Luxury river cruise line AmaWaterways announced that it has extended its 2022 and 2023 Portugal river cruising season with 14 additional sailings round trip from Porto on board AmaDouro. With cruises available through the end of December, guests now have the opportunity to experience the joys of this popular destination in the early winter season with temperate weather, fewer crowds and charming Christmas markets, complemented by stunning landscape and delectable food and wine tasting experiences.
“Full of rich culture, inspiring architecture and enticing cuisine, our Portugal sailings have always been extremely popular. This demand inspired us to extend both our 2022 and 2023 season through until the end of December, giving guests another reason to travel and experience all that Portugal has to offer during this special time of year”, said Kristin Karst, co-founder and executive vice president of AmaWaterways. “The extended season opens up a new opportunity for our travel partners to reserve groups to visit Portugal’s festive Christmas markets, delightful vineyards and historic sites during this quieter period!”
Sailing onboard the spectacular AmaDouro, the extension of the 2022 and 2023 season in Portugal includes additional dates for AmaWaterways’ Enticing Douro itinerary – a seven-night roundtrip from Porto river cruise along the Douro River Valley. Throughout the itinerary, guests will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in authentic cultural experiences with a variety of included small group shore excursions, such as:
- A visit the tranquil village of Entre-os-Rios where they will enjoy a traditional Portuguese lunch at a local Quinta (a country estate)
- A step back in time as they stroll through the historical city of Salamanca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- A guided hike of Porto, followed by a tasting of Port, Portugal’s most renowned contribution to the world of wine
Portugal is known for its mild winters that make it a magical destination during the pre-Christmas period. Those wishing to extend their time in the destination can add three nights in Lisbon pre-cruise, including a tour of the city and a morning excursion to Serra de Sintra, one of the loveliest mountain villages in Portugal. Guests will enjoy the temperate climate as they stroll through Lisbon and Porto’s intimate Christmas markets, where they will find charming handmade gifts and festive treats.