Tauck unveils new river ships set to sail through France and Portugal, alongside the launch of five innovative European cruises.
New Ship Introductions
Tauck has announced the addition of two new river ships to its fleet: the Saudade, which will serve as a sister ship to the Andorinha, will operate on Portugal’s Douro River, while the Reverie will accompany the Serene in sailing the famed Seine River.
Short Itineraries for Busy Travelers
In a significant move to cater to travelers with limited time, Tauck is set to launch a six-day river cruise in late 2026, with an expanded offering available in 2027. The cruises will primarily occur during the shoulder seasons, providing an ideal opportunity for guests looking to maximize their travel experiences during shorter trips. Tauck CEO Jennifer Tombaugh stated, “River cruising continues to be one of the most popular ways to experience Tauck for the first time, and with these new shorter itineraries, we can now offer that exceptional entry point to guests with limited time.”
Featured Six-Day Cruises
The six-day Essence of the Seine cruise will operate roundtrip from Paris on the Reverie, featuring an array of experiences including visits to Normandy, cider and Calvados tastings in Vernon, and a gala dinner at a historic chateau.
Another highlight is the Essence of the Danube, which will navigate between Budapest and Vienna on the Joy. This itinerary offers excursions to Bratislava, a gala meal at the Palais Pallavicini in Vienna, and a wine tasting experience in Durnstein.
Focus on the Douro River
Tauck has emphasized its dedication to the Douro region, citing the **strong demand** for river cruises in this area. Consequently, reservations for 2027 Douro sailings are now open. The six-day Essence of the Douro will journey from Porto to Barca d’Alva on the Saudade, featuring activities like a cocktail-making workshop, cycling through picturesque countryside, and dining at a waterfront restaurant.
Extended Douro Itineraries
For those seeking longer excursions, the 10-day Porto Prelude: Cruising the Douro invites travelers to explore Porto with multiple overnight stays, vineyard hikes, port wine tastings, and an exclusive Tauck event at a historic quinta.
Additionally, the 11-day Exploring the Douro, Plus Madrid itinerary blends the stunning landscapes of the Douro Valley with cultural experiences in Spain. Guests aboard the Andorinha will enjoy guided tours of Porto and Salamanca, port tastings in Vila Nova de Gaia, and conclude their journey with three nights in vibrant Madrid.
