Vasco de Gama

Vasco de Gama on the Douro

The MS Vasco de Gama is a CroisiEurope river ship that sails the Douro. Built in 2002, the ship was renovated in 2025. At 75 metres long and 11.40 metres wide, it remains an intimate vessel, with room for 134 guests and a crew of 25. Its 69 cabins are spread across three decks. They range in size from 11 to 12.5 square metres; most are on the Upper Deck and have large windows. The cabins on the Middle and Main Decks also have large windows. The ship’s four-anchor rating is assigned by the operator.

Cabins and shared spaces

Cabin amenities include a television, telephone, safe, individually controlled air conditioning, Wi-Fi and a bathroom with shower and toilet. CroisiEurope also lists towels, a hairdryer and a selection of toiletries among the amenities. Laundry service is not available on board. The restaurant is on the Main Deck, where meals are served throughout the cruise. Large windows offer views of the surrounding landscape. The lounge bar, with its dance floor, is on the Middle Deck. The Sun Deck features a pool, sun loungers and a large shaded area. This layout combines private retreats in the cabins with spaces where guests can enjoy the river scenery together.

Between Porto and the Douro Valley

CroisiEurope operates the Vasco de Gama on a range of itineraries, including an eight-day cruise departing from and returning to Porto. The published itinerary lists Régua, Vega de Terrón, Barca d’Alva, Ferradosa and Pinhão; it also includes a stop in Salamanca. The route therefore combines stretches of the Douro with an excursion into Spain’s interior. The cruise line describes Régua as a stop associated with the region’s winemaking tradition and names Porto as the embarkation and disembarkation point. For a comparison with another Douro operator, see the profile of DouroAzul, which distinguishes between multi-day river cruises and short trips in Porto. Other river cruise destinations provide an overview of different cruising regions. Another river ship operated by the same company is the MS Douce France. Departures and individual shore excursions may vary by date, so the current cruise description should be consulted for the specific itinerary.