Stretching across the full width of the country from east to west, the Douro has long been the country’s lifeline. It’s a symbol of Portugal’s birth and growth as a nation, shaping its history through winemaking and trade. Departing from the pastel-coloured metropolis of Porto, cruise through the World Heritage-listed Douro Valley where terraced vineyards rise from the riverbanks, historic landmarks pepper distant horizons, and charming townships lie hidden in the rural hillsides. Salamanca shines both day and night, and a kayak experience in Pinhão provides a new perspective on the Douro. Connect with local culture during on board cooking demonstrations, mosaic tile painting classes, live music performances and cocktail making using traditional port wine. Cruising on your custom-built Emerald Star-Ship for the Douro, you can relax on the Sun Deck or swim a few laps in the Vitality Pool as the ever-changing vistas glide by.