Welcome Aboard

The Douro has always been a part of my life. From an early age, my passion for sailing led me to explore its serene waters, where I spent unforgettable weekends and holidays. First with friends, then with my family, I found in the river a refuge where time seemed to stand still, surrounded by untouched landscapes and unparalleled tranquility.

As tourism grew in the region and throughout Portugal, I realized that this experience could not be mine alone. The Douro has a vibrant soul, a unique energy that deserves to be shared. With this deep desire in mind, in 2011, Ânima Durius – the Soul of the Douro – was born, a project created to offer the world what I have always felt in this place: peace, enchantment, and the thrill of sailing one of the most stunning rivers in the world.

Ânima Durius is dedicated to providing exclusive nautical experiences in the heart of the Douro, offering personalized cruises aboard classic and elegant vessels. Our mission goes beyond simply sailing: we aim to share the essence and soul of this region, creating unforgettable moments for all who visit us.

We believe the Douro should be experienced unhurriedly, with respect and genuine passion. That is why we do not just offer boat trips – we provide journeys that awaken the senses, connect people with nature, and reveal the history and authentic beauty of this unique place.

Our private cruises allow guests to discover the river in a unique way, away from the crowds and at the tranquil rhythm of its waters. Whether for romantic moments, special celebrations, or simply for those seeking the serenity of the valley, every detail is carefully planned to make each journey an unforgettable memory.

Today, we take people to experience the Douro in an authentic and memorable way, whether aboard our sailboat Stella Maris, the classic wooden speedboat Baco (James Bond style), or the elegant yacht Unbelievable. Each journey is an opportunity to feel the river, breathe in its history, and become immersed in the landscape that continues to captivate us day after day.

More than just a trip, we offer an experience for life.

Why Anima Durius?

Unique and memorable experiences in the Douro Valley

14 Years Experience

More 18.000 Satisfied Costumers

#1 TripAdvisor 2016-2026

Best Quality/Cost Offer

Multilingual Local Skippers

Unbelievable cruise on the Duoro River
My husband and I took a 2 hour cruise with Paolo on the boat Unbelievable. It was the perfect, relaxing way to see the Duoro River and the surrounding countryside. Paulo was so attentive to our needs, and answered all of our (many) questions about the vineyards and the history of the area. A wonderful experience.

lynn512

2023-10-24

Smaller is better !
Having experienced a big boat trip this was the better way to enjoy and see the Douro River. Boat with snack lunch for 2 Personal and quiet 3 hr cruise which was lovely.

Amanda T

2023-10-16

Amazing boat ride on the Douro....you won't be disappointed.
what an amazing trip! We took the 2 hour boat ride on the Douro and had an amazing time. To have the boat for a private trip for just our family was perfect. The wine was great. The bean bags on the front deck were so comfy. Our captain answered all of our questions about the area and making wine. Scenery was beautiful!

Nancy W

2023-10-15

Leisurely cruise on a sailboat up the dural river
Captain was very experienced in the sailboat was in good condition. Could’ve used a little more shade as it was very hot that day.

Robert L

2023-10-15

Relaxing and entertaining
Day was overcast. Nonu (Nono) our captain,guide and private port wine man was great. We were on a private 2 person cruise. Knowledgeable and fun stories about the Douro valley. Let me captain for some of the ride. He was so courteous to make sure we had a great time. Relaxing and on 10 meter sailing craft

Sglam

2023-10-14

Do yourself a favour: do this!
Absolutely awesome from any perspective. The Douro Valley and River are just out of this world. The boat is comfortable and spacious. The skipper is the kindest person in the world. If you're in the area, do yourself a favour and book with these guys. Ideally, do something end of the day so you can enjoy the sunset. oh! It's my third time with them, which should tell you something about how good they are!

Bruno_Lopes

2023-10-13

Amazing Private Douro River Cruise
Our 2 hour private tour for 2 couples with Captain Barbara was absolutely amazing. She was from a multi-generational family in the Douro and this was evident from her amazing knowledge of everything going on along the river. The boat was perfect for 2 couples and was a perfect way to see the Douro around Pinhao while sipping wine on the river.

John R

2023-10-11

Very nice option for a more private cruise experience.
Barbara, who captained the "Unbelievable," was a wonderful guide to all things Douro Valley. We enjoyed her enthusiastic, informative tour. Being on the water in a lovely boat with only the four of us instead of the hoards on other boats is the way to go. We only booked a one hour tour and given the boat is not speedy, the scenery didmy chage all that much. Perhaps a two hour trip would have been the way to go.

Casualtraveler99

2023-10-09

September boat trip
We took a two hour tour on the Baco captained by Claudia and had a wonderful time. The boat, scenery, and Claudia were all great. Claudia gave us information on the area, and tips for our trip. We had some great laughs and really enjoyed the the whole thing. Would love to visit again.

_offey_

2023-10-02

Fabulous River Cruise with Barbara!
We had a wonderful boat ride experience with Anima Durius on the Douro River! Our guide was Barbara. She was terrific! She enthusiastically explained in perfect English all about the local quintas and the history of the area. We learned so much while sipping wine and gazing at the most beautiful valley we had ever seen. We would highly recommend Anima Durius, and be sure to ask for Barbara!

Leslie

2023-09-28

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