Essence of the Douro

Tauck’s latest Douro River vessel, MS Saudade, arrives in 2027 as an 80-meter (263-foot) riverboat designed by Scylla to host no more than 84 guests. The deck plan prioritizes generous space, featuring twelve 300-square-foot Tauck Suites and twenty 225-square-foot cabins, plus six 200-square-foot and four 150-square-foot options; select Category 3–5 cabins include floor-to-ceiling windows with real French balconies. Each cabin comes equipped with in-room movies, a minibar, and climate control, while all bathrooms are fitted with premium Portus Castelbel toiletries. A small pool rests on the Sun Deck, and the interior draws on Portuguese craftsmanship with tile-inspired design motifs woven throughout the spaces.

Onboard life mirrors Tauck’s refined, immersive philosophy. The main dining room, The Compass Rose, offers open seating, flexible dining times, and vegetarian options, complemented by Arthur’s for a more casual experience and optional al fresco dining on the Sun Deck when weather allows. Saudade sustains a strong guest-to-crew ratio, with about 43 crew members and Tauck Directors dedicated to the journey, while programming spans enrichment lectures, nightly piano performances, in-room movies, culinary demos, local entertainment, and themed events. Off-ship experiences are a hallmark of the Douro itineraries, guided by local experts with opportunities for winery visits and private tastings at Quintas along Portugal’s wine country, bringing the region’s history and flavors directly into Tauck’s on-tour program.