I just returned from an Emerald Waterways river cruise in Portugal, and I'm so excited to share my experience!! Many people have asked me what it was like traveling at the present time with COVID-19 restrictions.
Firstly, current regulations did require us to have a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of departure. If you are traveling internationally, you will need to check with your travel advisor to determine the rules and regulations for the particular country you are visiting! Emerald Waterways also required us to be fully vaccinated.
Once we arrived in Porto, we were greeted by our travel director. We had our temperatures taken, and our luggage was thoroughly sanitized. Then, we were escorted onto the ship where we were greeted by the ship captain, the ship manager and the concierge manager. We were welcomed with a refreshing drink!
Once settled in, we began our magical cruise on the beautiful Douro River! I loved sitting outside at the front of the ship as we slowly meandered down the river. It was incredibly beautiful and just so peaceful! We floated by so many stunning views.
The food was divine, and the wines were fabulous! I always enjoy the regional food and wine that is provided on a river cruise, which really gives you a taste of that region. There were early morning exercise classes on the upper deck. I enjoyed a Yoga stretch class one morning and a Pilates class another day! They also have a small fitness room and a small pool to cool off in on the sundeck. You can even book hair and spa appointments if you like!
We enjoyed the daily included excursions. They offered a choice of a regular tour or a more active one. We toured a local winery. I took part in the hiking tour that was the more active option, and it was followed by everyone meeting for a Port wine tasting! The photo below was taken at the winery.
Another trip highlight was exploring Salamanca when we crossed the border into Spain. We also had an interesting tour of the prehistoric Coa Valley Archaeological Museum, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We appreciated a wonderful dinner at the Quinta Da Pacheca winery one evening, which is the location of this photo.
Another trip highlight was exploring Salamanca when we crossed the border into Spain. We also had an interesting tour of the prehistoric Coa Valley Archaeological Museum, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We appreciated a wonderful dinner at the Quinta Da Pacheca winery one evening, which is the location of this photo.
There was so much to do on board as well, including a cooking lesson from the chef, a cocktail making lesson and a tile painting class - just to name a few. In the evening, there was super fun entertainment. We enjoyed movies under the stars, a singer and even a disco night. My favorite activity on board was the BBQ lunch we had on the sun deck as we slowly cruised along the river.
Safety was of the utmost importance, and our temperature was taken every time we returned to the ship. They also provided us with PCR tests three days prior to our departure back home to the United States.
Contact us if you are interested in learning more about river cruising in Europe. I definitely would recommend this amazing way to explore and relax.
