Riviera Travel has announced a new ship will operate a seven-night Douro itinerary in 2024.

A total of 10 departures are available on the 118-guest Porto Mirante, from July to October.

The Highlights of the Douro Valley and Salamanca voyage will depart from Porto and feature a guided tour of the city’s Old Town as well as visits to the Mateus Palace gardens, Castelo Rodrigo and Lamego.

Prices start from £2,049pp and include regional flights and transfers, all on-board meals, a superior drinks package, complimentary on-board tea and coffee, and wifi.

Porto Mirante has a sun deck with splash pool, atrium bar and lounge area with floor-to-ceiling windows, and an on-board fitness centre.

Riviera Travel ‘in the heart of the Douro’

Riviera Travel head of product river and ocean cruise Katja Hildebrandt said: “This stunning new Douro itinerary takes us into the heart of the winelands along the river.

“Complemented by the launch of a new ship, it offers guests the chance to explore this fascinating area of Portugal with its magical landscapes and history, in style and elegance aboard a state-of-the-art vessel.”

The operator has also introduced three-night city extensions for guests on the Douro, Porto and Salamanca river cruise, The Blue Danube voyage, and the Springtime collection.

The Porto extension includes guided tours of Braga and Guimarães, among other experiences, while the Vienna extension for the Blue Danube includes wine tasting with lunch at Neusiedlersee and a horse-drawn carriage ride.

Hildebrandt added: “For guests looking to maximise their time away, we can offer the flexibility to personalise their holiday by adding one of our extended city stays.

“The included, expert-led guided tours and visits will offer a fascinating insight into each destination from a real local perspective, while there’s a chance to relax too with plenty of free time for independent exploration.”

Riviera recently launched its first trade-dedicated contact centre team.