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8th08 | AprApr | 202424 | Porto, Portugal, embark on the Scenic Azure | ||||
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, Portugal’s second city. Built on the hills overlooking the mouth of the Douro River, Porto – also referred to as Oporto – this bustling city is the capital of the Northern region. The city was named by the Romans for its port, which was an integral link to Lisbon in the south. It was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its 2,000-year history and many well-preserved buildings and monuments. Your friendly crew are ready to welcome you on board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship. Settle in to your luxurious suite and enjoy a cocktail reception this evening to toast the journey ahead. | |||||||
9th09 | AprApr | 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. Wake in the city of Porto, a 2,000-year-old city that lent its name to the nation of Portugal. And while it is awash in history, it has a youthful vibe. Porto is both hip yet opulent, where street art adorns ancient city walls and historical buildings are decorated with intricate colourful tiles. Freechoice: Decorative blue tiles are synonymous with Portugal and this afternoon you will learn about their history while creating a masterpiece of your own during a tile painting workshop. | |||||||
10th10 | AprApr | 202424 | Entre-os-Rios, Portugal | ||||
Your first port of call along the Douro is the quaint village of Entre-os-Rios. The name means ‘in between the rivers’, as the village is set where the Douro and Tamega rivers meet. The cobbled streets are lined with historic churches and charming houses built in traditional architectural styles. From here, you will set out to explore the verdant Douro Valley, with options to enjoy a hike, sample local wines, or visit a city known as the ‘cradle of Portugal’. Freechoice: Relax on board this afternoon as you cruise to Regua, the largest of the riverside towns and an excellent base for exploring the Douro Valley. This region is famous for producing Port wine, with rolling vineyards on the terraced hillsides and wineries dating back to the 18th century. Upon arrival this afternoon you can enjoy a visit to the excellent Douro Museum. Learn about the history, culture and traditions of the region of the Douro Valley at Douro Museum. It’s set in a fully restored 18th century building that once housed The Company, which was responsible for the demarcation of Douro wines, as well as being a place where wines and winemaking tools were stored. After the museum visit, enjoy a drink of local port or port tonic on the terrace overlooking the magnificent Douro Valley. | |||||||
10th10 | AprApr | 202424 | Régua, Portugal | ||||
11th11 | AprApr | 202424 | Régua, Portugal | ||||
Awake in Regua, where the ship has remained docked overnight. Why not ask your butler to bring coffee to your suite if you would like a slower start to the day? All guests will enjoy a morning excursion to the Varosa Valley, which was the first demarcation region of sparkling wine. Freechoice: | |||||||
12th12 | AprApr | 202424 | Régua, Portugal | ||||
Today you’ll enjoy a relaxing day on board, as you sail towards Vega de Terron. Spend the morning soaking up the sunshine on the Sun Deck as you enjoy the Douro scenery rolling during a full day cruise through the Douro Valley’s Vinhateiro wine growing region. A World Heritage-listed Site, Vinhateiro has a history of wine production that stretches back for 2,000 years. In fact, its impeccable port wines have been world-famous since at least the 18th century. Perhaps you’d like to spend some time in the state-of-the-art gym for an invigorating workout or wind down in the wellness centre with a relaxing massage. | |||||||
12th12 | AprApr | 202424 | Vega de Terrón, Spain | ||||
13th13 | AprApr | 202424 | Vega de Terrón, Spain | ||||
Wake this morning in the city of Vega de Terron, located on the border of Portugal and Spain and at the confluence of the Douro and Águeda rivers. This small town remains beautifully unspoiled, with quiet streets, lush landscapes and welcoming locals. It’s a popular gateway to the university town of Salamanca, which you will have the opportunity to explore today. Freechoice: | |||||||
13th13 | AprApr | 202424 | Salamanca, Spain | ||||
14th14 | AprApr | 202424 | Pocinho, Portugal | ||||
Wake in the village of Pocinho. There’s not much to the village, which was established as the terminus of the Douro Railway in 1887, though it’s a great location to explore more of the Douro Valley. Perhaps savour a coffee delivered to your suite by your personal butler before heading off for the day. Freechoice: This afternoon, relax as you cruise towards Pinhão. Spend time in your suite, many of which have a window that converts into a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you uninterrupted views to watch a rolling tapestry of river life as you cruise the Douro. Or head to the Panorama Lounge & Bar to enjoy a regional port wine. | |||||||
14th14 | AprApr | 202424 | Pinhão, Portugal | ||||
15th15 | AprApr | 202424 | Pinhão, Portugal | ||||
Wake this morning in Pinhão, set on one of the prettiest parts of the Douro River. This small village is surrounded by terraced vineyards and produces exceptional port wine. Look out for the charming riverside train station, which is decorated with azulejos (hand-painted tiles) depicting the annual grape harvest. From here, you’ll join your fellow guests for an excursion to Provesende. This morning, all guests will be transferred to the charming village of Provesende, located on a plateau with spectacular views of the region’s fertile rolling landscape. Wander through the village and visit the church where you’ll watch a piano recital, help to bake bola (donut-like pastries) in the old bakery, learn how traditional handicraft is made, and look inside the historic manor house where you’ll enjoy the bola that you made earlier. Freechoice: | |||||||
16th16 | AprApr | 202424 | Pinhão, Portugal | ||||
Enjoy time at leisure as you continue to sail along the spectacular Douro River. Your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive back in Porto this afternoon, where you’ll experience an exclusive classical concert tonight. Enrich | |||||||
16th16 | AprApr | 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. | |||||||
17th17 | AprApr | 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. Wake in Porto, ready for a day of unique experiences, whether that be a ride on a traditional boat, playing a round of golf or sampling wine in one of the most famous cellars in the city. Freechoice: This afternoon you will have free time in Porto to explore the city at your own leisure. Return to your Scenic Space-Ship this evening for a farewell dinner. Tonight, you will take an illumination cruise through Porto to see the city lit up at night, including the bridges that span the Douro. | |||||||
18th18 | AprApr | 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. Board an included flight from Porto to Lyon where you will board the luxurious Scenic Sapphire for your 10 night cruise along the Saône and Rhône Rivers. | |||||||
18th18 | AprApr | 202424 | Lyon, France | ||||
19th19 | AprApr | 202424 | Lyon, France | ||||
Perhaps wake up to a coffee delivered to your suite by your personal butler and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Crystal Dining as your Scenic Space-Ship cruises along the Saône River. You will be sailing towards Chalon-sur-Saône. An idyllic base for exploring the Burgundy wine region, Chalon-sur-Saône is a charming town with half-timbered houses and a magnificent Gothic cathedral just south of Beaune, often referred to as the epicentre for oenophiles. Freechoice: | |||||||
19th19 | AprApr | 202424 | Chalon-sur-Saône, France | ||||
20th20 | AprApr | 202424 | Tournus, France | ||||
Your Scenic Space-Ship will depart Chalon-sur-Saône early this morning and sail to Tournus, a riverside town founded by the Romans, its dominating abbey a splendid example of Romanesque architecture. Freechoice: Tonight, your on board Chef has specially sourced local Truffles and will cook an extraordinary welcome dinner showcasing the regions Truffles. | |||||||
21st21 | AprApr | 202424 | Tournon-sur-Rhône, France | ||||
This morning your Space-Ship will arrive in Tournon, a hillside village with terraced vineyards, an enchanting castle dating back to the 10th century and quaint cobblestoned streets. Freechoice: This afternoon enjoy a refreshing drink on the terrace of Tournon Castle. This ancient castle holds prime position overlooking the Rhône river and the surrounding terraced vineyards. | |||||||
22nd22 | AprApr | 202424 | Avignon, France | ||||
This morning you’ll have time to relax on board as your Scenic Space-Ship cruises towards the city of Avignon in Provence. Known as the City of the Popes, Avignon is rich in history and astounding medieval architecture but has a youthful energy to it with a buzzing arts scene. The former 14th century papal capital is circled by city walls, home to the magnificent World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes (Pope’s Palace), one of the largest surviving Gothic palaces in Europe, and the remaining four arches of the famous Pont d’Avignon bridge, which was once the only way to cross the Rhône between Lyon and the Mediterranean Sea. Freechoice: Enrich | |||||||
23rd23 | AprApr | 202424 | Avignon, France | ||||
Avignon is known as the gateway to Provence, a region blanketed in vineyards and lavender fields, rolling hills and historic villages. Today you will have the chance to explore more of this captivating part of southern France. Freechoice: | |||||||
24th24 | AprApr | 202424 | Arles, France | ||||
Leaving Avignon early this morning, your Scenic Space-Ship will depart for Arles. Founded by Julius Caesar, this city is rich in Roman history and is thought to have the largest number of Roman ruins after The Eternal City itself. It was also home to Vincent Van Gogh in 1888, who drew inspiration from the landscape for a multitude of his paintings and drawings. Freechoice: This afternoon is free to explore Arles at your own pace or return to your Scenic Space-Ship and indulge in an on board painting class. Vincent Van Gogh once said that 'The whole future of art is to be found in the South of France' this is just one example of the high regard this region is held by artists the world over. Learn about the artistic heritage of this region while painting a masterpiece of your own. | |||||||
25th25 | AprApr | 202424 | Viviers, France | ||||
This morning you will arrive in Viviers, often described as an open-air museum for its rich medieval heritage and architecture. Freechoice: Freechoice: | |||||||
26th26 | AprApr | 202424 | Cruising | ||||
27th27 | AprApr | 202424 | Lyon, France | ||||
Wake up this morning in Lyon. This fascinating city rivals Paris in the culinary stakes, was home to prestigious chef Paul Bocuse and the Lumiere brothers who invented the cinematograph, has a long history of silk production, and comprises ancient Roman ruins and fascinating subterranean passageways that date to the 4th century. Freechoice: The afternoon is free to wander the cobbled streets of Lyon. Perhaps you’d like to spend time sampling local dishes in a bouchon ‘local eating houses’ or head to the Le Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, an undercover gourmet market that will tickle your tastebuds. This evening, a local pâtissier will come on board with a selection of their finest desserts for your dining pleasure. | |||||||
28th28 | AprApr | 202424 | Lyon, France, disembark the Scenic Azure | ||||
Depart after a wonderful farewell breakfast. Lyon is the end of your cruise, but it will be the start of a lifetime of wonderful memories.Transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK. This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions. ^Massage/spa treatments at additional cost. |
The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.
At 420ft², this is the largest suite on the ship. Located on the Diamond Deck, both suites enjoy fantastic views of the passing scenery from your private balcony complete with Scenic Sun Lounge. Each Suite has a separate lounge area and a luxurious bathroom offering a separate bath and shower.
Standard Suites are located on the Jewel Deck with large picture windows to ensure a great view. They have a spacious design and clever layout alongside all the usual luxurious amenities and furnishings.
The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.
The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.
The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.
The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.
Return flights including luggage allowance | |||
Overseas Transfers | |||
20 nights cruising on the Douro | |||
Return airport transfers | |||
All alcoholic & non alcoholic beverages included | |||
Gratuities Included | |||
Choice of shore excursions In each port | |||
Exclusive special events | |||
GPS Guides for independent trips ashore | |||
Speciality restaurants included | |||
Bikes for passenger use | |||
Butler Service | |||
In-room Mini Bar | |||
Room Service | |||
Free Wi-Fi Included | |||
Port Taxes and Fees | |||
ABTA and ATOL Protection* |
Date 8th Apr 2024 |
Nts 20 |
Prices from £10,615pp |
Date 8th Apr 2024 |
Nts 20 |
Prices from £10,615pp |
Fusion Cruises when selling travel arrangements is a trading name of The Midcounties Co-operative Ltd. Fusion Cruises is an Accredited Body Member of Midcounties Co-operative Travel Consortium. (ABTA:P6652, ATOL:6053).
Book with Confidence. We are a Member of ABTA which means you have the benefit of ABTA’s assistance and Code of Conduct.
Some of the flights and flight-inclusive holidays on this website are financially protected by the ATOL scheme but ATOL protection does not apply to all holiday and travel services offered on this website. This website will provide you with information on the protection that applies in the case of each holiday and travel service offered before you make your booking. If you do not receive an ATOL Certificate then the booking will not be ATOL protected. If you do receive an ATOL Certificate but all parts of your trip are not listed on it, those parts will not be ATOL protected. Please see our booking conditions for information, or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: www.caa.co.uk