7-Day ~ Portugal and Spain Knitting Cruise (Apr 2026)

Flavors of Portugal & Spain w/ Chris Bylsma April 18-25, 2026

Embark on a unique journey with Chris Bylsma and fellow knitters on Portugal's Douro River. This exclusive 'Flavors of Portugal and Spain' itinerary offers the option of adding three nights in Lisbon before the cruise, a high-speed train journey to Porto, and seven nights on the river aboard the luxurious 102-passenger AmaVida. The adventure continues with three nights in the iconic city of Madrid. This extraordinary trip perfectly blends cultural immersion and scenic beauty, showcasing the best of Portugal and Spain.

Immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Lisbon, a vibrant destination that seamlessly blends historic charm with modern amenities. This city, steeped in history and known for its rich culture and architecture, offers diverse experiences that will captivate you.

With its stunning architecture and centuries-old stories, the city's cobbled streets and ancient ruins offer a glimpse into its past. Lisbon boasts a lively cultural scene with numerous museums, art galleries, theaters, and delicious cuisine. Lisbon is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a memorable and diverse experience.

After disembarkation, visit Madrid, one of Spain's most glorious cities. Madrid, the capital of Spain, is a dynamic and exciting city that offers a wide array of attractions, including world-class museums, historical landmarks, and beautiful plazas. Madrid's vibrant culture and festive nightlife, culinary delights, and friendly atmosphere make it a popular destination that offers something for every type of traveler.

Your optional pre-cruise adventure begins in Lisbon (April 15-18), surrounded by Old World architecture and the rich history of a city most known for its famed explorers. Visit the lovely seaside town of Sintra, one of Portugal's most beautiful mountain villages where the Portuguese royal family resides in the summer. Cruise aboard the AmaVida (April 18-25), known for its fine dining and superb staff ready to anticipate your every need. Cruise from Porto, the "City of Bridges" and gateway to the Douro River Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with rolling vineyards and charming villas that cling to the steep sides of the river. Disembark in Vega de Terron and enjoy landscapes and a tour of Salamanca on your way to Madrid. Rich in culture and history, Salamanca is a gorgeously preserved Old City and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Salamanca is known as "Golden City" because of its golden hues. This city dates back to Celtic times and is best known for being a key intellectual center and its elaborate architecture. Here, you'll see a lively flamenco, a folkloric tradition of Southern Spain, and savor a delicious lunch before arriving in Madrid. Enjoy three nights in Madrid (April 25-28) and immerse yourself in diverse architecture, flourishing plazas, and bustling streets of the Spanish capital. In Madrid, see enriching museums and impressive stained-glass cupolas, and enjoy an excursion to the nearby ancient walled city of Toledo. Stately gardens and everything else this fabulous city offers will be the grand finale of a trip you'll remember for a lifetime.

Flavors of Portugal & Spain w/ Chris Bylsma - Highlights

• Immersive tours are included by AmaWaterways, led by expert local guides.


• Knitting coach & Craft Cruise trip leader.


• Luxury accommodation.


• Welcome Cocktail, Welcome Dinner, Captain's Cocktail and Gala Dinner.


• Unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, as well as unlimited sparkling wine and fresh juice with breakfast.


• Nightly sip & sail daily cocktail hour.


• Tapas, sandwiches, snacks, and refreshments are served daily in the Main Lounge.


• Gentle, regular, active, and late-riser tour options with personal headsets for easy listening.


• Guided hikes.


• In Lisbon, shop at Retrosaria Rosa Pomar, the best yarn shop in town. It is known for advocating and supporting locally sourced wool yarns.


• Shop for Portuguese yarn at Ovelha Negra in downtown Porto and see a trunk show by André de Castro.


• Local yarn store visits.