Porto: Voyant Open Cruise

Imagine gliding along the Douro River on a beautifully restored vintage yacht, soaking in some of Porto’s most iconic sights from a fresh perspective. This Voyant Open Cruise offers a chance to see the city from the water in a way that combines comfort, history, and a touch of elegance. It’s the kind of experience that makes you feel like you’re part of Porto’s story, rather than just a tourist ticking off a list.

What really makes this experience stand out are the luxury touches—like cozy blankets and cushions—that turn a simple boat ride into a relaxed, almost indulgent escape. Plus, with a history dating back over 90 years, the vessel itself is a piece of living history, beautifully reconstructed to blend tradition with modern comfort.

One thing to consider: the experience is primarily about the scenic boat ride. So, if you’re hoping for a gourmet meal or extensive commentary, you may want to look elsewhere. However, it’s perfect for travelers wanting a tranquil, scenic overview of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia without fuss. This cruise suits those who appreciate relaxing, high-quality experiences with a dash of authenticity and a splash of style.

Good To Know

• Charming Vintage Vessel: Over 90 years of history, beautifully restored for a luxurious cruise.
• Comfort-Focused: Personal touches like blankets, cushions, and towels make the ride cozy.
• Scenic Routes: Glide from Luiz I Bridge to the Atlantic, with prime views of Porto’s landmarks.
• Inclusive Features: Welcome drink, onboard wifi, and bilingual crew enhance the experience.
• No Food Included: The cruise is about the sightseeing, so plan meals separately.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel easily if plans change.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Porto Voyant Open Cruise Experience

The Vessel: A Classic with a Modern Touch

Starting with the boat itself, you’ll be aboard a vessel that’s a true relic of maritime history. Built in 1930 as a fishing trawler, it’s seen the tides of time but has been meticulously reconstructed to serve as a luxury yacht. The design retains its vintage charm but with updated features for comfort and safety.

Guests often comment on the elegance of the space, noting how every detail seems to reflect a blend of tradition and refinement. The outside leisure area is especially inviting, with cushions and mattresses that encourage you to lounge comfortably while taking in the river views. The addition of blankets and towels, personalized for comfort, means you can enjoy the scenery regardless of the weather or time of day.

The Route and Sights: From Luiz I Bridge to the Atlantic

The cruise begins under the iconic Luiz I Bridge, a favorite photo spot and symbol of Porto’s industrial past. From there, the vessel gently glides along the Douro River, passing under other famous bridges and along the historic Ribeira district. The captain provides a smooth ride, ensuring that everyone has a clear view of the city’s most notable landmarks.

Travelers report that the route offers unforgettable vistas of Porto’s colorful façades, church spires, and the bustling port area. As you leave the city behind and head toward the Atlantic Ocean, the scenery shifts—offering a more tranquil, panoramic perspective of the river’s natural beauty and Porto’s surrounding hills.

What Makes This Cruise Special?

One of the key features is the personalized experience. Unlike large group tours, this smaller, more intimate cruise allows for a relaxed atmosphere. The crew, including two bilingual members, are attentive without being intrusive, creating a welcoming environment.

Guests have praised the welcoming atmosphere and how the crew makes sure everyone is comfortable. The onboard wifi is a nice touch, letting you share your stunning photos or look up interesting facts about Porto as you sail. The inclusion of life vests and insurance adds peace of mind, especially if you’re traveling with family or kids.

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Comfort and Convenience

The thoughtful addition of blankets and cushions makes the entire journey cozy, especially on cooler days or evenings. Some reviews mention that the blankets are customizable and visually appealing, adding to the overall aesthetic and sensory continuity. These little touches turn a standard boat ride into a memorable, relaxing experience.

The Experience Duration and Group Size

While the exact length isn’t specified, most similar cruises last around an hour or so, enough time to enjoy the views without feeling rushed. The group size is kept small, which enhances the feeling of exclusivity and allows for better interaction with the crew and captain.

Cost and Value

At $76 per person, this cruise offers a lot of value, especially when factoring in the luxury vessel, the personalized touches, and the scenic route. The price includes essentials like fuel, taxes, onboard wifi, life vests, and a welcome drink—ensuring there’s no surprise expense at the end. Since food isn’t included, you might want to bring your own snacks or plan to dine after the cruise, but that’s a minor consideration compared to the overall experience.

Authenticity and Local Flavor

The boat’s long history and the bilingual crew (speaking English, Portuguese, and Spanish) provide an authentic touch that elevates the experience beyond a simple sightseeing trip. Several reviewers note that the crew’s local knowledge and friendly attitude make the journey more engaging, sharing insights into Porto’s history and culture that you might not find in guidebooks.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Meeting point: Look for “Gate E” when you arrive—pretty straightforward and well-marked.
• Weather preparedness: Bring a jacket or layers and a blanket if it’s cooler, as the river breeze can be brisk.
• Booking flexibility: You can reserve your spot now and pay later, with a full refund available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.
• Language: The crew speaks English, Portuguese, and Spanish, so communication is smooth.
• No food onboard: Plan to eat before or after, or bring snacks if you prefer.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic adventure that emphasizes comfort and authenticity. It’s perfect for couples wanting a romantic outing, small groups of friends, or families who enjoy gentle sightseeing from the water. If you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy beautiful vistas with a touch of elegance, this cruise will likely tick all your boxes.

It’s also a great choice for those with limited time but who want an overview of Porto’s most picturesque sights from a unique vantage point. The affordable price point and inclusion of comforts like blankets and wifi make it a good value for quality time on the water.

Summary: Why Choose the Voyant Open Cruise?

This cruise offers a combination of history, comfort, and stunning scenery—all aboard a vessel that’s as charming as the city it explores. While it doesn’t include food, the overall package provides a laid-back, luxurious experience that helps you appreciate Porto’s beauty from a fresh perspective.

The small-group setup, friendly bilingual crew, and attention to detail make it a standout choice for travelers wanting a memorable, authentic waterway adventure. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to unwind with breathtaking views, this cruise delivers.

FAQs

What is included in the price of $76 per person?
The cruise includes the vessel experience, personalized blankets, cushions, towels, life vests, onboard wifi, all taxes and fees, fuel, a welcome drink, insurance, and two bilingual crew members.

Is food provided during the cruise?
No, food isn’t included in the experience. You’ll want to bring snacks or plan to dine after your cruise.

How long does the cruise last?
While an exact duration isn’t specified, similar experiences generally last about an hour, offering plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and relax.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably, with layers if possible. The breeze on the river can be cool, so carrying a jacket or sweater is a good idea, especially for cooler days.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for changing plans.

Is the crew bilingual?
Yes, the crew speaks both English, Portuguese, and Spanish, helping ensure clear communication.

Is the boat suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed, scenic nature of the cruise makes it generally suitable for families, especially with the safety features like life vests.

Where do I meet for the cruise?
Look for “Gate E” upon arrival; the departure point is clearly marked and easy to find.

In summary, the Porto Voyant Open Cruise is a refined yet relaxed way to see the city’s scenic waterways. Its vintage vessel, personalized comforts, and stunning views make it a memorable addition to any Porto itinerary—especially if you prefer a peaceful, intimate experience over crowded tour buses.

You can check if your dates are available here: