On-Tour Enrichment
TEMPT YOUR TASTEBUDS IN
PORTUGAL & SPAIN
It's no wonder Portugal is continuously ranked one of the world's hottest destinations — it’s gorgeous, historical, and, perhaps most importantly,
delicious. Get ready for an enlightening cruise through the vinicultural history of Portugal's Douro River Valley, where families and winemakers continue to capitalize on the rich soil and unique climate to produce world-renowned wines like the fresh
vinho verde (green wine) and even sweet Moscatel. But wine is always better with food, which is why you’ll not only savor some of Portugal's regional specialties, but learn to make them, too. Then it's
tapas, jamón, and more flavors from another food-famous country: Spain.
Sip
Port wine has been plotting its comeback. Gone are the days of relegating this slightly sweet fortified wine to the dustbin of history — ports are finally getting their moment in the sun, thanks to sommeliers in the know and expert Portuguese winemakers. In fact, the 2016 vintages were “universally declared” — that's wine-speak for
amazing — and you'll savor Porto's signature tipple during your time in this UNESCO-listed city. On a visit to a local wine cellar, you'll sample the myriad varieties of this
digestif before learning about other classic wines at local wineries including Aveleda and Avessada Winery.
Plus, on our
Harvest departures you'll enjoy enhanced wine features, including a full-day celebration at Avessada Winery complete with a grape-stomping experience!
Savor
Portugal is a seafood lover’s paradise. From dried, salted codfish known as
bacalhou to tinned sardines (a regional specialty!), you’ll have plenty of free time to explore these classic snacks as well as Lisbon's cutting-edge gastronomy scene. During wine tastings, you’ll also enjoy some snacks including grilled Portuguese sausage and a cheese and jam spread. Our travelers also report that the lunch at Avessada Winery was a true highlight of the cruise!
Sweet
Pastéis de Belém, pastéis de nata. Whatever you call this creamy egg custard wrapped in flaky crust, this is Portugal's most beloved treat for good reason. You'll first taste this sweet staple during your Lisbon walking tour, but you can bring the dish home too, thanks to an interactive onboard cooking lesson! You'll also learn about the traditions surrounding tea drinking and tea production during an authentic Portuguese tea time — featuring pastries, of course!
Lectures, Lessons & Learning
Portugal is more than just wine and seafood, of course, and you'll learn all about its history, economy, and culture with a series of illuminating lectures on topics including cork production, Portuguese filigree, and more.
Entertainment
Experience Portuguese music with a roster of local entertainers, brought to you most evenings as onboard entertainment. You’ll hear everything from a tuna band to Portuguese folk musicians, and then experience something totally different during a stirring flamenco dinner show in Madrid — sure to be a highlight!
