Avalon Waterways will make its inaugural sailings in Portugal in 2024 with the debut of its new ship Avalon Alegria, which is being built specifically to operate on the Douro River. “We’ve been waiting for the perfect opportunity to add Portugal to our robust portfolio and that day has finally arrived,” said Janet Parton, sales and marketing director of Avalon Waterways UK. “Inviting our guests to sail the Douro for the first time, we’re bringing the Suite Ships of Avalon, the grandest views in cruising and whim-powered itineraries to Southwestern Europe. And we couldn’t be more excited.” The itinerary is entitled ‘Vida Portugal: Vineyards & Villages along the Douro’ and will visit historic villages in a roundtrip from Porto. Through a combination of ‘Classic’, ‘Discovery’ and ‘Active’ excursion choices, the river cruise will offer trips to medieval churches and castles, bike riding beside beaches and numerous opportunities to try traditional Portuguese wine, bread, olives and cheese. Avalon Algeria will feature panorama suites, open-air balconies and a pool on its Sky Deck, which will offer unobstructed views of Portugal. Australia greeted its first international cruise guests in nearly three years when Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Splendor arrived in Sydney Harbour on 30 September 2022. Carnival Splendor was escorted into the harbour by sister brand P&O Cruises Australia’s ship Pacific Adventure before sailing past Sydney Opera House and arriving at the Port of Sydney. “The return of Carnival Splendor to Sydney is a milestone achievement, not just for us, but for the Australian cruising industry,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “Her arrival marks the first cruise ship to enter Australian waters with international passengers in nearly three years.” Australia welcomes first international cruise guests since 2020 Avalon Waterways sets sights on Portugal’s Douro River 1 5
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