MS Douro Splendour is a cosy, quintessentially Portuguese ship, purpose-built for life on the Douro and inspired by the traditional vessels that have sailed these waters for generations.
Rich mahogany, gold and deep green accents create a warm, welcoming atmosphere, while subtle touches throughout the ship celebrate the river's heritage, from vintage Douro imagery to thoughtful nods to the region's history.
With just 124 guests on board, life feels friendly and sociable from day one. Days unfold at a relaxed pace, with scenic morning sailings through the Douro Valley, where pistachio, olive and almond trees line the hillsides and temperatures gradually warm as you travel deeper into the heart of wine country.
Outside, the spacious sun deck is the perfect place to watch the landscape drift by, from soaring bridges to the river's impressive locks, with a splash pool providing a refreshing spot to cool off between discoveries ashore.
Passing through the Douro's locks and beneath its lower bridges is one of the river's most memorable experiences. While the sun deck is temporarily lowered during parts of the journey, guests can enjoy these moments from the bow, the panoramic lounge or their cabin, watching the engineering of the river unfold from a different vantage point.
Dining on board
Begin the day at your own pace, choosing a generous breakfast from the menu, something lighter from the buffet, or perhaps a little of both. Lunch is relaxed and unfussy. Help yourself to the buffet, enjoy a freshly prepared pasta dish or omelette made to order, or choose a simple, well-judged plate from the menu between time ashore and lazy afternoons on deck. In the evening, the restaurant becomes the heart of the ship, where a four-course à la carte dinner brings together familiar favourites and flavours inspired by the Douro and the regions you’re travelling through, all best savoured slowly, in good company.
Deck Plan
The Sun Deck
The Sun Deck is where MS Douro Splendour really comes into its own. It’s designed for time spent outdoors, with plenty of space to settle into a lounger, find a shaded spot and watch the Douro Valley drift by at a leisurely pace.
The Douro is also home to a series of impressive locks and bridges. Passing through them is one of the highlights of the journey, and guests can often watch as sections of the Sun Deck are carefully lowered to allow the ship through. During these moments, there are still wonderful views from the forward viewing area, the panoramic lounge or the comfort of your cabin.
On a warm day, the pool is a welcome way to cool off between ports – and if you fancy a quiet moment, the forward area is a lovely place to take in river life as it unfolds along the banks. You can also catch glimpses of the Captain and crew at work as the ship follows the Douro’s gentle curves.
Please note: The Sun Deck is only accessible by stairs.
The Upper Deck
Boarding via the welcoming entrance lobby on the Upper Deck, you’ll step into a space that feels cosy and traditionally Portuguese – rich woods, deep tones, and a calm, traditional mood set the scene for your time on board.
Complimentary tea and coffee are always available here, and there’s a small boutique for essentials and souvenirs. Forward, the lounge and bar form the social heart of the ship: a relaxed, familiar space where guests gather for conversation, daily briefings, a drink, evening entertainment or simply to watch the Douro valley drift by through panoramic windows.
The bar is well-stocked, with friendly staff happy to recommend local wines or mix your favourite drinks.
The Middle Deck
On the Middle Deck, you'll find the ship's restaurant, a calm and welcoming space where subtle details reflect the character of the Douro, from river-inspired menus and illustrations to thoughtfully designed table settings.
Breakfast begins with a generous buffet, complemented by a selection of freshly prepared dishes made to order an omelette station. At lunchtime, alongside the buffet and seasonal salads, you can choose from a range of made-to-order dishes, offering a relaxed and flexible dining experience.
Dinner is the highlight: a four-course menu inspired by local flavours and regional ingredients, served at your table by attentive staff who keep the atmosphere easy and sociable. Carefully selected Douro wines are also available with your evening meal, bringing a taste of the valley to every course.
You'll also find complimentary water stations, along with tea and coffee-making facilities throughout the day.
If you're after a little extra relaxation, the ship's spa is also accessed from the Main Deck, perfect for an indulgent treatment during your cruise.
The Lower Deck
For something a little more energetic, you will find a small fitness room on the Lower Deck – ideal for working off the ship’s wonderful cuisine!
Cabins
Deluxe Balcony Suite
The Upper Deck
The largest suite on MS Douro Splendour with a private balcony, extra storage space and room to relax.
Superior Balcony Suite
The Upper Deck
This suite offers a private balcony, comfortable living area, and river views for a more relaxed stay.
Standard Cabin
The Upper Deck
A comfortable cabin with a French balcony and wide river views to enjoy from your room.
Standard Cabin
The Middle Deck
A comfortable cabin with a French balcony and wide river views to enjoy from your room.
Stern Standard Cabin
The Middle Deck
Located at the back of the ship, Stern Standard cabins are comfortable cabins with a French balcony and wide river views to enjoy from your room.
Standard Cabin
The Lower Deck
A restful cabin with a window and a calm space to unwind.
Stern Standard Cabin
The Lower Deck
Located at the back of the ship, Stern Standard cabins are comfortable cabins with thoughtful touches that make it a home-away-from-home.
Available cruises
- Portugal, Spain
- 5* ships
- Portugal, Spain
- 5* ships
- Portugal, Spain
- 5* ships
- Portugal, Spain
- 5* ships