Boat trips on the Douro River

Explore the Arribes del Duero Natural Park from a unique perspective: boat trips on the Duero River.

In addition to the large river cruises that, for several days, travel along the Portuguese stretch of the Douro, there are boat trips that are an ideal option to spend the morning or afternoon.

The Arribes del Duero with its spectacular cliffs, biodiversity and landscapes will give you an unforgettable experience. Below, we offer you complete information about the two main companies that organize boat trips, with jetties near our campsite, so you can choose the option that best suits your needs.

Why Take a Boat Trip in Arribes del Duero?

Navigating the Arribes del Duero Natural Park is an incomparable experience that combines nature, culture and history. The Douro River, which marks the natural border between Spain and Portugal, runs through deep canyons sculpted over millennia. From the water, you can admire unique landscapes and learn about the natural and cultural heritage of the region.

The Natural Park is a ZEPA (Special Protection Area for Birds), so you are likely to see the flight of the golden eagle, griffon vulture, Egyptian vulture, Bonelli’s eagle or the elusive black stork. Don’t forget your binoculars to observe their nests. We are in a Biosphere Reserve that reminds us of the importance of taking care of what makes us unique.

Highlights

• Breathtaking landscapes: Enjoy the majestic cliffs.
• Unique biodiversity: Observe protected birds such as griffon vultures and black storks.
• Cultural richness: Discover the history of the riverside villages and their traditions.

Below we provide information on the two river routes of the Arribes de Salamanca, whose piers can be easily reached from the Arribes del Duero campsite.

La Barca Wharf, in Aldeadávila de la Ribera

• Location: Embarcadero de La Barca, in Aldeadávila de la Ribera.
• Duration: 1 hour.
• Additional departures for groups can be scheduled upon request.
• Description: A guided walk along the Douro River with live explanations about the fauna, flora and geology of the region. The guide is in charge of telling stories about ancient local traditions.
• Route: The environmental cruise departs from Playa del Rostro, a natural spot located 5 km from Corporario, near Aldeadávila de la Ribera, to Lastrón, and then returns to the starting point, sailing along the Aldeadávila reservoir, located between the Aldeadávila dam – the main dam in Spain – and the Bemposta dam. This environment is a true natural paradise, known for its rich biodiversity, majestic river cliffs and granite formations that reach more than 400 meters high.
• The boat: It is a passenger catamaran with a modern design adapted to the environment, with a glazed deck to offer greater visibility. It has heating, toilet and stern terrace, public address system and all the required safety systems.
• Price: 18 € adults. 12 € children (from 3 to 9 years old). Special prices for groups (from 25 people).
• Schedule: offers rides throughout the year with different departure times, we recommend visiting the company’s website.
• Purchase of boat triptickets: on the website and at the pier up to one hour before departure. For cancellations up to 48 hours before the cruise date, 50% of the amount paid will be refunded.
• Important information:
  • It has a free parking area.
  • It is not possible to access the boat with animals or baby strollers.
  • Cash payment only (electronic payment is not possible due to location)

Barco de Vilvestre – Arribes del Duero Cruises

• Location:
  • Embarcadero de la Barca in Vilvestre, Salamanca.
  • Congida beach jetty in Freixo de Espada a Cinta, Portugal (Portuguese municipality located in front of Vilvestre).
• Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes.
• Description: A guided tour through the impressive gorges of Arribes del Duero, with explanations about the fauna, flora and geological formations.
• Route: Between the beach of Congida and La Code (Mieza), passing through the area of La Barca de Vilvestre, this river route is made between two Natural Parks: the Douro International and Arribes del Duero, where you can contemplate the cultivation of olive groves, almond trees, orange trees and vineyards thanks to the Mediterranean microclimate that is enjoyed in Las Arribes. The boat departs from the Congida pier (in Portugal) and stops at the Vilvestre pier (Spain) to pick up passengers and continue the trip upstream.
• The boat: It is a closed boat of 54 seats, with heating and air conditioning. It has toilet, terrace, cafeteria and public address system. It has all the safety systems required by European regulations.
• Price: 15 € adults, 8 € children (from 4 to 14 years old). Special prices for groups (from 15 people). Pets free of charge.
• Schedule: offers scheduled departures from March 1 to November 30 with different schedules depending on the time of year. Consult the company’s website.
• Purchase of tickets for boat trips: through the web. And for groups by phone: +34 923 52 46 23 and +34 923 52 46 96 or by e-mail: info@vilvestre.com. The cancellation fee will be 100% of the amount paid.
• Important information:
  • Additional departures for groups can be scheduled upon request.
  • Pet friendly, pets are allowed on board. Consult conditions.

Tips to Enjoy your Boat Trips

• Book in advance: Especially during high season.
• Take into account Portuguese time: due to the proximity to Portugal your mobile devices may show Portuguese time (1 less than in Spain).
• Comfortable clothing: The weather may change during the crossing.
• Sun protection: Wear sunglasses, hat and sunscreen.
• Camera or charged cell phone: You’ll want to capture the breathtaking views.
• Don’t forget your binoculars: You will be able to see the nests of griffon vultures or the flight of Bonelli’s eagles, Egyptian vultures or black storks.

Benefits of taking a Boat Trip in Arribes del Duero

• Connection with Nature: Discover one of the most spectacular landscapes of the Iberian Peninsula.
• Learning: Live explanations will allow you to learn more about the history and biodiversity of the site.
• Relaxation and Disconnection: Immerse yourself in a natural environment and forget the daily stress.
• A plan for everyone: an experience that appeals to people of all ages.

What we offer at Camping Arribes del Duero for your boat trips on the Douro River

In less than 40 minutes you can get from our campsite to any of the piers. We will recommend different viewpoints for you to see Las Arribes from above, to surprise you before or after your boat ride; so that the adventure begins the moment you cross the campsite’s door.

If you decide not to take your dog on board, we can take care of him/her in our doggy day care center; there we will take care of your dog during the hours you are on board. He will be safe and you can enjoy the ride. Places are limited so you will have to contact us to make a reservation.

Embark on an Unforgettable Adventure

Whether you choose one route or another, boat trips through the Arribes del Duero Natural Park is a unique experience. Contemplate its gorges, learn about its natural and cultural richness and live unforgettable moments. Book now and enjoy this river adventure with us!