Portugal travel: Drift away while Porto casts its magical spell

A cruise along the Douro River, from Porto through the heart of the port wine-growing territory to the Spanish border, provided the perfect opportunity to sample the drink and check out the region’s impact on Britain’s favourite wizard.

I was on the maiden voyage of French-owned family firm CroisiEurope’s newest ship, named after legendary Portuguese fado folk singer Amalia Rodrigues. As we set sail I could barely believe we were moving, so smooth was the passage and the difference between river and sea cruises became apparent.

While ocean-going ships boast casinos, theatres and nightclubs to keep passengers entertained on sea days, their river equivalents have no need for such distractions. The vessels are much smaller so they can pass under bridges and navigate shallow inland waterways.

Our 24/7 entertainment came courtesy of the river bank as we sailed along the Douro, admiring the pretty villages, magnificent marinas and vineyards lining the steep shoreline.

All beds in Amalia’s 58 cabins face outwards so you can take in the “moving wallpaper” as you relax.The luxury cabins have high-speed wi-fi, air conditioning, balconies, ensuite shower rooms and TVs that drop down from the ceiling.

The vessel has a panoramic sun deck with a swimming pool, a lounge bar where visiting musicians and dancers performed nightly, and a restaurant.All food and drink is included, making it exceptional value – and fun.