Exclusive Douro River Cruise - Creating Magic Vacations Charter

Hosts: Rob and Kerry Stewart
Studio: CMV Studio, Orlando, Florida

Trip Overview

Exclusive Charter Details

• First full ship charter in Creating Magic Vacations' 7-year history
• Destination: Douro River, Portugal
• Dates: July 31 - August 7, 2026 (7-night cruise)
• Pre-cruise: 3 nights in Lisbon starting July 28, 2026
• Ship: AmaCentro (launched April 2025)
• Booking restriction: ONLY available through Creating Magic Vacations agents

Ship Specifications

• Total cabins: 51 (maximum 102 passengers)
• Crew members: 38 (impressive guest-to-crew ratio)
• Fleet status: New ship with best team members from across AmaWaterways fleet

Special Significance

Godmother Connection

• Ship's Godmother: Jen Lee (CMV business partner)
• Christening: April 2025
• Annual event: First annual "Godmother's Cruise"
• Maritime tradition: Prestigious honor dating back to ancient times for blessing ships

Godmother Ceremony Quote

"Every journey begins with a dream. I witnessed her first steps, graceful and strong, on the river that carries stories. And now she returns, ready to be embraced by Porto. I name you AmaCentro. May your waters always become your guest forever inspired. To the journeys ahead, to the laughter on board, and to the memories waiting to be made. Welcome to the world, AmaCentro, with love, your Godmother."

Destination Highlights

Douro River Valley

• Landscape: Castles and vineyards perched on hills on both sides of the river
• Unique sailing: Ships move during the day (cannot sail at night - Portugal regulation)
• Experience: Mountain views on both sides while cruising
• Activities: Biking excursions along riverbank to meet ship at next destination

Must-Do Excursion: Salamanca

Location: Spain's legendary "Golden City"

• UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Architecture: Honey-colored sandstone buildings
• Attractions: Two magnificent cathedrals, Grand Plaza Mayor
• University: One of Europe's oldest (founded 1218)
• Activities: Tapas tours, exploring architectural heritage, local culture

Cultural Experiences

Portuguese Cuisine

• National dish: Cod (prepared over 100 different ways)
• Wine focus: Porto famous for port wine production (official drink of Portugal)
• Included guide: Free guide to seven Portuguese dishes to try

Wine & Food

• Port wine: Major attraction and regional specialty
• Local flavors: Authentic Spanish and Portuguese cuisine
• Onboard dining: Gourmet meals included

Pricing & Inclusions

Cost

Starting price: $4,849 per person

Included Benefits

• $50 onboard credit per person
• Prepaid gratuities
• 3-night pre-cruise stay in Lisbon
• Meals during pre-cruise
• Shore excursions

Booking Status

• Current sales: Over 25% sold (as of recording, approximately one week after announcement)
• Urgency: Cabin deposits recommended immediately
• Historical note: This cruise "always sells out each year"

Unique Features

Exclusive Access

• CMV agents and clients only
• Cannot book through: AmaWaterways directly or other travel agents
• Group dynamic: Pre-cruise bonding ensures friendships before boarding

Summer Sailing Benefits

• July/August timing: Perfect for top-deck pool area
• Daytime cruising: Scenic sailing with mountain views
• Weather: Ideal for outdoor activities and deck relaxation

Future Plans

Additional River Cruises

• Danube River cruise: May 2026 (third time for hosts)
• Ship: AmaMagna (twice the size but not twice the capacity = more space per guest)
• Multiple options: 3-4 European river cruises planned for next year

Contact Information

Booking Details

• Website: creatingmagicvacations.com
• Requirement: Must book through Creating Magic Vacations travel advisor
• YouTube: CMV YouTube channel for visual content

Host Background

• Experience: 7 years with Creating Magic Vacations
• First-time destination: Neither host has been to Portugal or taken this cruise
• Dream builders list: Checking off new country, river, and ship

Call to Action

Personal Invitation

This episode serves as a "personal invitation" from the hosts to join the exclusive charter cruise experience.

Preparation

• Hosts plan to try Portuguese restaurants in Orlando before the trip
• Looking for a "Marty's equivalent" in Portugal (reference to special Budapest restaurant)

Episode Details

Show Description: "We're going to tell you about a trip you can only take by booking with a Creating Magic Vacations agent and it is the most exciting one that we have ever planned for CMV."

Recording Note: Encouraged to watch on YouTube for visual content including ship videos and destination imagery.