Friday, April 4, 2014 - 10:49 by ce-press
Leixoes is situated 8km from Porto, a World Heritage site recognised by UNESCO in 1996.
The Leixoes Passenger Terminal/North Terminal is a wooden construction that resembles a ship’s hull, and is considered an important architectural and historical heritage. It includes a reception area, public telephone, toilets, an exhibition area, tourist office, post office, bank and money exchange. Other facilities such as taxis, buses, metro, hop-on/hop-off, shopping, restaurants are located nearby.
A second terminal, Porto Cruise Terminal/South Terminal with capacity for 2,500 passengers on turnaround is under construction and will be completed by September 2014.
This year 90 calls are scheduled representing 82,000 passengers and 40,000 crew. Two companies will visit for the first time: TUI Cruises and AIDA Cruises. In addition newcomer Portuscale Cruises has eight calls scheduled. Ships calling for the first time include Iberocruceros’ Mistral, Pullmantur’s Horizon and Mein Schiff 3 on her maiden voyage.
Various companies such as Costa Cruises and P&O Cruises are increasing their calls from one to five and three to seven respectively.
Passengers can stroll along the River Douro (river of gold) in the Ribeira, take a helicopter ride or discover Porto‘s architecture, its landscapes and bridges by taking a cruise on the river. A short journey by tram brings them to Foz do Douro’s beaches on the Atlantic.
Shore excursions are being developed such as that offering passengers the chance of having lunch with families that have a link with history, for example a house where a king has stayed.
