The itinerary is designed to go beyond simply eating well onboard. Throughout the journey, Chefs Crawford and Kirk will bring their culinary expertise directly to guests through a series of exclusive events. The week begins with a celebratory welcome reception, followed by an interactive cooking demonstration where the chefs will share favourite techniques and culinary inspirations. Guests will also have the opportunity to take part in an intimate Q&A and enjoy a personal photo opportunity with the duo. The culinary highlight comes with a chef-curated dinner created exclusively for this departure, showcasing the vibrant flavours and ingredients of Portugal. But the real appeal may be experiencing the food within the landscape and communities that inspire it.

Into the Douro Valley
The Douro is one of Europe’s great wine regions, and cruising its winding river offers an intimate way to experience a landscape defined by steep hillsides, terraced vineyards and centuries-old traditions. Guests will have opportunities to sample traditional Portuguese cuisine and world-famous Port wine while visiting villages where local customs and ways of life have endured for generations. Among the itinerary’s highlights is a visit to Provesende, a small traditional village offering a glimpse into rural life in the Douro Valley. There is also a kayaking excursion along the Pinhão River, passing villages that have retained much of their historic character.
The journey extends beyond Portugal with a visit to Salamanca, Spain, where guests can explore the city’s remarkable architecture. Back in Porto, an exclusive private classical concert at São Francisco Church provides another memorable cultural experience, with the church’s ornate, gilded interior providing a dramatic setting.

Five-Star River Cruising
The culinary program is paired with Scenic’s ultra-luxury approach to river cruising. Guests sail aboard Scenic Azure, a 5-Star Space-Ship designed to accommodate just 96 guests. Every suite includes private butler service, while premium beverages are available throughout the day and the in-suite mini-bar is restocked daily. There are up to five dining experiences onboard, along with a dedicated wellness area and fitness centre. The cruise is also designed to be highly inclusive, with gratuities, expert local guides, Scenic Freechoice excursions and exclusive Scenic Enrich experiences included. The result is a trip where the emphasis can remain firmly on the destination -and, in this case, on what is on the plate.

A Pair of Canadian Culinary Stars
For Canadian travellers, having Chefs Crawford and Kirk as hosts adds another dimension to the experience. Crawford is one of Canada's best-known chefs, with more than 25 years of culinary experience. Her career has included executive chef positions with Four Seasons Hotels in Toronto and New York, as well as appearances on Food Network programs including Wall of Chefs and Pitchin’ In. She received Canada’s Best 100’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018.
Chef Kirk brings more than two decades of international culinary experience. An Ontario native, she developed an early appreciation for local farmers and growers and has since worked in leading kitchens in Toronto, London and New York. She has also appeared on Iron Chef America, Iron Chef Canada and Top Chef Masters. Together, they offer travellers something that a conventional sightseeing tour cannot: the opportunity to explore a destination through the eyes - and palate - of two chefs who are passionate about ingredients, local food traditions and culinary storytelling.

A Chef’s Culinary Adventure of Delightful Douro
8-days Porto Roundtrip aboard Scenic Azure
November 5, 2027

Day 1 - Porto
Situated on the hills overlooking the mouth of the Douro River, this bustling city is the capital of the Northern region and second largest in Portugal. The city was named by the Romans for its strategic harbour, which was an integral link to Lisbon. It is recognised as a World Heritage Site for its striking urban landscape, with many well-preserved buildings and monuments. Your friendly crew are ready to welcome you on board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship. Settle into your suite and prepare for this evening, where your hosts will be introduced.

Day 2 - Porto to Pinhão
You will meander your way through the waters of the spectacular Douro Valley towards Pinhão. Admire the beauty along the steep riverbanks lined with terraced vineyards and majestic quintas as you cruise along the Douro River. In the afternoon you’ll dock in Pinhão, set on one of the prettiest parts of the Douro River. This small village is surrounded by terraced vineyards and produces exceptional Port wine. Look out for the charming riverside train station decorated with azulejos (hand-painted mosaic tiles) depicting the annual grape harvest. There’s also an opportunity to try your hand at painting your own azulejos during an onboard workshop.

Day 3 - Pinhão to Barca D’Alva
You have the special opportunity to visit the charming village of Provesende, located on a plateau with spectacular views of the region’s fertile rolling landscape. Wander through the village and visit the church, discover the old bakery, witness traditional handicraft being made, and look inside the historic manor house, Morgadio da Calçada, where you’ll enjoy a tasting of delicious bola. This afternoon join Chef Lynn Crawford & Chef Lora Kirk as they share some of their culinary knowledge during an on board cooking demonstration in the Panorama Lounge.

Day 4 - Barca d’Alva to Pocinho
The village of Barca d’Alva sits on the left bank of the Douro, close to the Spanish border. It’s a popular gateway to the university town of Salamanca, known as the Golden City for its honey-coloured sandstone architecture, which you will have the opportunity to explore. On this tour you’ll visit the city’s two cathedrals, a market to sample local delicacies, and have free time to explore and have lunch at your leisure. If you would like a more relaxed day, take a half-day tour to visit the village of Freixo de Espada à Cinta. This is the only place in Portugal where handcrafted silk is still processed entirely by hand. Tonight, Chef Lynn Crawford & Chef Lora Kirk will team up with the wonderful Scenic culinary team and prepare a mouth-watering 3 course dinner for your dining pleasure.

Day 5 - Pocinho to Régua
Wake in the tiny village of Pocinho, established as the terminus of the Douro Railway in 1887. Visit Côa Valley Museum, the largest open-air Paleolithic rock art site in the world. Inside the striking contemporary building, experience an introduction to rock art through original artefacts and digital technology. Also visit the traditional village of Freixo Numão, where life has remained unchanged for centuries. In the Casa Painova estate, enjoy a demonstration on how sweet almonds are produced, with a tasting of almonds, olives and fruit products. Relax as you cruise towards Regua, the largest of the riverside towns. This region is famous for producing Port wine, with rolling vineyards on the terraced hillsides and wineries dating back to the 18th century.

Day 6 - Régua to Porto
Choose from this morning’s Scenic Freechoice activities such as an excursion to Lamego, nestled among terraced vineyards that were the first to produce world-famous Port wine; Kayaking along the Pinhão River, or transfer by coach to Mateus Palace, built in the early 18th century and considered to be one of the best examples of Baroque civil architecture in Portugal. After lunch, join Chefs Lynn and Lora and your Enrichment Manager in the Panorama Lounge for a Q&A session. Chefs Lynn and Lora will regale you with the highlights of their culinary career and are looking forward to answering your questions.

Day 7 & 8 - Porto
Enjoy a full day in Porto, with more time to explore the city and be immersed in authentic Portuguese culture. Choose from this morning’s Scenic Freechoice excursions, a guided tour of Porto, an excursion to Guimarães, the seat of the first King of Portugal and home to the impressive Ducal Palace, or explore the fairytale-like property of Quinta Aveleda, a renowned sparkling wine producer set on an impressive estate with enchanting gardens. Later, toast a memorable journey with your fellow guests at a farewell dinner. Your cruise concludes on Day 8 after breakfast.

When you travel with Scenic, every detail of your river cruise has been thoughtfully considered, with so much more included than others.
•    5-star Scenic Space-Ship for up to 96 guests
•    Butler service for every suite
•    Included minibar, refreshed daily
•    Pillow menu, included laundry service, Nordic Walking sticks and reusable water bottles
•    Up to five dining experiences from relaxed all-day options to fine dining
•    6-course dégustation for selected suites at Table d’Or
•    Premium beverages, all day, every day – not just at meal times
•    Exclusive Scenic Enrich event at the Church of Sao Francisco
•    Scenic Freechoice excursions included to personalise your journey
•    Expert Cruise Director to guide and assist
•    Experienced local guides in each town
•    Nth Degree service with a crew-to-guest ratio of almost 1:2
•    Vitality Pool
•    Return airport transfers in Portugal
•    Tipping and gratuities on board and onshore
•    Complimentary Wi-Fi on board

Planning the Journey
Travellers who book by November 15, 2026 can choose between two Best Available Offers: complimentary airfare plus savings of up to $400 per person, or savings of up to $2,000 per person. For a limited time, an additional $350 per person in bonus savings is also available.

Contact your Travel Professional for details or visit here.