MS Estrela

The MS Estrela is purpose-built specifically to navigate the Douro River in Portugal and Spain, sailing through the UNESCO-listed Alto Douro wine region between Porto and the Spanish border.

MS Estrela is an intimate vessel accommodating 116 to 120 guests across 58 to 60 staterooms. With around 60 crew members, the ship maintains a high guest-to-staff ratio for personalised service.

There are three main accommodation categories spread across three decks:

• Window Staterooms (Lower Deck): 14.5-15 m² with high-level, non-opening windows.

• French Balcony Suites (Main & Upper Decks): 15-18 m² featuring electric drop-down windows that open halfway to transform your room into an open-air balcony.

• Owner's Suites (Upper Deck): 22 m² offering extra living space and dual-aspect views over the Douro.

Yes. The ship boasts a large outdoor swimming pool on the Sun Deck (one of the largest pools on any Douro River cruise vessel!), alongside sun loungers and an outdoor bar.

Guests can enjoy multiple dining experiences:

• Main Restaurant: Serving buffet breakfasts, lunch, and multi-course dinners which showcase regional Portuguese and Mediterranean flavours paired with local wines.

• Main Lounge & Alfresco Dining: Light bites, casual dining options, and outdoor seating on the deck.

Fares typically cover all onboard meals, paired regional wines and beer with lunch and dinner, guided shore excursions, onboard Wi-Fi, port charges, transfers, and gratuities. (Inclusions can vary slightly depending on whether you book an APT Luxury or Travelmarvel package).

Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship and in all staterooms, though connection speeds can occasionally vary when passing through deep river gorges.

There are lifts located on the three interior accommodation decks (Lower, Main, and Upper Decks). However, the top Sun Deck is only accessible via stairs. River cruise ships also require walking up and down gangways for embarkation and guided shore tours.

Onboard enrichment highlights regional culture with Portuguese folk music performances, local wine tastings, and history talks. On the Sun Deck, guests will also find a golf putting green, sunken seating, and a bar.