Experience the best of Portugal and Spain on this exceptional senior group travel adventure. This senior touring trip, offered by Best of Times Travel in partnership with AMA Waterways, presents an all-inclusive journey through captivating landscapes and rich cultures. Begin with a 3-night pre-cruise tour in the iconic city of Lisbon, exploring its historic sites and charming atmosphere. Then, embark on an 8-day deluxe European River Cruise aboard the AmaVida, sailing along the scenic Douro River. Discover picturesque towns like Porto, Régua, and Pinhão, indulging in local wines and authentic experiences. This inclusive travel package, "Flavors of Portugal & Spain River Cruise," ensures a seamless and enriching vacation with roundtrip airfare from Logan Airport, convenient transfers, a dedicated Best of Times Professional Tour Manager, all-inclusive touring with expert guides and audio devices, delightful onboard meals with complimentary beverages, and a range of onboard amenities and activities designed for your comfort and enjoyment. 

The iconic city of Lisbon, provides the perfect start to a grand journey through Portugal and Spain. Cosmopolitan Lisbon offers a treasure trove of Old World architecture and a wealth of stories about its famed explorers; and then there is the seaside town of Sintra, one of the loveliest mountain villages in Portugal and a favorite summer residence of the Portuguese royal family for more than 500 years. Set sail in Porto, the beautiful “City of Bridges” and gateway to the Douro River Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with rambling vineyards and charming quintas, which cling to the steep sides of the river. Taste wines from these vineyards and discover the timeless traditions of Portuguese winemaking throughout your journey

Unforgettable Moments on Your All-Inclusive Flavors of Portugal & Spain  European River Cruise

Experience the pinnacle of senior group travel with Best of Times Travel's meticulously curated Flavors of Portugal & Spain 2027 European river cruise aboard AMA Waterways' AmaVida. This all-inclusive vacation promises a tapestry of unforgettable moments, perfectly tailored for a delightful senior touring trip. 

• Senior Group Travel through the best of Portugal and Spain, designed for a comfortable and enriching experience.

• Enjoy a 3-night pre-cruise senior touring trip in Lisbon with Best of Times Travel, exploring iconic landmarks like Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, and the enchanting town of Sintra.

• Embark on an 8-day deluxe European River Cruise with AMA Waterways aboard the elegant AmaVida.

• Savor the "Flavors of Portugal & Spain River Cruise," an inclusive travel package featuring all-inclusive touring and onboard amenities.

• Benefit from the expertise of a dedicated Best of Times Professional Tour Manager throughout your journey.

• Experience the beauty of the Douro River Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with included wine tastings at local quintas.

• Explore historic cities like Porto, with its UNESCO-listed historic quarter and famous Port wine cellars.

• Enjoy all-inclusive touring with private, English-speaking guides and personal audio devices for insightful commentary. Choose from gentle, regular, or active pace tours.

• Indulge in all onboard meals featuring regional specialties and American classics, with unlimited wines, beers, and soft drinks at lunch and dinner, plus a daily Sip & Sail cocktail hour.

• Travel with ease with roundtrip airfare from Logan Airport and guaranteed hometown pick-up for roundtrip airport transfers*.

• Relax in elegantly appointed riverview staterooms on the AmaVida, many with balconies, and enjoy amenities like Entertainment-On-Demand and complimentary Wi-Fi.

• Participate in distinctive onboard programs and enjoy a Welcome Cocktail Reception/Dinner and Gala Dinner.

Here's What's Included as part of your Best of Times Travel  All-Inclusive Flavors of Portugal & Spain River Cruise Package:

• 8 Day Deluxe River Cruise on the AmaVida - Elegantly appointed riverview staterooms, most with signature twin balconies, French balconies or full balconies 

• 3-Night Best of Times Travel Pre-Cruise Tour Lisbon

• Roundtrip Airfare from Logan Airport

• Roundtrip Transfer to Airport - w/ hometown pick-up guarantee*

• Best of Times Professional Tour Manager throughout your trip**

• All Touring Included with private, English-speaking guides and Personal audio device, Quietvox, to better appreciate your guide’s insightful commentary.  Plus Bicycles with helmets and Nordic walking sticks.  Choose your excursion activity level: gentle, regular or active pace tours. There are even some options for late risers. 

• All onboard meals featuring regional specialties & always available American classics - Dining with open seating

• Unlimited Wines, Beers, & Soft Drinks with every lunch and dinner on board ship, plus Daily Sip & Sail cocktail hour with complimentary wine, beer, and spirits

• Old World Highlights: Distinctive onboard programs, such as lectures, theme dinners, music performances, and afternoon/evening piano music 

• Welcome Cocktail Reception/Dinner & Gala Dinner 

• Wellness Program offering a variety of daily exercise classes led by a professionally trained Wellness Host.  

• Hotel-style bed with optional twin-bed configuration; luxury linens & pillows, Entertainment-On-Demand in all staterooms and suites with complimentary high-speed internet, movies, music and English-language TV stations.  Unlimited high-quality Wi-Fi on board.  Security safe, Hair dryer, 110/220 volt outlets & USB port, refrigerator

• Refreshing water always available, with biodegradable Tetra Pak® containers for excursions

• Special Early Booking & Past Passenger Discounts

• Optional Chubb Travelers Insurance Program Available.  For More Information on the Insurance Program Click Here. 

** Minimum requirement of 20 paying customers from Best of Times Travel to ensure Tour Director services throughout the cruise. 

* For a Single Group Pick-Up within 20 miles of Boston Logan Airport.   Group Locations within 20 miles of Boston Logan Airport are ensured a singular pick-up in their home town.  Groups outside of 20 miles may need to pay a transportation upcharge.  Non-Group Bookings will need to drive to the closest designated Best of Times Travel or Group Departure Location.  Best of Times Travel will notify you of the closest designated pick-up location to where you live approximately 45 days prior to the sailing date.

Day 1, Depart Boston, MA - Days 2 - 5, LISBON, PORTUGAL - Enjoy your pre-packaged/included overnight flight from Boston to Lisbon Portugal with your Best of Times Travel Tour Manager.  WELCOME TO LISBON, one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.   Lisbon stretches across several hills along the Tagus River and is the perfect start to this amazing journey. On Day 2 of our program take take to get settled into our accommodations and perhaps explore a bit of Lisbon with your Best of Times Travel Tour Manager or simply on your own.  On day 3 of our adventure enjoy your escorted tour, where you’ll see Belem Tower, a fortified four-story tower made of limestone, and visit the Late Gothic Jerónimos Monastery, the burial place of many Portuguese kings and heroes. You will also taste a typical Portuguese pastry, Pastéis de Belém, before going to the Discoveries Monument, built in honor of Portugal’s greatest maritime explorers.  On day 4 of our adventure enjoy a morning excursion to Serra de Sintra, one of the most picturesque mountain villages in Portugal, a former summer residence of the Portuguese royal family and a source of inspiration for Lord Byron and generations of other artists and poets. Your guided tour includes a visit to the Pena National Palace, a fairytale castle situated high on a rocky peak, followed by free time to explore on your own.  On day 5 we depart our hotel and enjoy a motorcoach ride through the Portuguese countryside. Stop in Tomar and visit the castle of the Knights Templar, the walls of which envelop the elaborate Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site from the 12th century boasting spectacular frescoes and azulejos (iconic blue painted tiles). Afterward, we continue to Porto where we’ll board our ship. (3 B & 1 D)

Day 6, PORTO - Join a guided tour of Porto’s historic quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll see the Cathedral, one of the city’s oldest monuments; the main square, ringed with shops and cafes; and the São Bento Railway Station, known for its blue and white tile panels depicting scenes from Portuguese history. For the more active adventure, join a hike in Porto and explore the old harbor quarter, passing through the medieval streets of Porto. In the afternoon, you’ll also enjoy a tasting of Port, Portugal’s most renowned contribution to the world of wine. (B,L,D) 

Day 7 ENTRE-OS-RIOS - Entre-os-Rios translates to “between the rivers,” and this small village is, quite appropriately, located at the confluence of the Tâmega and Douro rivers. For an authentic slice of Douro River life, enjoy a traditional “home-cooked” meal at a local quinta. (B,L,D)

Day 8 - REGUA - Discover the Baroque magic of Mateus Palace and Gardens. Inside, gaze at the beautiful 16th- to 18th-century furnishings that decorate the palace, as well as the distinctive paintings and a ceiling of intricately carved wood. Hear the tale of Mateus Rose Wine and spend some time exploring the palace’s magnificent gardens, considered some of the most beautiful in Portugal. (B,L,D)

Day 9 - REGUA & PINHAO - Venture to the town of Lamego, where you’ll see the “Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies” on a city tour or climb the 686-step “Holy Staircase,” beautifully decorated with white and blue tiles, to the top on a guided hike. Whichever excursion you choose will conclude with a tasting of local specialties such as Bôlas de Lamego, bread filled with smoked ham; Presunto, a type of dry-cured ham; and Espumante, a Portuguese sparkling wine. Later in the day, cruise along the scenic Douro to Pinhão, where a wine tasting will be waiting for you in a local quinta. (B,L,D)

Day 10 - PINHAO - Embark on a leisurely walk to the charming Pinhão Railway Station, a stunning train station along the Douro Line, one of the most iconic rail journeys in Portugal. The station’s main building is revered for its 25 tile panels, all in shades of blue, that depict scenes from the Douro region. Afterward, enjoy an exclusive lunch at Quinta de Avessada, where you’ll enjoy an authentic and traditional dining experience complete with entertainment. The warm, spirited hospitality of this family-run quinta is quite special as you will discover. Several family members play in a band, and while dining, they will entertain you. Quinta de Avessada is also a fascinating interactive museum commemorating the history and culture of wine in the Alto Douro region, so you’ll have fun discovering all the various stages of wine production as well as doing plenty of tasting. (B,L,D)

Day 11 - PINHAO & BARCA D’ALVA - Begin the day with a scenic cruise through Pinhão on the way to Barca d’Alva. Venture to Castelo Rodrigo, known as the “White Village” because of its almond trees. The site offers spectacular views of the surrounding area and as far away as Spain. Join a walking tour through its medieval streets and see the houses and establishments with 16th-century facades and Manueline-style windows. If you prefer a more active adventure there, you can hike to the town. At the end of both tours, enjoy a tasting of local favorites, such as almonds, cheese, bread and wine. (B,L,D)

Day 12 - VEGA DE TERRON - Enjoy your breakfast on board the ship before we disembark the ship in Vega de Terrón and board a motorcoach for our transfer to the airport and our flight home to Boston with incredible memories of Portugal & Spain. (B)

B = Breakfast      L = Lunch      D = Dinner  ** There is a minimum requirement of 20 paying customers to ensure the services of a Best of Times Travel Tour Manager throughout your trip.

AMA Waterways - The Heart of the River

The Benefit of Cruising with AMA Waterways

Cruising Portugals Duoro River with AMA Waterways

Your Ship - The AmaVida

AmaVida Overview - - Timeless elegance spills from the decks of AmaVida as the ship cruises along Portugal and Spain’s Douro River. Rust and gold color schemes bring together the Douro’s breathtaking sunsets and a sepia hue that conjures timeworn snapshots of the world’s oldest demarcated wine region. Most staterooms feature balconies from which to enjoy views of terraced vineyards, as well as Entertainment-On-Demand, climate-controlled air conditioning and an in-room safe. AmaVida’s passionate chefs will treat you to exquisite, locally-sourced cuisine paired with unlimited local wine—and the region’s signature Port—as well as beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner in the Main Restaurant cada noche.  Boasting a mere 102 Total Passengers this is a true, pamper-me-vacation, where you get to know your crew and fellow shipmates creating wonderful freindships for life.  

 Award-Winning Dining - Savor exquisite cuisine at a variety of dining venues, like the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table. You can also order delicious tapas between meals in the Main Lounge.

 Inviting Public Spaces - With fewer guests on board, you can enjoy the luxury of space to unwind, relax and reconnect with your loved ones. Our public areas, including lounges and restaurants, are never overcrowded.

 Enriching Entertainment -Whether it’s a folkloric performance, local Fado musicians or modern piano favorites, there is an eclectic schedule of entertainment on board.

 Sun-Deck Pool - Soak up some rays or take a dip in our refreshing pool with a swim-up bar as we pass by centuries-old castles, charming villages and other breathtaking scenery.

 Massage Services and Hair Salon - After a marvelous day of immersive shore excursions, return to the ship and treat yourself to a bit of pampering with a soothing massage.

 Fitness Room - Are you looking for a way to stay fit on vacation? Hit the treadmill or lift some weights while cruising from one destination to the next.

ALL PRICES ARE PER PERSON AND ARE BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY.  IF YOU ARE A SOLO TRAVELER, PLEASE PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE DIRECTLY FOR OFFICIAL PRICING.  SOLO CABINS ARE APPROXIMATELY 125% - 150% OF THE COST OF DOUBLE OCCUPANCY

Enjoy all of the amenities you have come to expect from a modern day cruise ship and then some.  All staterooms come with Hotel-style bed with optional twin-bed configuration; luxury linens & pillows, Entertainment-On-Demand in all staterooms and suites with complimentary high-speed internet, movies, music and English-language TV stations.  Unlimited high-quality Wi-Fi on board.  Security safe, Hair dryer, 110/220 volt outlets & USB port, refrigerator

CAT E Standard Cabin Panoramic Window - Duoro Deck - Deck 1- 161sq ft.

CAT D Standard Cabin Panoramic Window - Duoro Deck - Deck 1- 161sq ft.

CAT B Balcony Cabin - Balcony with Sitting - Lisbon Deck - Deck 2 - 215sq ft. 

CAT A Balcony Cabin - Balcony with Sitting - Porto Deck - Deck 3 - 215sq ft.

For Full Details Regarding the Optional Chubb Travel Insurance Click Here.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Responsibilities: Best of Times Travel is acting solely as an agent for supplier(s) identified on accompanying documents in selling travel related services, or in accepting reservations or bookings for services that are not directly supplied by this agency. Best of Times Travel is not responsible or liable for breach of contract or any other intentional or careless actions or omissions on part of such suppliers which result in any delays, missed connections, changes in ports of call, climatic conditions, losses, damages, or additional expenses owning to advertised schedules, change in any service or accommodations, or any other causes beyond our control. Departure/arrival points will try to be satisfied but are not guaranteed. In the event the services and accommodations set forth in this brochure cannot be supplied because of delays or other causes beyond our control, Best of Times Travel will use its best efforts, provided they have received notice of the delay or disruption, to arrange for comparable services and accommodations. Rates and itineraries shown here were in effect at the time of printing and no changes are anticipated; however, Best of Times Travel reserves the right to withdraw any tour or to make any rate changes, as necessary. Prices are subject to change. A deposit is always required to confirm a reservation. A Deposit of $850pp, plus insurance premium (if selected) is due upon registration to confirm your reservation. Travel Insurance: We recommend your purchase of optional travel insurance. This optional travel insurance is per person and the premium is based on the overall trip cost. Travelers MUST purchase the plan at the time of initial deposit. Coverage will not be in place unless your full Deposit is received. Cancellation schedule and fees are in place regardless of cancellation reason (including, but not limited to, force majeure, health pandemics or government restrictions). Travel Insurance Premium is also Non-Refundable regardless of cancellation reason. Payment in full must be received by August 1st, 2027 or this may result in an automatic cancellation. Please note: All cancellations must be made in writing and sent to Best of Times Travel via traditional mail or emailed to cancellations@bestoftimestravel.com. The date of cancellation is deemed to be the date received by Best of Times Travel. Cancellation Charges for this programs are as follows: Cancellations from date of booking until 7/1/2027 have a $250pp cancellation fee that is not covered by insurance. Cancellations from 7/2/2027 until 8/8/2027 have a cancellation fee of $850pp. Cancellations from 8/9/2027 until 9/8/2027 have a cancellation fee of 35% of the total fare. Cancellations from 9/9/2027 until 10/8/2027 have a cancellation fee of 50% of the total fare. Cancellations after 10/8/2027 will receive no refund, 100% of the total fare. Best of Times Travel is not responsible for any refunds over and above said amount. Best of Times Travel reserves the right to issue any refunds due, in whole or in part, in the form of future travel credit.

*Pre-Existing Medical Condition Exclusion Waiver has the following stipulations: plan must be purchased within 15 days of initial trip payment, insured must be medically able to travel at time of purchasing the plan, all pre-paid, non-refundable trip costs need to be insured.  This information is a brief description of the features of this insurance program. Coverage & pricing may vary by state. The provision of this document is for informational purposes only and is not an insurance contract. Coverage is being marketed by Chubb Insurance Solutions Agency, Inc. located at 202 Halls Mills Road, Whitehouse Station, New Jersey 08889. Insurance benefits are underwritten by ACE Property & Casualty Insurance Company located at 436 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19106.

PASSPORT - A valid government issued passport is required for this trip, and must be valid for 90 days AFTER the date this trip returns.  *BEFORE BOOKING, PLEASE ENSURE THAT YOU PROVIDE YOUR LEGAL NAME AND DATE OF BIRTH AS THEY APPEAR ON YOUR PASSPORT.  Errors in passenger information can result in your being denied boarding privileges. 

Here are some important details regarding the finalization of  your cruise booking once it is completed:  

Official Cruise Booking - Once you have made your booking with Best of Times Travel on-line through this site you will receive an email notification that your reservation has been placed and payment received.  This is NOT your official booking information with the cruise line.  Shortly after your booking you will receive a secondary email directly from Best of Times Travel Office with your official Cruise Registration Number and Cabin Number for the Cruise.  Any customers receiving a confirmation from our office with a Cabin Number that begins with a "GTY" means that your are guaranteed that cabin category or better on the ship.  It means the ship is getting full and the cruise line would only guarantee you that category or better.  If Best of Times Travel is unable to confirm your reservation with the Cruise Line you will be notified as such and a full refund of payments made upon registration will be issued.

Travel Insurance – If you have chosen the optional Chubb Travel Protection program, please print off a copy of the brochure for your records.  This has important information on it regarding coverage and services provided by the insurance program.

Final Payment – Please note that final payment is due into our office no later than August 1st, 2027.  Please note that our on-line booking system is set up with automated installment payments on your account instead of making one lump sum payment at the end.  If you do not wish to be on the automated installment plan, please email our office at rtreat@bestoftimestravel..com and we will stop the automated payment plan.  You will be notified via email closer to the final payment time that your balance is due.  Please be reminded that failure to submit final payment on time may result in automatic cancellation and subsequent cancellation fees.

Final Documents -  Please note that all of your final boarding documents will be available for you to print out on-line approximately 3 weeks prior to the sailing date.  You will also receive email correspondence from Best of Times Travel outlining your transfer details to/from the Pier in Boston.      

In the meantime if you have any questions or concerns regarding your booking please feel free to contact our office via email or you may call us at 603-554-8901.

Warmest Regards,

Best of Times Travel