The Canadian music icon is trading the traditional concert venue for a river ship—with two performances, a Songwriters Circle and a week in the Douro Valley.
Presented by Stewart Travel Group
A typical Colin James concert lasts a few unforgettable hours. This November, 95 fans will have the opportunity to share an entire journey with him.
The Canadian singer, songwriter, and guitarist is taking his trio aboard the AmaSintra for a seven-night cruise through Portugal’s Douro Valley. The sailing will include two intimate performances, a Songwriters Circle, a meet-and-greet with the band and even the chance to win a private onboard dinner with the musicians.
For fans accustomed to seeing James from a theatre seat, it offers something rarely available on a conventional tour: time, proximity and a more personal connection to the stories behind the music.
James announced the journey directly to fans, describing his excitement about setting sail through Portugal with his trio. He and his band will be travelling alongside guests, not simply arriving onboard to perform before moving on to the next city and enjoying the daily excursions.
The setting is nearly as compelling as the headliner.
The Douro River winds through one of Europe’s oldest and most celebrated wine regions, where vineyards rise in dramatic terraces above the water. The itinerary begins in Porto and continues through historic towns and countryside in Portugal and Spain, including Régua, Pinhão, the fortified village of Castelo Rodrigo and Salamanca, a UNESCO World Heritage city.
Days will offer opportunities to explore palaces, gardens and medieval streets, visit local wine estates, taste regional food and Port, or simply watch the valley pass from the ship. An optional three-night Lisbon experience adds guided visits to the Portuguese capital, Sintra and the colourful Pena Palace before the cruise begins.
River travel is particularly well suited to this kind of experience. With one ship and a limited group, guests can unpack once and explore at an unhurried pace. Different touring options also allow travellers to choose between active outings and gentler excursions.
The shared interest in James’ music may be what turns the passenger list into something more communal. Favourite songs become conversation starters, performances become shared memories and fellow fans have a natural reason to connect.
The professionally hosted journey runs November 13–20, 2026, with the optional Lisbon program beginning November 10. Limited space remains, and Canadian travellers can book their place through Stewart Travel Group (www.stewarttravelgroup.ca/2026-colinjames)
View the full itinerary, learn what is included and reserve your place on the Colin James Trio Douro River Cruise.