Here are the things I want every client to know before stepping onboard.

The AmaSintra carries approximately 102 guests in 51 staterooms, creating a much more intimate atmosphere than a large ocean cruise ship.

The AmaSintra isn't simply transportation between ports. Enjoy the comfortable public spaces, Sun Deck, restaurant, wellness facilities, and beautiful views along the river.

One of the best parts of a Douro River cruise is watching the landscape pass by. Don't spend the entire cruise inside your stateroom.

Don't expect enormous pools, casinos, dozens of restaurants, or large-scale entertainment.

The focus is on the river, destinations, food, wine, excursions, and relaxation.

River cruising is typically much calmer than ocean cruising, with significantly less movement from waves.

AmaWaterways includes guided excursions, with different activity levels available on many tours.

You don't have to participate in every excursion. Sometimes staying onboard and enjoying the ship is the perfect choice.

Some excursions have limited availability, so look over your options early and decide which experiences are most important to you.

You may encounter cobblestones, hills, stairs, and uneven surfaces during excursions.

Comfortable walking shoes should be at the top of your packing list.

Temperatures can change throughout the day. Lightweight layers make it easy to adjust as the weather changes.

A light jacket or sweater is especially useful for cooler mornings and evenings.

The atmosphere onboard is casually elegant.

Pack something a little dressier for dinner or evening events, but leave the formal gowns and tuxedos at home.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included onboard.

Wine, beer, and soft drinks are also included with lunch and dinner, and AmaWaterways offers a daily Sip & Sail Cocktail Hour.

Important AmaSintra note: The Chef's Table specialty restaurant is not available on Portugal sailings.

If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, communicate those requirements before your cruise so the appropriate arrangements can be made.

Portugal uses European-style electrical outlets. Bring a European power adapter for your electronics.

A portable power bank is also a great idea for long excursion days.

Personal irons and certain heating appliances are not permitted onboard.

Complimentary Wi-Fi is available onboard, although connection quality can vary while traveling through rural areas.

River ships sometimes dock alongside other river ships. Depending on the port, you may occasionally walk through another ship or use a gangway to reach shore.

If you use a wheelchair, scooter, walker, or have difficulty with stairs or extended walking, talk with your travel advisor before selecting excursions.

Some ports, gangways, transportation, and sightseeing locations may have accessibility limitations.

Bring your medications with you rather than packing them in checked luggage.

Keep prescriptions in their original containers and bring enough medication for your entire trip.

Make sure your passport meets the validity requirements for your trip before you travel.

For an international trip, arriving in Portugal at least one day before embarkation gives you a cushion for flight delays and allows you to begin your vacation without rushing.

You don't need a completely different outfit for every day.

Choose comfortable, lightweight pieces that can be mixed and matched.

This is one of the biggest advantages of river cruising.

You don't have to take every excursion, attend every activity, or fill every moment.

Slow down. Enjoy the scenery. Relax on the ship.

The AmaSintra is designed for travelers who want a more intimate, relaxed, destination-focused cruise.

With approximately 102 guests, comfortable accommodations, included dining and excursions, and the Douro River surrounding you, the journey itself becomes part of the vacation.

Unpack once. Explore when you want. Relax when you need to. And enjoy the view.