Strasbourg-based CroisiEurope has christened their newest river cruise ship on Portugal’s Douro River. Named after 15th century Portuguese navigator and explorer Gil Eanes, the 132-guest Gil Eanes was christened by Isabel Morais, manager for Portugal’s Sogrape Vinhos winery.
The Gil Eanes operates CroisiEurope’s eight-day Porto, the Douro Valley, and Salamanca itinerary that departs roundtrip from Porto, Portugal. Port calls include Regua – nicknamed the “Rome of Portugal” thanks to its impressive religious architecture – along with Vega de Teron, Barca d’Alva, Ferradosa, and Pinhao. An optional excursion to the remarkable city of Salamanca, Spain is also available to guests from Barca d’Alva.
At 262 feet in length, the Gil Eanes has 66 passenger cabins, all of which sport standard features like flat-panel televisions, wi-fi internet access, en-suite bathrooms, and beds that can be separated or put together as you like. One cabin on Middle Deck is equipped for guests with mobility issues, while a total of four suites are available throughout the ship for those who desire more space than the standard stateroom offers.
Public rooms include a main restaurant capable of seating the entire ship’s complement at once, along with an attractive lounge lined with picture windows. On the highest of the ship’s three passenger decks is a Sun Deck that’s perfect for taking in the picturesque views (and generally warm temperatures) of Portugal’s Douro River.
In an unusual twist, the Gil Eanes also has an honorary godfather in the form of Eduardo Vitor Rodrigues, mayor of the town of Gaia – the village opposite Porto, where all Douro river cruise ships make their home.
The Gil Eanes becomes the fourth ship that CroisiEurope has on Portugal’s Douro River. She joins the Fernao De Magalhaes, the Infante D. Henrique, and the Vasco Da Gama.
Curious as to what cruising with CroisiEurope is like? Check out our reports from onboard CroisiEurope’s brand-new Loire Princesse!
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