Emerald Cruises has announced an additional one-off Douro River sailing to the end of its 2023 following “unprecedented demand” in the peak booking season.
The eight-day Seasonal Secrets of the Douro sailing will depart on 2 December 2023, offering guests the chance to enjoy some Portuguese winter sunshine on a round-trip sailing from Porto.
Flights are available from nine regional airports. The ship will head inland as far as Pinhão, at the heart of the Douro Valley and famed for its vineyards and local delicacies.
Andrea Stafford, Director Of Trade Sales for Scenic Group, said:
“The Douro is always a fantastic seller for us and this year is no exception. Demand has been high and so we wanted to ensure that we can satisfy as many customers as possible.
“We’ve built up our offering in the region over recent years and adding this extra itinerary effectively extends the season into the winter in the gentlest way.
“It is the perfect cruise for guests who want to relax on board our ships, with plenty of free time to explore the local towns on the way.”
As an additional benefit, Emerald Cruises is also offering guests the chance to extend their holiday, with the option of a three-day break in the capital Lisbon post-cruise.
The add-on includes a centrally located hotel stay on a bed-and-breakfast basis, including all transfers and a guided city tour.
The Seasonal Secrets of the Douro itinerary begins with a full day in Porto, with a guided tour of the region’s maritime past.
At the preserved city of Guimarães, guests can explore museums and monuments, plus a great opportunity to savour the region’s café and restaurant culture.
Alternatively, guests can sample the best wines, and visit Mateus Manor House and the fascinating 18th-century Quinta do Tedo vineyard estate, which still produces wines using traditional techniques.
Back in Porto, a dedicated culinary tour featuring Bolhao Market is a tasty finale for the festive period.
The Seasonal Secrets of the Douro sails a Porto round-trip to Entre-os-Rios, Régua and Pinhão departing 2 December 2023, with prices starting from £1,990 per person.
Guests booking a Europe River Cruise before 31 January 2023 can take advantage of Free Business Class Flights and save up to £1,400 per couple.
Agents making a new river or ocean booking with Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours or Emerald Cruises between 3 January and 28 February 2023 will be entered into a grand prize draw.
Agents will be in the running to win one of six ‘Moments of Wonder’ that showcase some of the amazing ‘Scenic Enrich’ and EmeraldPLUS experiences available to their clients when sailing.
Experiences up for grabs include helicopter rides, private dining and cooking experiences at a five-star restaurant, a private vineyard tour, a luxury evening of wine and whisky tasting with an expert plus spa evenings to name a few.
The events will be hosted by The Scenic Group sales managers across the UK.
Agents interested in working with The Scenic Group should contact their local Sales Manager at agencysales@scenic.co.uk.
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