RiverSoul
RiverSoul is a tour boat company offering river cruises on the Douro in Vila Nova de Gaia, departing from Douro Marina. The trips pass under several bridges and display the riverbanks lined with historic wine cellars, older buildings, and newer structures set against green hillsides.
The Douro has been a vital waterway for the region for centuries, transporting people and goods while connecting Porto to the surrounding countryside. The bridges spanning it were built across different periods and reflect the region's evolving connections between its shores.
The boat's name, Arraes, refers to skilled local river pilots with generations of experience on the Douro. The trip shows how the river remains central to daily life, with locals and visitors sharing the waterfront and experiencing the connection between the city and water.
The boat trips are suitable for all ages, with space to stand at railings or sit inside for viewing. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for sunset departures or busy seasons, as regular sailings depart throughout the day and week.
The boat Arraes was brought from canals in the Netherlands, bringing Dutch boat-building traditions to the Douro. This unexpected heritage shows how international maritime techniques have become woven into local river culture.
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