Come Stitch, Sip & Sail with Me on Portugal’s Douro River 🧶

Join Marly Bird and 4 incredible hosts for an exclusive private charter knitting cruise on Portugal’s Douro River, September 14–21, 2027. This luxury AmaWaterways voyage features onboard classes, guided excursions, all meals included, and a ship full of fellow yarn lovers. Cabins start at $9,777 CAD per person with the current $1,000-off sale through April 16.

Hey, bestie 💛

I have something really exciting to share with you today… and if you’ve ever thought about combining your love of yarn with your love of travel, keep reading.

Because I’m going on a knitting cruise through Portugal… and I want you to come with me. 🧶✈️

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What Is Stitch, Sip & Sail?

Stitch, Sip & Sail is a 7-night river cruise along Portugal’s gorgeous Douro River aboard an AmaWaterways ship, sailing September 14–21, 2027.

We’re talking terraced vineyards rolling down to the water, charming hilltop villages, port wine tastings, incredible food… and the best part? You get to enjoy all of it with your knitting (or crochet!) in hand, surrounded by people who totally get it.

This isn’t a regular cruise where you happen to bring your project bag. This is a private charter knitting cruise… the ENTIRE ship is ours. Every single person on board is a yarn lover. No random tourists, no fighting for lounge chairs… just fiber artists everywhere you look. It’s designed from the ground up for people who want to stitch, learn, relax, and explore one of the most beautiful places in Europe.

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Quick Trip Overview

• 📅 Dates: September 14–21, 2027
• 🚢 Cruise Line: AmaWaterways (luxury river cruise)
• 📍 Route: Roundtrip from Porto to Pinhão along the Douro River
• 🛳️ Private Charter: The ENTIRE ship is exclusively for our knitting group
• 🍽️ Meals: ALL meals included
• 🗺️ Excursions: Guided daily excursions included
• 🧶 Onboard: Knitting classes and stitching sessions with 5 amazing hosts
• 🍷 Bonus: Port wine tastings, scenic views, and plenty of time to just… breathe

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Your Hosts (This Lineup Though 🤩)

You won’t just be stitching alongside me… you’ll be learning from and hanging out with some truly incredible people in the yarn world:

Xandy Peters — I’ve known Xandy for years and have always respected his incredible knowledge about both knitting and crochet. His energy and spirit are infectious… it’s going to be so much fun spending time with him again on this trip!

Julie Dubreux (Julie Knits in Paris) — I’ve followed Julie for years and I am SO excited to finally get to know her better. She is an absolute font of information and her designs have that beautiful European flair that I just love.

Chantal Miyagishima (Knitatude) — I’ve gotten to know Chantal over the last few months and I already feel like we’re going to be the best of friends. Her high energy is absolutely contagious, and she loves what she does… and it shows. I can’t wait to spend more time with her!

Lesley Snyder — Our wonderful host who’s bringing this whole experience together… making sure everything runs smoothly so you can focus on what matters: your yarn and your time.

And me! Your BiCrafty Bestie, ready to stitch alongside you, answer your questions, share some laughs, and maybe teach you a thing or two 😉

We’re still finalizing the class lineup and activities… but trust me, with these five hosts on board, you’re going to have no shortage of learning, inspiration, and fun. I’ll update this post with specifics as we lock them in!

What Makes This Different from a Regular Cruise

I know what you might be thinking… “Can’t I just bring my knitting on any cruise?”

Sure. You can. But here’s what you WON’T get on a regular cruise:

🧶 Dedicated stitching time built into the schedule… not squeezed in between activities designed for non-crafters

🧶 Classes and workshops with designers who actually teach for a living… not a random “crafts corner” in the back of a conference room

🧶 The ENTIRE ship is ours — this is a private charter, not a regular cruise with a knitting group tucked in a corner. Every person on board is a maker. Every conversation at dinner is about yarn. Every lounge chair has a project bag next to it.

🧶 A river cruise (not an ocean liner)… which means intimate, relaxed, scenic, and peaceful. No crowds. No casino noise. Just the Douro River rolling by while you work on your stitches.

🧶 Portugal — one of the most beautiful and welcoming countries in Europe, with a textile heritage that goes back centuries. This isn’t a random destination… it’s a place that MEANS something to people who love fiber.

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Where We’re Going: The Douro River Valley 🍇

If Portugal has been on your bucket list… this is your sign.

The Douro River Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for good reason. The terraced vineyards, the golden hillsides, the tiny villages with red-roofed houses perched above the water… it’s the kind of scenery that makes you want to pause, take a deep breath, and just soak it all in.

And the port wine? 🍷 Oh, the port wine.

We sail roundtrip from Porto (one of Europe’s most vibrant and beautiful cities) through the heart of wine country to Pinhão and back. You’ll have guided excursions at every stop, plus free time to explore, shop, eat… and yes, knit on the sun deck with a view that most people only see in travel magazines.

I’ll be honest… I’ve never been to Portugal, but it’s been on my radar for a long time. John and I have actually been dreaming about visiting (and maybe even living there someday 👀). So this cruise feels extra special to me… it’s not just a trip, it’s the beginning of a love affair with a place I’ve been wanting to experience for years. And getting to discover it alongside my yarn community? That makes it even better.

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Who This Trip Is Perfect For

This cruise might be calling your name if…

🧶 You love knitting or crochet (or both… hey BiCrafty Besties 👋)
🧶 You’ve been saying “one day I’ll take a trip like this” for way too long
🧶 You want to learn from amazing designers in person… not just through a screen
🧶 You crave creative time without guilt or interruption
🧶 You want to travel somewhere stunning AND have your yarn community with you
🧶 You’ve never done a cruise but you’re curious (spoiler: river cruises are PERFECT for first-timers)
🧶 You want to treat yourself to something truly special

✨ Designer Tip: That little “oooh…” feeling you just got? Pay attention to it. These experiences don’t come along every day… and the trips you remember forever are the ones you almost talked yourself out of.

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What to Expect (Without the Pressure)

Let me be really clear about something…

This is NOT a rigid, packed-schedule-every-minute kind of trip.

This is relaxed. Flexible. Enjoy-at-your-own-pace.

Want to attend every class and excursion? Amazing… we’d love to have you.

Want to skip the morning walk and sit on the sun deck with your shawl-in-progress and a coffee? Also amazing. Zero judgment.

This is YOUR time. You’ve earned it. Use it however feels good to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be an advanced knitter or crocheter?

Not at all! If you’re comfortable with the basics, you’ll fit right in. The classes will offer something for multiple skill levels, and the hosts are experienced teachers who meet you where you are.

Can I come alone?

Absolutely… and honestly, so many people do! This is one of the best ways to travel solo because you’re instantly surrounded by people who share your passion. Plus, the entire ship is our group… you won’t feel alone for a second.

Is this only for knitters?

Nope! Crocheters are 100% welcome. Bring whatever project makes you happy. 🧶

Will there be structured classes?

Yes! You’ll have access to onboard classes and stitching sessions with all 5 hosts. We’re still finalizing the lineup and I’ll share details as they’re confirmed. But nothing is mandatory… this is a relaxed experience, not a rigid classroom setting.

What if I’ve never done a cruise before?

River cruises are actually the BEST introduction to cruising. Small ships, calm water, gorgeous scenery, and a relaxed pace. Nothing like the giant ocean liners. You’re going to love it.

Will I have time to explore the destinations?

Yes! There are guided excursions included at each stop, plus free time to wander, shop, eat, and soak in the culture.

Can I share a cabin with a friend?

Yes… pricing is based on double occupancy, so grab your stitching bestie and book together! If you’re traveling solo and want to discuss single occupancy options, Joanne can help.

Are the prices in Canadian or US dollars?

All prices listed are in Canadian dollars (CAD). Contact Joanne for USD equivalent pricing.

What makes this different from other yarn retreats?

The entire ship is chartered exclusively for our group… you won’t be sharing the cruise with non-crafters. Combine that with luxury travel, a stunning destination, 5 incredible hosts, and a built-in community of makers… this is truly one of a kind. It’s not a conference in a hotel ballroom. It’s Portugal. On a river. With wine. And yarn. 💛

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Final Thoughts

I don’t do things like this lightly. When I say yes to something, it’s because I truly believe it’s going to be an incredible experience… and this one? It’s going to be something special.

A knitting cruise is a travel experience designed specifically for fiber artists… featuring onboard classes, dedicated stitching time, craft-focused excursions, and a community of makers who share your passion. This cruise is best for knitters and crocheters of all skill levels who want a relaxed, creative vacation in one of Europe’s most beautiful destinations.

If your heart is saying yes… listen to it.

👉 Book your cabin and get all the details here

🎉 Remember: $1,000 CAD off per person through April 16!

I cannot WAIT to stitch alongside you on the Douro River. See you in Portugal, bestie 💛🧶

❤️ Your BiCrafty Bestie,
Marly Bird

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