CRUISING PORTUGAL’S DOURO RIVER

Of course, I swoon a bit when seeing sparkling wine at breakfast, but I also crave authentic experiences, quiet time, and a dash of adventure. The newest addition to Avalon Waterways’ fleet, the Alegria, offers all that and more as it meanders its way down Portugal’s Douro River. The suite-style ship echoes the layout the brand is known for—spacious rooms with their genius Open-Air Balcony design. With lounge areas that balance casual elegance and inherent coziness, the Alegria teeters on perfection as it ushers its guests through the verdant valley and endless vineyards, promising a thrilling adventure at every turn.

Usually, once I board a ship, I unpack and look for a comfortable corner in a lounge. What an absolute delight to slide open my suite’s full-wall, floor-to-ceiling window wall, which transformed my space into a luxurious covered patio. These Panorama Suite window walls open to seven feet. So, whether I was lounging on my bed or nestled on my chair, sipping local wine, I was immersed in the valley’s fresh air—listening to the birds and occasional backyard rooster—as I floated past vineyards, swaths of forest, and dazzling waterfalls.

A self-proclaimed pillow critic, beds, bedding, and pillows are not just fluff but a critical component of any vacation experience. Offering a choice of pillow densities, plush mattress toppers, and even the option to change the bed’s location, I slept so well that I overslept. I declared this welcome luxurious moment, rolled open my window wall, and ordered room service. 

LIFE ABOARD
Traveling with food allergies can be annoying at best, but whether you need to avoid certain foods or adore another—the staff delivers. Once I spoke with the staff and explained my dietary needs, each day was a parade of culinary spoils. The menus are fresh, organic, local, and bountiful. Guests might have Port Wine Marinated Melon, Halibut with Carrot-Cumin Foam and Sepia Noodles, or one of the rich pasta dishes—all paired with local wines or cocktails crafted with care. Wherever you are on the ship, the panoramic views make for a spectacular backdrop, including the dining room.

I visited during a rainy spell, yet it failed to dampen our fun. However, I’d be eager to go again and spend a few relaxing evenings on the Sky Deck under the stars. Luckily, we didn’t completely miss out on outdoor enjoyment; the covered Observation Lounge proved the perfect protection from the drizzle.  

The indoor spaces are equally awash in majestic views and offer legitimately comfortable seating—a cruising bonus. I toggled between sipping lattes and cocktails and indulging in their BeWell water stations, featuring invigorating, vitamin-infused waters. The smaller Club Lounge feels like a little secret—a snuggly speakeasy with freshly baked cookies--a happy place. I found myself relaxed enough to engage in artsy doodling—a much-needed mindfulness—and reading up on the many excursion choices. 

VINEYARDS, VILLAGES & WONDERS
Each day, I toiled choosing between their Active, Discovery, or Classic itineraries since I’m equally interested in architecture, history, biking, and the area’s famed Port wine. Inspired by the endless family farms along the banks of the Douro River, visiting an old farm caught my eye. Different farms are visited yearly, and we were delighted to see an idyllic aristocratic country estate. We strolled the vineyard with the estate’s matron, a Contessa with the kind of life story deserving of its movie starring Meryl Streep. She shared the rich history of the land, and we sipped the Port she served directly from the barrel.

Throughout the cruise, you can expect delightful choices—leisurely biking with a biologist, the grand architecture of the Interpretation Centre of the Romanesque, the weatherworn beauty of the town of Régua and its exquisite tiles, and the birds of prey of Douro International Natural Park. If you need to replenish your dinner party chitchat reserves, do not miss the absurdly fascinating excursion to the cork museum, Planet Cork. Each excursion is led by knowledgeable guides who provide insightful commentary and ensure a memorable experience. 

BEFORE YOU GO…
Alegria means happiness, and it’s the mission, mantra, and guiding notion that every staff member I met seemed to honor and celebrate. They created a laidback cruising culture for the ship’s 102 passengers; the cruise director was equal parts organization guru and cherished friend, ensuring that every guest’s needs and desires were met with utmost care and attention.

If you’re lucky enough to have sunny skies, your cheeks will be rosy from sipping Port and soaking up the sun. Then again, if you’re fortunate enough to have a bit of rain, you’ll get to watch the slow-motion steam rise from the vineyards as if Mother Nature lifted a veil, declaring a triumphant “ta-da.” In either scenario, you’ll experience the romance and beauty of Portugal’s Douro River and a ship that delivers on the promise of its name. For more information on Avalon Waterways, visit avalonwaterways.com