Itinerary

Day 1 Porto, Portugal

Your journey starts in Australia. On arrival into Porto you will be privately transferred to your hotel where you will spend your first 2 nights. 

 

Welcome to Porto, Portugal's second city. Built on the hills overlooking the mouth of the Douro River, Porto – also referred to as Oporto - this bustling city is the capital of the Northern region. The city was named by the Romans for its port, which was an integral link to Lisbon in the south. It was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its 2,000-year history and many well-preserved buildings and monuments.

Day 2 Porto, Portugal

After breakfast, enjoy the day at lesiure.

Day 3 Porto, Portugal - Embarkation day

After breakfast, enjoy the rest of the day in Porto before making your way down to the pier for embarkation.

Your friendly crew are ready to welcome you on board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship. Settle in to your luxurious suite and enjoy a cocktail reception this evening to toast the journey ahead.

Overnight in Port.

Day 4 Porto, Portugal

Wake in the city of Porto, a 2,000-year-old city that lent its name to the nation of Portugal. And while it is awash in history, it has a youthful vibe. Porto is both hip yet opulent, where street art adorns ancient city walls and historical buildings are decorated with intricate colourful tiles. 

Freechoice: Explore the region with one of this morning's Scenic Freechoice excursions: 

Guided tour of Porto: Discover the rich culture and history of Porto on this guided tour, which includes a visit to the iconic Palacio da Bolsa. Located in the heart of the city, this 19th-century neoclassical building boasts stunning architecture and intricate detail, including the Arab Room, adorned with stunning Moorish-inspired decorations and with a ceiling made entirely of gold leaf. After your guided tour you have ample free time so why not explore the Bolhao Markets? This historic market has been in operation since 1914 and offers visitors a glimpse into the local food and culture. It's a great way to mingle with locals and enjoy the bustling atmosphere. 

Active tour of Porto including cable car: Walk from the ship to board a rabelo (a traditional wooden cargo boat). Travel from Porto to Gaia (or Vila Nova de Gaia) where you'll take a cable car ride to the Dom Luis bridge, which crosses the Douro River. Walk across the bridge towards Porto Cathedral, Sao Bento railway station, and the bustling street of Rua das Flores. 

Decorative blue tiles are synonymous with Portugal and this afternoon you will learn about their history while creating a masterpiece of your own during a tile painting workshop.

Day 5 Entre-os-Rios to Regua

Your first port of call along the Douro is the quaint village of Entre-os-Rios. From here, you will set out to explore the verdant Douro Valley, with options to enjoy a hike, sample local wines, or visit a city known as the 'cradle of Portugal'.

Freechoice: Choose from one of today's Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Paiva Walkways: Explore nature at its finest on an active hike along the Paiva River. A wooden walkway snakes its way down a rocky hillside in Arouca Geopark, a UNESCO Global Geopark comprising a mountainscape carved by rivers, and the longest suspended pedestrian bridge in the world, at 520 metres long. This active tour requires a high degree of fitness due to a large number of stairs, uneven terrain and a walking distance of approximately 4 kilometres.

Quinta da Aveleda: Transfer by coach to this 150-year-old wine producer for a tour and tasting. Explore the fairytale-like property of Quinta Aveleda, a renowned sparkling wine producer set on an impressive estate. A highlight of this tour are the enchanting gardens.

Excursion to Guimaraes: Fondly referred to as the birthplace of Portugal, Guimaraes was the seat of the first King of Portugal and home to the impressive Ducal Palace. Visit the well-preserved UNESCO World Heritage-listed city and explore the palace, which dates to the 15th century and displays an historic collection of tapestries, furniture, ceramics, weapons and more. You will also have free time to explore the city on your own.

Relax on board this afternoon as you cruise to Regua, the largest of the riverside towns and an excellent base for exploring the Douro Valley. This region is famous for producing Port wine, with rolling vineyards on the terraced hillsides and wineries dating back to the 18th century. Upon arrival this afternoon you can enjoy a visit to the excellent Douro Museum.

Learn about the history, culture and traditions of the region of the Douro Valley at Douro Museum. It's set in a fully restored 18th century building that once housed The Company, which was responsible for the demarcation of Douro wines, as well as being a place where wines and winemaking tools were stored. After the museum visit, enjoy a drink of local port or port tonic on the terrace overlooking the magnificent Douro Valley.

Day 6 Regua

This morning join you fellow guests for an excursion to the Varosa Valley, the first demarcation region of sparkling wine. Visit the charming village of Tarouca where you'll explore the restored Monastery of Saint John of Tarouca. Walk the fortified bridge of Ucanha, Portugal's first toll bridge spanning the Varosa River which was built during the 14th and 15th centuries. (Please note: The Monastery St. John of Tarouca is closed on Monday's and will be replaced with a Vila Real visit with Tasting at Casa Lapao)

Freechoice: Choose one of this afternoon's Scenic Freechoice activities:

Excursion to Lamego: Take a coach to the town of Lamego, nestled among terraced vineyards that were the first to produce world-famous port wine. The city prospered in the 18th century and is a fascinating place to wander, with its many fine Baroque structures. Your tour will culminate at the stunning Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, standing gracefully overlooking the town. The front of the cathedral is lined by a zigzagged staircase decorated in traditional blue and white tiled mosaics leading down to the town centre. You will have the option to take a self-guided tour of the museum and will be offered a tasting of local produce.

Mateus Palace: Transfer by coach to Mateus Palace, considered one of the best examples of Baroque civil architecture in Portugal. Built in the first half of the 18th century, the former family home features rooms with original furniture and ornately carved ceilings; a library that contains one of the first illustrated editions of Os Lusiadas, Portugal's most significant epic poem; and a manicured garden dotted with statues, hedges, a cypress tunnel and reflective ponds.

Port Wine Blending Class: Ever wanted to know how an oenologist creates their beautiful blends? Well today you will find out. Visit Quinta de Pacheca and marvel at the glorious vineyards and old cellar before taking a hands on workshop where you will learn about the blending process.

Day 7 Regua to Vega de Terron

Today you'll enjoy a relaxing day on board, as you sail towards Vega de Terron.

Spend the morning soaking up the sunshine on the Sun Deck as you enjoy the Douro scenery rolling during a full day cruise through the Douro Valley's Vinhateiro wine growing region. A World Heritage-listed Site, Vinhateiro has a history of wine production that stretches back for 2,000 years. In fact, its impeccable port wines have been world-famous since at least the 18th century.

Day 8 Vega de Terron to Salamanca

Wake this morning in the city of Vega de Terron, located on the border of Portugal and Spain and at the confluence of the Douro and Agueda rivers. This small town remains beautifully unspoiled, with quiet streets, lush landscapes and welcoming locals. It's a popular gateway to the university town of Salamanca, which you will have the opportunity to explore today.

Freechoice: Explore your way with one of today's Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Salamanca Full Day Excursion: Known as the 'golden city' for its honey-coloured sandstone architecture. Salamanca is home to two cathedrals, one dating to the 12th century and the other to the 16th century, which you will see on today's guided tour. You will also visit a market to taste local delicacies such as olives, cheese and smoked ham, and you'll have free time to explore and enjoy lunch at your leisure.

Freixo de Espada a Cinta with silk museum: Visit the village of Freixo de Espada a Cinta. Legend has it the Dinis King of Portugal founded the town in the 14th century. The town is also the only place in Portugal where handcrafted silk is still processed entirely by hand, and on this guided tour you will visit a silk museum.

Day 9 Pocinho to Pinhao

Wake in the village of Pocinho, established as the terminus of the Douro Railway in 1887, a great location to explore more of the Douro Valley.

Freechoice: Explore your way with one of this morning's Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Coa Valley Museum: Transfer by coach to the Coa Valley Museum. The museum is a great introduction to the region's paleolithic rock art sites through original artefacts and digital technology; on your visit you'll enjoy a pre-historic workshop.

Tastes of the Coa Valley: Visit Casa Painova estate for a demonstration on how sweet almonds are produced and learn how these nuts are harvested and used in desserts and pastries. Enjoy a tasting of almonds, olives and fruit products.

This afternoon, relax as you cruise towards Pinhao.

Day 10 Pinhao

Wake this morning in Pinhao, set on one of the prettiest parts of the Douro River. This small village is surrounded by terraced vineyards and produces exceptional port wine.

This morning, transfer to the charming village of Provesende, located on a plateau with spectacular views of the region's fertile rolling landscape. Wander through the village and visit the church, discover the old bakery, learn how traditional handicraft is made, and look inside the historic manor house, Morgadio da Calçada, where you'll enjoy a tasting of delicious bola.

Freechoice: Choose one of this afternoon's Scenic Freechoice activities:

Kayaking along the Pinhao River: Explore this beautiful region as you glide past impressive landscapes of terraced vineyards, patchworked farmland and sprawling estates via kayak on the Pinhao River, a tributary of the Douro.

Quinta vineyard hiking: Take a guided hike through the breathtaking vineyards of Quinta in the Douro Valley. Enjoy stunning views across the Douro River, learn about the winemaking process and sample some of their wines.

Quinta tasting: Visit Quinta da Roeda estate for a tasting of the region's most famous export. On a guided walking tour, you'll learn the secrets of the vineyard. Finish in the estate's visitors' centre, housed in the old stables that have been restored in traditional Douro style, the perfect location for a tasting of port wines.

Day 11 Pinhao to Porto

Enjoy time at leisure as you continue to sail along the spectacular Douro River. Your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive back in Porto this afternoon, where you'll experience an exclusive classical concert tonight.

This evening's Scenic Enrich:
Classical concert in Sao Francisco Church: From the ship, take a short walk (with some stairs) to Sao Francisco Church, which is one of the most iconic sites in Porto. Built in the 13th century, the Gothic church has an alter decorated with intricately carved wood swathed in gold. All guests will enjoy a performance of classical music.

Day 12 Porto, Portugal

Wake in Porto, ready for a day of unique experiences, whether that be a ride on a traditional boat, playing a round of golf or sampling wine in one of the most famous cellars in the city.

Freechoice: Explore your way with one of today's Scenic Freechoice activities:

Excursion to Aveiro with a cruise: Take a coach to Aveiro, a city resplendent in Art Nouveau architecture and famed for its canals. Enjoy a guided walking tour of the city and cruise the waterways in a brightly coloured moliceiros flat-bottomed boat.

Round of golf: Golfing enthusiasts will have the opportunity to tee off here in Porto, a city known for its top golf courses. Play 6 holes at the Quinta do Fojo Golf club, one of Porto's most popular courses. Quinta do Fojo is a spectacular course set in a walled estate which houses gardens, lakes, woods and a historical Manor House, founded in 1714. This activity is for experienced golfers only and to participate guests must bring their 'Golf Handicap Certificate'. If this is not provided you will be unable to participate in this Scenic Freechoice activity. It is recommended that participants bring sunscreen and a hat with them.

Wine tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia: Travel to Vila Nova de Gaia to visit one of Porto's most famous cellars, Cockburn's Port. Enjoy a guided visit and a tasting.

This afternoon you will have free time in Porto to explore the city at your own leisure. Return to your Scenic Space-Ship this evening for a farewell dinner.

This evening you will take an illumination cruise through Porto to see the city lit up at night, including the bridges that span the Douro.

Day 13 Porto - Braga -Guimaraes

Disembark after breakfast this morning. Your private tour commences today.

Arrive at Porto Cruise Terminal and check-in at hotel. After that, you'll have a Private Full Day Braga & Guimaraes Tour with an English-speaking tourism driver, on this exclusive tour, you'll be able to get to know two of the most important cities in Minho. Firstly, we'll head to Braga, one of the oldest religious cities in the world, where you'll visit the sanctuaries that make up the triangle of faith: the Cathedral and the sanctuaries of Sameiro and Bom Jesus. After a delicious lunch (included in the tour), you'll continue on to Guimaraes, the Cradle of Portugal, where you'll see its beautiful historic centre - a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Return to the Hotel and overnight.

Day 14 Coimbra - Tomar, Portugal

Breakfast at the hotel and checkout. After leaving Porto, you will embark on a Private Full Day Tour with an English-speaking tourism driver that will take you to discover two of Portugal's most charming cities: Coimbra and Tomar. The first stop will be Coimbra, a city steeped in history, academic tradition and charm. Here you will have the opportunity to explore the main points of interest and realize what makes Coimbra a truly unique destination. One of the highlights of the visit is the imposing University of Coimbra (visit at your own pace), one of the oldest in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After lunch (not included), the tour then continues to Tomar, one of Portugal's historical gems, perfect for those who love culture, heritage and nature. At the top of the city, the majestic Convent of Christ (visit at your own pace), is a must-see, a true journey through time. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Convent is one of those places that leaves you speechless. Head down to the historic centre and exploring the charming Praca da Republica, surrounded by streets with traditional shops and pastry shops where you can try the typical queijadas and Fatias de Tomar, and visit the old Synagogue, the Museum of Matches and the Church of Santa Maria do Olival, with its Templar tombs. Your driver will take you for Check in at the Vila Gale Collection Tomar, or similar and Overnight.

Day 15 Obidos - Nazare - Lisbon

Breakfast at the hotel and checkout. On this day, you will leave Tomar for a Private Full Day Tour with an English-speaking tourism driver that combines the rich history of Obidos with the maritime spirit of Nazare. The first stop will be Obidos, a charming medieval town surrounded by well-preserved walls and full of narrow alleyways, whitewashed houses and vibrant flowers in the windows. Here you can go through the historic centre, admire the castle and, of course, taste the traditional ginjinha served in a chocolate cup - a real local delicacy. After lunch (not included), you'll then head towards Nazare, a fishing village famous for its giant waves, stunning beaches and maritime traditions. You'll have the opportunity to visit the Sitio da Nazare, with breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, and get to know the living culture of this land, where legends and faith go hand in hand. A day full of contrasts between historical charm and the power of nature, which will certainly be remembered. Your driver will take you to Lisbon and Check in at the hotel and Overnight.

Day 16 Sintra - Cascais - Cabo da Roca - Lisbon

Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, you will have a Private Full Day Tour with an English-speaking guide, where you will discover Sintra, a village steeped in history, mysticism, and breathtaking beauty. Once known as "Serra da Lua," it has long captured the imagination of visitors with its blend of nature, architecture, and romantic ideals. Among its many attractions, you will visit the Park and Palace of Monserrate stands out as a peaceful haven, often overlooked but just as captivating as its more famous counterparts do. This eclectic palace, with its fusion of Gothic, Moorish, and Indian architectural styles, surrounded by lush gardens filled with exotic plants from around the world, making it a truly unique experience. While Monserrate offers a serene escape, Sintra's other remarkable sites are equally worth exploring, like the iconic Pena National Palace, perched high above the town, showcases vibrant colours and breathtaking views, reflecting the grandeur of the Romantic era. After exploring the palace and its surroundings, take a stroll through the Historical Village of Sintra, where you can indulge in the region's renowned pastries, such as travesseiros and queijadas. Be sure to enjoy lunch at one of the village's delightful local restaurants, where you can savour traditional Portuguese dishes in a charming atmosphere. After visiting Sintra, you will take a scenic panoramic tour through the coastal town of Cascais, known for its stunning beaches and lively marina. From there, continue to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe, where you'll enjoy the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean as it crashes against rugged cliffs. And, return to the hotel. In the evening, a private transfer will take you to enjoy an unforgettable evening with a dinner and Fado show. While savouring a delicious traditional Portuguese meal, you will be serenaded by the soulful sounds of Fado, the iconic music of Portugal. As you indulge in exquisite dishes, let the melodies of Fado transport you to the heart of Portuguese culture, creating a truly magical and emotional atmosphere. Private Transfer back to the Hotel and Overnight

Day 17 Lisbon, Portugal - Embarkation

Breakfast at the hotel and checkout. On this day, before you leave, you will enjoy a Private Half Day Walking Tour of Lisbon, with a English speaking local guide, your journey will take you through the city centre where you will take a stroll through the old neighbourhoods of Lisbon. You will see narrow streets and viewpoints that lead to the city centre, where you will admire the urban elegance of the so-called "Baixa Pombalina" through the streets of traditional commerce following to Praca do Comercio, one of the largest in Europe and enjoy some time there. Not forgetting, Alfama, which is unquestionably one of Lisbon, is most picturesque neighbourhoods. It has its own distinct soul, unique traditions and people, and a story to tell in every corner and alleyway. You will then have a private transfer to Lisbon Cruise Terminal for embarkation of your Cruise. Ship sets sail at 5pm.

Day 18 Portimao, Portugal

The breathtaking scenery of Portugal's southernmost region has long made the Algarve region a magnet for those seeking winter sun. And Portimao is a perfect example: golden sandy beaches beneath dramatic cliffs, the aroma of fresh sardines on the grill and some of the best golf courses in Europe - what could be better? This, maybe: the fabulous Autodromo Algarve Racing School, better known as the Poritmao Circuit puts you behind the wheel of a professional F1 race car on a F1 track, pretty hard to beat.

Day 19 Cadiz, Spain

The heart of Cadiz is its old town, cloistered within a bastion ringed by the sea. Here tiny cobblestone streets lead into beckoning cafe-filled squares, where you can sip while appreciating the Moorish architecture. Or visit Seville, where the locals are devoted to bullfighting, flamenco, and fiesta. Food too, it appears, as Seville is credited with the invention of tapas. Join in with the locals as they graze from bar to bar, making an entire meal out of the experience. The city also has a rich history evident in its old quarters and landmarks , an immense lavishly ornamented cathedral, and the Alcazar palace, exquisitely decorated in Moorish style.

Day 20 Casablanca, Morocco

Modern-day Casablanca retains some of the atmosphere and history of times gone by yet is a thoroughly modern city. Frenetic yet welcoming, Casablanca remains a lively destination. Especially in Djemaa el-Fna, the huge square in the medina is teeming with open-air food stalls, jugglers, storytellers and snake charmers. The architecture of its French-colonial past can be seen in the graceful white buildings, with their soft lines and attention to detail.

Day 21 Agadir, Morocco

Tucked near the foot of the Atlas Mountains and surrounded by the rich plains of the Souss Valley, Agadir is a sunny cosmopolitan city where modern architecture meets the shell of a colonial port nearly levelled by a 1960 earthquake. Today Agadir is one of the most premier sardine fishing ports in the world and a thriving commercial centre for citrus export. Newly built in the mid-twentieth century, modern buildings intermingle with white washed buildings along wide French inspired boulevards fringed by lush parkland and mimosa trees. But, the main star of Agadir's landscape is its lovely stretches of secluded beach that attract tourists from around the world to the shores of this North African resort destination.

Day 22 At Sea

Day 23 Madeira (Funchal), Portugal

Madeira has its share of captivating squares, picturesque villages, idyllic landscapes, and stunning views; it also offers some unexpected pleasures. There are numerous parks and gardens, wild and natural, manicured, Oriental in sensibility, and one attached to the villa of an erstwhile prince. For excitement and just plain fun, take a high tech cable car up to Monte, in the hills overlooking Funchal, so that you may descend by toboggan sledge. Originally a form of fast transport for Monte residents, the trip involves sliding at high speed over narrow, winding streets, seated in a wicker sledge on wooden runners.

Day 24 La Palma, Canary Islands, Spain

The aptly nicknamed "pretty island", La Palma is one of Spain's Canary Islands, located in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Africa. Walk along the rim of the crater at Volcan San Antonio then set out to one of the viewpoints at the Caldera de Taburiente, an enormous crater-like depression at the centre of Caldera del Taburiente National Park. At the highest point of La Palma sits El Roque de los Muchachos, an important observatory as the clear and cloudless skies above the island make it one of the best places in the world to see the stars.

Day 25 Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain

A notoriously festive destination, Tenerife is the biggest, most well-known of Spain's Canary Islands, located in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Africa. The volcanic island is characterized by rugged, steep coastline and miles of beaches, popular for kite surfing and swimming. Teide-Pico Viejo, Spain's tallest peak, towers over the island, and its national park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 26 Gran Canaria, Canary Islands Spain

Located in the Atlantic Ocean about 800 miles off the coast of Europe, Gran Canaria is like a little slice of Spanish paradise. In fact, even though it's just 29 miles across, with its variety of landscapes, climates, and attractions, Gran Canaria is sometimes referred to as a "Miniature Continent", and a third of the island under protection as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The south features sunny resort communities, the bird sanctuary of Palmisos Park, and Maspalomas (renowned for its beaches, sand dunes, and lighthouse), while the east has the fishing village of Puerto de Mogan, otherwise known as "Little Venice" due to its many canals.

Overnight in port.

Day 27 Gran Canaria, Canary Islands Spain - Disembark

Upon disembarking, a private car will transfer you the airport for your flight home.  End of your amazing holiday.

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Terms and Conditions apply: All prices are quoted in Australian dollars, based on per person double occupancy unless stated otherwise, and inclusive of all taxes and discounts. All prices & itineraries are current as of 09May 2025 & subject to change without notice. Prices are subject to change due to availability, currency fluctuations, fuel price, and tax increases. Oceanview and Balcony cabins may have obstructed views, please check with your consultant. From pricing is based on Club Oceanview 06 with Standard Suite E and Club Veranda V3 with Balcony Suite C. Price includes any stated bonus nights, upgrades & package savings, if applicable. All passports, visas, travel permits, and vaccinations are the responsibility of the travelling passenger to secure prior to travel. Airfares are capacity controlled and are subject to change at any time without notice, based in economy class from Sydney and are subject to the carriers' flight schedules and conditions. Seasonal and flight routing surcharges may apply. Airfares are based on the lowest available fare, which comes with strict conditions i.e., non-refundable, or non-changeable. Please ask your consultant for pricing on flexible fare options that allow cancellations and/or amendments at a fee. Please call us for prices from other airports. Travel packages advertised may include multiple products provided by several suppliers to provide a travel itinerary. Each component of the package will be treated independent of each other, and the specific terms & conditions of each product supplier will apply. Hotels may charge resort fees, or a security bond not included or mentioned in this package, payable direct upon check-in. We reserve the right to correct errors without penalty.