Abi’s Douro River Cruise 

I was delighted to join the Douro River Cruise and meet One Travellers for the first time. I wanted to follow in the footsteps of our wonderful guests and start at the very beginning, so I joined the Pre-Holiday Get-Together and felt the same feeling of nerves before meeting Tour Managers Lisa and Sharon who made me feel instantly at ease. The group gathered in the hotel bar for a drink, and I was made to feel so welcome by everyone I met. My nerves faded within moments after meeting a fellow ‘first timer’ and several One Travellers who are ‘frequent flyers’ did nothing but reassure and provide a feeling of inclusion. 

The next morning we were on our way, and I sat next to a familiar face on the flight that I had met the night before, which was again very reassuring. Within no time we were in Porto and arrived at our stunning river cruiser, Gil Eanes, our home from home for the week. Michael, the ship’s manager, and his crew all made us feel very welcome and provided an incredibly attentive service. The ship itself was sleek and modern, with a sun deck, pool, loungers, coffee lounge and restaurant. Complimentary Wi-Fi allowed those who wanted to catch up with family and friends to do so with ease. 

Our daily programme was helpfully displayed on the tv in our cabins each morning. This meant we knew the lunch and evening meal menus, our activities’ schedule, and even the cocktail of the day (which of course I had to sample!) right from the off. 

The food on board is excellent with all dietary needs catered for. A buffet breakfast, three-course lunch and four course dinner crafted with local specialities themed to each region was enjoyed by all. Paella in Spain and grilled Sardines in Portugal were just some of our highlights! 

Portugal, and sailing the Douro River in particular, has been on my ‘must do’ list for a while as it perfectly combines the stunning unique landscape of the steep vine-laden terraces of the UNESCO world heritage area with the sedate pace of a river cruise. I enjoyed waking up each day to a new vista from my cabin window, and watching the stunning scenery go by. As one of my shipmates said, “You unpack once and get to see so much of the region as it comes to you!”. 

The excursions were very well planned and thought out to cover a range of highlights from the region. Most days we enjoyed either a morning or afternoon activity, leaving plenty of time for relaxing on board. Highlights include a walking tour of Porto, the Douro Museum, Mateus Palace Gardens, port tasting at a local Quinta and a visit to Aveiro. There was a full day excursion over the border into Spain to Salamanca, comprising of a scenic walking tour and some free time to explore at our own pace. 

For those that prefer a more leisurely pace, the excursions are completely optional. Several of my fellow travellers chose to stay on board at various times, where the attentive crew awaited their every need. Sometimes, simply conversing with new friends, curling up with a book, or enjoying the weather on the sundeck is all you need! 

As a ONE Experience holiday, we had taken over the whole river cruiser, instantly creating a sense of community and familiarity as you knew everyone on board was a fellow One Traveller. I managed to chat with each and every guest and everyone has their story to tell. I’ve learned of so many friendships made during One Traveller holidays. I often heard “oh I’ve travelled with you before”, followed by several conversations about the Black Forest, Austria, Croatia and other holidays shared between guests. First time guests blossomed from feeling slightly reserved on their first day to joining in Flamenco dancing with newly made companions – it was a joy to be part of! 

For those who would like to follow in my footsteps, and enjoy Portugal, the Douro Valley, excellent food, and gentle companionship, the next Douro river cruising dates are available to book now. Click here for more information