SUP Tour Junior on the Douro with Malibu Escola de Surf

Set against the rugged coastline of Porto, Portugal, Gaia is a city where the Douro River opens into the Atlantic, offering a dramatic landscape shaped by centuries of maritime legacy. Malibu Escola de Surf taps into this authenticity, inviting visitors to slip onto a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) for the SUP TOUR JUNIOR—a one-hour aquatic journey departing from Douro Marina. This concise excursion balances adventure with accessibility, making it ideal for beginners or younger paddlers eager to feel the river’s pulse.

The tour provides a rare vantage point to see Porto’s historic skyline and Gaia’s cliffside vineyards without the typical tourist bustle. Gliding over the calm waters of the Douro, paddlers absorb views of the Dom Luís I Bridge’s iron arches, the Ribeira District’s terracotta roofs, and the colorful rabelo boats moored along the banks. The gentle currents and expert guidance from Malibu Escola de Surf’s team ensure a safe, educational outing where participants also learn foundational paddle skills.

Gaia’s waterfront is more than scenery. The geological interplay between oceanic basaltic cliffs and the sandy estuary beneath creates a diverse ecosystem visible from the water’s surface. Bird species such as the common kingfisher and occasional grey heron dart along riverbanks. Paddlers might also glimpse seals basking on rocky outcrops as they navigate close to shore.

Malibu Escola de Surf is a vital part of Porto’s outdoor recreation fabric, standing out for its commitment to quality instruction and fostering connection with nature in a family-friendly setting. Whether it’s a first venture into stand-up paddling or a calm retreat on the water, this tour makes the Douro accessible in an intimate and adventurous way.

The SUP TOUR JUNIOR delivers a unique blend of cultural vistas and river adventure, perfect for visitors seeking gentle thrills on one of Portugal’s most beautiful waterways.