The Ultimate Floating Knitting & Crochet Retreat on the Douro
HOSTED BY
Chantal Miyagishima · Xandy Peters · Marly Bird · Lesley Snyder
September 14–21, 2027
7 Nights
AmaDouro · AmaWaterways
From $8,877 CAD
Space for approximately 60–70 knitters and crocheters. Deposit required by October 2026.
A Creative Douro Valley River Retreat
Set sail through Portugal’s breathtaking Douro Valley on an unforgettable week designed especially for knitters and crocheters. Cruise past rolling vineyards, charming riverside villages and spectacular landscapes while enjoying the relaxed pace and all-inclusive comfort of a luxury river cruise. Along the way, connect with fellow fibre enthusiasts during inspiring classes led by Xandy Peters, Chantal Miyagishima, Marly Bird and Lesley Snyder. Between creative sessions, discover Portugal’s rich culture, savour local wines, explore historic towns and enjoy included excursions.
Hosted Fibre-Arts Experience
- Four expert hosts from the knitting and crochet world
- Welcome gathering and creative community time
- Knitting and crochet workshops, classes and lectures included
- Meet-and-greet and host Q&A opportunities
- Workshop materials, if required, are additional
Douro River Cruise Experience
- Seven nights aboard AmaWaterways’ AmaDouro
- Round-trip from Porto through the Douro Valley
- Daily guided excursions with English-speaking guides
- Gourmet meals, regional wine and beer with lunch and dinner
- Optional two-night pre-cruise Lisbon stay available
Meet Your Hosts
Four inspiring voices from the knitting and crochet world.
Xandy Peters is an innovative knitting designer and teacher best known for developing the stacked-stitch technique and the iconic Fox Paws pattern.
Chantal Miyagishima, the designer behind Knitatude, is known for modern, approachable knitwear designs and a fun, fearless personality.
Marly Bird is an accomplished knitwear and crochet designer, teacher and longtime yarn educator.
Lesley Snyder of Rosehaven Yarn Shop brings enthusiasm, experience and a deep passion for fibre arts.
River Cruise Fares
Prices are per person in Canadian dollars, based on double occupancy. Taxes and fees are included; gratuities are additional.
Your Stitch, Sip & Sail Experience Includes
- Luxury accommodation aboard AmaDouro
- All hosted workshops, classes and lectures
- Daily guided shore excursions
- All gourmet meals onboard
- Regional wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
- Sip & Sail cocktail hour on five evenings
- Captain’s welcome and farewell receptions and gala dinners
- Complimentary Wi-Fi, coffee, tea and bottled water
Not Included
- International airfare and airport transfers
- Workshop materials or supplies, if required
- Gratuities: $370 CAD per person
- Personal expenses and optional add-ons
Solo space is currently sold out; waiting list only. Final payment is due in April 2027. Deposit amount and exact final-payment date should be confirmed before publishing.
Ready to Stitch, Sip & Sail the Douro?
Request current availability, cabin options and booking details.
A Preview of the Journey
Vineyards, historic Portugal and relaxed creative time along the Douro.
The terraced vineyards and landscapes of the Douro Valley
AmaDouro, your home for seven nights
Creative time with fellow knitters and crocheters
Explore the Itinerary
Expand each day to see the destinations and experiences ahead.
Day 1 · September 14 · Porto
Day 2 · September 15 · Régua
Day 3 · September 16 · Vega de Terrón
Day 4 · September 17 · Vega de Terrón
Day 5 · September 18 · Pinhão
Day 6 · September 19 · Régua
Day 7 · September 20 · Porto
Day 8 · September 21 · Porto
Creative Workshops with Four Expert Hosts
A selection of knitting and crochet workshops will be offered throughout the cruise, led by Xandy Peters, Chantal Miyagishima, Marly Bird and Lesley Snyder. Workshops and lectures are included in the cruise fare; materials or supplies, if required, are additional.
Workshop projects and class details are expected to be announced in February 2027. Specific workshop times and creative-community gatherings are still to be confirmed.
Is This Trip Right for You?
This experience may be a strong fit for travellers who:
Helpful Planning Notes
Porto Airport (OPO) is the suggested gateway. Lisbon (LIS) may also work for travellers adding a land stay. An optional two-night pre-cruise Lisbon hotel stay is expected to be available.
This is an active itinerary with walking tours, cobblestones, hills and uneven terrain. It is not recommended for travellers with significant mobility limitations.
Guests must be 16 or older. Workshops, classes and excursions are encouraged but not mandatory.
A valid passport is required. Entry requirements vary by citizenship and may change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I join on my own?
Do I need to know the hosts or other travellers?
Are the hosted activities included?
Do I need a specific level of experience?
How much free time will I have?
Are flights and transfers included?
Is the trip suitable for travellers with mobility limitations?
Reserve Your Cabin
Contact Joanne or Jodi for current availability, cabin options and booking details.
Joanne O’Brien
Vacation Consultant
Toll-free1-888-739-3117 ext. 155Office905-631-1700 ext. 155Emailjobrien@expediacruises.com
Important booking information
Deposits are non-refundable. TICO #50026402. Prices are per person in Canadian dollars, based on double occupancy for the first and second passenger only. Specific stateroom categories are subject to availability at the time of booking. Airfare is not included. Contact your Vacation Consultant for full terms and conditions.
Terms, conditions and restrictions apply; pricing, availability, and other details subject to change and/ or apply to US or Canadian residents. Please confirm details and booking information with your travel advisor.
