Villages and Vintages: Cruising the Douro River Valley

Villages and Vintages: Cruising the Douro River Valley

Ref: TAUCKQD202519092025
Departure Friday, 19 September 2025
Return Friday, 26 September 2025
Duration 7
Ship MS Andorinha
Price From:
£5590 per person
Cruise line Tauck

Itinerary details

Arrives on: Friday, 19 September 2025
Location: Porto - Portugal
Programme: Tour begins 5:00 PM. A transfer is included from Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (Porto Airport) or Porto Campanhã station to your riverboat, ms Andorinha, on the Douro River. Settle in, then join us for a welcome reception followed by dinner and onboard entertainment.
Arrives on: Saturday, 20 September 2025
Location: Régua - Portugal
Programme: Situated in northwest Portugal where the Douro meets the Atlantic Ocean, Porto has been known around the globe as the city from which authentic Port wine has been shipped throughout the world for nearly three centuries. Rising on staggered hills along the river, this colorful city beckons you to its labyrinthine streets and stairways, medieval alleys, Baroque churches, fountains, and bell towers, Beaux-Arts buildings, and bohemian neighborhoods whose narrow cobblestoned lanes wind their way past centuries-old former merchants' homes and trendy cafés. You have a sightseeing choice today. Discover Porto by land, river and air – starting from the historic riverfront Ribeira district, walking to Vila Nova de Gaia and riding a cable car for panoramic views. Alternatively, join a local guide for a walking tour that begins in the riverside Riberia district, walking uphill to the Cathedral, crossing the top of the Luis I bridge and concluding in Vila Nova de Gaia with a view overlooking Porto. Return to ms Andorinha late morning and begin sailing to the Douro River Valley, bound for the historic port of Peso da Régua. All along the winding river, rugged conical mountains and shale hills carved by concentric vineyard terraces tell of a winemaking history that's thousands of years old. Inhospitable to most other kinds of farming, the terroir is perfect for Portugal's indigenous wine grapes, whose hardy roots can go down 30 feet or more in search of water. And since the latter half of the 17th century, when Portuguese vintners succeeded in creating a sweet fortified wine – now famous around the world as Port, named for the city of Porto – that could make the long sea voyage to Britain and other destinations without spoiling, the Douro Valley has been the only supplier of true Port, the oldest demarcated wine region on Earth.
Arrives on: Sunday, 21 September 2025
Location: Régua - Portugal
Programme: Dock in the historic town of Peso da Régua, once a busy hub where wooden boats called rabelos, laden with barrels of Port, sailed downriver to Vila Nova de Gaia. Visit the Douro Museum, set within the restored Casa da Companhia Velha building, once part of Real Companhia Velha (Royal Oporto Wine Company), chartered in 1756. On your guided visit to the museum, you'll explore its exhibits chronicling the history, culture and traditions of the Douro River Valley region, from the cultivation of grapes on the vines to the processes involved in the production of Port wine and its distribution around the world. This afternoon, sail through one of the largest locks on the Douro to the idyllic, tranquil village of Pinhão, nestled at a dramatic bend in the river; Pinhão is known as the gateway to the valley's quintas (vineyards) and large wine estates. From here it's a short drive to Quinta do Portal, a family-run estate in the Cima Corgo region where renowned Port and non-fortified wines are made. Your visit includes an introduction to the vineyards and a private dinner with wine pairings.
Arrives on: Monday, 22 September 2025
Location: Vega de Terrón - Spain
Programme: The Douro River Valley and its unique landscapes of terraced mountains, villages, and wine estates unfolds today on a full day's sail to the small Spanish port town of Vega de Terron, where the Douro forms the border between Spain and Portugal. The landscape, at a confluence of rivers, is tranquil, beautiful and unspoiled, at the edge of Douro International Natural Park.
Arrives on: Tuesday, 23 September 2025
Location: Pinhão - Portugal
Programme: At the town of Pocinho you have a choice of shore excursions. Your first option visits a local town on the border between Spain and Portugal for a look at the town and region's historical landmarks including its many defensive strongholds. Alternatively, travel to the Museum of Art and Archaeology of the Côa Valley for stunning exhibits of rock art from the valley's Paleolithic era, discovered in the 1990s when excavations began for a Côa River dam; unlike cave art found in other parts of Europe, the thousands of petroglyphs in the Côa region were created in the open air by the valley's earliest inhabitants, and the museum explores their mystery through state-of-the-art multimedia exhibits. Return to the riverboat for lunch and sail back to Pinhão, arriving this evening.
Arrives on: Wednesday, 24 September 2025
Location: Pinhão - Portugal
Programme: Your choice of excursions this morning includes an opportunity to explore Pinhão and its early-20th century train station, adorned with blue-painted tiles (azulejos); or a vigorous hike in the hilltop vineyards with striking views of the town and river. Sail to Régua, where you'll have two choices; visit 18th-century Mateus Palace, a lavish Baroque residence designed by Nicolau Nasoni that is now a museum with period furnishings and artwork, a heraldic hall, formal gardens, a winery, and a chapel with tombs and reliquaries. Alternatively, join a local guide for a visit to a local wine-making estate called a quinta, rewarding with a port cocktail making class. Begin the return trip to Porto, and dock overnight in this verdant wine country, where some traditional farms grow vines on pergolas and fences so high the grapes must be harvested with ladders.
Arrives on: Thursday, 25 September 2025
Location: Vila Nova de Gaia - Portugal
Programme: Today, you have a choice of full day excursions; one option provides an opportunity to explore the medieval town of Guimarães, known as the "Cradle City; the kingdom of Portugal was born here after a famous battle in 1128. The city center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a wealth of architectural treasures, including the ruined Castle of Guimãraes, with its tempestuous history and sweeping views, the opulent Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, lush with 17th-century furnishings and tapestries, and the 13th-century Church of São Miguel do Castelo. Alternatively, take a bicycle ride (for experienced cyclists in good physical condition) through the Vinho Verde region before arriving in the pastoral town of Amarante, famed as being the hometown of São Gonçalo, Portugal's St. Valentine. Enjoy lunch before your late afternoon arrival into Porto where you'll cross the river to Vila Nova de Gaia. Join us this evening for a farewell reception and dinner aboard the ship.
Arrives on: Friday, 26 September 2025
Location: Porto - Portugal
Programme: Tour ends: 8:00 AM Porto. Disembark and fly home anytime. A transfer is included from your riverboat to Porto Airport or Porto Campanhã station. Allow at least 3 hours for flight check-in.

Ship details

MS Andorinha

MS Andorinha

Custom-designed by our long-time partner Scylla to accommodate no more than 84 guests within an innovative deck plan featuring 12 300-sq. ft. Tauck Suites and 20 225-sq. ft. cabins, this brand-new 80-meter (263-foot) riverboat was specifically built for cruising amidst the historic quintas and picturesque villages along Portugal's golden Douro River.

Launch 2020
Weight N/A
Length 80 m
Width 12 m
Speed 11 kn
Capacity 84 psgr
Cabins 42

Category 3, 4 & 5 cabins have floor-to-ceiling windows with real French balconies. All cabins are equipped with in-room movies, minibar, adjustable climate control, private bathroom with pampering toiletries.

Cabin beds are fitted with 400-thread satin bed linen, mako cotton pillows, 100% cotton blankets and thick pillow top mattresses. A variety of custom bath products are provided along with terry cloth robes, towels and hair dryers.

  • 110-volt and 220-volt outlets included in every cabin for small electronics; minibar stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks
  • All bathrooms feature amenities from the renowned Portuguese soap manufacturer Portus Castelbel.
  • Complimentary Internet & Email available 
  • American breakfast room service available in Category 5 Tauck Suites

  • Open seating in main dining room, The Compass Rose; flexible dining times; vegetarian meals always available
  • Alternate dining venue, Arthur's, offering classic favourites at lunch and dinner and lighter breakfasts in the morning
  • Al fresco dining on Sun Deck, weather permitting
  • American breakfast room service available in Category 5 Tauck Suites
  • Complimentary snacks served 10:00 AM – midnight

Onboard entertainment includes enrichment lectures, piano music nightly, in-room movies, culinary demos, local entertainment and "themed" fun

  • Unlimited complimentary beverages aboard ship include regional wine, beer and premium spirits in addition to specialty coffee, water and soft drinks
  • Onboard entertainment includes enrichment lectures, piano music nightly, in-room movies, culinary demos, local entertainment and "themed" fun
  • Small Swimming Pool on Sun Deck

No information available

There are no dedicated Kids & Teens facilities onboard. However, the bond between children and adults as they experience the world together makes for special memories that last lifetimes. It is for that reason that the line created ‘Tauck Bridges’ – journeys for the whole family to enjoy together. Each of these kid-friendly family oriented journeys has a minimum recommended age rating to encourage comfort and enjoyment for all guests. Tauck Bridges itineraries are not recommended for children under 3 years of age. All children on Tauck journeys must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Deck plans

  • Category 1 Cabin
  • Category 2 Cabins

Tauck MS Andorinha Emerald Deck.jpeg

  • The Compass Rose
  • Kitchen
  • Category 3 Staterooms

Tauck MS Andorinha Ruby Deck.jpeg

  • Panorama Lounge
  • Bar
  • Category 4 Staterooms
  • Category 5 Staterooms

Tauck MS Andorinha Diamond Deck.jpeg

  • Arthur's
  • Bar
  • Pool

Tauck MS Andorinha Sun Deck.jpeg

Accommodation

Tauck MS Andorinha Cat 5 Room.jpg

Category 5 Diamond Deck (Cat 5)

Welcome to the Category 5 Diamond Deck aboard the MS Andorinha from Tauck, your home away from home. Your private abode includes a range of amenities for your enjoyment, relaxation and comfort. The thoughtfully presented suite provides a wonderful space to relax after another fulfilling day exploring the world's waterways. Discover the full details and specifications below.


Grade: Cat 5
  • Type: Balcony
  • Occupancy: 1-2 people
  • Size: 300-300 sq ft
  • Double or Twin Configuration
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • Mini Bar (Additional Cost)
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk
  • Sofa Bed
  • TV
  • Media/Entertainment Station
  • Coffee Machine
  • Air Conditioning
Tauck MS Andorinha Category 5 Cabin Floorplan.jpeg
Tauck MS Andorinha Cat 4 Room.jpg

Category 4 Diamond Deck (Cat 4)

Welcome to the Category 4 Diamond Deck aboard the MS Andorinha from Tauck, your home away from home. Your private abode includes a range of amenities for your enjoyment, relaxation and comfort. The thoughtfully presented suite provides a wonderful space to relax after another fulfilling day exploring the world's waterways. Discover the full details and specifications below.


Grade: Cat 4
  • Type: Balcony
  • Occupancy: 1-2 people
  • Size: 225-225 sq ft
  • Double or Twin Configuration
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Mini Bar (Additional Cost)
  • TV
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk
  • Lounge Area
  • Media/Entertainment Station
  • Coffee Machine
  • Air Conditioning
Tauck MS Andorinha Category 4 Cabin .jpeg
Tauck MS Andorinha Cat 3 Room.jpg

Category 3 Ruby Deck (Cat 3)

Welcome to the Category 3 Ruby Deck aboard the MS Andorinha from Tauck, your home away from home. Your private abode includes a range of amenities for your enjoyment, relaxation and comfort. The thoughtfully presented suite provides a wonderful space to relax after another fulfilling day exploring the world's waterways. Discover the full details and specifications below.


Grade: Cat 3
  • Type: Balcony
  • Occupancy: 1-2 people
  • Size: 225-225 sq ft
  • Double or Twin Configuration
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Mini Bar (Additional Cost)
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk
  • Lounge Area
  • TV
  • Media/Entertainment Station
  • Coffee Machine
  • Air Conditioning
Tauck MS Andorinha Category 4 Cabin .jpeg
Tauck MS Andorinha Cat 2 Room.jpg

Category 2 Emerald Deck (Cat 2)

Welcome to the Category 2 Emerald Deck aboard the MS Andorinha from Tauck, your home away from home. Your private abode includes a range of amenities for your enjoyment, relaxation and comfort. The thoughtfully presented suite provides a wonderful space to relax after another fulfilling day exploring the world's waterways. Discover the full details and specifications below.


Grade: Cat 2
  • Type: Outside
  • Occupancy: 1-2 people
  • Size: 200-200 sq ft
  • Double or Twin Configuration
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Mini Bar (Additional Cost)
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk
  • Lounge Area
  • TV
  • Media/Entertainment Station
  • Coffee Machine
  • Air Conditioning
Tauck MS Andorinha Category 2 Cabin Floorplan.jpeg
Tauck MS Andorinha Cat 1 Room.jpg

Category 1 Emerald Deck (Cat 1)

Welcome to the Category 1 Emerald Deck aboard the MS Andorinha from Tauck, your home away from home. Your private abode includes a range of amenities for your enjoyment, relaxation and comfort. The thoughtfully presented suite provides a wonderful space to relax after another fulfilling day exploring the world's waterways. Discover the full details and specifications below.


Grade: Cat 1
  • Type: Outside
  • Occupancy: 1-2 people
  • Size: 150-150 sq ft
  • Double or Twin Configuration
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Mini Bar (Additional Cost)
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk
  • Lounge Area
  • TV
  • Media/Entertainment Station
  • Coffee Machine
  • Air Conditioning
Tauck MS Andorinha Category 1 Cabin Floorplan.jpeg

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