MS Douro Elegance
If cruising is an art, then the MS Douro Elegance has truly mastered it.
Good for
Gourmet Dining, Spa Services, Swimming Pool, Excursions, Entertainment Lounge
What to expect from MS Douro Elegance
Overview
If cruising is an art, then the MS Douro Elegance has truly mastered it.
Constructed with the very latest technology and a strong environmental ethic in mind, yet simultaneously retaining a classic, refined elegance reminiscent of cruising from a bygone era, this five-star, fully-air-conditioned river cruiser has been purpose-built to fit the unique size limitations of the Douro’s five locks and features all the facilities you would expect in a top-class hotel and more so your cruise will be as relaxing as possible and your stay on board will be a uniquely memorable one.
Accommodating just 121 guests in the most exquisite of surroundings, the ship’s spectacular design and high specification ensures this vessel feels exceptionally light and airy. The generous ratio of 4:1 guests per crew member ensures a first-class personal service plus the friendly ‘small ship’ feel so beloved of Riviera Travel cruise aficionados, enables the ever attentive crew to revel in taking care of all those little things – leaving you to simply sit back, relax and enjoy every minute of your sensational Portugese river cruise experience.
Accommodation
All the outside facing cabins on the MS Douro Elegance are finished to an exceptionally high standard with superior quality fittings in the most refined taste. Chic styling is evident throughout from the moment you open your beautifully polished hardwood door and step inside your luxury home for the next 7 nights; polished wooden furniture is complemented by fine fabrics, in warm, relaxing colours, uniquely designed and created for the Ms Douro Elegance whilst ‘hotel style’ twin beds with individual bedding which can be moved together or separated accordingly, will ensure a good night’s sleep in the finest crisp linens.
The sparkling marble bathrooms, beautifully designed, all feature shower with fully glazed screen, WC plus fluffy towels and bathroom cosmetics. The living area has two comfortable chairs and a table plus a small desk. All cabins enjoy the benefit of individually controlled air-conditioning, flat screen high-definition satellite TV, hairdryer, safe, telephone, and tea and coffee making facilities.
Best of all the Standard Cabins on the Upper Deck and Main (middle) Deck as well as the Deluxe and Superior Suites on the Upper Deck have full floor to ceiling windows which slide down halfway so you can watch the stunning river scenery drifting past without leaving the comfort of your cabin!
Deluxe Suites
If you really fancy treating yourself to a little more indulgence by taking your cruise to another level again, the MS Douro Elegance also boasts two Deluxe Suites on the Upper Deck. These suites are a huge 29 square metres (312 square feet), offering the ultimate in space and comfort during your cruise. Tastefully furnished with the same high quality fittings as the other cabins and suites with tea and coffee making facilities and bathrobes. Most of the additional space is devoted to the living area where you will really notice the difference as you relax in comfort on the sofa or elegant armchair in the most sumptuous of settings.
Plus, a further treat - there is a walk-in wardrobe for that added sense of luxury plus a larger bathroom with twin wash basins. The Deluxe Suites come with a floor-to-ceiling window, plus a second full-length window which opens down halfway to create a cosy Juliet balcony within your suite, complete with a table for two. These really are the epitome of river cruise luxury and you will feel thoroughly spoilt!
Features
- Individual climate control
- Floor to ceiling windows with Juliet style balcony
- Twin beds which can be configured as double
- Tea and coffee making facilities
- Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
- Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
- Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
- EU plug sockets
- Table and chairs
- Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
- Safe & mini fridge
- Turn down service
Riviera Plus (2024 and 2025 only)
- 10% off spa treatment or massage
- 10% off hairdresser services
- Luxury toiletries
- Locally inspired gifts
- Bottle of champagne
- 10% off onboard laundry services
Superior Suites
For something a little special, you may choose to upgrade to one of the Superior Suites; there are 6 available on the Upper Deck. These suites measure a substantial 19 square metres (205 square feet) for your additional comfort so you’ll really feel completely relaxed in your stylish surroundings. There is a generous living area with two armchairs and a table, small desk, tea and coffee making facilities and cosy bathrobes.
The Superior Suites feature the same high quality furnishings and fittings as the standard cabins. Enjoy fantastic views from floor-to-ceiling windows, with one that opens down halfway to create a cosy Juliet balcony within your suite. Enjoy an aperitif at the table for two here and watch the delightful river-world go by.
Features
- Individual climate control
- Floor to ceiling windows with Juliet style balcony
- Twin beds which can be configured as double
- Tea and coffee making facilities
- Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
- Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
- Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
- EU plug sockets
- Table and chairs
- Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
- Safe & mini fridge
- Turn down service
Riviera Plus (2024 and 2025 only)
- 10% off spa treatment or massage
- 10% off hairdresser services
- Luxury toiletries
- Locally inspired gifts
- Bottle of champagne
- 10% off onboard laundry services
Indulge in the luxury of Riviera Plus when you stay in an upper deck cabin or suite. In your well-appointed cabin, you’ll find a range of extras to make your experience extra special.
Standard Cabin - Upper Deck
The Upper Deck and Main (middle) Deck are 14 square metres (151 square feet) and have full floor to ceiling windows which slide down halfway so you can watch the stunning river scenery drifting past without leaving the comfort of your cabin!
Features
- Individual climate control
- Floor to ceiling windows with Juliet style balcony
- Twin beds which can be configured as double
- Tea and coffee making facilities
- Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
- Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
- Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
- EU plug sockets
- Desk & chair
- Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
- Safe & mini fridge
- Turn down service
Riviera Plus (2024 and 2025 only)
- 10% off spa treatment or massage
- 10% off hairdresser services
- Luxury toiletries
- Locally inspired gifts
- Bottle of champagne
- 10% off onboard laundry services
Indulge in the luxury of Riviera Plus when you stay in an upper deck cabin or suite. In your well-appointed cabin, you’ll find a range of extras to make your experience extra special.
Standard Cabin - Middle Deck
The Upper Deck and Main (middle) Deck are 14 square metres (151 square feet) and have full floor to ceiling windows which slide down halfway so you can watch the stunning river scenery drifting past without leaving the comfort of your cabin!
Features
- Individual climate control
- Floor to ceiling windows with Juliet style balcony
- Twin beds which can be configured as double
- Tea and coffee making facilities
- Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
- Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
- Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
- EU plug sockets
- Desk & chair
- Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
- Safe & mini fridge
- Turn down service
Stern Standard Cabin - Main Deck
The Upper Deck and Main (middle) Deck are 14 square metres (151 square feet) and have full floor to ceiling windows which slide down halfway so you can watch the stunning river scenery drifting past without leaving the comfort of your cabin!
Features
- Individual climate control
- Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony
- Twin beds which can be configured as double
- Tea and coffee making facilities
- Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
- Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
- Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
- EU plug sockets
- Desk & chair
- Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
- Safe & mini fridge
- Turn down service
Standard Cabin - Lower Deck
Standard cabins on the lower deck are slightly smaller at 12 square metres (129 square feet), have smaller fixed windows and as a unique bonus, Stern Cabins on this deck are available for sole occupancy at a small supplement, subject to availability.
Features
- Individual climate control
- Fixed window
- Twin beds which can be configured as double
- Tea and coffee making facilities
- Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
- Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
- Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
- EU plug sockets
- Desk & chair
- Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
- Safe & mini fridge
- Turn down service
Stern Standard Cabin - Lower Deck
Standard cabins on the lower deck are slightly smaller at 12 square metres (129 square feet), have smaller fixed windows and as a unique bonus, Stern Cabins on this deck are available for sole occupancy at a small supplement, subject to availability.
Features
- Individual climate control
- Fixed window
- Twin beds which can be configured as double
- Tea and coffee making facilities
- Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
- Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
- Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
- EU plug sockets
- Desk & chair
- Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
- Safe & mini fridge
- Turn down service
Decks
Sun Deck
- Sun Terrace
- Swimming Pool
Upper Deck
- Main Bar
- Main Lounge
- Reception
- Shop
- Deluxe Suites
- Superior Suites
- Upper Deck Cabins
Middle Deck
- Restaurant
- Spa
- Stern Cabins
- Main Deck Cabins
Lower Deck
- Gymnasium
- Standard Lower Cabins Stern
- Standard Lower Cabins Single Occupancy
Kids and Teens
Please note: there are no dedicated kids or teens facilities onboard.
Gratuities
Giving a gratuity is entirely at your discretion, so we have not included these in your holiday cost, and we don't add it as a set percentage.
If you would like to tip the staff, a good guideline is to give €8-12 per person per day should you feel that is appropriate.
If you do choose to give a gratuity, there will usually be an envelope is left in your cabin on the final evening. This is for you to be able include any tips, and you can then drop it off at reception the following morning. The tips are divided equally between the crew.
Should you also wish to give a gratuity directly to your Riviera Travel Cruise Director and Concierge, this is also at your discretion.
Entertainment
Forward of the ship you will find the magnificent lounge and bar, the very heart of the ship, styled by a leading Portuguese designer and sumptuously furnished with elegant settees and comfortable armchairs; plump cushions in smart complementary fabric invite you to sink in and relax – your holiday starts here!
Enjoy a freshly made cup of tea whilst soaking up the refined ambience, complemented by high quality fittings, thoughtfully positioned lamps, a thick wool carpet, beautifully polished hardwoods and fabulous fresh-cut flowers. A well-stocked bar with friendly professional staff taking delight in attending to your every wish in sampling local wines or preparing whatever takes your fancy completes the convivial scene.
So just sit back and enjoy the stunning view from the magnificent panoramic windows as the ever-changing river scenery slips effortlessly by. When evening falls, the subdued lighting creates the most gentile ambience so unwind over a digestif or perhaps take a turn on the dance floor to the soothing tones of the resident musician. There really can be few holidays quite as relaxing as this! All three air-conditioned accommodation decks are connected by a lift for your convenience and an elegant wide staircase with gleaming handrail.
Sun Deck
Accessed by stairs from the Upper Deck, head on up to the magnificent and spacious Sun Deck from where you can enjoy the stunning 360 degree views as they glide past from the comfort of your sun lounger whilst sipping a long refreshing drink or chatting with your fellow companions. You might choose to enjoy a glimpse of the wizardry ‘on the bridge’ as the Captain skilfully negotiates the twisting river with reassuring ease. When the temperature rises you will feel the benefit of the fantastic outdoor swimming pool – a rarity on a river cruiser. For many though, just to lean against the ship’s rail and breathe in the invigorating river breeze whilst casting a relaxed eye over the fascinating scenes of life ashore or the wonderful river wildlife all around you, is what it’s all about; this is surely the perfect antidote to the stresses of modern life so let us take you on the cruise of your dreams!
Shop
There is a small boutique stocking a selection of essentials and souvenirs.
Lounge/Bar
Forward you will find the magnificent lounge and bar, the very heart of the ship, styled by a leading Portuguese designer – your holiday starts here! A well-stocked bar with friendly professional staff taking delight in attending to your every wish in sampling local wines or preparing whatever takes your fancy completes the convivial scene. So just sit back and enjoy the stunning view from the magnificent panoramic windows as the ever-changing river scenery slips effortlessly by.
When evening falls, the subdued lighting creates the most gentile ambience so unwind over a digestif or perhaps take a turn on the dance floor to the soothing tones of the resident musician. There really can be few holidays quite as relaxing as this!
Enrichment
We are a well-travelled collective - made up of our guests as well as our team. We'll admit it - we're obsessed with travel.
But that's not our only interest. We also love architecture, history, the arts, and gastronomy - everything that makes a culture unique. And we plan our itineraries to ensure we're catering to those interests. Perfecting every excursion to ensure you get the most out of your onshore adventures.
Most days are filled with full or half-day excursions. Whether that's a city tour, an introduction to a brand-new town or a more in-depth visit to a specific landmark or attraction. You'll see the very best of every destination. Not just the legendary locations, we'll uncover the top-secret local spots too.
World-famous landmarks
You'll get to experience some world-famous destinations in the company of our passionate local guides. Sites like the Benedictine Melk Abbey on the Danube, spectacular Pont du Gard on the Rhône, Keukenhof Gardens - the world's largest flower gardens - on the Dutch Waterways and Cologne with its cathedral, the largest Gothic church in Northern Europe.
A taste of your destination
Food has the uncanny ability to reveal the softer parts of the destination most tourists overlook. Recipes passed down through the generations slowly become ingrained within a culture, featuring fresh local produce and traditional cooking techniques. Our excursions often include delicious local produce perfected over centuries - sample cheese in Switzerland and chocolate in Germany (it's not a cruise for those watching their weight), wine tasting in the world-famous wine region of Burgundy and port in the port wine cellars of Porto.
For even more, why not choose one of our Gastronomy themed departures?
Authentic cultural experiences
Our river cruise itineraries deliver authentic and engaging moments to fully immerse you in the culture. You'll remember being seduced by the fiery passion of flamenco dancing after a cruise along the Douro. Hold on to that feeling of wonder you felt as you watch the glassblower creating the most beautiful vase out of a glowing mass. And tell the stories you heard during a Hungarian folklore show to your grandchildren at bedtime. The memory of these authentic cultural experiences will last a lifetime.
Excursions
We are a well-travelled collective - made up of our guests as well as our team. We'll admit it - we're obsessed with travel.
But that's not our only interest. We also love architecture, history, the arts, and gastronomy - everything that makes a culture unique. And we plan our itineraries to ensure we're catering to those interests. Perfecting every excursion to ensure you get the most out of your onshore adventures.
Most days are filled with full or half-day excursions. Whether that's a city tour, an introduction to a brand-new town or a more in-depth visit to a specific landmark or attraction. You'll see the very best of every destination. Not just the legendary locations, we'll uncover the top-secret local spots too.
World-famous landmarks
You'll get to experience some world-famous destinations in the company of our passionate local guides. Sites like the Benedictine Melk Abbey on the Danube, spectacular Pont du Gard on the Rhône, Keukenhof Gardens - the world's largest flower gardens - on the Dutch Waterways and Cologne with its cathedral, the largest Gothic church in Northern Europe.
A taste of your destination
Food has the uncanny ability to reveal the softer parts of the destination most tourists overlook. Recipes passed down through the generations slowly become ingrained within a culture, featuring fresh local produce and traditional cooking techniques. Our excursions often include delicious local produce perfected over centuries - sample cheese in Switzerland and chocolate in Germany (it's not a cruise for those watching their weight), wine tasting in the world-famous wine region of Burgundy and port in the port wine cellars of Porto.
For even more, why not choose one of our Gastronomy themed departures?
Authentic cultural experiences
Our river cruise itineraries deliver authentic and engaging moments to fully immerse you in the culture. You'll remember being seduced by the fiery passion of flamenco dancing after a cruise along the Douro. Hold on to that feeling of wonder you felt as you watch the glassblower creating the most beautiful vase out of a glowing mass. And tell the stories you heard during a Hungarian folklore show to your grandchildren at bedtime. The memory of these authentic cultural experiences will last a lifetime.
Dining
Stunning restaurant on the Main Deck serving buffet breakfast, buffet lunch and four-course dinner
Main Restaurant
Heading down to the Main (middle) Deck you will find the chic restaurant where your comfort is assured in high-backed chairs at impeccably laid tables with pristine linen cloths and fine cutlery. Tables seat just four to eight and in common with all our river cruises, we offer ‘open dining’ arrangements giving our clients the freedom to sit wherever and with whoever they wish. This is a dining experience of the highest order and one to be savoured!
Breakfast is a hot and cold buffet with a fine omelette station so your eggs are just how you like them – an early risers’ breakfast is also available in the lounge. Lunch is another deliciously fine array but if you fancy a simple salad instead then that’s available too or you may opt for a slightly more informal, lighter lunch either in the main lounge or up on the Sun Deck.
The culinary highlight of the day though is the superb four-course dinner, served at your table by the most highly trained, attentive yet discreet waiting staff who will attend to your every need without hesitation. Featuring the finest Portuguese, Mediterranean and International cuisine to delight your taste buds this will be a dining experience to remember as you enjoy a kaleidoscope of river views from the huge panoramic windows.
Health and Fitness
When the temperature rises you will feel the benefit of the fantastic outdoor swimming pool – a rarity on a river cruiser. For many though, just to lean against the ship’s rail and breathe in the invigorating river breeze whilst casting a relaxed eye over the fascinating scenes of life ashore or the wonderful river wildlife all around you, is what it’s all about; this is surely the perfect antidote to the stresses of modern life so let us take you on the cruise of your dreams!
Spa
If you feel like a little extra indulgence during your cruise why not book in for a special treatment in the ship’s Spa which is also accessed on the Main Deck.
Swimming Pool
When the temperature rises you will feel the benefit of the fantastic outdoor swimming pool – a rarity on a river cruiser.
Gymnasium
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!
Other Cruise Information
ClassCruise Type: river
Class:
Ship Size: boutique
Style: luxury
Operator Reference: riviera-travel
Nursery: none
Child Facilities: none
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