Day 1
DEPART CHARLOTTE, NC:
Our journey begins as we depart from Charlotte, NC on our overnight flight to Lisbon, Portugal. Relax and anticipate the unforgettable experiences that await us in one of Europe’s most charming destinations.
Day 2
LISBON, PORTUGAL:
Upon arrival, we are warmly welcomed and transferred to our hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to begin exploring Lisbon, known for its colorful neighborhoods, historic trams, and scenic riverfront. This evening, we gather with our fellow travelers for a welcome dinner. (D)
Day 3
LISBON:
After breakfast, we begin a guided tour showcasing Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks. Along the Tagus River waterfront, we see the Monument to the Discoveries, a striking tribute to Portugal’s Age of Exploration and its legendary navigators; Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and historic fortress that once guarded Lisbon’s harbor; and Jerónimos Monastery, renowned for its remarkable architecture and rich history. The afternoon is at leisure for us to explore Lisbon’s lively cafés, shops, and neighborhoods at our own pace. (B)
Day 4
FÁTIMA • COIMBRA • PORTO:
This morning, we depart Lisbon by coach and journey to the ship in Porto. Enroute, we visit Fátima, home to the Sanctuary of Fátima, an important Catholic pilgrimage site. The city's fame originates from the apparitions of Our Lady of the Rosary that appeared to three shepherd children in the nearby fields. We continue into Coimbra, home to one of Europe’s oldest universities, before arriving in Porto to board the MS Emerald Radiance, our home for the next seven nights. (B, D)
Day 5
PORTO • PINHÃO:
Today is a day of sailing through the twists and turns of the Douro Valley. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this region unfolds with quaint villages, sun-drenched vineyards, and terraced hillsides. As we sail, we are surrounded by breathtaking scenery and timeless landscapes. Later today, we arrive in the village of Pinhão, surrounded by vineyard-covered slopes producing some of the world’s finest Port wine. This evening, we celebrate the start of our cruise with a welcome reception and dinner. (B, L, D)
Day 6
PINHÃO, PORTUGAL • VEGA DE TERRÓN, SPAIN:
We begin the day with a visit to the 18th-century Quinta do Tedo Vineyard, where we explore beautifully preserved grounds and take in sweeping panoramic views of the Douro Valley. We gain insight into traditional estate life and the region’s rich cultural and agricultural heritage. This afternoon, the ship sails for Vega de Terrón, Spain, the gateway to Spain, as we continue our serene journey along the Douro River. (B, L, D)
Day 7
SALAMANCA, SPAIN:
Today’s excursion takes us to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Salamanca, Spain. During the guided walking tour, we discover the beautifully carved university buildings and the House of Shells. Plaza Mayor, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful squares in Europe, forms the vibrant heart of the city. We have free time for lunch and independent exploration before returning to the ship in Portugal. (B, D)
Day 8
POCINHO, PORTUGAL • CASTELO RODRIGO • RÉGUA:
We arrive in Pocinho and step ashore for an included visit to the medieval town of Castelo Rodrigo. This historic hilltop village offers sweeping views across the surrounding countryside and the Spanish frontier. Here, we uncover the secrets of its ancient fortress, stroll cobblestone streets, and sample the local specialties. We return to the ship for lunch and relax as we sail through idyllic vineyard-covered landscapes en route to Régua. (B, L, D)
Day 9
RÉGUA • LAMEGO:
From Régua, we journey to the baroque village of Lamego, home to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies. You may choose to visit the Sanctuary perched high above the town, reached by its iconic 686-step staircase decorated with blue-and-white azulejo tiles. The views reward us with a breathtaking perspective of the surrounding countryside. This afternoon, we experience a rural lunch at Quinta da Pacheca, one of the Douro Valley’s premier wine estates. This evening, we are treated to lively onboard entertainment featuring regional music and culture. (B, L, D)
Day 10
PORTO:
Having completed our journey along the Douro River, we return to Porto, a city blending historic charm with modern vibrancy. An included tour highlights scenic coastal views and landmarks such as Castelo da Foz and Castelo do Queijo. For a deeper experience, we may join an optional walking tour that brings us closer to Porto’s vibrant daily life and local traditions. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure in Porto. (B, L, D)
Day 11
PORTO • USA:
This morning, we disembark the MS Emerald Radiance and bid a fond farewell to Portugal, taking home the beauty and charm of the “River of Gold.” (B)
EXCEPTIONAL INCLUSIONS:
- 22 Meals: 9 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 8 dinners
- Airport transfers
- Two-night hotel stay and touring in Lisbon, Portugal before cruising
- Seven-night cruise on the Emerald Radiance
- First-class service by an English-speaking crew and shore excursions with English-speaking local guides
- Variety of daily onboard wellness activities, games, classes, and evening entertainment
- All gratuities included
- Personal listening device for onboard excursions
- Many meals included onboard with a variety of international cuisine
- Complimentary bottled water in your stateroom
- Complimentary WiFi onboard
*Itinerary and excursions are subject to change.
MS Scenic Emerald Radiance cabin layout
