azulejos, the blue tiles that adorn Portugal’s towns and cities. Learn about the vibrant colours, intricate patterns and storytelling that defines this distinctive, world-renowned art form.

   On arrival in Régua, visit the Douro Museum, which provides an incredible insight into the culture of the Douro Valley wine region.

   Signature Experience – Lunch at Quinta da Pacheca

   Visit Quinta da Pacheca for a traditional lunch and wine tasting, enjoying views over the Douro River and Régua. Situated in the village of Cambres in the Lamego municipality, the prestigious estate dates back to the 16th century and features 75 hectares of vineyards.

5. 5

   Régua, Pinhão

   After enjoying the sightseeing experience of your choice, relax on board your ship as you cruise to Pinhão.

   Freedom of Choice – Lamego Tour

   Set among hills adorned with vineyards in the Alto Douro region, Lamego is a charming city. On a guided tour, visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies and sample a local specialty, Bola de Lamego.

   Freedom of Choice – Visit Palácio de Mateus

   Explore the magnificent Casa de Mateus, where centuries of history, art and culture are preserved within an elegant 18th-century estate. Admire the striking façade and chapel reflected in the ornamental pond, then wander through the historic house and its beautiful gardens, set amid a lush natural park.

6. 6

   Pinhão

   Visit Pinhão Railway Station, known as one of the most beautiful railway stations in Portugal. Built in the 19th century, its tiled walls depict the production of port. Venture to a local quinta, then be treated to a captain’s farewell dinner in the evening.

7. 7

   Pocinho, Vega de Terron

   Step ashore and embark on your chosen tour in Pocinho. Tonight, gather for a delectable farewell dinner on board.

   Freedom of Choice – Côa Parque Museum Set within a dramatic landscape where the Prehistoric Art of the Côa Valley meets the Douro Wine Region, the Côa Museum offers a compelling journey through more than 30,000 years of human creativity. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the museum pairs striking contemporary architecture with stories of the ancient rock engravings of the surrounding valley and houses Portugal’s most extensive library dedicated to rock art. Inside, immersive and interactive exhibitions provide rare insight into the symbolism, artistry and enduring mystery of prehistoric life.

   Freedom of Choice – Côa Archaeological Park Rock Art

   Nestled on a serene river beach along the right bank of the Côa River, Penascosa offers a rare glimpse into the artistic legacy of our earliest ancestors. Your journey begins in the charming village of Castelo Melhor before continuing by 4WD along a scenic dirt track, winding through almond and olive groves for approximately six kilometres. As the most visited site in the Côa Valley Archaeological Park, Penascosa captivates visitors with its peaceful setting and breathtaking vistas, while the Palaeolithic engravings etched into the rocks reveal the extraordinary richness and creativity of Côa art.

8. 8

   Vega de Terron, Disembark Ship, Salamanca, Madrid

   Disembark your ship and say goodbye to life on board. Travel to the ancient Spanish city of Salamanca for a tour. You’ll see the University of Salamanca and the House of Shells before continuing to your hotel in Madrid.

9. 9

   Madrid

   Today, you’ll enjoy the chance to tour Spain’s vibrant capital, including visits to the Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor.

10. 10

    Madrid, Barcelona, Embark Ship

    This morning, travel by train to Barcelona and board the ultra-luxurious Seabourn Ovation. Unpack, relax and get acquainted with your ship.

11. 11

    Rosas

    Step ashore in Rosas, a charming port town set on the turquoise waters of Spain’s sunny Costa Brava. Explore the Ciutadella de Roses, a 16th-century fortress built among the remains of ancient Greek, Roman and medieval cities.

12. 12

    At Sea

    Relax on board and enjoy the ship's wealth of luxurious amenities as you sail along idyllic coastlines and admire the ever-changing scenery.

13. 13

    Sanary-sur-Mer

    This charming coastal town is one of the Côte d’Azur’s rare working fishing ports. With a full day at leisure, discover the atmosphere that first drew artists and writers to Sanary-sur-Mer. Or perhaps venture beyond to Aix-en-Provence and wander the maze of medieval lanes, or to the picturesque village of Cassis, where fresh sea urchins and crisp local wines can be enjoyed on the seafront.

14. 14

    Calvi

    Enjoy a day at leisure in Calvi on the northwest coast of Corsica, where rugged cliffs meet rolling hills peppered with olive groves and orange trees. Explore its historic citadel, relax on the sandy beach or simply soak up the island’s Mediterranean charm.

15. 15

    Olbia, Porto Cervo

    Take a scenic drive along Sardinia’s glamorous Costa Smeralda, famed for its emerald waters, rugged coastline and upscale resorts. Tour Porto Cervo, the coast’s chic resort town and a haven for luxury yachts.

16. 16

    Porto Santo Stefano

    Spend the day at leisure in Porto Santo Stefano, a seaport town on the Italian peninsula of Monte Argentario with a rich history dating back to the 16th century.

17. 17

    Rome

    Explore Rome’s timeless treasures on a guided city tour, where ancient history meets modern Italian charm. Take in the city’s most iconic landmarks, from grand piazzas and magnificent architecture to centuries-old monuments that tell the story of the Eternal City. A highlight of your journey is a visit to the legendary Colosseum, where you’ll step back in time and discover the fascinating legacy of the Roman Empire.

18. 18

    Salerno, Amalfi

    Dock in Salerno and travel to postcard-perfect Amalfi. Enjoy time at leisure to wander its charming streets, admire the cathedral or relax by the sea.

19. 19

    Taormina, Mount Etna

    Arrive into the port of Taormina, where a Signature Experience awaits.

    Signature Experience – Mount Etna Exploration and Winery Experience

    Travel by Jeep across the dramatic landscapes of Mount Etna and explore the Silvestri Craters. Afterwards, continue to the historic Barone di Villagrande winery, where you’ll enjoy a wine tasting and lunch overlooking the spectacular Sicilian coast.

20. 20

    Victoria

    Enjoy a day at leisure in Victoria, Gozo’s charming capital. Explore its historic citadel, wander picturesque streets or venture to the island’s quaint villages and ornate churches.

21. 21

    Valletta

    Discover Malta’s enchanting capital, Valletta — a UNESCO World Heritage city founded in 1566. Stroll along the vibrant Republic Street to St John’s Co-Cathedral, home to breathtaking baroque art and Caravaggio’s renowned masterpiece, The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist. Admire St George’s Square and the Grandmaster’s Palace, then step inside Casa Rocca Piccola, a 16th-century noble residence brimming with history.

    Embark on a traditional dgħajsa boat cruise through the historic Grand Harbour, a site shaped by the Great Sieges of 1565 and 1942.

22. 22

    At Sea

    Cruise along the idyllic coast as you enjoy the luxurious amenities of your ship.

23. 23

    Kotor

    Today arrive in Kotor, a Mediterranean town situated on a magnificent fjord. Here, board a local boat and travel along the Lustica Peninsula, known for its dense olive groves, lush pine forests and secluded blue lagoons. Arrive in the picturesque town of Prčanj, where you’ll enjoy a special experience. Reboard your ship for lunch, then enjoy some time at leisure to explore Kotor before setting sail.

    Signature Experience – St Nicholas Classical Concert

    Visit the church of St. Nicholas, built in the early 18th century in the baroque style, and home to a Franciscan monastery. Enjoy a welcome drink on arrival, followed by a private concert performed by a guitarist duo.

24. 24

    Dubrovnik, Disembark Ship

    Your tour concludes this morning. Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Accommodation

Book this cruise

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