Ann Morin Yulee, FL Travel Agent | Vacation.com
Ann Morin

Ann Morin

Yulee, FL Travel Agent

Ann C Morin-Your Dream Vacation LLC

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25+ Years of Experience
Additional Languages
English
Secrets of the Douro River cruise Douro river Portugal

Secrets of the Douro River cruise

The Douro river is a photographers delight!

    It is a stunning itinerary, probably the most picturesque I have sailed. 

The grape vines cling to the side of the cliffs at an almost impossible angle, very similar to the Rhine gorge but even more challenging. Dramatic mountains are covered with vineyards are far as your eye could see, it was very relaxing after the stressful year of constant Covid conversations.

     The landscape changes constantly throughout the cruise, at the end of the river the lush mountains turn to barren stone walls.  The rocky cliffs are jagged and quite impressive reminding me of the Iron Gates gorge on the Danube as one enters Romania.   

I sailed with Emerald Waterways on the Radiance, the ship itself is laid out very nice with an enticing spa pool on the top deck and the staff could not be friendlier.  I could tell that they were a real "team".  All were from Portugal, had a true love of their country, and a fondness for each other, it was quite touching. The food was excellent and they were very accommodating with my allergy which is a priority for those of us who have limitations.    

There is a small gym and spa downstairs, I liked how they had it set up with a water bottle and towel already set up in cubbies for guests.  I had a massage and it was quite relaxing, I kept my mask on when I was faced up but then when I turned over I removed it- it worked out fine.

Part of traveling now is being flexible and accepting that just because things are not exactly the same does not mean they still can't be excellent!    

     We had several great included excursions such as a visit to a beautiful vineyard for a tasting and a dinner at another gorgeous wine estate.  On board they had some fun activities like a cocktail making lesson featuring port wine and a tile painting class.  I loved the nightly "game show" activities like trivia etc. it was fun proving yet again I know more than my husband.

The highlight for myself was an optional excursion to the Mateus Manor house, the mansion and gardens were something I will not long forget!    

     This is a cruise one takes for the scenery, it is jaw dropping gorgeous, a photographer's dream. It is also a trip for wine lovers with many included tastings and the wines served on board are very good.  The cruise is very relaxing and a great way to de-stress, it is important to note that it is not an itinerary for shoppers though.  The towns are small, no jewelry stores etc., that didn't bother me as I wasn't looking to shop on this trip, many husbands will be thrilled about that!

If you are looking to see some of the prettiest views in the world in a "laid back luxury" atmosphere Emerald Waterways Secrets of the Douro may be the perfect match for you.

Give me a call at 413-552-8941 we can chat about it.

Areas of Expertise

Reviews

260 Reviews
Patient and doesn’t nickel and dime you
We originally booked a two week Italy tour with Ann for April 2020 to celebrate our 30th anniversary. The Covid virus came along so we cancelled that and booked a river cruise for July instead. Guess what? Covid still here and cancelled again. Ann patiently booked us a third time for April of 21 back to the Italy plan. Not once did she change us a change fee or complain about the extra work. Our friends agent charged them a $75 “service fee” each time to change theirs. We will always use Ann as she doesn’t nickel and dime you.
Paula - Omaha,NE - Traveled to Italy ~ Europe
30 of 35 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
Tracing family roots in Italy
Ann custom built a two week trip for my son and I tracing our family roots in Italy. It was a great experience filled with history, great food, and even some days at the beach. It was really nice working with someone who understood what it meant to me to show my son where he came from. It is a trip I will never forget!
Gino - Walpole,MA - Traveled to Italy ~ Europe
31 of 37 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
Best travel agent ever!
Ann has gone above and beyond during the COVID-19 crisis in keeping us informed about our cruise, which just canceled. She is the BEST travel agent we have ever worked with and are really upset that she is really taking a huge economic hit. When it is safe to travel we will definitely be using Ann again.
Mike - Acworth, GA - Traveled to Europe
30 of 38 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO

Certifications & Awards

asta awardbwC award
AMA Academy
AMA Academy
World Azamara Academy
World Azamara Academy
Holland America Line Academy Specialist
Holland America Line Academy Specialist
Oceania Certified Specialist
Oceania Certified Specialist
Oceania Certified Travel Advisor
Oceania Certified Travel Advisor
Regent Seven Seas Luxury Cruise Expert
Regent Seven Seas Luxury Cruise Expert
Seabourn Academy Graduate
Seabourn Academy Graduate
Viking Expeditions Expert
Viking Expeditions Expert
Viking Expert
Viking Expert
Windstar Star Specialist
Windstar Star Specialist

Additional Certifications

  • Certified Travel Counselor
  • Certified River Cruise Specialist
  • Certified Italy Specialist

My Travel Stories

The Most Beautiful Greek Isles

The Most Beautiful Greek Isles

     I was so excited when restrictions for Europe were lifted, I have been going through major travel withdrawals!      My first European adven...

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Secrets of the Douro River cruise

Secrets of the Douro River cruise

The Douro river is a photographers delight!     It is a stunning itinerary, probably the most picturesque I have sailed.  The grape vines cling to...

Read More
The Delightful Danube -river cruise with Avalon

The Delightful Danube -river cruise with Avalon

      I adore the Danube River!           I have sailed it four times and will probably sail it many more.  There is nothing like gliding ...

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Incredible India -gliding the Ganges with Avalon

Incredible India -gliding the Ganges with Avalon

"Why India?"       I was asked that question from half the people that I told I was heading there on my next adventure.  My answer was simple, I...

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Down the Danube to Dracula with Avalon Waterways

Down the Danube to Dracula with Avalon Waterways

     I adore the Danube river!           I have sailed it several times and never grow tired of the cobblestone lined streets and quaint vill...

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