Secrets of the Douro & Madrid

9 nights from £3,626pp departing Saturday 4th May 2024

A symbol of Portugal’s birth and growth as a nation, the Douro has long been the country’s lifeline. Leaving the pastel-coloured metropolis of Porto, venture through the enchanting countryside. Terraced vineyards rise from the river banks, historic landmarks pepper distant horizons and charming townships lay hidden in the rural hillsides. Salamanca shines both day and night and a kayak experience in Pinhão provides a new perspective on the Douro. Your journey concludes with a two-night stay in the sun-kissed Spanish capital, Madrid

Itinerary

Map

					Arrive	Depart
	4th04	MayMay	202424	Porto, Portugal, embark on the Emerald Radiance
Lively, commercial Oporto is the second largest city in Portugal after Lisbon. Also called Porto for short, the word easily brings to mind the city's most famous product - port wine. Oporto's strategic location on the north bank of the Douro River has accounted for the town's importance since ancient times. The Romans built a fort here where their trading route crossed the Douro, and the Moors brought their own culture to the area. Oporto profited from provisioning crusaders en route to the Holy Land and enjoyed the riches from Portuguese maritime discoveries during the 15th and 16th centuries. Later, port wine trade with Britain compensated for the loss of the spice trade and the end of gold and gem shipments from Brazil. In the 19th century, the city went through a period of new prosperity with the rise of industries. In its wake followed the building of workers' quarters and opulent residences. Since the declaration of Oporto as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the city aims to build up a cultural reference that will provide it with a new image, based on deep historical roots. Among the attractions that make Oporto such an interesting place are its graceful bridges spanning the Douro River, a picturesque riverfront quarter and, most notable, its world-famous port wine lodges. Although Oporto is a bustling centre and home to many different businesses, the source of its greatest fame is the rich, sweet fortified red wine we know as port. Fly from the UK to Porto. Welcome to Porto, where you will be met at the airport and transferred to your contemporary Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, Emerald Radiance. This evening, join your fellow guests for dinner on board.
	5th05	MayMay	202424	Porto, Portugal
Lively, commercial Oporto is the second largest city in Portugal after Lisbon. Also called Porto for short, the word easily brings to mind the city's most famous product - port wine. Oporto's strategic location on the north bank of the Douro River has accounted for the town's importance since ancient times. The Romans built a fort here where their trading route crossed the Douro, and the Moors brought their own culture to the area. Oporto profited from provisioning crusaders en route to the Holy Land and enjoyed the riches from Portuguese maritime discoveries during the 15th and 16th centuries. Later, port wine trade with Britain compensated for the loss of the spice trade and the end of gold and gem shipments from Brazil. In the 19th century, the city went through a period of new prosperity with the rise of industries. In its wake followed the building of workers' quarters and opulent residences. Since the declaration of Oporto as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the city aims to build up a cultural reference that will provide it with a new image, based on deep historical roots. Among the attractions that make Oporto such an interesting place are its graceful bridges spanning the Douro River, a picturesque riverfront quarter and, most notable, its world-famous port wine lodges. Although Oporto is a bustling centre and home to many different businesses, the source of its greatest fame is the rich, sweet fortified red wine we know as port. Relax on board today and enjoy a full day of sailing through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Douro Valley. This fascinating area is celebrated because it builds on two millennia of wine producing history, where viticulture has shaped the surrounding landscape and small, sleepy villages are peppered with dozens of sun-drenched vineyards. Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner and cocktail reception. EmeraldPLUS Portuguese cooking demonstration on board
	5th05	MayMay	202424	Pinhão, Portugal
	6th06	MayMay	202424	Pinhão, Portugal
Begin your day with a visit to the beautiful Quinta do Tedo vineyard in the heart of Portugal’s Douro Valley, nestled on the confluence of the Douro and Tedo rivers. This 18th-century estate is environmentally sound, creating organic produce by using traditional viticulture methods. Alternatively, enjoy a guided walk through local vineyards, stopping along the way to admire your surroundings. Or, embark on a kayak excursion along the river, taking in the impressive views from the heart of the Douro Valley. This afternoon, enjoy sailing to Vega de Terrón, perhaps relaxing on the Sun Deck. EmeraldACTIVE Kayak experience in Pinhão EmeraldACTIVE Guided active walk through the vineyards Included Excursion Visit to Quinta do Tedo with wine tasting
	6th06	MayMay	202424	Vega de Terrón, Spain
	7th07	MayMay	202424	Vega de Terrón, Spain
Founded in Roman times, the ancient city of Salamanca and its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Quarter have an illustrious past, having been held by the Carthaginians, Romans, and Moors. Travel to the beautiful ‘Golden City’ for a walking tour, which includes exploring the postcard-worthy galleries and arcades that adorn Plaza Mayor. You’ll also have the opportunity to see Casa de las Conchas, a building that has been lovingly decorated with more than 300 shells, and Salamanca’s university, one of the oldest universities in Europe that dates back to 1218. EmeraldPLUS Tuna music band Included Excursion Guided tour of Salamanca DiscoverMORE Castelo Rodrigo tour (extra expense)
	7th07	MayMay	202424	Salamanca, Spain
	8th08	MayMay	202424	Pocinho, Portugal
This morning, you’ll arrive in Pocinho where you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Côa Valley Museum. Later, return to your Star-Ship for lunch and soak up your idyllic surrounds, enjoying a Port wine cocktail lesson on board as you sail towards Régua. This evening, a rural dinner at a wine estate is certain to be one of the highlights of your trip. EmeraldPLUS Port wine cocktail lesson on board EmeraldPLUS Rural dinner at Quinta da Pacheca Included Excursion Visit to the Côa Valley Museum DiscoverMORE Archaeological tour by 4x4 at the Côa Valley Museum (extra expense)
	8th08	MayMay	202424	Régua, Portugal
	9th09	MayMay	202424	Régua, Portugal
On today’s included excursion, you’ll visit the marvellous Baroque village of Lamego, stopping to see the picturesque Shrine of Our Lady of Remedies, a structure that stands gracefully over the town. If you’re feeling active, enjoy an invigorating walk down the 686 steps from the Sanctuary to the main square. EmeraldPLUS Mosaic tile painting lesson on board EmeraldACTIVE Walk down the steps of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies Included Excursion Guided tour of Lamego DiscoverMORE Visit to Mateus Manor House (extra expense)
	10th10	MayMay	202424	Porto, Portugal
Lively, commercial Oporto is the second largest city in Portugal after Lisbon. Also called Porto for short, the word easily brings to mind the city's most famous product - port wine. Oporto's strategic location on the north bank of the Douro River has accounted for the town's importance since ancient times. The Romans built a fort here where their trading route crossed the Douro, and the Moors brought their own culture to the area. Oporto profited from provisioning crusaders en route to the Holy Land and enjoyed the riches from Portuguese maritime discoveries during the 15th and 16th centuries. Later, port wine trade with Britain compensated for the loss of the spice trade and the end of gold and gem shipments from Brazil. In the 19th century, the city went through a period of new prosperity with the rise of industries. In its wake followed the building of workers' quarters and opulent residences. Since the declaration of Oporto as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the city aims to build up a cultural reference that will provide it with a new image, based on deep historical roots. Among the attractions that make Oporto such an interesting place are its graceful bridges spanning the Douro River, a picturesque riverfront quarter and, most notable, its world-famous port wine lodges. Although Oporto is a bustling centre and home to many different businesses, the source of its greatest fame is the rich, sweet fortified red wine we know as port. Located at the mouth of the Douro River, Porto is a fascinating and eclectic mix of modern and ancient architecture. Famous for its export of Port wines, it’s easy to imagine how British merchant ships would have once clustered together in the medieval harbour, waiting to take their produce across the water. Your included tour of the coastal city will touch on the fortified structures of Castelo da Foz and Castelo do Queijo, a building whose pentagonal façades overlook the ocean. For those who wish to see the charms of Porto on foot, our active walk through the town will bring you closer to the vibrant daily life of the locals. EmeraldPLUS A cruise through Porto EmeraldACTIVE Guided active walk in Porto Included Excursion Guided tour of Porto DiscoverMORE Visit to Quinta da Aveleda or Taylor’s Port Wine Cellars (extra expense) DiscoverMORE Guided bike tour to the Atlantic (extra expense)
	11th11	MayMay	202424	Porto, Portugal
Lively, commercial Oporto is the second largest city in Portugal after Lisbon. Also called Porto for short, the word easily brings to mind the city's most famous product - port wine. Oporto's strategic location on the north bank of the Douro River has accounted for the town's importance since ancient times. The Romans built a fort here where their trading route crossed the Douro, and the Moors brought their own culture to the area. Oporto profited from provisioning crusaders en route to the Holy Land and enjoyed the riches from Portuguese maritime discoveries during the 15th and 16th centuries. Later, port wine trade with Britain compensated for the loss of the spice trade and the end of gold and gem shipments from Brazil. In the 19th century, the city went through a period of new prosperity with the rise of industries. In its wake followed the building of workers' quarters and opulent residences. Since the declaration of Oporto as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the city aims to build up a cultural reference that will provide it with a new image, based on deep historical roots. Among the attractions that make Oporto such an interesting place are its graceful bridges spanning the Douro River, a picturesque riverfront quarter and, most notable, its world-famous port wine lodges. Although Oporto is a bustling centre and home to many different businesses, the source of its greatest fame is the rich, sweet fortified red wine we know as port. After breakfast, disembark your Star-Ship and transfer to Porto Airport for your flight to the sun-kissed Spanish capital, Madrid. Your itinerary includes a two-night stay in a centrally-located hotel in the city.
	11th11	MayMay	202424	Madrid, Spain
	12th12	MayMay	202424	Madrid, Spain
This morning, you will be joined by a knowledgeable local guide for a vibrant city tour of Madrid, including some of the city’s golden plazas, the Sabatini Gardens and its illustrious market. Following your tour, the rest of the day is yours to spend exploring at leisure. Included Excursion A guided tour of Madrid
	13th13	MayMay	202424	Madrid, Spain, disembark the Emerald Radiance
After breakfast, bid farewell to your fellow guests as you are transferred to the airport for your flight to the UK, taking memories of lavish sanctuaries and viridian vineyards with you.

Emerald Radiance

Launch Year

2017

Capacity

112

Cabins

Accessible

Sun Deck

Horizon Deck

Vista Deck

Riviera Deck

The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.

Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite

Your Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite offers everything you could possibly need throughout your cruise, and more. You’ll be surrounded by elegant décor and opulent, comfortable furnishings, as you unwind in your home-away-from-home. Relax on your balcony as the stunning landscapes pass by, and transform it from an indoor to an outdoor space with ease, as the floor-to-ceiling window lowers to a halfway point at the touch of a button. Enjoy the river breeze from your comfortable chair, enjoying a good book or the unfolding vistas. Treat yourself to a drink from your suite’s minibar, or use it to keep your complimentary bottle of water chilled, or for any souvenirs that require it.

When it’s time to retire to bed, you can look forward to the exceptional comfort of your queen-size or twin hotel-style bed, complete with luxurious linens. Treat yourself to an indulgent shower with luxury toiletries, to really prepare yourself for an excellent night’s sleep.

Of course, keeping in touch with your loved ones is really easy. Every suite has its own telephone, as well as complimentary Wi-Fi being available throughout the Star-Ship.

Emerald Stateroom

An Emerald Stateroom is home to all the amenities you need to settle into your home-away-from-home. A great size picture window lets in the perfect amount of light, welcoming in the golden summer sunshine, or the winter sun during cooler months.

Comfort is of the highest importance, so each room features individual climate control, allowing you to personalise your room’s temperature to suit your preferences and the time of year you’re cruising.

We’ve designed our bathrooms as a relaxing retreat to retire to after an exciting day exploring. Enjoy a sumptuous shower complete with indulgent toiletries, as well as a hairdryer, all before settling into your queen or twin hotel-style bed, complete with luscious linens, as you enjoy a movie on your flat screen TV and infotainment system with, perhaps, a nightcap from your mini-bar.

If you wish to stay in contact with loved ones throughout your trip, you can do so using your in-suite telephone or our free Wi-Fi available throughout the ship.

Owner's One-Bedroom Suite

Some of the most sumptuous suites on European waterways, our Owners One-Bedroom Suite has it all. A separate lounge and bedroom area allows the luxury of space, from which to enjoy your complimentary continental breakfast in the morning, a drink from your fully stocked minibar or after-dinner sweet treats before bed.

Your queen-size or twin hotel-style bed will be draped in high quality linens, for the perfect night’s sleep, plus you’ll have the pleasure of selecting your preferred pillow from our extensive menu. Get comfortable for the night after a busy day exploring, and prepare for the next as you unwind with a film on your flat screen TV and infotainment system in true comfort.

A walk-in wardrobe makes unpacking even more of a dream. A great space to keep all your belongings and outfits for special occasions, such as your exclusive dinner at the Captain’s Table. You’ll even have the option to have four items laundered a day to ensure that favourite dress or suit is in the best possible condition for your event.

In the morning, enjoy the perfect wake-up call with a fresh coffee from your in-suite Nespresso™ machine. Sip it on the balcony, wrapped in the comfort of your Emerald Cruises bathrobe and slippers after a refreshing shower in your stylish in-suite bathroom, enhanced by luxurious toiletries.

You’ll have so much to tell your loved ones back home, so we’ve made keeping in contact really easy. Not only will you have an in-suite telephone, but complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the Star-Ship and an iPad means you can choose your favourite method of communication, whenever the moment suits.

Four suites available on-board Emerald Sky, Emerald Star, Emerald Destiny, Emerald Sun and Emerald Dawn sailing the Rhine, Main, Danube and Moselle rivers. Two available on Emerald Liberté sailing through France and Emerald Radiance sailing in Portugal.

The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.

Reflections Restaurant

With open seating and elegant design, Reflections Restaurant sets the benchmark in on board dining across our luxury yacht and fleet of boutique Star-Ships. Here, savour delightful chef-prepared meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with dishes inspired by local flavours and a few favourites you may recognise from home.

The Terrace

A beautifully decked area at the front of our Yacht and Star-Ships, The Terrace provides a lovely retreat from which to enjoy a light snack or refreshing drink. Depending on the ship, this partly indoor and outdoor space is a spectacular vantage point from which to soak up the scenery, whatever the weather. This peaceful setting is also a great spot to enjoy a glass of local wine or beer with your loved ones or new-found companions as the wonders of Europe and Asia pass you by – what could be better.

The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.

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Holiday Summary

	Return flights including luggage allowance
	Overseas Transfers
	9 nights cruising on the Douro
	Return airport transfers
	Wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch & dinner
	Gratuities Included
	One complimentary shore excursion in every port
	Bikes for passenger use
	Free Wi-Fi included
	Port Taxes and Fees
	ABTA and ATOL Protection*

	Oceanview	Balcony	Suite
	(All prices are £GBP per person)
Sat 1st Jun 202401 Jun 24	from 3,806
Sat 10th Aug 202410 Aug 24	from 3,262
Sat 19th Apr 202519 Apr 25	from 3,333
Sat 3rd May 202503 May 25	from 3,693
Sat 31st May 202531 May 25	from 3,783
Sat 9th Aug 202509 Aug 25	from 3,513
Sat 6th Sep 202506 Sep 25	from 3,873
Sat 18th Oct 202518 Oct 25	from 4,107