The Douro River is one of the longest on the Iberian Peninsula, but it is also one of the most important in Portugal. With a centuries-old history that inevitably links it to the Port wine cellars, it offers a unique landscape. That’s why embarking on a long or short boat trip on the Douro is a must, especially in spring and summer.
Whether it’s aboard a fantastic Rabelo boat or a romanticdate to enjoy the sunset, there are plenty of possibilities to enjoy the Douro without leaving the cities of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. However, there are other tours that take you a little further afield, where you can contemplate the Douro Wine Region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
For locals and tourists alike , here’s a list focused in particular on the proximity factor. However, without forgetting the stunning landscapes adorned by valleys, dams and more. With longer days ahead, or the sun beckoning us to outdoor activities, shall we embark on a journey to remember?
Table Of Contents
6 Bridges Cruise
Here’s a cliché to start with . However, it doesn’t make sense to write an article about boat trips in Porto without mentioning the “6 Bridges Cruise”. Besides, a classic is always a classic. So this really is one of those activities for tourists, but which you should do at least once in your life.
Around here, we can’t resist embarking on this experience more than once, especially when we have friends from abroad visiting Invicta. For about an hour, the trip usually takes place on board a traditional Rabelo boat, although there are also other types of boat. In any case, the tour takes you to see the city’s six iconic bridges.
During the trip, either through specialized guides or audio guides, various curiosities about the bridges are shared. If you want to try it out, or do it again, these are some of the operators that offer this tourist service:
- Douro Azul;
- PortoDouro;
- TomazdoDouro;
- RentDouro;
- Cruzeiros Douro, among others.
Speedboat Tour
If you like less conventional, high-speed experiences, then this is the perfect suggestion for you. Far from the serenity of the “6 Bridges Cruise”, on the Speedboat Tour you can enjoy an adrenaline-fueled trip over the Douro bridges to the Freixo Palace.
Departing from the Douro Marina in Gaia, the tour lasts around 45 minutes and takes you to several emblematic points along the banks, but also to feel the sea breeze. Along the way, take plenty of photos.
Sailboat with Port Wine
This tip is valid for a variety of scenarios, whether you’re enjoying it with friends or on a romanticdate. Departing from Douro Marina, BBDouro offers a different kind of trip aboard a sailboat , along the shores of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.
While you enjoy some of the most beautiful monuments seen from the river, you can relax and feel the breeze. And you want to know more? During this boat trip on the Douro, you also get a glass of Port wine.
Sailing in an amphibious bus
This is one of the newest tourist attractions in the cities of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. The ‘yellow ducks’, as Porto Duck Tours’ amphibious buses have come to be known, offer a unique experience between land and water.
The ‘ducks’ have the particularity of being original World War II vehicles. If you’re interested in getting on board, the best thing to do is to book online to avoid confusion, or getting there when all the seats are full.
Each trip lasts approximately 1h15 and departs from Jardim do Morro to Afurada by road, plus a 30-minute boat trip on the Douro. Tickets cost €29 for adults, €17 for children/teenagers (up to 16 years old) and seniors (aged 65 and over).
Party Boat Tour
This suggestion is a little different from the previous ones, as it’ s not a ‘traditional’ boat trip. Instead, it’s a party in the middle of the Douro River. For a date for two, or an outing with friends, this is an option to consider.
Around here, there’s music with a DJ on board, drinks and cocktails that promise to liven up the party for around two hours. An experience for the more adventurous party-goers who can’t do without a good evening out.
Private Sailing Experience Douro River
Porto: Sailing Experience ao longo do Douro - 5 · 2 reviews
There are many ways to feel the breeze on the Douro River, but if you’re on a sailing boat, it’ s even better. Departing from the Douro Marina, this experience lasts 2h30, with check-in 15 minutes before the start of the tour.
The BBDouro experience is available from Monday to Sunday, at 10.30 a.m. or 2.30 p.m., for one or a maximum of five people. However, it is recommended that you contact the navigator, as during the high season times and conditions may change.
Boat trip from Porto to Pinhão
To finish off this list on a high note, now it’ s time to sail up the Douro, ‘exploring’ one of Portugal’s most breathtaking landscapes. Departing from Cais da Estiva or Cais de Gaia (to be confirmed with the reservations team), you can take a boat trip from Porto to Pinhão.
The idea is to escape the stress of the city and get to know the Douro Wine Region, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The trip can include breakfast and lunch – check all the details before departure – but also wine tasting and panoramic views.