APT will launch a new custom-built river ship for the Douro in Portugal, setting sail for the first time in 2024.According to APT’s website, the maximum 114-guest MS Estrela will be purpose-built for the Douro, and feature French Balcony Suites, a fine dining restaurant that will showcase Portuguese and international cuisine, an al fresco dining option and a Sun Deck with outdoor bar and swimming pool.There will be 10 categories of staterooms and suites aboard the fou-deck vessel, ranging from the lead-in 13.4 square-metre Category F on the Lower Deck, to the two 23.2 square-metre Owner’s Suites at the aft of the Upper Deck.Subscribe to LATTE Cruise’s free eNewsletter to keep up to date with everything in the luxury cruise space.“Each balcony suite is designed for luxury and comfort, features an electric slide-down window,” the website boasts.MS Estrela will be utilised on APT’s 9-day Douro Delights between Porto and Madrid (disembarking in Salamanca) that will visit 11 destinations and provide a number of ‘Freedom of Choice’ inclusions.The cruise will also form the core of APT’s 14-day Douro Delights with Lisbon and Madrid itinerary that features three nights pre- and post-cruise in either city, and the longer 24-day Spain and Portugal Delights with Douro River Cruise that goes on to explore Algarve, Seville, Grenada and Cordoba by coach, with a rail journey from Madrid to Barcelona.MS Estrela will also be operated under APT’s sister brand, Travelmarvel.Lead photo and suite render courtesy of APT/Travelmarvel.
