Meet the Experts
12-13 December
Setting sail from Porto
Blessed with a dramatic setting on the steep banks of the river Douro, Portugal's second city is currently enjoying something of a renaissance. Porto is best known as the home of the country's most famous export, port wine, but there's a lot more to this characterful city than getting sloshed; the crumbling historic centre, Ribeira, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it's a fascinating district to wander around. Porto also serves as the gateway to the spectacular Douro valley, a landscape of verdant vineyards where the city's famous wine is produced.
Don't miss
Walking over the Luís I Bridge for beautiful views over the city and river, and if the steep approach looks a bit much there’s a cable car to help on the South Bank.
14 December
Portugal: Entre-os-Rios
Entre-os-Rios means 'between the rivers', situated at the confluence of the Douro and its tributary the Tâmega. From here you can travel into the heart of northern Portugal's Vinho Verde wine region, visit the historic city of Guimarães or enjoy an atmospheric dinner at the Alpendurada Monastery.
15-16 December
Portugal: Régua
Peso da Régua (Régua for short) is the main river port for the vineyards of the Upper Douro Valley, and is the perfect base for exploring the port-wine region. Nearby attractions include the Baroque-style Palacio de Mateus, with its intricate furnishings and beautiful gardens, and the important pilgrimage site of Lamego.
16-18 December
Portugal: Pinhão
The pretty little town of Pinhão, situated on a bend in the Douro, is all about one thing: wine. The surrounding hills are covered in vineyards, and you’ll have ample opportunity to sample a variety of tipples, including the region’s most famous product, port.
18 December
Portugal: Barca d’Alva
19 December
Arriving in Vega de Terron, Portugal
Your home from home
Custom built to operate on Portugal’s dramatic Douro river, the eco-friendly AmaVida and AmaDouro have comfortable staterooms and a wonderful main restaurant with an al fresco dining option.
What we love
Excellent accommodation on the Lisbon and Porto Decks boasts comfortable outside balconies and all staterooms and suites have a well finished modern décor. The Sun Deck offers seating as well as the heated swimming pool, ideal for a refreshing dip!
| Capacity | 102 Guests |
|---|---|
| Crew | 30 European Staff |
| Style | Relaxed and informal during the day, giving way to an elegant evening atmosphere |
|
Inclusions |
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| Year Built | 2013 (AmaVida) / 2019 (AmaDouro) |
| Length | 260 feet |
| Breadth | 37 feet |
Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Where to stay in Porto
In the heart of the city the excellent InterContinental Porto - Palacio das Cardosas overlooks the Avenida dos Aliados and is a short walk from Bolhão Market, Ribeira District and the Clérigos Church.
See more of Portugal
For a taste of wild Portugal, set forth to Peneda Geres National Park.
