yacht tour porto

11 BEST Porto Boat Tours for Couples & Families in 2024

Want to discover the best Porto boat tours in Portugal, but don’t have time to do ALL of the research? Me neither when I’m going somewhere new. That’s why I’ve compiled this concise list of the best of the best when it comes to which boat tours are worth your time ( and money… ) this 2024 season!

From the top-rated boat tours in Porto to the best private boat tours for you and your loved one or you and all of your closest friends, there is a tour on this list for you!

Some of the boat tours I have listed below even include lunch and wine tastings aboard the boat! This way, you’ll be making the most of every second of your trip.

Don’t have time to read the entire post? No worries!

This private 2-hour Porto boat tour along the Douro River provides you with traditional Portuguese wine, some light snacks, and a unique, intimate experience where you’ll journey around Porto all while avoiding the crowds !

Whether you’re staying directly in Porto or in the nearby Vila Nova de Gaia, you’ll be free to go all the way to the Douro Valley or simply enjoy a leisurely ride around the city during your one day in Porto .

Happy Travels!

Best Boat Tours in Porto, Portugal

To start this post off, we’re going to talk about the best of the best .

If you have the time, these half to full-day Porto boat tours will bring you all the way to the Douro Valley, sightseeing around the city, and allow you the chance to actually get off the boat and stop into several wineries along the journey.

Some of them even include lunch in their all-inclusive menus, so there’s a lot to consider. If you’ll also be spending some time in the Portuguese capital, you also have the option of taking one of these 11 Incredible Lisbon Boat Tours for Your Trip to Portugal !

So, let’s get into it!

1. Oporto Six Bridges Cruise

↪ What’s Included?

• One hour Porto River cruise

🍷If you’re simply looking for a short and easy boat tour around Porto, look no further. This leisurely boat ride will take you past the six bridges of Porto and provide you with a unique perspective of the city. WIth ample opportunities to photograph Porto’s most iconic landmarks, this Porto boat tour makes for the perfect addition to any day in Porto!

2. Authentic Douro Valley Wine Tour Including Lunch and River Cruise

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Professional guide
• Private transportation
• Visit two different wineries
• Wine tastings include Douro wines and Port wines
• Small group tour (maximum of 8 people)
• A traditional Portuguese lunch
• A 1-hour boat ride on a rabelo
• Numerous scenic stops for photos
• Bottled water

🍷Take this full day tour with an English guide (plus other languages) with your partner, your family, or even solo! Savor a delicious lunch, visit some wineries, cruise along the Douro, and simply take in the sites on this amazing 9-10 hour tour to Portugal’s Douro Valley.

3. Douro Valley Tour: Wine Tasting, River Cruise and Lunch From Porto

• Visit two wineries (wine tastings at both included)
• 1 hour Douro River cruise
• A delicious Portuguese lunch

🍷With over 1,000 5-star reviews, this tour is a must on your next visit to Porto! Spend 9 full hours exploring the beautiful Portuguese countryside, cruising along the Douro, indulging in delicious local food and wines, and you’ll even be able to enjoy free wifi on the trip home so you can share all of your best pictures with your friends and family!

4. Douro Valley Small-Group Tour with Wine Tasting, Lunch, and Optional Cruise

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off at two main city points
• Learn about the history of the UNESCO World Heritage Site from a professional guide
• Wine and authentic Portuguese port tastings at two different wine estates
• Traditional Portuguese lunch
• Douro River boat trip Porto (if option is selected at checkout)

🍷 Lasting around 10 hours on average, this phenomenal full-day small group tour to the Douro Valley has everything you could want and more! Enjoy an authentic Portuguese lunch while indulging in multiple wine tastings, and even get the chance to cruise along the Douro River under the beautiful sunshine! You’ll be tagging along with a local guide who will be sharing their vast knowledge about the region, wine, and all things Portuguese to make for a fantastic trip.

5. Douro Valley Tour: Wine Tasting, Lunch & River Cruise

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off (from Porto city)
• Visits to 2 wine estates (guided tour and tastings included)
• Wine, olive oil & honey tasting
• Traditional Portuguese-inspired lunch
• A delicious selection of Portuguese cheese
• One-hour Douro River boat ride
• Local, professional guide

🍷 This small group (up to 8 people) Douro Valley tour makes for the ultimate day trip to the Alto Douro region. Lasting about 9 hours on average, guests will get to sample Portuguese wines and foods, enjoy a beautiful cruise along the river, and learn about the region from a local guide throughout the day. Practically all-inclusive, this is easily one of the best Porto boat tours on this list!

6. Douro Valley Tour with Visit to two Vineyards, River Cruise, and Lunch at Winery

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off (by request)
• Visits to 2 wine estates (tastings included)
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Professional, local guide

🍷 If you’re looking for a small group tour (maximum of 8 people) that will take you all the way to the renowned Douro Valley and back to the city of Porto in as little as 9 hours, this is a great tour option. Enjoy guided wine tastings at two wine estates and a stunning hour-long Porto Douro River cruise in the middle of the day all while taking in some of the best scenery in Europe!

7. Douro Valley Historical Tour with Lunch, Winery Visit with Tastings, and Panoramic Cruise

• Professional, local Guide
• Transportation via a small group minibus
• Take a traditional Rebelo boat from Pinhão
• Visit one wine estate with 3 included wine tastings

🍷 On this 10-hour day trip to the Douro Valley, guests will get to enjoy a ride on a traditional Rebelo boat! This is particularly special since many cruises these days take place on more modern watercraft. While onboard, you’ll get to enjoy an authentic Portuguese lunch along with wine tastings once you reach the designated winery. This tour has received over 500 5-star reviews, so I think that speaks for itself.

8. Porto: Small Group City Tour Full Day with Lunch, Wine Tasting & Cruise

• Hotel pickup and drop-off (by request)
• Private guide for a full day in Porto
• Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
• Admission to a Port Wine Cellar with a port wine tasting
• Traditional Portuguese lunch with alcoholic beverages
• 1 hour Six Bridges cruise on a rabelo

🍷Want to make the most out of your full day in Porto? Why not combine your sightseeing with your wine tastings and 6 bridges cruise Porto?? Well, now you can! This inclusive tour will provide you with a full guide for the entire day. From start to finish, you’ll be learning about Porto’s prestigious history and iconic landmarks, sampling wines, and even jumping on a traditional rabelo (a Portuguese boat) to journey along the Douro under the city’s famous six bridges. This small group tour is ideal for anyone short on time who is looking to make the most of their visit to Portugal’s second largest city!

Porto Private Boat Tours

Looking to rent out a private boat for you and your travel group? Look no further! These private Porto boat tours include everything that many of the other tours on this list include, but without the hassle of sharing the space with strangers.

9. Douro Valley Private Tour (All Inclusive)

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off
• Private transportation for your entire group in an air-conditioned vehicle
• Enjoy a traditional Portuguese lunch and wine tasting at an 18th-century manor
• Visit the infamous Cooperative Winery of Favaios and sample Moscatel wine
• A stunning one-hour boat ride along the banks of the Douro Valley

🍷Group tours are fun and all, but what if you could enjoy all the perks of these Porto boat wine tours without people you don’t know? Well, you can. This incredible tour offers your private group a beautiful lunch, a glide along the River Douro, a visit to a medieval manor, and multiple wine tasting. Not to mention your whole group can get picked up at the airport or train station on the same day of your tour for convenience if you prefer! Just be sure that your arrival time coincides with the departure time of the tour beforehand. Since it does last about 10 hours, most tours depart in the morning.

10. PRIVATE Day Trip Through the Enchanting Douro Valley by Car & Boat

• Private guided tour in an air-conditioned vehicle
• All wine tastings
• Private Douro River boat tour on a rabelo
• Visit the beautiful village of Pinhão
• Visit the well-known Quinta do Infantado

🍷 After receiving the Bage of Excellence from Viator, this private tour has been highly sought after since it became available. Offering its guests numerous wine tastings, a unique experience onboard a rabelo boat tour Porto, and exceptional recommendations from a local, this is one private Porto boat tour you won’t want to miss!

11. Private tour in the Douro (1 to 4 people) in a boat just for you

• Snacks (herbed almonds)
• 2-hour Douro River cruise
• Private tour (only your group will be onboard)

🍷Remember that boat tour I told you about at the very beginning of this post? Well, here it is again! This private 2-hour boat ride is perfect for people short on time. Keep in mind that it doesn’t come with all of that fancy stuff like a traditional Portuguese lunch, wine tastings and so forth, so it’s perfect if you’re just looking to get a unique perspective of the city.

FAQ: Porto Boat Tours

In this section, let’s dive into your most popular questions regarding the six bridges in Porto (as well as the Six Bridges Cruise), whether or not you should include time in the Douro Valley, and so forth.

How Do You Get to the Douro Valley from Porto?

To get to the Douro Valley from Porto, most people take a vehicle of sorts. It is possible to travel by boat the entire way, but it would take about 6 hours just for one direction.

So, most tours depart from Porto via an air-conditioned vehicle to drive the hour and a half to the Douro Valley, but also include some time on a riverboat so the participants get the best of both worlds. Time efficiency, winery visits, and a river cruise. Score!

What are the 6 Bridges in Porto?

The 6 bridges in Porto include the Dona Maria Pia Bridge, the Dom Luís I Bridge, the São João Bridge, the Arrábida Bridge, the Ponte de Infante, and the Freixo Bridge.

All of which are located in Porto’s historic center, crossing over the Douro River.

What is the Six Bridges Cruise in Porto?

The six bridges cruise in Porto is exactly what it sounds like… a cruise along the Douro River that takes you under Porto’s six famous bridges!

What is Included on a Six Bridges Cruise?

You guessed it, a ride under the six bridges in Porto is included! There are two tour operators (Douro Acima and Tomaz do Douro) who run these tours on a daily basis.

Most tours only last an hour or so and make for a great, easy addition to your day in Porto.

You’ll notice, however, that nothing is included in the cruise other than the boat ride. So, you may want to bring along some Douro Valley wine and some traditional Portuguese snacks for the trip!

How Much is a Porto River Cruise?

A Porto River cruise can vary drastically in price depending on the destinations you visit, the length, and type of the tour. Standard Six Bridges Cruises, which last about 50 minutes to an hour, typically cost around €15-€20 per person.

For longer day tours that include a visit to the Douro Valley along with a 1 or 2-hour river cruise, prices can range from €80 to €150 per person, often inclusive of transportation, wine tasting, and sometimes even lunch.

For an extended cruise encompassing multiple days with overnight stays and comprehensive wine estate visits, expect rates to start from €1,000 and go upwards, depending on the level of luxury and amenities provided.

What are the Boats in Porto Called?

The boats in Porto are called rabelos. These are the traditional Portuguese boats that float along the Douro (kind of similar to the ones that you see all over venice) that carry wine barrels between the Douro Valley and Porto.

How Long is the River Cruise in Porto?

Douro River cruises vary in length with some lasting as little as 50 minutes and some lasting as long as 6 hours for just one direction.

However, most Porto boat tours include day trips to the Douro Valley with a 1 or 2-hour river cruise included in the price.

Where Do the River Cruises Leave From in Porto?

The river cruises in Porto leave from the Douro River Cruise Terminal. The terminal runs along the popular Cais da Ribeira where you’ll find numerous Porto boat tour companies ready to set sail!

📍 Check out the map here

How Far is the River Douro Navigable?

The River Douro is navigable for about 130 miles which will take you to the Alto Douro wine region. Many Porto boat wine tours that make this journey take about 8-12 days to do so roundtrip.

This, of course, includes stops at multiple wine estates and overnight stays at special anchoring spots all over the river.

Is the Douro Valley Worth It?

The Douro Valley is without a doubt worth a visit if you have the time in Porto! Even if you aren’t a huge fan of wine, the sheer beauty of this vast region is enough to make even the biggest beer lover want to stay.

Whether you spend one day or two weeks exploring the Douro Valley, you absolutely should not skip the region if you are coming to Porto!

How Many Days Do You Need To See Porto?

To really see Porto, you need at least two days, but preferably three.

The city isn’t massive, but if you divide up your time with one day being set for sightseeing, one day for visiting the Douro Valley and visiting some wine estates, and the last day for picking up some souvenirs and enjoying the Ribeira promenade, you’ll have a very well-rounded experience of Portugal ‘s second-largest city.

Porto is a stunning Portuguese city that deserves to be included on any Portugal itinerary . Whether you already have your flights booked or you are planning a family trip for this summer, no trip to Porto would be complete without spending some time on the beautiful River Douro.

If you are in the post-planning stages and are ready to run out the door, be sure to take a peek at my 26+ Best Portugal Packing List Items for 2024: What to Wear in Portugal post so you know exactly what to bring to Portugal this year!

Other Helpful Portugal Resources

Lagos in December: Why Lagos, Portugal is the Best European Winter Destination Lisbon to Porto Train: The Complete Guide to Your Portugal Train Journey 19 Mindblowing Hotels in Lisbon with Rooftop Pools One Day in Lisbon: The ULTIMATE 2024 Guide (24-Hour Itinerary, Tips, & Map) The Complete Guide to the Supermarkets in Lisbon Cabo da Roca: 7 Reasons It’s One Of The Best Day Trips From Lisbon Does it Snow in Portugal? The Complete Guide The Complete Guide to the Supermarkets in Lisbon The BEST Sintra Day Trip Guide for 2024 Is Sintra Safe? 10+ Safety Tips for Visiting Sintra, Portugal The 10 Best Beaches in Cascais – Your Ultimate Beach Guide Barcelona vs Lisbon: The Ultimate City Comparison 9 BEST Lagos Kayak Tours to Experience in 2024 Is Algarve Safe? Top Safety Tips for Algarve in 2024

Jumped to the bottom of the post? No worries!

For more information on the best tours in Porto, be sure to check out my article on these 11 Top-Rated Wine Tours from Porto in 2024 .

Oh, and once you have decided between all of the amazing Porto boat tours , be sure to pick up some amazing souvenirs from Portugal to commemorate your trip!

Hey there! I'm Emily Concannon, a seasoned globetrotter who has backpacked her way across over a dozen European countries, immersing myself in the diverse cultures, languages, and cuisines of the region.

My passion for travel transcends personal experiences; I've spent years learning how to transform my globetrotting knowledge into personalized itineraries for fellow travelers worldwide.

With a tally of 26 countries (and counting!) under my belt, my day job involves extensive research on different countries which often leads me to booking a new adventure every chance I get!

Porto Boat Tours: 13 Unforgettable Adventures on the Douro

LOOKING FOR THE BEST BOAT TOURS IN PORTO PORTUGAL? 

You’re in the right place, as this article will outline 13 of the best Porto boat tours that you can take when visiting this magnificent city. 

Did you know that the Douro River stretches for 897 kilometers , flowing from its source in Spain to its mouth in Porto, Portugal 🤯? The river has been important to the development of these cities for thousands of years. 

Without it, we wouldn’t have port wine — can you believe that?! 

Don’t have time to read the whole article?

The best Porto boat tour is this Douro Valley Cruise with a Winery Visit and Lunch Tour , with a near perfect ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating 😊 ❤️

Beyond its historical significance, the Douro River is a looker. Whether you are taking a boat trip around Porto or want to discover the terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley, a boat trip is a must-do when visiting Porto. 

Trust me, I’ve lived in Portugal since 2020, and one of my favorite things to do when visiting Porto is to go on a boat trip. And if you can swing it, a trip to the Douro Valley is an unforgettable experience. Ready for the 13 best Porto boat tours and cruises to enjoy the local scenery? Let’s go.

Top 3 Picks: Best Porto Boat Tours

Best of Porto Experience

→ Tram & Boat Ride (2h) → Lunch + coffee & tea

Douro Valley Cruise with Winery Visit

→ Explore the Douro on a private boat → Visit 2 small family-run wineries

Private Luxury Douro Yacht Cruise 

→ Private and customizable tour  → Alcohol, beverages & snacks provided

Should you go on a Douro River or Douro Valley tour?

What’s the difference between a Douro River and a Douro Valley ? It mainly comes down to location and duration.

A Douro River tour is focused around Porto, typically lasting 2-3 hours. This tour, primarily by boat, lets you see the city’s landscapes and historic sites but doesn’t include the Douro Valley.

On the other hand, a Douro Valley tour is a full-day experience, usually 8 to 9 hours long. This tour takes you into the Douro Valley, known for its winemaking. It often features a visit to a vineyard where you can participate in wine tasting and enjoy a lunch with local flavors set against the backdrop of the valley’s vineyards.

So the difference? While the river tour offers a quick overview of Porto, the valley tour provides a deeper exploration of the region’s wine culture. Keep that in mind as you scan the best Porto boat tours that are listed below.

13 Best Porto Boat Tours 

1. best of porto experience with boat trip & lunch.

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours | 🛥️ BOOK NOW

Discover Porto’s hidden gems on foot, by tram, and on a boat along the Douro River on this Best of Porto day tour.

On this Best of Porto experience, you’ll start off with a guided tour of Palácio da Bolsa — a 19th century neoclassical palace. From there, you’ll head down to the Douro River to board the boat, which will take you on a leisurely cruise toward the sea.

If you want a personalized tour by a local who will show and tell you about great local spots this is the tour for you. — REVIEW   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

You’ll get a chance to take in the beautiful scenery of both Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia from this unique perspective. Lunch of fresh grilled fish is served in Afurada. You’ll return back to Cais de Ouro, but the tour doesn’t finish before you have the chance to enjoy a closing glass of Port.

The colorful houses sparkle under the sun in the Afurada neighborhood, where the smell of grilled seafood fills the air for lunchtime on this incredible Porto boat ride experience.

BEST PORTO BOAT TOURS

2. douro valley cruise with winery visit and lunch.

⭐️ RATING: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8.5 hours | 🍷 BOOK NOW

Discover the perfectly picturesque Douro Valley, Portugal’s renowned wine region, on this Cruise with a Winery Visit and Lunch.

The area is famous for its lush green terraced vineyards. On this cruise, you’ll visit two family-run wineries throughout the day and taste a total of 11 delicious local wines.

Mind-blowing!! This was the most memorable and fabulous experiences of our Portugal trip! — SHILPA   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Your tour guide — owner of one of the wineries — will tell you more about the history and fun stories about the area. Lunch is served fresh from the fire, cooked by your tour guide’s wife.

This intimate, authentic Porto boat trip Douro tour shows you the beauty of the region and its people. Your day is split between a van and a Porto river cruise 1 hour long along the Douro River.

3. Private Douro River Yacht Tour 

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | 🛥️ BOOK NOW

Head west from Porto and watch the peaceful beaches of the Cabedelo Natural Reserve pass by on this Private Yacht Tour along the Douro River.

🌅 This is the perfect place to experience a stunning sunset if you book a late-afternoon cruise. 

Loved the small group, wine and the sunset. Overall wonderful way to see all the bridges. — PATRICIA   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

You’ll make your way all the way out to the westerly-most point in Porto, right where the river touches the sea and the Barra do Douro lighthouse guides ships safely into the harbor. The sea’s deep blues and the lighthouse’s reds create a picture-perfect scene. 

On this yacht tour, you’ll get a welcome drink of Brut or Port plus a tasting platter of local products.

4. Douro Valley Boat, Lunch and Wine Tasting Experience

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9 hours | 🍷 BOOK NOW

Looking for the ultimate Douro Valley winery experience? Enjoy this Porto to Pinhao boat trip , which will bring you to Peso da Régua’s historic town in the Douro Valley’s heart. You’ll also visit Pinhão, which is full of traditional wineries. 

During this Douro river boat tour Porto experience, you’ll also have the chance to visit two wineries.  At the wineries, you’ll learn all about how the wine is made, from the vines through the processing and into the bottles. 

I had an amazing time on this Douro valley wine tour. It was a very small group so it was intimate and we all became friends after a few drinks! — mARISA   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

With a combination of travel by land and by sea, om this Pinhao Porto boat, you’ll pass by Amarante, where green wine is made, go through one of the largest tunnels in Europe in Serra do Marão, and visit Vila Real, one of the main cities in the region — full of history and culture.

In addition to wine tasting, this wine boat tour Porto experience day includes an all-inclusive lunch as well as a tasting of regional olive oil and other products.

5. Douro River Sunset Sailboat Experience

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | ⛵ BOOK NOW

Enjoy the unparalleled beauty of a sunset on the Douro River as the sky turns into a tapestry of golds and yellows, pinks, and reds on this incredible Sunset Sailboat Experience.

This sunset cruise brings you west from Porto towards the ocean. Your captain will keep an eye on the weather and scope out the perfect spot to enjoy the best sunset.

Guides were excellent sailors, funny, kind and shared such good info about Porto. I highly recommend this tour! — JEANNE   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

During this Douro Porto boat cruise, you’ll enjoy learning about the landmarks you pass by on both sides of the river. You’ll also have the chance to sample local wines and a small platter of local snacks.

6. Douro Valley Private Day Trip by Car & Boat

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours | 🍷 BOOK NOW

Want to experience a traditional boat tour Porto experience? Enjoy this cruise along the Douro River tour Porto in a Rabelo , a traditional Portuguese boat. These boats were traditionally used to transport wine along the river. 

As you cruise, you’ll learn all about the history of the region from your tour guide. The tour will stop for lunch along the river at a local restaurant. 

Oh my gosh, this trip is a MUST!! We had the most fabulous time with our Guide Luis!  — PAULA   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

This Porto boat wine tour includes a visit to a stunning winery offering sweeping views across the valley. There, you can try a variety of ports and learn all about the process the winemakers go through to make these wines.

7. Porto: Douro River Boat Cruise with Port Wine

⭐️ RATING: 4.8 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | ⛵ BOOK NOW

Experience the heart of Porto from the water on this Douro River Boat Cruise , where history, taste, and stunning views come together.

Spanning the Douro River between Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia, there are six bridges — the most famous of which is Dom Luis I, which was designed by Teófilo Seyrig, the business partner of Gustave Eiffel.

I cannot recommend this tour enough! 10/10 experience . — EMILY (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

On this 6 bridges boat tour Porto cruise, you’ll pass under all six of the bridges, giving you a unique perspective on their iconic designs. 

Throughout the tour, your guide will tell you more about the region’s history and traditions, as well as stories of local fishermen and information about the architecture you pass. You’ll have a chance to sample local ports and try some small snacks such as a pastel de nata.

8.  Porto City Tour with Six Bridges Cruise and Lunch

⭐️ RATING: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6 hours | 🛥️ BOOK NOW

Your full day tour will start with a guided walk through the famous sites of Porto — from the stunning tiled interior of Sao Bento Railway Station to the elegant architecture of Batalha Square.

Before you finish, you’ll stop at a port wine cellar to learn more about the iconic local drink and try a few samples. 

The tour was an amazing experience of Porto and the Six Bridges!! Love the food and the cultural!! Highly recommend. — Michael (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Once you make your way down to the river, you’ll board a Rabelo boat that will take you along the river and under its six famous bridges. 

This 6 bridge boat tour Porto experience finishes at lunchtime when you’ll join your group for a Francesinha.

9. Private Yacht Cruise in the Douro River

Set out on this Porto Douro boat trip to explore the calm waters of the river as you make your way west to where it meets the Atlantic. 

As you sail, you’ll see the captivating Ribeira do Porto neighborhood, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the charming fishermen’s village of São Pedro da Afurada. All the while, your tour guide and captain will share stories and the history of the landmarks you pass by.

Adriano and Iñez took excellent care of us. — JON (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

On this Porto private boat tour, you’ll be offered a bottle of vinho verde (green wine), as well as a bottle of port to enjoy alongside a tasting of regional products.

10. Private Sailing Lesson in Porto

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2.5 hours | ⛵ BOOK NOW

Ready to learn the ropes of how to sail your very own sailboat? Then this is this Private Boat Porto Sailing Lesson perfect activity for you.

You’ll be guided by a seasoned and accredited sailing instructor through the dos and don’ts of navigating the boat. You’ll learn everything from the basics of where things are and what they are called all the way to how to execute different maneuvers. 

Wow, this was such a brilliant experience. It was truly amazing getting to sail in a beautiful area while learning the ropes. — JON (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Throughout the class, you’ll navigate the Douro, having the opportunity to see the city of Porto from a unique perspective out on the water. The class runs for about two and a half hours and is held privately with one or two people only.

11. Porto: Douro Speedboat Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 45 minutes | 🚤 BOOK NOW

Feel the wind in your hair as you travel on this Porto boat tour Douro at high speed on a speedboat for 45-minutes . You’ll be led by a crew of friendly and knowledgeable locals who will ensure you are safe, comfortable, and having fun the entire time.

Great fun speed boat ride. Professionally run yet informal and fun. Great crew who looked after us very well. — REVIEW (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

One of the best boat tours Porto Portugal offers for adrenaline junkies. Be prepared to get a bit wet as you bump up and down the river and even travel out onto the Atlantic.

Of course, moving through the city this way, you’ll have many chances to see amazing scenery on both banks of the river as you pass by.

12. Porto Sailboat Tour

⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | ⛵ BOOK NOW

Enjoy this peaceful opportunity to cruise Porto on an intimate sailboat .

You’ll see many of the top highlights of both the Porto and the Vila Nova de Gaia sides of the river as you make your way west to the mouth of the river and onto the open ocean. 

Our skippers were knowledgeable, friendly and went above and beyond to make it a memorable experience. — SUSIE (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

You will pass by amazing landmarks like the Arrábida Bridge and the famous Dom Luis I Bridge as well as the Baroque-style Clerics Church with its famous tall steeple. 

Plus, look up on the hills at the port wine cellars where your welcome glass of port wine was made.

13. Porto Cruise on the Douro River

⭐️ RATING: 4.7 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | ⛵ BOOK NOW

This cruise takes you out on a 15-meter sailboat (about 50 feet) with a small group and an experienced guide. You’ll get to enjoy a glass of wine while on board and learn more about the attractions and neighborhoods you are cruising past. 

Our guides were amazing! They were so helpful and friendly! — REVIEW (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

On this Porto River Cruise, take the chance to snap photos of all of the most picturesque spots in Porto. Looking up from the river offers a unique perspective on the wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia and the famous six bridges.

Porto Boat Tours: Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth doing a river cruise in Porto?

Yes — it is absolutely worth doing a river cruise while you’re in Porto.

A river cruise along the Douro River offers a unique perspective of Porto , showcasing its stunning landscape and architectural beauty from a vantage point that can’t be experienced on land.

You’ll glide past famous landmarks like the Dom Luís I Bridge , the picturesque Ribeira district , and the historic Vila Nova de Gaia , known for its port wine cellars.

Additionally, there are various types of cruises available, ranging from short trips to extended excursions, some even including meals and wine-tasting sessions. This variety ensures that there’s a cruise to suit everyone’s interests, whether you’re looking for a quick sightseeing tour or a leisurely exploration with local flavors and wines.

How long is the river cruise in Porto?

River cruises in Porto range from short two-hour cruises all the way up to full daylong trips which take you all the way up into the Douro Valley.

The river itself is nearly 900 km, over 500 miles, so you could spend days slowly traveling all the way up its entirety. 

Is the 6 Bridges cruise worth it in Porto?

Yes — Porto Six Bridges boat tours are totally worth it. The bridges spanning the Douro River are all architecturally unique and interesting, and cruising under them offers a fun perspective of their structures.

One of the bridges (the Dom Luis I) was built by the business partner of Eiffel and is an architectural wonder in its own right. So yes, Porto boat trip 6 bridges are totally worth it.

Where do the river boats leave from Porto?

The majority of Porto boat cruises leave from the Douro Marina. The marina is on the Vila Nova de Gaia side of the river just west of the Ponte da Arrabida.

Do check the info on your tour carefully, though, as some Porto boat trip groups will meet at a different spot in the city before heading to the marina together as a group.

But not every one of the best boat tour Porto has to offer departs from the marina. So make sure to double-check the departure location before leaving your accommodations.

What is the best time of year to cruise the Douro River?

There is no bad time to visit Porto or to cruise the Douro — it’s always a guaranteed stunning experience.

That being said, from late spring into early autumn, you’ll find the most stunning scenery with lush, deep greens everywhere you look. Long summer days also mean beautiful golden hours and lively happenings all throughout the neighborhoods. 

What do you wear on a Douro River cruise?

The best outfit to wear on a Porto river boat tour depends both on the time of year you visit as well as the type of cruise you’ll be taking.

If your Portugal river cruise includes a Porto wine boat tour, you may be asked not to wear casual summer clothes such as flip-flops or tank tops. If you’re headed out on the speedboat tour, you can expect to get a bit wet, so you’ll want to wear lighter clothing that will dry quickly.

Any time of year, wearing plenty of sunscreen is important . If you’re going on Portuguese river cruises in the autumn or winter months or a sunset cruise Porto experience, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got some layers to stay warm.

What are the boats in Porto called?

The classic old boats from Porto are called Rabelos. These boots were originally used to transport wine along the river.

Some of the cruises mentioned here are Rabelo boat tour Porto companies and they use refurbished rabelos. So a Rabelo boat tour Porto is a great option if you are looking for something a little more traditional.

But many river cruises Porto offer trips in more modern boats like yachts, sailboats, or speedboats. 

Final Thoughts: Porto Boat Tours

A Porto boat tour is an activity not to be missed. The Douro river and the valley it runs through are some of the most stunning parts of Portugal, so a Douro boat trip Porto departure is a perfect way to see a whole lot of the region in a relaxing but packed day.

Are you ready to go on the best Porto river cruise? Whether you choose a Porto river cruise 2-hour experience or want to take a river cruise Porto to Douro Valley to explore wineries and do a Portoriver cruise wine tasting, this article is chock full of some of the best river cruise Porto experiences that you can find.

Yvonne Ivanescu is the founder of Now in Portugal and Now in Rio Swim, an ethical and sustainable swimwear company. She is a writer, editor and marketer with over 10 years of experience.

Storytelling is her second nature and she wants to share the magic of Portugal with the rest of the world.

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6 Bridges Douro River Day Cruise + Best Porto Boat Tours (2024)

Are you ready to enjoy a 6 Bridges Douro River Day Cruise on one of the best Porto boat tours?

The 6 Bridges Cruise is one of the best things to do in Porto, and for a good reason. Hop onboard replica Rabelo boats to experience part of the path that former wine merchants would take when bringing barrels of Port wine from Douro Valley to Vila Nova de Gaia. Or go for a more private experience on a yacht or sailboat.

Escape the city and relax while enjoying the river’s calm waters and seeing this adorable riverside town from the water. I’ve done the six bridges tour in Porto and will share with you if the 6 Bridges cruise is worth it, how long the day river cruise is, and the best Porto boat tours. 

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links; if you click on the link and purchase the item, I may receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.

Table of Contents

What are the 6 Bridges in Porto?

There are a total of six bridges in Porto: 

• Ponte Dom Luis I

Ponte do Infante

Ponte de dona maria pia, ponte de são joão bridge, ponte de freixo, ponte da arrábida.

This list is the order in which you will see them during your river cruise. Each bridge is distinct from the next, having been built over multiple years, using a variety of architectural styles. Below is information about each of the six bridges in Porto.

Ponte Dom Luis I 

Ponte Dom Luis I connects Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia and is the most famous bridge in Porto . When you see a picture of Porto with a bridge, it is almost always Ponte Dom Luis I.

A double-decker iron arch bridge, the bridge takes its influence from Paris’s Eiffel Tower . The bridge opened in 1886, designed for automobile and pedestrian usage. 

Today, the upper level of the bridge is for the metro and pedestrians, and the lower level is for pedestrians and cars. I walked across the upper and lower parts of the bridge. I recommend experiencing the bridge from both the upper and lower decks.

Ponte do Infante is the newest bridge in Porto , built in 2003. This upper-deck road bridge, Ponte do Infante, was built to replace the upper deck of Ponte Dom Luis and is used for automobile traffic. 

Ponte de Dona Maria Pia is the oldest bridge that connects Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia, built in 1877. Its identity is often confused with Ponte Dom Luis I due to their similar shape, but they are each different.

Ponte de Dona Maria Pia is a wrought-iron single-deck arch bridge built for railway traffic. Today, the bridge is no longer used and is a landmark.

Ponte de São João Bridge is the futuristic looking bridge of Porto . This concrete bridge was built in 1991 for railway traffic to replace Ponte de Dona Maria Pia. Rail could travel faster on this bridge, so that was appealing. Its futuristic design allows for faster rail travel over the bridge than Maria Pia could provide. 

Ponte de Freixo is the most remote and interior bridge in Porto. Built in 1995, the bridge is another road bridge for automobiles to get between Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. Ponte de Freixo is double-wide, allowing for road traffic to cross from both directions simultaneously.

Ponte da Arrábida is the widest of the six bridges in Porto, being 87 ft wide. Opening in 1963, Ponte da Arrábida contains six lanes of traffic plus two pedestrian lanes.

Upon its completion, it had the largest span of any concrete arch bridge in the world. In 2011, Ponte da Arrábida was noted as a National Monument.

Is the 6 Bridges Douro River Cruise Worth it? 

If you enjoy river cruises and a quick getaway from the city, a 1 hour Douro River cruise is worth it .

Is the Douro a little touristy? Absolutely. But I would counter that a river cruise is one of the best ways to experience the riverfront and see the city of Porto from a different perspective. 

Porto is known as the city of bridges , so you won’t want to miss this activity on your Porto itinerary . I recommend everyone take the short Porto river cruise at least once, especially if it’s your first time visiting Porto. 

11 Best Porto Boat Tours

1. private tour in the douro (1 to 4 people) in a boat just for you  .

⭐ 5/5 ( 243 Reviews )

The Private Tour in the Douro (1 to 4 People) in a Boat Just For You is one of the best Porto boat tours.

This private tour gives guests the opportunity to explore Porto’s stunning Douro River and its iconic bridges from an intimate perspective. A great pick for a romantic getaway or family vacation.

Your group will be able to enjoy unobstructed views of some of the city’s best landmarks and attractions as you cruise along this beautiful waterway.

Book near sunset and you will get iconic views of Porto by day and night as you cruise along the river. It can get chilly out on the water, so bring your light jacket and get ready for a memorable experience with this family-run boat tour.

Duration: 2 Hours

• Private cruise
• Alcoholic Beverages
• Bottled water
• Almonds with aromatic herbs

Size of Tour: You and your group, up to 4 people max

“This boat ride was incredible! Great views, a great tour, and super hospitable guides! They were very friendly and welcoming right from the start, introducing themselves and making us feel very comfortable, they answered all of our questions and shared some very interesting information about the sights we were seeing and about Porto in general. They clearly love their city and love to share that with people! They even gave us a few glasses of “green wine” and let us try a red porto. On top of all of that they also recommended other places to visit in the city as well as great local places to eat dinner (he even made the reservation for us!). This trip was truly incredible and our experience in Porto was perfect thanks to this tour! We would highly recommend and will definitely book another tour when we come back.” – Bambi G ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Private Tour in the Douro ➜

2. Porto City Tour Full Day with Lunch and Six Bridges Cruise – Private Basis

⭐ 5/5 ( 4 Reviews )

See the best of Porto on this Porto City Full-Day Tour with Lunch and Six Bridges Cruise .

With a private guide , you’ll get an immersive experience of Portugal’s second-largest city, from its UNESCO World Heritage Site historical center to newer districts.

Indulge in a wine tasting, take a Douro River day cruise, buy your lunch while enjoying it with a view, and more. All while knowing that your money is going back into supporting the local community through the company’s pledge to support those in need .

Duration: 9 Hours

• Driver/guide
• Professional guide
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Transport by air-conditioned minivan
• Wine tasting

Size of Tour: You and your group

“We were so lucky to have Mr. Andre Vidal as our tour guide for our full-day guided city tour. He is a very knowledgeable, well-organized, and well-attentive tour guide. Our small group of 7 people from 3 hotels and 3 countries is amazed by his professionalism and excellent service. As a used to be a senior tour guide in my working history, I want to give him a rating of 10+ out of 10. He speaks excellent English, excellent French, excellent Spanish, and Excellent Portugal. I have visited more than 35 countries. He is the best tour guide I have ever experienced in my life.” – Tripadvisor Reviewer ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Porto City Tour Full Day with Lunch and Six Bridges Cruise – Private ➜

3. Porto City Tour Full Day: River Cruise, Wine Cellars & Lunch 

⭐ 5/5 ( 56 Reviews )

Get ready for an unforgettable experience of culture and history on the Porto City Tour Full Day: River Cruise, Wine Cellars & Lunch .

This comprehensive full-day tour includes round-trip travel from your Porto hotel and all activity costs, leaving you free to explore Portugal’s historic city in comfort with an experienced driver and guide.

Experience Bolhão Market, try local wine at Porto’s renowned wine caves, take a sightseeing cruise on the Douro River and more. Get sweeping coastal views from various vantage points along your journey.

Even if you are travelling solo, they will pair you up with other like-minded travellers on this small group tour so you have the best time.

• Wine cellars visit with port tastings
• 6 Bridge River cruise (1 hour duration)
• Coffee and/or Tea
• Lunch (Optional)

Size of Tour: 8 people max, 3 person minimum per tour

“First, it started with the ease of booking. Wonderful customer service Our guide Tiago arrived promptly; he was so kind and helpful – we were two older ladies with mobility issues. He made it easy for us to see the sights. Ah, the content: churches, Harry Potter book Store, the River Cruise, the Port tasting, wonderful lunch away from all the tourists. Finally, a chance to see the beach on a wonderfully sunny day. Great day; Well worth the money. I would do it again.” – JH ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability of Porto City Tour Full Day: River Cruise, Wine Cellars & Lunch ➜

4. Porto City Small Group Full-Day Tour with Wine Tasting and Cruise in Douro River

⭐ 5/5 ( 24 Reviews )

See Porto in a single day on the Porto City Small Group Full-Day Tour with Wine Tasting and Cruise in Douro River.

This full-day tour offers an exciting opportunity to explore this beautiful city while enjoying some of its best attractions, Porto Se Cathedral, Avinida dos Aliados, and the Igreja dos Clerigos. All this plus a river cruise and wine tasting.

It’s an early start, but with hotel pickup and drop-off included, you can sit back, relax and enjoy the best Porto has to offer.

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• River cruise
• WiFi on board

Size of Tour: 15 people max

“The guide very helpful , knowledgeable and accommodating and friendly. Recommend this tour to see porto in one day.” – Natalie S ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Porto City Small Group Full-Day Tour with Wine Tasting and Cruise in Douro River ➜

5. Private Tour in Porto with Cruise and Visit to a Wine Cellar  

⭐ 4.5/5 ( 6 Reviews )

Journey through time on the Private Tour in Porto with Cruise and Visit to a Wine Cellar.

On this full-day tour, you’ll get to cruise down the Douro River, visit a wine cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia and explore some of Portugal’s best-preserved architectural treasures. Discover all the secrets and corners of Porto, popularly called the “Invicta”, meaning the Unbeaten City.

Take a break from the tour to go for lunch, and at the end of the day, you can transfer back to the hotel or stay in the center of Porto to enjoy the late afternoon and catch the sunset.

This is an unforgettable experience that will give you insight into Porto’s fascinating history and culture.

Duration: 8.5 Hours

• Private transportation
• Guided tour by a professional tourism driver/guide
• 6 bridges cruise ticket
• Ticket to visit a Port Wine Cellar, with tasting at the end

“Our 10 night river cruise and excursions were great. But the very last day I arranged a private tour with eco tours in Porto Portugal. Absolutely wonderful and far better than the excursions offered on the ship. My mom is 86 and has mobility issues so private tours are life saving for our family. Daniela was our tour guide and he went far and above our expectations in ensuring my mom was able to see everything and experience hard to get to places like the Churchill wine tasting room. He literally backed up an extremely narrow cobblestone road inches from hitting cars and side of building to bring my mom up to the front door. During the tour, he made sure the tour guide carried a chair around for my mom to sit on as well. He was extremely knowledgeable and spoke English very well and was loud enough for all of us to hear in the very luxurious van. Bravo eco Tours! Highly recommend!” – TripAdvisor Travler ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Private Tour in Porto with Cruise and Visit to a Wine Cellar ➜

6. Porto: Private Charming Sailboat Tour on the Douro River

⭐  5/5 ( 33 Reviews )

The Porto: Private Charming Sailboat Tour on the Douro River is one of the most memorable boat tours in Porto.

Enjoy 2 hours of relaxation with friends or family as you cruise along the riverside of Porto and Gaia, taking pictures of the Dom Luis Bridge from the best spots. Sip on sparkling green wine or the famous Port wine while listening to custom music, all without leaving the comfort of your own boat.

Pack some snacks and get ready for an amazing way to explore one of Europe’s best cities and its stunning river.

Included: 

• Welcome drink (sparkling or Porto wine)
• Certified crew
• Custom music

“The trip is pretty good!! More than perfect!! And those boatmen were so friendly that told us the history of Porto. We sat in the front of the boat to view the seascape and the colorful houses, meanwhile we tasted the topical green wine which was so great!!! I’m satisfied with this journey! It’s worth!” – GetYourGuide Traveler, Spain ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Porto: Private Charming Sailboat Tour on the Douro River ➜

7. Best of Porto Guided Tour with Lunch, Cruise & Wine Tasting  

⭐ 4.7/5 ( 21 Reviews )

Have an unforgettable day out in Porto on the Best of Porto Guided Tour with Lunch, Cruise & Wine Tasting .

This full-day tour offers a combination of sightseeing, food, and wine tasting that will leave you feeling satisfied and full of new experiences.

Admire the exterior of the Cathedral and São Bento Railway Station on a guided walking tour. Take a panoramic tour in Boavista and Foz do Douro. Visit a local wine cellar and taste fine wines. Break for lunch and then cruise along the Douro River.

This is one of the best Porto boat tours and is sure to provide something special for everyone. The only thing you will want after this day is more wine.

• Guided Porto city tour
• Visit to a wine cellar with 2 wine tastings
• Two glasses of wine
• Pick up from hotels in Porto (if option selected)
• Lunch (if option selected)

Size of Tour: 8 -27 people

“Very interesting little town. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and passionate about the city. We saw amazing views of the city from Porto and the town across Porto. Wine tasting was cool, the boat ride always also cool. Overall amazing day” – GetYourGuide Traveler ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Best of Porto Guided Tour with Lunch, Cruise & Wine Tasting ➜

8. Porto Wine Tasting Boat Tour  

⭐ 5/5 ( 14 Reviews )

Find the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion with the Porto Wine Tasting Boat Tour.

This 2-hour cruise on the Douro River is perfect for private parties, with a sound system and onboard wifi available to make it just right for your occasion.

You’ll get amazing views of the city from this boat as it passes by all 6 bridges in Porto .

• Restroom on board

“Wow I cannot share how great of an experience my partner and I had. We were skeptical of the price as it seemed to good to be true, so we signed up and arrived early, and was ensured we were all set to go for our 3pm boat tour. We hung out at the nearby cafe until Ines came to retrieve us to start our boat ride. To our surprise, we had the whole boat to ourselves! Andrés and Ines showed us around the river and were very friendly and knowledgeable of the history of Porto. They then brought out various different wines to taste and paired them with delicioso chocolates. We had some great conversations and they even recommended some local restaurants for dinner. On the way back to dock, we were greeted with a beautiful sunset sky and docked at 5pm. Such a lovely experience, would recommend to anyone visiting Porto with a loved one or group of friends. Thank you so much Andres and Ines!” – Edgar ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Porto Wine Tasting Boat Tour ➜

9. Porto: Electric Tuk-Tuk City Tour and Douro River Cruise  

⭐ 4.6/5 ( 355 Reviews )

The Porto: Electric Tuk-Tuk City Tour & Douro River Cruise is one of the most unique ways to see the city.

This amazing tour offers visitors an unforgettable tuk-tuk ride through some of the city’s most iconic sites and attractions, such as Sao Bento Station, the Clerigos Tower, and the Lello Bookshop. Plus, you can see the city from a different perspective on a cruise down the Douro River.

With a 50-minute tuk-tuk ride and 55-minute river cruise , this is an adventure that cannot be missed.

You can split your tour across multiple days on your trip to Porto or enjoy it all at once.

Duration: 1.75 Hours

• Electric tuk-tuk tour
• Guide during tuk-tuk tour
• Cruise ticket

Size of Tour: Private group

“The guide Frédéric was very friendly and had a lot to tell us about this magnificent city. He answered all our questions and the tour of the city in a tuk tuk allows you to see a lot of things and as the vehicle is slow, we were able to take all our photos. Frankly I recommend. We also took the boat to admire the 6 bridges of the Douro and also we liked the walk, especially since the weather was very nice.” – GetYourGuide Traveler, France ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Porto: Electric Tuk-Tuk City Tour and Douro River Cruise ➜

10. Porto Boat Tour

⭐ 4.5/5 ( 102 Reviews )

The Porto Boat Tour is an amazing experience that takes you through the Douro River and its stunning estuary.

You’ll have a chance to enjoy breathtaking views of churches, bridges, and other sites while sipping on a glass of port wine. Take in all the beauty of nature with wildlife sightings along your 2-hour cruise.

With blankets provided during winter months and comfortable Bénéteau sailboats , this is Porto boat tour that will leave a lasting impression. It’s even better at sunset!

• Glass of Port Wine

Size of Tour: 28 people max

“We enjoyed a very pleasant cruise down the Douro river and out to the harbor area. It was very personalized as we were the only couple on the boat. The couple taking us out were very friendly and helpful. It was much preferable to the other cruise boats that were packed with people.” – Tet M ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Porto Boat Tour ➜

11. Private Yacht – Experience of the 6 Bridges and Douro Estuary Natural Reserve

⭐ 5/5 ( 1 Reviews )

The Private Yacht – Experience of the 6 Bridges and Douro Estuary Natural Reserve tour is great for couples, families and groups who want to take in some of Portugal’s best sights while enjoying a unique experience on board.

This 2-hour small group tour sails along the calm waters of the Douro River to get away from the crowds, taking short breaks so you can admire all its beauty and capture photos that will last forever.

Cross the six iconic bridges of Porto while listening to your favourite music playlist via a Bluetooth speaker – making this trip even more enjoyable. Take in breathtaking views as you sail towards the mouth of the river at Douro Estuary Natural Reserve.

• Welcome Drink

Size of Tour: You and your group 

“Excellent trip Made the best even out if bad weather Our guide and Captain were both fantastic Will do this again in summer” – K.S ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Private Yacht – Experience of the 6 Bridges and Douro Estuary Natural Reserve  ➜

The 6 Bridges Douro River Day Cruise in Porto: What It’s Like

After scootering around Lagos and parasailing in Albufeira on Portugal’s southern coast, I was ready for more adventures in this beautiful country. Arrive early to check in for your river cruise before its departure time. After checking in, you will line up to board the boat, prepared to board when the ship is ready. Choose an open seat and get ready to sail. 

Depending on the tour you choose, there may be an audio part of the tour explaining the history of the six bridges. My river cruise did not include an audio tour.  

Once the boat sails, relax and feel the wind in your hair. Both sides of the boat offer a great view, as whatever you can’t see well on one side, you will see again on the return trip. I loved seeing each of Porto’s six bridges and enjoying sitting down after a long day of sightseeing.

Seeing Porto from the water is charming and well worth the ticket price. If I didn’t take the river cruise, I wouldn’t have seen half of the bridges in this adorable town. I recommend the 6 bridges cruise as part of your Porto itinerary.

Tips for the Best Experience with Your Porto River Day Cruise

• Plan your river cruise close to sunset if you plan to watch the sunset from Porto’s waterfront area. Porto is known for their incredible sunsets, so you will want to plan where you will be to watch it. We took our cruise around 5 pm, then stayed in the waterfront district until the sun had set.
• During the cruise, you cannot sit at the front of the boat as your seat , but you can take a photo with the view.
• If you sit on the left outer edge of the boat, be prepared to be splashed. During my tour, we got splashed, but the rest of the ship stayed dry. It wasn’t a big deal for us, but other people moved after that. Something to note when choosing where to sit during your ride. 
• Book a ticket in advance to ensure your spot. If you don’t know your schedule, buy your ticket for the same day, but be prepared that not all time options may be available. I bought my tickets on the same day and had to pick a time slightly later than I intended but it worked out. 
• Tie up your hair unless you are okay with it tangling in the wind.

FAQs about 6 Bridges Cruise Porto

What river passes through porto.

The Douro River passes through Porto , Portugal, flowing from Central Spain until it passes Porto and reaches the Atlantic Ocean. It is the second longest river in Portugal, after the Tagus River, which flows through Lisbon.

How Long is the Douro River Cruise?

A Porto bridges river cruise lasts 50 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the tour operator. The tour starts near Ponte Dom Luis I and proceeds towards interior Portugal before turning around and heading to the mouth where the river meets the Atlantic Ocean, then returning to Porto.

Where do River Cruises Depart from in Porto?

From the Porto side of the river, cruises depart from Cais da Ribeira . To reach this scenic waterfront street, be prepared to climb down plenty of stairs, ride in a tuk-tuk then walk the rest, or take the gondola on the other side of the river and walk across Ponte Dom Luis I. 

Final Thoughts: Is the 6 Bridges Cruise Worth it? + Best Porto Boat Tours

The 6 bridges Douro River day cruise is worth it for the unique perspective of the city and bridges, and the best way to see them is on a Porto boat tour.

From taking panoramic tours of Boavista and Foz do Douro to tasting fine wines or sailing along the tranquil waters of the Douro River, there’s something special for everyone on these best Porto boat tours. 

Whether it’s with family, friends or on your own, this unique adventure will provide lasting memories that you’ll cherish forever. 

The best Porto boat tour is the one with the smallest group size – Private Tour in the Douro (1 to 4 People) in a Boat Just For You .

Happy travelling!

Related Posts – Portugal

• How to Spend 2 Days in Porto
• 3 Days in Lisbon: A Lisbon Itinerary
• Should I Buy a Lisboa Card?
• Tips for Riding the Telecabine Lisboa
• How to Visit the Lisboa Oceanarium 
• Castelo de São Jorge Review
• Lisbon Cathedral: Visiting the Se de Lisboa
• A Review of Pestana Lisboa Vintage Hotel
• Sidecar32 Scooter Rental in Lagos
• Parasailing with Dream Wave Algarve

Melissa is the founder of My Beautiful Passport. A Canadian who has explored 15+ countries on 4 continents, she enjoys combining adventure and affordable luxury. Through sharing her own experiences, travel tips, and destination itineraries, she helps others plan their unique adventures whether it be at the beach, in the city, or in the mountains.

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Porto's amazing Douro river experiences

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Get to know our Nautical Experiences in the Douro River

• Hour Glass 1 day
• User all ages
• Boat Trip Douro River , Douro River Cruise (1 Day or More)

Douro River Cruise - Discovering Ilha dos Amores

One of the best ways to get to know the Lower Douro area and visit one of the main attractions: the island of love!

On this exclusive 1-day Douro cruise, aboard our luxury yacht, you will have the opportunity to have a different and unforgettable day.

• Hour Glass 2 hours
• Boat Trip Douro River , Sunset Boat Trip

Porto Sunset Cruise

Is there anything better than enjoying the sunset and listening to good music with friends? We suggest enjoying this plan aboard one of our sailboats or yacht, enjoying the view of the riverside area of the city of Porto and Foz do Douro. All our boats are suitable for this tour, varying the choice depending on the number of people.

• Hour Glass 2, 3 or 4 hours
• Boat Trip , Boat Trip Douro River

Douro River Cruise

Enjoy a boat trip on the Douro river and celebrate a party, a romantic ride or a bachelor party aboard Sailing 360, and get incredible views of the city of Porto, such as the D. Luís Bridge and Ribeira. This Porto river cruise is the ideal program for groups and families. Enjoy the view of the riverside area of the city of Porto and Foz do Douro, as well as the city of Vila Nova de Gaia, where the Port Wine Cellars and the Famous Cable Car are located.

Sunset Porto Wine Tasting Boat Tour

Take a boat trip on the Douro River, through the 6 bridges of the City of Porto, with a wine tasting included! A 2-hour shared tour that will make you marvel at the riverside shores of the City of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.

• Bachelor Party , Boat Party Douro River

Bachelor Party & Booze Cruise

Have a bachelorette party/unforgettable party aboard a boat on the Douro River. Music, fun and a sensational view of the shores of Porto are the key ingredients for a memorable day! The bachelorette party/o with Sailing 360º is an experience that can be enjoyed aboard a luxury yacht or vintage vessel.

• Romantic Cruise

Romantic Cruise along Douro River

On board this exclusive boat trip along Douro River you will have the possibility to make the much longed-for proposal, dating or surprise your partner with a romantic tour.

Double Sailboat trip in Douro River, Porto

A walk between the marina, the riverside area and Foz do Douro with two sailboats sailing at the same time.

• Hour Glass 1 night
• Night on Board

Overnight on Board in Douro River, Porto

Have you ever slept aboard a boat? This is the opportunity!

We recommend the relaxing sleep on board, where you enjoy a night lulled by the waters of the Douro River. Enjoy the breakfast served on the boat at Douro Marina, in Vila Nova de Gaia.

The Activity

Sail between the shores of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia contemplating breathtaking views.

With several experiences available, from exclusive boat trips on the Douro River, brunch on board to bachelor/a parties. With Sailing 360º you have the possibility to live moments to remember later.

What about boat trips at sunset? Well, imagine navigating to the sound of the Douro River while enjoying the fall of the day and the sunset, already very close to the sea.

The Experience

The good times in life are those that we remember every day that passes, whether lived with friends, family or even with our better half.

And how do we experience those moments? There are certainly several options, but undoubtedly a boat experience, even more in the Douro River, will be one of them.

What are you waiting for? Embrace this adventure, sail across the banks of the Douro River and have your own moment of relaxation, harmony and happiness aboard one of our boats.

The Opinion of Our Customers

Everything was wonderful, fantastic staff and everything very well sanitized. Lots of music and lots of animation😁

Simply fantastic, from the boat Mathilda to crew Ricardo and Marcos who were tireless and always available!! Finally many thanks to Isabel for that little play so that the birthday surprise was total!! I recommend this wonderful team!! Thank you very much.

Excellent professionals full of joy that provided us a wonderful sunset ride! Breathtaking landscape and moments to remember forever. Loved!!

It’s not the first time I’ve used the company. It stands out for the professionalism, organization, and the tours were always fun and always ran the best way! You couldn’t ask for better!

+351 917 552 891

on the water...

Experience a different porto.

Our Private Sailing Tours

Sailing tours on the douro river and shoreline of porto, our private parties cruises.

Private cruises with groups up to 14 people

Douro Marina (Afurada),  Port / Pier C, Vila Nova de Gaia

Operator Nº 52/2017

Mar Douro is a registered trademark under the Nº 575721

Rua da Praia - Douro Marina (Deck C)

4400-554 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal

Email: [email protected]  

 Phone, SMS, WhatsApp

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Explore Douro

The city of Porto as you never seen before

All Aboard Douro

A new way to discover Douro’s wonders

We offer you an intimate and exclusive experience where you’ll get to know the best of Douro. Grab this opportunity to spend time with family, friends or as a couple, while enjoying the beautiful landscape and sunset.

Douro 6 Bridges Cruise

Douro sunset experience, douro full experience, douro couple experience.

ACTIVITIES FOR ALL

Advantages we have for you

Exclusive trips, complimentary drink on board, unforgettable landscapes, four different trips available, personalize your trip to become memorable, our instagram.

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Discover Douro

Copyright © 2020. All rights reserved. Developed by SUBA.PT

Create unforgettable memories

Sail with us on the best boat trip in the douro, ready for this boat ride.

On board the wonderful sailboat Sofia Electra, we break the horizon and dive into the adventure along the Douro River.

The breeze, the sun, the extensive green vineyards along the route.

Enjoy the wonderful landscapes of the Douro River for an unforgettable experience.

Enjoy the ride on board with everything you need, wi-fi, space and a good glass of wine.

Sofia Electra

Enjoy the ride on a robust and magnificent Ocean Star 51.2 sailboat with 15 meters of space

Discover the Douro like you've never seen it before on this fantastic boat trip

Discover our experiences

2 hours Douro River boat Tour with wine taste and snacks

From 43€ 40€/person *best rate available, save 7%.

2 Hour Douro River Sunset Boat Tour

From 59€ 55€/person *best rate available, save 7%, customized solutions.

Would you like help creating a unique event?

Explore our options

Passeio corporativo

Aproveite um passeio corporativo

Despedida de Solteiro

A melhor maneira de fazer uma despedida de solteiro é a bordo

Branding no Barco

Reforce a sua marca com o nosso barco

Videoclip a bordo

Gravar videoclips a bordo dá o toque essencial à musica

Festas de aniversário

Não sebe onde comemorar o aniversário? Que tal a bordo no Douro. Espumante incluído, sistema de som e WIFI

Would you like something more personalized or a private tour? Contact us

Have an idea for a custom tour?

We help you plan everything.

• Call us: +351 931 108 318
• Email: [email protected]

Do you still have doubts about the natural beauty of the Douro? See for yourself.

Do you have any doubt?

Send us a message, we’ll be happy to help.

Common questions

So that there are no doubts.

You can purchase a Douro Sailing experience through the Book button on the website, or by contacting us directly for something more personalized using the form.

If you wish, yes! For this, you must indicate to us that you want to receive the voucher. We can even put the name you want on the voucher, if you want to offer it.

The ideal is to book at least 48 hours in advance. However, you can call the day before the intended date or even on the day to inquire about availability.

You can change your reservation whenever you want, we understand that sometimes there are unforeseen events.

• Cancelation with Refund is only allowed if noticed 48 hours prior to the scheduled tour.
• If guests do not arrive on time, there will be no refund. Punctuality is key to ensuring the enjoyment of all guests.
• Tours may be canceled on the day if weather and safety conditions are not met. In such cases, guests will have the option to receive a full refund or to rebook the tour for another date, subject to availability.

Yes, children count as a passenger the same as adults.

All departures and arrivals are made from Douro Marina, Porta/Cais D

There are 2 cabins (suites), with double beds, at the stern, and 2 cabins, with bunk beds for 2 people each, at the bow of the boat. All cabins have a shower and toilet. The cabins have all the necessary comfort to spend a good nights restful sleep. To get a more precise idea, we suggest that you consult the “Overnight Stay” experience page.

It is expressly forbidden to smoke inside the boat.

No! When you buy one, or several nights, the boat is just for you. The space is yours!

You must show up at Douro Marina, in front of Porta/Cais D at the prearranged time, where a member of our team will welcome you.

Douro Sailing offers a free parking space at Douro Marina to customers who sleep on board.

Yes, you have a free Wi-Fi system on board.

With a privileged location in Vila Nova de Gaia, in the Douro Marina, our sailboat is located on the shores of Porto, close to the beautiful and renowned beaches of Gaia, and just 3 km from the historic center of Porto. This distance can easily be covered either by bus or by a combination of 2 transports: boat and tram.

• Buses – (STCP) – Stop Arrábida (902, 903 and 907) and (Espírito Santo) – Stop Afurada – 14 (Porto – Via Candal), 18 (Boavista – Casa da Musica), 27 (Porto – Via Beira-Rio )

•Taxi Boat – Flor do Gás Speedboat (Lordelo do Ouro) Douro Marina. (reception pier).

Douro Sailing offers its overnight guests a free parking spot in the Douro Marina.

What customers say

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Douro Sailing is not only a nautical tourism brand, it is a lifestyle dedicated to enriching your well-being through a unique experience, accessible and respectful of the environment that combines sea and river.

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• Douro Sailing, R. da Praia 430, 4400-554 Vila Nova de Gaia
• [email protected]
• +351 931 108 318 (Call to the national mobile network)

(c) 2023 Douro Sailing – All rights reserved

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