Sailing along the picturesque Douro River and the Atlantic coast of Porto is a captivating experience that allows travelers to enjoy the city’s rich history and natural beauty. This private 3-hour cruise, led by an experienced multilingual guide, promises to be a highlight of any Portugal itinerary. Departing from the Marina de Leça, guests can expect stunning views of Matosinhos and the historic Ribeira district as they actively participate in the sailing. With complimentary refreshments on board, this highly-rated adventure on the water is sure to leave a lasting impression. But what makes this cruise stand out from the rest?
Key Points
- A private 3-hour sailing experience on the Douro River and Atlantic coast, priced at £158.18 for up to 2 participants.
- Experienced live guide fluent in multiple languages and opportunities for guests to actively participate in sailing the boat.
- Complimentary refreshments, including water, soda, beer, and local Port wine, are provided during the cruise.
- The tour features scenic views of Matosinhos and historic Ribeira, and is suitable for individuals aged 18 and above.
- The meeting point is at Marina de Leça, Pontoon D, place D26, and participants are required to bring appropriate attire and ID.
Cruise Overview
This 3-hour private sailing experience on the Douro River and Atlantic coast offers a unique opportunity to explore the picturesque landscapes of Porto.
Priced at £158.18 for up to 2 participants, the cruise can be reserved with a pay-later option and features free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
The meeting point is at the Marina de Leça (Marina Porto Atlântico), Pontoon D, place D26.
Guests will sail on a Beneteau First 35s5 boat designed by renowned yacht designers Jean Berret and Philippe Stark, while enjoying water, soda, beer, and local Port wine.
The itinerary includes sailing to Matosinhos, Porto District, and Ribeira, providing panoramic views of the city.
Want to keep it personal? More private experiences we love in Matosinhos
Experience Highlights
The 3-hour sailing tour features an experienced live guide who can converse in English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish.
Guests will sail on a sleek Beneteau First 35s5 boat designed by renowned yacht designers Jean Berret and Philippe Stark.
The itinerary includes sailing to Matosinhos, Porto’s scenic district, and the historic Ribeira waterfront, offering panoramic views.
Refreshments such as water, soda, beer, and local Port wine are provided throughout the journey.
Participants can also actively engage in the sailing experience by steering the boat and trimming the sails.
The combination of knowledgeable guidance, comfortable vessel, and opportunities for hands-on sailing make this cruise a highlight of any visit to Porto.
Safety and Preparation
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, the tour begins with a brief 5-minute safety briefing. Guests are advised to wear wind jackets and shoes with rubber soles, as the boat ride may encounter changing weather conditions. Please note that the cruise is not suitable for individuals with back problems. Participants should bring their passport or ID, as these will be required. Smoking and pets are not allowed on board.
| Preparation | Safety | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Wear wind jackets | 5-minute safety briefing | Not suitable for back problems |
| Wear shoes with rubber soles | Bring passport or ID | No smoking or pets allowed |
| Check weather conditions |
Traveler Reviews
Guests who’ve experienced the private Douro River cruise have overwhelmingly positive reviews, awarding it an impressive 4.9/5 rating based on 15 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise the professionalism, friendliness, and knowledge of the crew, which enhances the overall experience. Many highlight the scenic views, the opportunity to participate in sailing activities, and the complimentary refreshments as trip highlights.
Guests also emphasize the great value for money, describing the tour as a must-do activity when visiting Porto.
The combination of the stunning natural surroundings, the interactive sailing experience, and the attentive service from the crew make this Douro River cruise a resounding success among travelers.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyAvailability and Itinerary
Availability for the private Douro River cruise can be checked on the booking platform, with various starting times offered throughout the day.
The 3-hour itinerary typically includes sailing to Matosinhos, Porto District, and the historic Ribeira neighborhood, providing panoramic views of the city.
While the exact route may be subject to change based on weather and river conditions, the cruise promises a scenic and immersive experience along the picturesque Douro River and Atlantic coast.
Guests are encouraged to inquire about availability and confirm the itinerary details prior to booking to ensure the cruise best aligns with their preferences and expectations.
Refreshments and Activities
The cruise offers a selection of refreshments to enjoy while sailing the Douro River. Guests will be provided with water, soda, beer, and local Port wine throughout the 3-hour excursion. This allows them to indulge in the flavors of the region as they take in the panoramic views of the Porto district and Ribeira.
Along With the refreshments, the experience also includes the opportunity to actively participate in the sailing activities. Guests can try their hand at steering the boat or trimming the sails, giving them a hands-on taste of life on the water.
With knowledgeable crew members guiding the way, the cruise provides a well-rounded and immersive experience for all participants.
Meeting Point and Transportation
At the Marina de Leça (Marina Porto Atlântico), guests will find the meeting point for their sailing adventure on the Douro River.
Located on Pontoon D, in place D26, the marina provides a convenient starting point for the 3-hour cruise. Guests can look forward to:
- Arriving at the designated meeting point in a timely manner
- Being welcomed by the friendly and knowledgeable crew
- Receiving a brief safety briefing before setting sail
- Embarking on the Beneteau First 35s5 boat for the scenic journey
The meeting point is easily accessible, ensuring a smooth start to the excursion and allowing guests to fully enjoy the stunning views of the Douro River and the Atlantic coast.
Important Information
Guests would do well to check availability for starting times, as itineraries are subject to change. Participants receive a reminder about weather conditions before the trip, so they can prepare accordingly.
Though the cruise is generally suitable for most, it’s not recommended for individuals with back problems. Smoking and pets aren’t allowed on board. Guests should bring their passport or ID, and wear appropriate attire, including wind jackets and rubber-soled shoes.
The sailing experience is designed to be safe and enjoyable, with a brief safety briefing at the start. This cruise offers a scenic and engaging way to explore the Douro River and the Porto coastline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is This Cruise Suitable for Children?
The cruise is not specifically designed for children. While children are welcome, the experience may be more suitable for adults due to the optional sailing activities and the potential for weather changes during the 3-hour duration.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Guests are generally not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on this cruise. The package includes water, soda, beer, and local Port wine. Outside food and beverages are typically not permitted, as the cruise provides a comprehensive refreshment service for passengers.
Is There Any Additional Equipment Provided?
The cruise provides participants with a life jacket, safety equipment, and basic sailing gear. Guests can also use the boat’s built-in safety features and navigational tools during the experience, though bringing their own equipment isn’t necessary.
Can I Request a Specific Departure Time?
Yes, guests can request a specific departure time for the 3-hour sailing experience. The cruise operator offers flexible scheduling and will accommodate requests based on availability.
Is There a Bathroom on the Boat?
Yes, the boat has a small bathroom on board for guest use during the cruise. Guests are advised to take advantage of restrooms before departure as the on-board facilities are limited in size.
Recap
Sailing along the Douro River and Atlantic coast, this private Porto cruise offers an immersive and scenic experience. With an experienced guide, complimentary refreshments, and the opportunity to participate in sailing, it’s a highly-rated adventure that showcases the stunning beauty of the city. Departing from the Marina de Leça, this 3-hour cruise is a memorable way to explore Porto’s waterways.
You can check if your dates are available here: