The story of S.S. São Rafael begins with Portugal’s great age of exploration. The ship’s name is a direct reference to one of the vessels that sailed alongside Vasco da Gama on his first voyage to India in 1497. While São Gabriel served as the flagship, São Rafael travelled beside it under the command of Paulo da Gama – a powerful symbol of partnership, shared purpose and discovery, and the inspiration behind this newest addition to Uniworld’s Douro fleet.

Joining as a brother ship to S.S. São Gabriel, S.S. São Rafael expands Uniworld’s much-loved voyages along the Douro River, doubling capacity on a river that continues to captivate those who discover it. As interest in the Douro Valley grows, this addition allows more guests to experience one of Europe’s most beautiful – and still quietly underappreciated – river journeys.

Sailing the Douro is unlike any other European river experience. Carved deep into northern Portugal, the river winds through a dramatic landscape of terraced vineyards, sun-warmed hillsides and timeless riverside towns. Life here unfolds at a gentler pace, shaped by centuries of winemaking, craftsmanship and tradition. From the water, the valley reveals itself slowly and spectacularly, offering a sense of immersion that feels both rare and deeply rewarding.

Gratuities for onboard personnel (ship staff, crew, Cruise/Tour Manager) are included during the cruise/tour.

Your Uniworld stateroom is a chic yet cosy cocoon- ideally designed for a daytime catnap and full-night’s rest alike. Your bed is handcrafted by Savoir® of England bed-makers to the world’s finest hotels, including London’s legendary Savoy Hotel. Your bed is dressed in divine linens of the highest quality and topped with a fluffy duvet and you always have your choice of pillow options to ensure the most restful sleep.

Your bathroom is adorned in gleaming floor-to-ceiling marble. They’ve even added special touches, such as backlit magnifying mirrors. Daily housekeeping keeps things tidy, and evening turndown service always features a scrumptious surprise.

Culinary Excellence

We treat cooking as an art form, a very delicious art form.

Enjoy an Unrivaled Taste of your Destinations

When dining onboard, you’ll be treated to world-class cuisine made from fresh ingredients, locally sourced from the destinations you visit.

From Farm to Ship

Farm-to-table isn’t just a trendy culinary buzzword around here. It’s a governing philosophy and commitment to serving you the very best local dishes created by our master chefs. When in Italy, dinner may consist of Prosciutto di Parma pizza and Osso Buco Milanese, prepared to your liking, with meats and vegetables sourced from just miles away. After a day immersed in Indian culture, your taste buds may do some immersing of their own with Gajar Shorba and Tandoori Chicken Tikka for lunch. Live brilliantly. Dine locally.

Creative Culinary Options

For those interested in healthier dining options, our Traveling Lite menu conveniently highlights the lightest dinner options every evening. We also offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, as well as gluten-free replacements upon request. If you have a specific meal preference, just ask. Our chefs will be happy to accommodate.

With S.S. São Rafael sailing alongside its brother ship, S.S. São Gabriel, Uniworld opens the door wider to one of river cruising’s best-kept secrets. Together, they offer an invitation to experience the Douro as it was meant to be seen – from the river, unhurried and immersive, revealing the enduring beauty and heritage of Portugal at every turn.

Aboard the S.S. São Rafael, guests are given exceptional access to this remarkable region. Scenic cruising brings the Douro’s evolving beauty into full view, while carefully chosen ports allow for meaningful exploration ashore – from historic quintas and wine estates to villages where daily life remains closely tied to the bounty of the valley. The experience feels transporting, carrying guests not only through place, but through time..

Wanderlust Meets Wellness
Onboard and onshore

All our cruises feature several options to get up, get going and stay fit, both onboard and onshore. Our seasoned wellness experts have an average tenure of ten years with Uniworld and continuously hone their craft with annual Ayurveda yoga and other trainings. They are there to lend their expertise to you.

All-Inclusive Family River Cruises

Every Uniworld Generations cruise includes special programs, events and excursions designed specifically for your world travellers in training.