Legend has it that the River Douro had two great friends in Spain: the River Tagus and the River Guadiana. One day, they were visited by a seagull who told them about the vast blue expanse beyond Portugal. Eager for adventure, the three friends decided to race toward the sea. More enthusiastic than focused, one fell asleep and woke up later. In a rush to win and reach the sea, he sped north through the mountains and hills of Portugal, unknowingly creating a surreal landscape now known as the Douro Valley.
Douro River, Portugal
As the Douro winds through its curves, boats glide up and down the river daily, leaving gentle ripples on its calm, scenic waters. Wine Tourism in Portugal proudly presents five partners that offer unique and breathtaking maritime wine experiences, showcasing the almost indescribable landscapes of the Douro Valley.
Pipadouro, Douro Valley
Ahoy, wine lovers! Get ready to sail away with PipaDouro, where the funky vibes of the 50s and 60s collide with the jaw-dropping beauty of the Douro Valley! Picture this: you’re cruising down Portugal’s breathtaking Douro River, sipping on delicious wines while soaking in views so stunning they’ll make your heart skip a beat. With PipaDouro’s Vintage Wine Travel, it’s not just a cruise, it’s an epic adventure that’ll leave you feeling like a star in a classic film!
Since they hit the waters in 2007, PipaDouro has been making waves with its “Quality and Excellence mission.” Their vessels are like time machines, transporting you to a retro paradise! Climb aboard the FriendShip I, a 66-foot classic wooden yacht that’s been charming adventurers since 1957, or hop on the PipaDouro II, a cozy 30-foot vintage beauty that’s seen more family fun than a picnic on a sunny day.
Whether you want a private program that caters to your every whim or a fun-filled daily jaunt on a pre-set route, PipaDouro has your back! As you glide along the Douro’s calm waters (now as friendly as a golden retriever), watch for the vineyards hugging the hillsides – they’re like nature’s confetti! So, grab your favorite wine, sit back, and let the good times roll with PipaDouro, where every sip and every view is a celebration!
FeelDouro, Douro Valley
Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey with FeelDouro, where the Douro River becomes your playground! Imagine cruising along one of Europe’s most stunning rivers, with the sun shining, the wind in your hair, and a glass of exquisite Portuguese wine in hand. FeelDouro offers a spectacular mix of gourmet dining and breathtaking views, so you can kick back and indulge your senses as you sail through the scenic beauty of the Douro Valley.
Starting from the picturesque Douro Marina in Foz do Douro, FeelDouro gives you the chance to explore 210 kilometers of navigable river, with the option to dock at charming hotels and vineyards along the way. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick two-hour cruise or a luxurious multi-day adventure, FeelDouro tailors each experience to your desires. It’s like having your wine-and-dine event on a boat, with show cooking and delectable meals that will make your taste buds dance!
The boats are not just stylish but also eco-friendly, featuring electric batteries that make them smooth and gentle on the environment. With all the comforts of home, including fully equipped kitchens and relaxing solariums, you can chill out while soaking in the stunning views of the lush vineyards and rolling hills. So gather your friends, grab a glass, and let FeelDouro take you on a whimsical ride through Portugal’s wine wonderland – where every cruise feels like a celebration! Cheers to good times on the water!
Douro à Vela
Douro à Vela, Douro Valley
Get ready to set sail with Douro à Vela, where the Douro River transforms into your very own nautical playground! Picture this: you, aboard the luxurious sailing ship Libertu’s, gliding through the breathtaking Douro Valley, surrounded by terraced vineyards and the sweet aroma of local wines. It’s not just a cruise; it’s a voyage into the heart and soul of one of the world’s oldest wine regions, where history and nature collide spectacularly.
With Douro à Vela, you’ll feel like a true sailor as you hoist the sails and embrace the spirit of the river. This isn’t your ordinary river cruise; it’s an immersive experience where you become part of the story! As you drift along, tasting exquisite Douro wines paired with gourmet bites, you’ll find yourself bonding with the landscape, the crew, and maybe even a few friendly local seagulls who’ve come to check out the scene. Who knew sailing could be this much fun?
But wait, there’s more! Douro à Vela offers a buffet of activities that go beyond just sailing. Think wine tours, cultural excursions, and delicious gastronomy experiences at local Quintas. It’s like a grand buffet of Douro delights that ensures your time here is as vibrant as the wines you’ll be sipping. So grab your friends, pack your sense of adventure, and prepare for a sailing escapade that’ll have you singing sea shanties and toasting good times in no time! Cheers to the wind in your sails and the Douro Valley waiting to be discovered!
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Companhia Turística do Douro, Douro Valley
Get ready to step aboard the Companhia Turística do Douro and travel back in time aboard a traditional Rabelo boat! Founded in 1993, this gem of a company is the oldest in the game, specializing in cruises that celebrate the rich heritage of the Douro River. These charming vessels, once the trusty transport for wine barrels, are now your ticket to an unforgettable adventure through Portugal’s breathtaking wine region. You might even feel like a 19th-century river pirate – minus the eye patch and parrot!
As you cruise from Pinhão, you’ll soak in the stunning scenery that has made the Douro famous. Imagine gliding past terraced vineyards, picturesque villages, and maybe even a castle or two. The Rabelo boats, ranging from 19 to 23 meters (62 to 75 feet), have a storied past, capable of carrying up to 100 barrels of wine downriver. Just think, you’re floating on history! The last commercial Rabelo trip might have been in 1964, but now you can take part in a journey that honors that tradition while enjoying a glass of the region’s finest wines.
With short-duration cruises that promise good vibes and even better views, Companhia Turística do Douro offers the perfect mix of culture and relaxation. You’ll be greeted by a friendly crew ready to make your experience as delightful as the wines you’re sipping. So, grab your friends, your sense of adventure, and maybe a snack or two, and set sail on a journey that’s as fun as it is educational. The Douro is calling, and it wants you to join the party! Cheers!
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Always Douro, Douro Valley
Always Douro is all about turning the Douro River into your playground! Imagine gliding along the water, soaking in views that’ll make your Instagram followers green with envy. Their mission? To sprinkle a bit of magic on your journey while making sure you’re as pampered as a royal at a spa!
With Always Douro, you can pick from a smorgasbord of experiences, from chill vibes and wine tastings that could make even Bacchus jealous, to romantic escapades that might just inspire a sonnet or two. They’re like the fairy godmothers of the Douro, ready to whisk you away on an adventure – just say the word!
And let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to sip exquisite wines while cruising past stunning vineyards and fancy Quintas? The friendly crew is dedicated to making your time on board feel like a fabulous party, where the only rule is to have fun. So grab your friends, pop that cork, and let Always Douro turn your river dreams into reality!
Douro, the Majestic Douro
Though the Douro River was always in a rush to beat its friends to the sea, it couldn’t help but create an utterly stunning landscape along the way – one so unique that it captures the heart of every wine lover who crosses its path. Sure, the Douro sped off to the north, leaving its buddies in southern Portugal, but now it’s time for the river to make some new friends! So, why not book a river cruise and become the Douro’s next best mate? Who knows, you might even share a bottle of wine or two!
With Wine Tourism in Portugal as your trusted captain, you’ll navigate the Douro’s twists and turns like a pro. So hoist the sails, book your cruise, and become the Douro’s new first mate – your adventure awaits, and this captain knows all the best routes (and vineyards, of course)! Cheers to new adventures!
