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Travelmarvel River Cruise Guide

LIMITED TIME OFFER: Douro Discovery River Cruise with APT Travelmarvel onboard the brand new MS Estrela

Embarking on a river cruise adventure with apt travelmarvel.

Join us as we take you on a captivating journey through the heart of Europe with APT Travelmarvel. This exclusive guide is your ticket to discovering the allure of river cruising, enriched with insights from our own experiences and those of APT’s very own seasoned expert, Becky. Together, we unveil the essence of what makes an APT Travelmarvel river cruise an unmissable adventure.

Table of Contents

Your travelmarvel river cruise guide to elegant river cruising.

Kieran has been on several river cruises and was joined for this video insight by Becky from APT Trvelmarvel, to review the trip they took together from Budapest, but also, for Becky to share her in-house insights into what makes an APT Travelmarvel river cruise so special.

The Travelmarvel Signature Blend: Inclusions and Freedom

APT Travelmarvel distinguishes itself from other river cruise operators with a harmonious mix of included luxuries and the freedom to explore. Designed for the discerning traveller who values a nice blend of guided discovery and the freedom to head off and explore on their very own adventure, Travelmarvel river cruises offer the perfect balance for an enriching holiday.

Diving Deep into Local Cultures

APT Travelmarvel is renowned for its immersive insider experiences, connecting you directly with the heart and soul of each destination you visit on your tour or river cruise. From cosy evenings in Bavarian villages to hands-on cultural activities, these experiences promise a deeper understanding of the places you visit, beyond the ordinary.

A Fleet Defined by Contemporary Elegance

The Travelmarvel fleet of contemporary river ships provides a modern and stylish base for your European river adventures. With ample modern conveniences that don’t pull back on premium luxuries whilst on the water. These vessels serve as your comfortable base, a place of relaxation and elegance as you meander through Europe’s storied riverscapes, and a wonderful home from home to explore all that Europe has to offer.

A Taste of Authentic Europe

APT Travelmarvel prides itself on weaving local culture into every facet of your cruise. From savouring regional delicacies to enjoying local performances, each element of your journey is thoughtfully chosen to reflect the true spirit of the destinations you explore.

These cultures also make their way onto the ship each day, extending your cultural immersion into food, art and entertainment as your incredible European river journey unfolds.

Discovering Europe’s Hidden Treasures with a River Cruise

APT’s carefully curated itineraries reveal the hidden jewels of Europe, taking you to the quaint, less-trodden paths that offer a genuine glimpse into the continent’s heart, away from the hustle and bustle of the usual tourist trails.

Those looking to hit all the headlines of Europe will also find a River Cruise the Optimal way to explore Europe, with many of the popular rivers starting, ending our passing through some of Europe’s major cities and Capitals.

Life Onboard: Relaxation and Culinary Delights

Life with APT Travelmarvel can be whatever you would like, take on as many of Europe’s wonderful towns and cities as you’d like, or relax and unwind whilst you indulge in all your contemporary river ship has to offer.

With ample chances for relaxation, with a dash of gourmet excellence, the onboard atmosphere is warmly inviting, offering a blend of casual elegance and delightful dining experiences that make every moment onboard a pleasure.

Exceptional Value: A Journey That Offers More

Choosing APT Travelmarvel means enjoying outstanding value. The Travelmarvel River cruises are premium four-star cruises, offering the very height of premium luxury, in a relaxed luxury manner. Every aspect of your cruise, from exquisite meals to enriching excursions, is included, allowing you to explore and indulge as you please, all at an unbeatable price.

A Year-Round Palette of European Splendour

With APT Travelmarvel, the beauty of Europe’s rivers is yours to experience throughout the year. Each season brings its unique charm, from spring’s blossoming landscapes to the winter’s festive markets, ensuring a magical backdrop to your adventures, and your preference of temperature.

This means you can also take advantage of the myriad of festivals that happen across Europe all year long, here are just a few seasonal festivals you will find on a Europe River Cruise:-

Springtime River Cruise Highlights

• Keukenhof Gardens, The Netherlands: Spring ushers in the blooming of millions of tulips at Keukenhof, often included in river cruise itineraries in Holland and Belgium. The garden becomes a mosaic of colours, making it a perfect time for nature lovers.
• Easter Markets, Various Locations: Many European cities host charming Easter markets, with those in Vienna, Prague, and Budapest being particularly enchanting. Expect beautifully decorated eggs, local handicrafts, and seasonal treats.

Summer River Cruise Highlights

• Rhine in Flames, Germany: This series of firework events along the middle Rhine, usually from May to September, illuminates the riverbanks and castles, creating a magical spectacle best viewed from the river.
• Salzburg Festival, Austria: Held in late July and August, this world-famous festival of music and drama is a cultural highlight, offering a mix of opera, concerts, and theatre performances.

Autumn River Cruise Highlights

• Wine Festivals, Various Locations: The wine regions along European rivers, especially the Rhine and Moselle in Germany and the Douro in Portugal, celebrate the grape harvest with festivals from late August to October. These festivals are a deep dive into local traditions, wine tastings, and merriment.
• Oktoberfest, Germany: While primarily in Munich, the spirit of Oktoberfest spreads across Bavaria and can be experienced in various towns along the Danube. It’s a festival of beer, traditional Bavarian music, and lederhosen.

Winter River Cruise Highlights

• Christmas Markets, Various Locations: From late November, Europe’s towns and cities transform into winter wonderlands with their Christmas markets. Cities like Vienna, Budapest, and Strasbourg boast some of the most atmospheric markets, offering handmade crafts, festive treats, and a warm, joyful ambience.
• New Year’s Eve Celebrations: European capitals along the Danube, like Vienna and Budapest, host spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks. Seeing these from the river, with the cityscapes as a backdrop, is truly unforgettable.

Crafting Your Perfect Itinerary

APT Travelmarvel caters to every taste, offering a range of itineraries to match your dream European getaway. Whether you’re pressed for time or wish to indulge in an extended exploration, there’s a journey tailored just for you.

The Douro River: A Unique Voyage with APT Travelmarvel

The Douro River cruise aboard Ms Estrella is a testament to APT Travelmarvel’s commitment to offering intimate and unique travel experiences. As you meander through Portugal’s terraced vineyards and tranquil countryside, Ms Estrella becomes your floating boutique hotel, providing a cosy and elegant backdrop to your journey.

This voyage is a celebration of Portugal’s winemaking heritage, offering exclusive visits to Quintas (wine estates) where you can taste the region’s famed Port and Douro wines.

The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to blend scenic cruising with cultural immersion, allowing you to explore historic towns, witness traditional wine-making techniques, and engage with the local communities that have shaped this region’s rich history.

Culinary Journeys with APT Travelmarvel: Europe’s Rich Flavours

The dining experience on board is crafted to reflect the regions through which you travel, offering authentic tastes and traditional dishes prepared with local, fresh ingredients.

From hands-on cooking classes in the heart of Italy to sampling the spicy paprika-infused dishes of Hungary, APT Travelmarvel ensures that food is not just consumed but experienced.

Wine connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts alike will appreciate the careful selection of wines served on board, chosen to complement each meal and enhance the regional flavours. Exclusive wine tastings and vineyard tours offer a deeper understanding of the terroir and the stories behind every bottle.

In crafting your journey with APT Travelmarvel, you’re choosing more than just a holiday; you’re opting for an immersive experience that caters to your tastes, envelops you in the local culture, and leaves you with a palate enriched by Europe’s culinary diversity.

Why Choose APT Travelmarvel with Magical Traveller

Opting for an APT Travelmarvel river cruise with us means embarking on a journey where every detail is thoughtfully arranged for your utmost enjoyment. This guide, peppered with testimonials and insights, highlights why APT Travelmarvel stands out as the preferred choice for those seeking a deeper connection with Europe’s riveting landscapes and cultures.

Booking Your Adventure: The Beginning of Something Magical

Embarking on your APT Travelmarvel river cruise adventure with Magical Traveller is just the start of an extraordinary experience. With our array of itineraries and dedicated service, booking with us is your gateway to the very best of Europe, experienced in unparalleled comfort and style.

You can enquire by clicking Make an Enquiry on the Menu, or by visiting the APT River Cruise page.

You can book these cruises by contacting us via our Enquiry form on our website or by filling in the form below.

You can also view all our cruise offers in our dedicated Celebrity Cruise group on Facebook.

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Douro Discovery with APT Travelmarvel

8-day river cruise from £1,895 pp incl. flights

• Call 020 7590 0615

Short description

Discover the historic towns and world-famous wineries of Portugal's beautiful Douro Valley

• Marvel at the ancient wine-making villages & terraced vineyards of Portugal's stunning Douro Valley
• Sample the world-famous ports and wines of the Douro Valley
• Enjoy dinner at a local quinta, a traditional Portuguese winery
• Cross into Spain to explore Salamanca on a guided tour including a traditional Flamenco show
• Enjoy it all from the comfort of APT's brand new MS Estrela river ship
• 1 Night Porto
• 1 Night Pinhão
• 1 Night Castelo Rodrigo
• 1 Night Salamanca
• 1 Night Peso da Régua
• 1 Night Entre-os-Rios
• 1 Night Vila Nova de Gaia

In pictures

MS Estrela, APT Travelmarvel

Porto, Portugal

Wine tasting in the Douro Valley, Portugal

Vineyards, Douro River, Portugal

Castelo Rodrigo, Portugal

Douro Valley Vineyards near Regua, Portugal

Salamanca, Spain

Douro Valley Vineyards. Portugal

Recommended for: City | Food & wine | History & culture | Natural world | River cruise

The wine-making villages, historic towns and world-famous vineyards that frame Portugal’s Douro River make for a truly wonderful cruise. Enjoy all that it has to offer aboard APT’s new-for-2024 river ship, MS Estrela, from wine tastings in historic vineyards to tours of medieval cities. After flying to Porto, the colourful jewel of Portugal and gateway to the Douro Valley, you’ll sail among the terraced hills of Pinhao and mountain-framed town of Barca D’Alva. Then, across the border in Spain, you’ll enjoy a tour of Salamanca, before experiencing a flamenco show with lunch. Alongside it all, there’s inclusive dining with complimentary drinks, plus onboard entertainment throughout. 

Day by day itinerary

Day 1 uk to porto.

After enjoying the included airport lounge access, fly to Porto and, on arrival, transfer to Vila Nova de Gaia to embark your river ship, the new for 2024  MS   Estrela . Settle in to your stateroom before meeting your fellow travellers and Travelmarvel Cruise Director at a Welcome Reception as you take in the sights along the Douro River on a sunset cruise.

Stay: MS Estrela

Day 2 Regua, Mateus Palace & PInhao

Today you begin your cruise along the spectacular Douro River. Flowing from the northern reaches of Spain, through Portugal and into the Atlantic, this river is bordered by countless vineyards. As you cruise this morning, you’ll take part in a Portuguese language lesson, during which you’ll learn some essential phrases of this beautiful language. Disembark your ship in Regua and visit the picturesque village of Lamego and the elaborately decorated baroque cathedral the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies, an important Portuguese place of pilgrimage. While in Lamego, why not try one of the town's famous specialties, Bola de Lamego, a smoked ham roll. Afterwards, travel by coach to Pinhao.

Stay : MS Estrela

Meals: B L D

Day 3 Vega de Terron & Castelo Rodrigo

Today, cruise across the border into Vega de Terron in Spain. Enjoy some time at leisure before joining an excursion to Castelo Rodrigo. This tiny village sits atop a hill overlooking both Spain and Portugal, and features a number of well-preserved ruins, an impressive castle and a magnificent stone statue of Santiago Matamoros. After exploring this charming little town, you’ll board a coach and return to your ship.

Day 4 Salamanca & Barca d'Alva

Today you’ll disembark and board a coach to set off for the glorious Spanish city of Salamanca. This gorgeous city is arguably one of the most beautiful in Spain, and boasts sunlit sandstone buildings along with a majestic city square and an ancient university. After your 'Insider Experience' - a captivating flamenco show, with lunch - return by coach back over the border to Barca d’Alva, the last Portuguese village along the Douro, where your ship awaits. Back on board this evening, enjoy a traditional Portuguese barbecue dinner.

Day 5 Regua & Mateus Palace

This morning after breakfast, enjoy a Portuguese cooking demonstration on board as your ship cruises to Regua. On arrival, head to a local quinta, which boasts outstanding views over the Douro Valley. Here, you’ll enjoy a tasting of local port wine, Portugal’s most famous tipple. After your Insider Experience, board a coach and join an excursion to the splendid Gardens and Palace of Mateus. Tour this living museum which is still owned by the Count of Vila Real. Discover for yourself the connection between this beautiful 18th Century palace and Mateus Rose wine.

Day 6 Regua & Entre-os-Rios

This morning, enjoy free time to explore Regua. You may like to wander along the riverfront, or venture into the lovely Old Town. Afterwards continue on to the riverside town of Entre-os-Rios. On arrival, enjoy free time to explore this gorgeous, vibrant town as you please. Tonight, be treated to an energetic performance of traditional Portuguese folk music back on board at a special Captain’s Dinner.

Day 7 Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto

After breakfast, cruise back to the enchanting city of Vila Nova de Gaia. On arrival, join a fascinating tour of nearby Porto, which sits just across the river. Here, you’ll be led past an array of the city’s most famous attractions, and visit a local port winery for a tour and tasting. This afternoon, there’s ample time to explore Porto at leisure. You may like to visit a Portuguese boutique to buy authentic, local souvenirs. Or perhaps take a stroll through the city’s old-fashioned Bolhao food market. Alternatively, you might choose to take an optional excursion to the World Heritage-listed city of Guimaraes. This evening back on board your ship, enjoy a final Farewell Dinner with your new-found friends.

Day 8 Disembark and fly back to the UK

After enjoying a final breakfast on board, transfer to the airport in Porto for your return flight to the UK.

Stay:   MS Estrela

Any element of this cruise can be adjusted to suit your needs. Just contact us to find out more.

Save up to 40% Book by: 21 June 2024

Special offer for selected 2024 departures (limited availability remaining)

• Save up to 40% off selected departure dates in October & November 2024
• 7 November 2024 departure from just £1,895 pp - saving £1,200 pp

Special offer for selected 2025 departures 

• Save up to £500 pp off selected departure dates 
• Plus enjoy a free upgrade to business class flights from the UK
• Plus free onboard drinks package
• Prices from £2,595 pp
• Return scheduled flights from the UK to Porto
• Transfers to/from ship 
• 7 nights cruise aboard MS Estrela
• 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 7 dinners, plus on complimentary soft drink, beer and local wine with lunch and dinner on board your cruise
• Unique cultural experiences in up to 11 towns, villages and cities including dinner at a local quinta
• Services of an Travelmarvel Cruise Director

Price varies by departure date and stateroom availability, please call for details.

Terms & Conditions: Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin/double room; prices are subject to availability and possible change; normal booking conditions apply.

Meet our experts

Speak to a tailor-made specialist on 020 7590 0615

Alison Nicolle

Meriel Lowe

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Home » Cruises » APT Travelmarvel » Douro Discovery

From £1,895 pp

Experience unique cultural experiences in up to 11 towns, villages and cities on the stunning Douro Valley in Portugal.

Dine on the sweet fruits of the Douro Valley’s harvests at a family-owned quinta in the village of Pinhão, Discover Salamanca in Spain on a guided tour of beautiful Salamanca, boasting sandstone buildings, a majestic city square and ancient university.

Indulge in a port tasting and tour at the beautiful Quinta do Seixo winery

What’s Included:

• Return scheduled flights from the UK
• Unique cultural experiences in up to 11 towns, villages and cities
• Insider Experiences
• Complimentary beverages served at your discretion on board*
• 7 Breakfasts,  5 Lunches and 7 Dinners
• Travelmarvel Cruise Director and expert local guides
• Overseas transfers, port charges and tipping

Optional 3 night extension in Lisbon

• Porto to Porto
• Lisbon Extension

Fly into Porto from the UK today. Be met at the airport and transferred to your river ship, the MS Douro Serenity. Tonight meet your fellow travellers and Travelmarvel Cruise Director at a Welcome Reception as you take in the sights along the Douro River on a sunset cruise.

Today you begin your cruise along the Douro River. As you cruise, you’ll take part in a Portuguese lesson, during which you’ll learn some essential phrases. Disembark your ship and join an excursion to the Gardens and Palace of Mateus. Tour this living museum which is still owned by the Count of Vila Real.

Insider Experience

In Pinhão, enjoy a dinner of traditional dishes and dessert at a local quinta, a traditional Portuguese winery.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today, cruise across the border into Vega de Terrón in Spain. Enjoy some time at leisure before joining an excursion to Castelo Rodrigo. T

his tiny village sits atop a hill overlooking both Spain and Portugal, and features a number of very well-preserved ruins, an impressive castle and a magnificent stone statue of Santiago Matamouros.

Afterwards, board a coach and return to your ship.

Enjoy a Flamenco show and lunch and be entranced by captivating Flamenco dancers as they astound you with their stomping feet in a fiery performance.

Today you’ll disembark and board a coach to set off for the glorious Spanish city of Salamanca. This gorgeous city is arguably one of the most beautiful in Spain, and boasts sunlit sandstone buildings along with a majestic city square and an ancient university. After your Insider Experience, return by coach back over the border to Barca d’Alva, the last Portuguese village along the Douro, where your ship awaits. Back on board this evening, enjoy a traditional Portuguese barbecue dinner.

Enjoy a tasting of local port wine, Portugal’s most famous tipple.

Enjoy a Portuguese cooking demonstration on board as your ship cruises past Pinhao to Regua. On arrival, head to a local quinta, which boasts outstanding views over the Douro Valley. Afterwards, board a coach and take a scenic drive past swathes of expansive vineyards, visiting the picturesque village of Lamego and the elaborately decorated baroque cathedral, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies, an important Portuguese place of pilgrimage. While in Lamego, visit one of Portugal’s best museums, home to a vast collection of paintings, tapestries and jewellery.

This morning, enjoy free time to explore Régua — you may like to wander along the riverfront, or venture into the Old Town. Afterwards, continue on to Entre-os-Rios. On arrival this evening, enjoy free time to explore this town as you please. Tonight be treated to an energetic performance of traditional Portuguese folk music back on board at a special Captain’s Dinner.

After breakfast, cruise back to the enchanting city of Vila Nova de Gaia. On arrival, join a tour of nearby Porto, where you’ll be led past a collection of the city’s most famous attractions, and visit a local port winery for a tour and tasting.

This afternoon, there’s ample time for you to step back out to explore Porto at leisure. You might choose to take an optional excursion to the World Heritage-listed city of Guimarães. This evening back on board your ship, enjoy a final Farewell Dinner.

After enjoying a final breakfast on board, transfer to the airport in Porto for your return flight to the UK.

Your adventure begins as you fly into Lisbon from the UK today, Portugal’s invigorating capital. Upon arrival, be transferred to your centrally located hotel and enjoy free time.

On a guided tour, explore the alleyways of the Alfama district and marvel at the Manueline-style Jeronimos Monastery. Then, visit World Heritage-listed Belem Tower and admire the beautiful Castelo de Sao Jorge.

Today, enjoy a full day at leisure to explore this vibrant city. Perhaps enjoy an optional excursion to the Sintra Mountain range of Serra de Sintra.

Visit the World Heritage-listed Pena National Palace and take a guided tour of Sintra.

This morning after breakfast, you will travel by coach to Vila Nova de Gaia where you’ll board your river ship. Later this evening, meet your fellow travellers at a Welcome Reception as you take in the sights along the Douro River on a sunset cruise.

Breakfast & Dinner

MS Estrela, a brand-new purpose designed Douro River ship setting sail in 2024.

Experience life on board your brand-new river ship, the MS Estrela. Custom-built to cruise along the majestic Douro River, the MS Estrela has been designed to reflect the beauty of the region, with ample natural light and a distinctly Southern European ambience.

• Outdoor social spaces include a Sun Deck featuring a large swimming pool and an outdoor bar, plush lounge seats, sun beds and a putting green.
• Onboard entertainment includes Portuguese folk music and an informative history lesson.
• The main restaurant showcases Portuguese and international flavours, or you can opt for a lighter meal in the ship’s lounge, or dine alfresco.
• French Balcony suites feature an electric slide down window, allowing you to bask in the glorious landscapes.

Onboard Features & Facilities

• Sun deck with 360-degree views, shaded sitting area, bar & putting green
• Sun deck pool
• Open seating Restaurant
• Observation lounge and bar with panoramic windows
• Lift from lower to upper accommodation decks
• 24hr tea and coffee station
• Air conditioned throughout

Accommodation & Amenities

60 spacious, elegantly appointed staterooms and suites range in size from 144 – 250 ft².  Most accommodations featuring floor to ceiling glass sliding doors opening to a French Balcony, so you can enjoy the ever-changing scenery however you wish.

Owners’  Suite

250 ft² – upper deck.

• Floor to ceiling glass doors opening to a French balcony
• Private bathroom with shower enclosure, wash basin & loo
• Hotel style beds with  fine cotton bed linen
• Flat-screen HD television
• Individually controlled air-conditioning

French Balcony Junior Suite – Cat S

194 ft² – upper deck, french balcony staterooms – c, b, a & p, 157 ft² – cat p & a upper – cat b & c main deck.

Cat D, E & F

170 ft², 157 ft² & 144 ft² –  lower deck.

• Smaller Fixed Window

MS Estrela – Deck Plan

Lisbon Extension available.  Price on application

Enquire now about this cruise & speak to one of our friendly river cruising team on 0800 471 4754 .

Why Choose This Cruise?

APT’s included excursions go beyond the ordinary with small group tours exploring the culture and traditions of the places you visit as well as the main sights.  Real destination enrichment and deeper understanding is already included in  the cost of your cruise.

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Whether you'd like to check availabilty or need some questions answered, do get in touch.

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Wind your way through the Douro Valley’s heavenly scenery on a journey aboard the fantastic MS Douro Serenity. Stop to visit villages where time has stopped, family-owned quintas and sun-drenched cities.

APT TRAVELMARVEL - DOURO DISCOVERY

Travelmarvel Polaris, Travelmarvel Capella, Travelmarvel Vega

• Ship Details
• Cabins and Deck Plans
• Ship Specifications
• Ships in Class: Travelmarvel Polaris, Travelmarvel Capella , Travelmarvel Vega
• Length: 135m
• Passengers: 182

New in 2020, Travelmarvel Polaris, Capella and Vega carry 182 passengers and cruise the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers. 

There are 87 staterooms, majority featuring a French Balcony, and 4 spacious Owner's Suites. All cabins include a flatscreen TV and writing desk, with the Owner's Suites having additional amenities, including a sofa.  

Each ship offers a choice of dining venues, including a fine dining resturant and the pub-style McGeary's Bar, named after company founders, the McGeary family. 

The Garden Terrace & Bar is located on the top deck and the perfect place to relax and unwind, while on the Upper Deck, panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows can be opened to allow fresh air in. 

Photo credit Rob Nijhuis. Ship exterior is an artist's impression.

• Cabin Types Prev | Next

• Cabin Categories
• . Cat E Twin Windows
• . Cat D Twin Windows
• . Cat C French Balcony
• . Cat B French Balcony
• . Cat B+ French Balcony
• . Cat A French Balcony
• . Cat A+ French Balcony
• . Cat P French Balcony
• . Cat OS Owner's Suite

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