How long is the cruise?

Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours from Douro Marina between Crestuma and Praia da Lomba.

The meeting point is Douro Marina in Covelo (R. de Favais 100, 4515-027 Covelo, Portugal).

Can I bring food or drinks?

No—outside food and beverages are not permitted; a welcome drink is provided on board.

Is the cruise suitable for children?

Yes—families are welcome, but group size is limited to ten and parents should supervise swims.

Is this activity accessible for people with reduced mobility?

This tour is not recommended for people with reduced mobility due to boarding and swim-stop logistics.

Sail the Douro: 3-Hour Crestuma to Praia da Lomba Luxury Yacht Cruise

Q: How do I book?

Book online via the operator’s reservation link: https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/sailing360/items/738739/?asn=fhdn-eur&asn-ref=advcollective&ref=advcollective&bookable-only=yes&full-items=yes&marketplace=yes&flow=no

Sail the Douro from Crestuma to Praia da Lomba on the Exclusive Cruise 3h at Marleomar, a three‑hour small-group yacht outing that turns the river’s quieter reaches into a private riverfront escape. The voyage launches from Douro Marina in Covelo (meeting point: R. de Favais 100, 4515-027 Covelo, Portugal) and follows one of the Douro’s most authentic stretches, where steep, terraced vineyards give way to cork and pine-lined banks and scattered riverside villages.

This trip is built around slow travel: the skipper keeps the pace deliberate so passengers can scan the shoreline for geological details and pockets of solitude. The Douro here is carved into schist and granite, the layered rock visible at low water and framed by terraces that have shaped local farming for centuries. Many of the settlements you pass are small enough to feel unchanged, their white-walled houses and quay-side docks making subtle punctuation against the green slopes.

Onboard, service is attentive and unpretentious: a welcome drink is served, the crew assists with anchoring in chosen coves, and there’s time to swim from the yacht at sheltered spots like Praia da Lomba. The tour forbids bringing outside food and drink, but it does allow for calm leisure—sunbathing on deck, short swims, and conversation while the river’s light shifts. Group size is capped at ten, so the experience stays personal and the boat can access hidden corners larger craft can’t.

The Douro Valley’s human history is visible in the vines and old stone paths; the region surrounding this stretch is part of the cultural landscape recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001. That context gives the ride a layer of meaning: it’s not only scenery but a living agricultural landscape shaped by generations.

Practical details are tidy: the outing runs about 2.5–3 hours, is best for visitors comfortable boarding a yacht and with basic mobility, and is not recommended for people with reduced mobility. It’s a strong choice for travelers who want a short, luxurious river experience without the crowds of larger river cruises—ideal for families, small groups of friends, or couples seeking an effortless afternoon on the water.

Because the route hugs lesser-traveled banks, the cruise doubles as a window into a quieter Douro: a place to swim, sip, and watch terraced vineyards slide by, all while the crew handles the navigation and service. Booking is handled through the operator’s online reservation (referral: https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/sailing360/items/738739/?asn=fhdn-eur&asn-ref=advcollective&ref=advcollective&bookable-only=yes&full-items=yes&marketplace=yes&flow=no), and departures are timed to favor calm water in the afternoon. Pack reef‑safe sunscreen, a hat, and a light layer for river breezes. This cruise makes an efficient, indulgent way to experience the Douro’s character in a single afternoon. Reserve early during summer; spaces are limited to ten guests per departure only.

About Sailing 360

Sailing 360 is a Portugal-based boat operator located in Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto, offering a broad range of Douro River experiences. The company operates sailboats, classic boats and luxury yachts for short cruises, sunset trips, private dinners, wine tastings and multi-day voyages. Popular offerings include sailboat cruises with Tonic Port and cheese, exclusive dinner cruises on luxury yachts, shared and private sunset tours, and longer Nabucco cruises through the Douro Valley with overnight and extended options.

Trips frequently visit iconic riverside landmarks such as Porto’s six bridges, the historic Palácio do Freixo and Vila Nova de Gaia’s Port wine cellars. Several experiences include welcome drinks, snacks or curated meals on board, Port wine tastings and local cheese pairings. Select yachts and boats offer certified crew and dedicated service, supporting private events like birthday parties, bachelor parties and couples’ sunset cruises.

Sailing 360’s fleet includes themed vessels such as Mathilda, Innisfree, Skyfall, Nabucco and Orcinus, and itineraries range from two-hour shared cruises to multi-day Douro Valley journeys. The operator highlights stops at scenic sites including Ilha dos Amores (Love Island) for swimming and relaxation on longer excursions.

Bookings accommodate groups seeking private celebrations as well as individuals joining shared departures. Scheduling covers daytime, sunset and night departures along the Douro. The business presents detailed trip options for different group sizes and occasions, enabling travelers to select experiences tailored to sightseeing, wine tasting, dining or celebration on the water. Reservations are available year-round with flexible timing and private options on request.