Porto: Voyant Open Cruise

Discovering Porto from the Water: A Review of the Voyant Open Cruise

Imagine cruising along the Douro River on a beautifully restored 1930s vessel, with the shimmering cityscape of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia unfolding around you. For just $76, this luxury yacht experience offers a chance to see Portugal’s northern jewel from a perspective few get to enjoy — the water. Guided by friendly bilingual crew members, you’ll glide from the Luiz I Bridge all the way to the Atlantic Ocean, soaking in sights that blend history, nature, and modern life.

What we love most about this tour is the personalized comfort — blankets, towels, cushions, and a leisure area make it feel more like a floating lounge than a simple boat ride. The yacht’s timeless design, dating back over 90 years, adds a layer of charm that’s hard to find elsewhere. And the fact that the experience includes local taxes, fuel, and a welcome drink makes it clear that this cruise prioritizes value.

A few considerations are worth mentioning. Since food isn’t included, you might want to bring snacks or plan to dine ashore afterward. Also, depending on the weather, the open-air deck can be a different experience — sunny and warm or cool and breezy. But overall, this cruise is well-suited for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic, and intimate view of Porto from the water — perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone who appreciates a touch of elegance and history.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Historic Vessel: A beautifully reconstructed 1930 fishing trawler turned luxury yacht.
• Unforgettable Views: Panoramic scenery of Porto, Vila Nova de Gaia, and the iconic Luiz I Bridge.
• Personal Comforts: Blankets, towels, cushions, and a leisure area for a relaxed experience.
• All-Inclusive Value: Includes taxes, fuel, a welcome drink, onboard wifi, and life vests.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Ideal for: Travelers looking for a calm, scenic way to see Porto with a touch of luxury and history.

Exploring the Porto: Voyant Open Cruise in Detail

Setting Sail: What to Expect from the Start

Your adventure begins at the designated meeting point, where you’ll look for “Gate E” – a straightforward spot in Porto’s lively port area. From there, a friendly crew welcomes you aboard the classic vessel, which is one of Porto’s most charming and historically significant boats. Built in 1930 as a fishing trawler, it’s been carefully reconstructed to preserve its vintage appeal while offering modern comforts.

The boat’s elegant design and meticulous restoration provide a sense of stepping into a bygone era. As you settle into the leisure area, you’ll notice the thoughtfully arranged cushions and mattresses, inviting you to relax and enjoy the scenery. For those cooler days or if you simply want extra warmth, blankets and towels are provided — all chosen to match the boat’s classic aesthetic.

The Journey: From Luiz I Bridge to the Atlantic

The cruise begins with a gentle glide along the Douro River, a waterway that has long been the lifeblood of Porto’s commerce and identity. As the boat passes under the Luiz I Bridge, you’ll get a close-up view of Porto’s iconic architecture and historic neighborhoods. The captain and crew, speaking both English and Portuguese, share insights into the city’s landmarks, adding context to the stunning sights.

You might find the highlight is the view of Vila Nova de Gaia, famed for its port wine cellars. From the water, these warehouses look like picturesque blocks of history, and lounging on the deck with a drink in hand, you’ll feel like part of Porto’s ongoing story.

The boat continues its journey toward the Atlantic Ocean, where the wide-open water offers fresh air and sweeping vistas. Depending on the weather and time of day, the horizon can be a brilliant interplay of sky and sea, with the city’s silhouette fading into the distance.

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The Experience: Comfort, Views, and Authenticity

One of the standout features is the balance of tradition and refinement. The vessel, with over 90 years of history, exudes character — the kind that photos can’t do justice to. We loved the way every detail, from the teak woodwork to the vintage fittings, told a story of craftsmanship and care.

The personalized touches, like blankets and towels, elevate the experience from a typical boat ride to a cozy, intimate outing. The onboard wifi, surprisingly, holds a connection, allowing you to share photos or check messages if you wish — a bonus for modern travelers.

Reviewers often comment on the friendly crew, who go out of their way to make everyone comfortable. One said, “The crew was excellent, and the captain kept us informed about the sights and history. It felt like sailing with friends.” Another appreciated the value for money, noting that the included welcome drink and all taxes made for a straightforward, enjoyable experience.

What’s Not Included and Planning Tips

Keep in mind, food isn’t included, so if you want a full meal, plan to bring snacks or dine afterward in Porto or Vila Nova de Gaia. The cruise lasts about the time it takes to go from the bridge to the ocean and back, so approximately one to two hours.

Weather can influence your comfort — a sunny day will make the experience even more enjoyable, but if it’s chilly or windy, don’t forget the blankets provided. For families or couples seeking a peaceful, scenic escape with a touch of elegance, this cruise offers a memorable way to see Porto’s riverfront and beyond.

How This Experience Measures Up

Compared with other Douro River tours that might focus on wine tastings or multi-course dinners, this cruise’s value lies in its relaxed, scenic approach. The small group size and personalized touches create an authentic, intimate feel, avoiding the crowds and commercialism of larger tours.

While some reviews mention that the food options are limited or that the experience is more about the ride than gourmet dining, many find that the breathtaking views and comfort more than compensate. It’s a perfect way to complement a day of sightseeing and tasting in Porto’s historic districts.

Who Will Appreciate This Cruise?

This experience is best suited for travelers who love historic vessels and want a relaxed, scenic view of Porto. It’s ideal for those seeking a quiet, intimate outing with comfort features that make the journey special. If you appreciate authentic, vintage charm combined with modern comforts, you’ll find this cruise a highlight of your trip.

Couples looking for a romantic escape, small groups wanting a scenic break, or anyone seeking a different perspective on Porto will find this cruise rewarding. It’s also a good option for travelers who prefer value for money—with all taxes and amenities included, it offers an accessible luxury.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the cruise?
The cruise typically lasts about an hour or slightly longer, traveling from the Luiz I Bridge down the Douro River and out toward the Atlantic.

What is included in the price?
For $76, you get a luxury yacht experience, personalized blankets, cushions, towels, life vests, a welcome drink (beer, soda, or water), onboard wifi, all taxes and fuel, insurance, and the company of two bilingual crew members.

Is food included?
No, food is not included. It’s recommended to bring snacks or plan to dine in Porto or Vila Nova de Gaia after the cruise.

Are there options for different languages?
Yes, the tour is conducted in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, making it accessible for a broader range of travelers.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking is flexible, and paying later allows you to keep your plans open.

Is this suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed, scenic nature of the cruise suggests it can be enjoyed by families with children, especially those comfortable with boat rides.

Final Thoughts

For those seeking a peaceful, aesthetically pleasing way to experience Porto, the Voyant Open Cruise offers a satisfying blend of history, comfort, and stunning scenery. It’s a solid choice for travelers who value authentic ambiance, personalized touches, and a relaxed pace over high-energy excursions.

While it might not satisfy those craving gourmet meals or extensive sightseeing, it excels at providing a gentle, memorable journey that captures the essence of Porto’s riverfront. Given the affordable price, well-structured amenities, and charming vessel, it’s a worthwhile addition to any itinerary focused on authentic, scenic experiences.

Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, seeing Porto from the water on this vintage yacht will likely leave you with a new appreciation for this captivating city — a perfect blend of tradition, beauty, and modern comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here: