Adding to its fleet of brilliant luxury hotel ships, DouroAzul has just launched the new MS Queen Isabel and AmaVida. Along with five other ships, one yacht, a sightseeing boat and the Royal Barge Spirit of Chartwell (used by Queen Elizabeth II during the Diamond Jubilee celebrations), the new vessels offer a glamorous and leisurely way to cruise the length of Portugal’s breathtaking Douro River.

Traversing the width of Portugal between the border of Spain and the Atlantic coast, the fleet follows a course along the Douro between ancient, sloping vineyards, showcasing the world’s oldest demarcated wine region — recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2001 — and the numerous 18th century manor houses built along the river’s edge. The wine country was originally isolated as a defined region in 1756 by the Marquis de Pombal, who recognized the importance of protecting the authenticity of the Port wines produced here. In addition to exploring sites such as the Mateus Palace, Castelo Rodrigo and Alpendurada Monastery, guests enjoy onboard Portuguese barbecues, traditional music and Fado performances (cruise specific). While lingering over a glass of Port wine, of course.

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