Uniworld Portugal, Spain, & the Duoro River Valley
aboard the SS Sao Gabriel
November 9 – 19, 2025
Starting at $5229 per person, double occupancy
An extraordinary journey designed for culturally curious travelers, with a highlight hotel stay in Lisbon.
Following the Douro River through Portugal and into Spain, you’ll cruise past steeply terraced hillsides, quaint villages and acres of ripe vineyards. Enjoy private tastings of Port and explore Porto’s historic Ribeira district, home to iconic rabelo boats, cutting-edge cuisine and a thriving art scene. Wind your way through the dramatic landscapes of the UNESCO-designated Douro Valley, heading ashore to visit charming quintas and meet the winemakers who operate them. See the famous university of Salamanca, Spain, and visit the mountaintop village of Castelo Rodrigo.
Your journey ends in Lisbon, the city that launched some of the world’s most renowned explorers. There’s no better way to discover Europe’s best-kept secret than this scenic and all-inclusive river cruise!
DAY 1 | NOV 9, 2025 | PORTO (Embark)
Arrive in Porto, the port city at the mouth of the Douro.
DAY 2 | NOV 10, 2025 | RÉGUA, PINHÃO
Today is all about wine, which has been cultivated in the Douro River Valley since ancient Roman times. Get a crash course on the history of Port during your visit to the Douro Museum. Later, partake in a choice of excursions, including a tasting at a prestigious Port wine estate or a vineyard hike with a wine tasting at a local quinta.
In the evening, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.
Featured Excursion
Duoro Museum: The Douro Valley is the oldest demarcated wine-growing district in Europe. Why? What makes Port the wine it is? Learn about the region’s unique geology and winemaking history—Romans planted vines in this region 2,000 years ago—at the Douro Museum. Exhibits laid out in buildings that were once home to Port winemaker Real Companhia Velha let you see how the process of making Port evolved over the centuries: You’ll find the tools of the trade and even a rabelo (a boat that carried wine from the vineyards to Porto) on display. An interactive map shows where the quintas are and how the region developed; and by sniffing vials of concentrated fragrance, you can learn to identify the many aromas that a good Port exhibits. It’s fun and informative—plus you can sample some regional Douro wine.
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DAY 3 | NOV 11, 2025 | PINHÃO, POCINHO, VEGA DE TERRÓN
Go medieval today at Castelo Rodrigo, both the name of a hilltop castle as well as the village that surrounds it. The view from the top is incredible and the village is a charming place to ramble, relax and replenish. Alternatively, lace up your hiking boots and unleash your inner Indiana Jones with an up-close gander at some prehistoric carvings at an archaeological park.
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DAY 4 | NOV 12, 2025 | VEGA DE TERRÓN (SALAMANCA), BARCA D’ALVA
Today, you can visit the historic university town of Salamanca—the “Golden City”—famous for its sand-colored buildings and abundance of churches. Feel the centuries fall away as your ship winds its way through the pristine, dramatic UNESCO-protected landscapes of the Douro River Valley.
Featured Excursion
Salamanca – The Golden City and Spain’s Oldest University: Called the “Golden City” for its tawny sandstone buildings, Salamanca boasts a dozen beautiful and historic churches, including two cathedrals: the new one, built in the early 16th century, and the Old Cathedral, which dates to the 12th century and can only be entered from the New Cathedral. Walk with your guide through Plaza Mayor, lined with wonderful baroque buildings, to the university, which was founded by Alfonso IX in 1218. The ornate plateresque façade is stunning, and the interior rooms you see are equally beautiful. You’ll have time to browse through the shops on Rua Mayor or enjoy a bite to eat on your own before we drive back to the ship. Your guide can recommend some excellent places to dine, whether you’re looking for a typical tapas lunch or want to stroll the stalls of Salamanca’s food hall (one of Spain’s best).
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DAY 5 | NOV 13, 2025 | BARCA D’ALVA, RÉGUA
Discover the wonders of a special town right in the gateway of the Douro Valley, Lamego. Later, enjoy a Night Out with dinner at a local quinta.
Featured Excursion
Lamego Walking Tour with Tasting: Lamego is known for a beautiful sanctuary dedicated to our Lady of “Remédios,” planted on top of one of the city hills and reachable by a gorgeous staircase with 686 steps. During this experience, you’ll discover the importance of Lamego’s heritage to the valley. This is a very important area for the production of delicious sparkling wines and cold cuts, which you’ll be able to taste in the cozy and regionally typical atmosphere of a place called Presunteca, or the “Ham Library”.
Nights Out: Dinner at a Local Quinta: Travel up winding roads with spectacular views—and breath-stealing drop-offs—for a traditional dinner bursting with regional flavors. Your hosts: the owners of a local quinta, a Portuguese analogue for the French “chateau” or English “estate.”
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DAY 6 | NOV 14, 2025 | RÉGUA, PORTO (BRAGA)
Explore Braga, Portugal’s oldest city.
Featured Excursion
Braga City Tour
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DAY 7 |NOV 15, 2025 | PORTO
Portugal’s second city (after Lisbon), Porto gave its name to the nation’s most famous export, Port wine, and to the nation itself. Today, choose to explore Portugal on foot or by panoramic drive.
In the evening, a special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.
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DAY 8 | NOV 16, 2025| PORTO (DISEMBARK), TRANSFER TO LISBON
Disembark the ship and board a motorcoach, heading south through Portugal’s picturesque countryside to Lisbon where you will check in to your hotel.
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DAY 9 | NOV 17, 2025 | LISBON
Everything old is new again in the Portuguese capital. Get to know this hilly metropolis with a city tour that shows you all the top sights and treats you to an iconic, locally made pastry.
Featured Excursion
Lisbon City Tour: When you gaze out at the Tagus River, tile-roofed houses climbing the hills behind you, you are looking at the port where Portugal’s empire began. Here the kings of the newly independent nation launched an age of exploration—and then poured the profits of their new trade routes and colonies into their capital. Do you see the square tower rising from the water? Belém (the name comes from Bethlehem) Tower, built in the 16th century to guard the port, has housed cannons, prisoners and royalty over the centuries; its ornamented façade might strike you as unusual for a fortress, but that is typical of Lisbon—even fortresses have beautiful ornamentation. Another landmark nearby, the 20th-century Monument to the Discoveries, commemorates these voyagers and their founding patron, Prince Henry the Navigator. Leave the riverfront to embark on your own voyage of discovery: Head inland a short distance to the Jerónimos Monastery, which will have you reaching for your camera. A masterpiece of Manueline architecture—the Portuguese late-Gothic style is named for King Manuel I—erected during the 16th century and decorated with sculptures and elaborate scrollwork, Jerónimos Monastery is another shining example of Portugal’s golden era.
Note: Please note that we do not visit the cloisters at Jerónimos Monastery.
Not all landmarks are architectural, however. Take a break and enjoy one of the city’s iconic pastries before experiencing the rest of your panoramic motorcoach tour through the Rossio—the busiest square in Lisbon.
Your local guide will make suggestions for lunch. You can choose to remain downtown and explore on your own or return to the hotel. Shuttles are available to take you to and from the hotel this afternoon, which is yours to spend as you please.
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DAY 10 | NOV 18, 2025 | LISBON
Experience your own “Age of Discovery” with a full day to explore Lisbon however you wish. The city hosts remarkable museums and excellent shopping, and natives of Lisbon boast that they have the best food in the world.
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DAY 11 | NOV 19, 2025 | LISBON (DEPART)
If your cruise/tour package includes a group departure transfer or if you have purchased a private departure transfer, you will be transferred to Lisbon Portela Airport for your flight home.
PRICES
These discount prices are based on DOUBLE occupancy & include $230 pp Port Charges
CLASSIC – $5229 per person
DELUXE – $5329 per person
FRENCH BALCONY – $8229 per person
SUITE – $9529 per person
GRAND SUITE – $11829 per person
PRICE INCLUDES
DINING
- All meals onboard, prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients
- 10 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners
- Welcome and Farewell Dinners
- Unlimited beverages onboard, including fine wine, beer, spirits, specialty coffee and tea, soft drinks and mineral water
EXCURSIONS
- 7 days of excursions, all fully hosted by English-speaking local experts
- Guided “Do as the Locals Do” program
- State-of-the-art Quietvox portable audio-headset system on all excursions
ACCOMMODATIONS
- 7-night cruise in a riverview stateroom on the chic S.S. São Gabriel
- 3 nights in Lisbon at the Tivoli Avenida Liberdade (or similar) with breakfast
- Beautifully appointed riverview staterooms and suites with hotel-style beds, draped in fine linens with a choice of pillows
- Free Wi-Fi
EXPERIENCES
- 2 countries: Spain and Portugal
- 6 UNESCO World Heritage sites
- Services of an experienced Uniworld Cruise Manager
- Group Transfers are included on arrival and departure days (please see terms and conditions for transfer guidelines)
- Gratuities for onboard personnel (ship staff, crew, Cruise/Tour Manager) are included during the cruise/tour
- Cultural enrichment, including captivating onboard local entertainment
PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE
AIRFARE and items of a personal nature and alcoholic beverages other than specified.
Please call us at (800)648-4856 for help with flight reservations.
OPTIONAL MADEIRA ISLAND PRE-CRUISE EXTENSION
Madeira beckons visitors looking for a blissful island escape with its temperate climate, beautiful natural environment, and unique local culture. Stay at the incredible Savoy Palace hotel and venture out to take in the island’s dramatic landscapes—from towering peaks to dense forests, all surrounded by a deep blue ocean.
INCLUDED IN YOUR 4-DAY STAY
- 3 nights at the Hotel Savoy Palace (or similar)
- Breakfast daily and all service charges, taxes, and porterage
- Flavored Funchal Walking Tour
- Private Fine Dining Experience
- Madeira Island Discovery Tour
- English-speaking expert
- All transfers
PRICING
Double: $2,199 per person | Single: $2598
DAY TO DAY
DAY 1 | FUNCHAL
Once you have cleared customs, you will be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the Hotel Savoy Palace.
DAY 2 | FUNCHAL
FEATURED EXCURSION: Flavored Funchal Walking Tour
After breakfast, follow your guide through the city center of Funchal to learn the fascinating history of the city. Stroll through the market area and take in the multicultural influences of Madeira and admire the eclectic painted doors of Rua de Santa Maria, a project started in 2010 to bring art and tourists back to Madeira Island. You’ll stop for special treats along the way to discover the authentic flavors of the island. Depending on what is freshest, your guide might find you a bite of honey cake, garlic meat, swordfish, local beers, or some of the rare South American or Asian fruits that flourish in Madeira’s tropical environment.
FEATURED EXCURSION: Private Museum Visit with Wine Tasting
This afternoon, you’ll have a private visit to a local museum, and at the conclusion of your tour enjoy a wine tasting on the roof top overlooking the city.
FEATURED EXCURSION: Dinner at a Local Restaurant
Dive into the world of Madeiran gastronomy during a private dinner out in town. Your chef for the evening fuses tradition and innovation, turning authentic island flavors into a masterful fine dining experience. As each of the 7 courses are served, the chef will personally share the stories and techniques behind each dish. The result: not just a delicious meal, but a memory you will treasure for a lifetime.
DAY 3 | FUNCHAL
FEATURED EXCURSION: Madeira Island Discovery Tour
Set out on a hike in Madeira’s beautiful Laurisilva—a type of laurel forest that flourishes here but has all but gone extinct elsewhere in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage site has a palaeobotanical record that dates back to at least 1.8 million years ago. Here you will experience the flora and fauna of the island. Along the way you will also see the levadas, a waterway system dating back to the 15th century used to carry fresh water from the higher points of the mountain to the lower populated areas. The levadas are still used for agricultural purposes today.
DAY 4 | FUNCHAL
Today after breakfast you will transfer from the Hotel Savoy Palace to the airport for your flight to Porto to begin your cruise.
SS SAO GABRIEL
S.S. São Gabriel embodies the beautiful Douro River Valley like no other ship in the region. Beautiful azulejos tilework, polished wood, and a summery palette bring the vivacity of Portugal onboard, while a sundeck pool beckons passengers to relax in the sunshine while soaking in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. This Super Ship vessel offers an entire deck of lavishly appointed suites with butler service, as well as three different dining venues in which to experience the delectable wine and cuisine of the Douro River Valley.
Staterooms
CLASSIC
- Luxurious riverview stateroom (163 sq ft – 15.1 sq m)
- Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, flat-screen TV with infotainment center and satellite
- Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, heated mirror, backlit magnifying mirror, comfortable bathrobes and slippers
DELUXE
- Luxurious riverview stateroom (196 sq ft – 18.2 sq m) with a French balcony
- Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, flat-screen TV with infotainment center and satellite
- Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, heated mirror, backlit magnifying mirror, comfortable bathrobes and slippers
FRENCH BALCONY
- Luxurious riverview stateroom (196 sq ft – 18.2 sq m) with open-air balcony
- Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, flat-screen TV with infotainment center and satellite
- Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, heated mirror, backlit magnifying mirror, comfortable bathrobes and slippers
SUITE
- Luxurious riverview suite (294 sq ft – 27.3 sq m) with open-air balcony (note: Suites 402 and 403 have been stunningly redesigned and no longer have an open-air balcony)
- Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closets, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat and flat-screen TV with infotainment center
- Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmers, backlit magnifying mirror, heated mirrors, comfortable bathrobes and slippers
- Additional amenities and services include in-suite butler service, packing and unpacking assistance, in-room breakfast, daily fruit and cookie plate and an elegant evening snack, Nespresso coffee machine and fine teas, fully stocked mini bar, bottle of wine upon request, shoeshine, and free laundry service
GRAND SUITE
- Luxurious riverview grand suite (391 sq ft – 36.3 sq m) with a spacious living room
- Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closets, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat and flat-screen TV with infotainment center
- Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmers, comfortable bathrobes and slippers, separate rain shower and tub, backlit magnifying mirror, heated mirrors and a secluded toilet and bidet area
- Additional amenities and service include: in-suite butler service; packing and unpacking assistance; in-room breakfast; daily fruit and cookie plate, and an elegant evening snack; Nespresso coffee machine and fine teas; fully stocked mini bar; bottle of wine upon arrival; shoe shine; and free laundry service
A valid passport is required for this trip. Your passport cannot expire for at least 6 months after your return.
Note: Suites have balconies or French balconies. Suites are assigned on a first come, first served basis.
PAYMENTS A 10% deposit of total price is due with booking. Final payment is due July 1, 2025. You may use a credit card for deposit (without fee). We accept AX, Visa, & MC. Final payment made be made by check or Zelle…or with a credit card & 5% fee.
CANCELLATIONS Cancellation fee is $350 per person until July 1, 2025. After July 1, 2025, trip is non-refundable.
FULL LEGAL NAMES must be given as stated on passports. (No nicknames). Name changes may be made up to 120 days prior to departure for $200 per name. Please understand that vendors are very strict with regard to cancellation. No exceptions can be made.
FINAL DOCUMENTS WILL BE AVAILABLE APPROXIMATELY 2 WEEKS BEFORE DEPARTURE.
INSURANCE Cancellation insurance is highly recommended. Insurance information will be provided to you. If for some reason you have not been given an insurance application, please call our office immediately. Please read the information brochure carefully. Please understand that insurance does not cover a pandemic.
RESPONSIBILITY: Sharon Carr Travel/Journey House offers retail travel services to customers, which are provided by separate and independent vendors of travel services.. Sharon Carr Travel/Journey House does not operate, control, or otherwise provide the services of the independent travel vendors. Hence, customer agrees that Sharon Carr Travel/Journey House acts only as agent for the client in acquiring transportation, hotel accommodations, sightseeing, and other privileges, or services for the clients’ benefit, and on the express condition that Sharon Carr Travel/Journey House shall not be responsible for any loss, accident, injury, delay, defect, pandemic, omission or irregularity which may occur or be occasioned, whether by reason of any act, negligence or default of any company or person engaged in or responsible for carrying out any of the arrangements, or otherwise in connection there with. The suppliers reserve the right to make minor adjustments to the itinerary. Sharon Carr Travel /Journey House will not be held responsible should any of these suppliers fail to provide the travel services purchased, whether through default or any other cause. Sharon Carr Travel /Journey House is not responsible for losses or additional expenses due to delay or changes in air schedules or other causes. All such losses or expenses will be the responsibility of the member of the tour. Sharon Carr Travel /Journey House is not responsible for any loss or damage to luggage during the tour. Also, Sharon Carr Travel /Journey House is not liable for any illnesses contracted during or after travel, is not liable for medical care or the adequacy of any care that may be rendered during or after travel. Acceptance of the Tour Contract will serve as a Release of Liability and Assumption of Risk Agreement. This agreement is binding on your heirs, legal representatives and assigns. If, for some reason, a trip must be rescheduled due to any of the above reasons, participants are bound by the new dates of travel, and can only obtain a refund if insurance has been purchased and insurer is contractually bound. SHARON CARR TRAVEL IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR WEATHER RELATED OR MECHANICAL DELAYS.
NOTE TO TRAVELER: The traveler assumes and understands that there is a risk involved with travel and travel activities and/or excursions. The traveler is responsible for reading and abiding by all Health and Safety protocols of the vendor & the destination prior to travel, has reviewed the travel itinerary for accuracy, has been advised of all applicable fees imposed by Sharon Carr Travel/Journey House Travel and the suppliers, and has been offered the option of purchasing trip cancellation/interruption insurance. The traveler also understands that discounted fares and vacation packages typically involve restrictions and that changing any aspect of any travel arrangements may result in the payment of additional money.
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