- Several new ships have been launched on the Douro River in the past few years.
- River cruisers are looking for alternative destinations.
- The Douro offers plenty for shore excursions and itineraries.
Several new river cruise ships have launched on Portugal’s Douro River in the past couple of years, and river cruise lines are scrambling to provide more itineraries. Why? Portugal’s Douro River has fast become the hot new alternative to the overcrowded rivers of the rest of Europe. Here’s what the growth has looked like and what’s on offer for those wishing to explore Europe’s newest hot spot… before the crowds descend.
AmaWaterways has most recently made headlines with the introduction of AmaSintra. 2025 also saw the introduction of TravelMarvel’s MS Estrela in April. These ships have joined the ranks of river cruise lines Tauck with the MS Andorinha and Riviera River Cruises’ MS Porto Mirante in 2024.
While these are the lines that have met demand with new builds, several other river cruise lines have recognised the need for extra itineraries, increasing their offerings on the Douro in 2025. CroisiEurope, Uniworld, Emerald and Scenic have all introduced more itineraries to the newly bustling tourism destination.
AmaSintra
The AmaSintra was launched most recently by AmaWaterways and is available for bookings with the Enticing Douro itinerary.
With 102 passengers, the AmaSintra features 51 spacious, elegantly appointed staterooms, most of which include balconies to take in views of Douro River. She boasts all the latest tech, entertainment and high-speed internet.
The brand new vessel will join her sister ships AmaDouro and AmaVida, exploring the Portuguese and Spanish region known for its world-famous wine, scenic beauty and deep locks.
MS Estrela
The MS Estrela was launched by TravelMarvel in April 2025 and was christened in Porto. She is currently sailing on the Douro and is a purpose-built river cruise ship for this region. She has a total of 58 suites for 116 guests. Itineraries onboard the MS Estrela range from nine nights to 14 nights and up to 24 nights.
TravelMarvel and APT Touring have announced a joint venture off the back of the launch of MS Estrela, another ship to be launched in 2028. The new ship is expected to offer yet another luxury river option for both the cruise lines that will share itineraries on both the MS Estrela and the new 2028 arrival in the increasingly popular Douro region.
Avalon Alegria
Explore Portugal’s dazzling Douro River on Avalon Alegria. This 262-foot ship has 14 deluxe staterooms and 37 Panorama Suites, making for a spacious capacity of just 102 passengers. Enjoy the swimming pool and Sky Lounge on the Sun Deck, fitness centre, Observation Lounge and more.
The ship launched just last year and you can read the full review on the inaugural sailing.
MS Andorinha
The MS Andorinha is a newly built riverboat from Tauck, specifically designed for the Douro region also.
The MS Andorinha features 12 suites and 20 cabins, accommodating up to 84 guests. Category three, four and five cabins boast floor-to-ceiling windows with French balconies. All cabins are equipped with in-room movies, minibar, adjustable climate control, and private bathrooms with pampering toiletries.
MS Porto Mirante
The MS Porto Mirante is the newest river cruise ship added by Riviera River Cruises and has provided a new itinerary for cruisers in 2024 on the Douro.
What has Portugal got to offer?
While it’s obvious that cruisers are keen to simply escape the crowds of the rest of Europe’s waterways, the newest hot spots also have to offer significant drawcards. Portugal ticks many boxes, not just for river cruising but for tourism in general. Here are a few of the top reasons why Portugal has taken the top spot as Europe’s new tourism destination for 2025.
Additional Train journeys: In addition to the beautiful Douro River, the entire Douro Valley also has much to offer. Many discerning travellers are choosing to combine their river trips with train travel in Portugal. This provides another way to enjoy the scenic views of the river and the local landscape.Â
Easy access to and from Spain: The Douro River flows through both Portugal and Spain, offering opportunities to explore the historic city of Salamanca, a UNESCO World Heritage site.Â
The historical value of Portugal is world-renowned, with the Douro Valley listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The region possesses ancient monasteries, castles, and charming villages, offering a major tourism drawcard.
The Port Wine is worth a mention on its own. The Douro is the birthplace of Port wine and draws travellers from across the globe purely for the tastings and wineries alone. This is a major attraction for many travellers who say a visit to Portugal must include a visit to the Port wine regions.
The Portuguese way of life is regarded by many as easy-going, warm, welcoming and well set up for tourism. Portugal is also a great gateway for the rest of Europe and offers easy access to most of the major ports of call for visitors to Europe.
