Houseboat provider Riverly is adding Portugal to its programme for the 2026 season. With the Grande Lago Alqueva in the Alentejo, the company is opening up an area that differs significantly from classic inland waters in Central Europe: instead of narrow canals and river landscapes, crews can expect a houseboat holiday on a vast reservoir with open horizons.
The starting point for the trips is the base at Amieira on the southern shore of the lake. From there, holidaymakers can explore the Alqueva without fixed routes. The Grande Lago Alqueva is one of the largest reservoirs in Europe. Bays, islands and unspoilt shores offer numerous opportunities for anchoring. The conditions are considered comparatively easy: hardly any current, no locks and plenty of space make navigation easier - even for beginners.
Driving licence-free houseboat holiday
As in all Riverly areas, houseboat holidays in Portugal are also possible without a licence. After a detailed briefing, guests take over their boat and determine their own speed and route. The calm conditions on the lake offer a high degree of safety and orientation.
Merger of two traditional houseboat providers
Riverly was formed in 2025 from the merger of the providers Locaboat and Nicols. With over 500 boats and numerous departure ports in Europe, the company is one of the major players in the licence-free houseboat travel segment. In addition to Portugal, Hungary is also expanding its route network in 2026. In the Eastern European country, the Tokaj region around Bodrog and Tisza will become accessible. Guests will start in Tokaj and explore the wine country on licence-free houseboats, glide through nature reserves and reach historic places such as Sárospatak or Sátoraljaújhely on the border with Slovakia.
The Riverly fleet
Customers can choose from a wide range - from small houseboats for couples and family-friendly models through to spacious yachts for travelling with friends or for multi-generational trips. Since the merger of the two houseboat providers Nicols and Locaboat last year, the fleet has been restructured: The names have been standardised so that it is clear at first glance which boat suits your needs. Two types of boat are available: the characteristic pénichette, built in the company's own shipyard and inspired by the French barge, and modern cruisers, which offer contemporary comfort and promise that yacht feeling. For better orientation, the range has been divided into three comfort levels: Classic, Comfort and Premium.
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Experience the Alentejo by houseboat
The Alentejo is located in the south of Portugal, between the Tagus and the Algarve. The landscape is characterised by small villages, traditional architecture and regional cuisine. Shore excursions lead to local markets, restaurants and wineries. Another feature of the region is the low level of light pollution: the Alqueva is considered one of the best areas in Europe for stargazing.
Jill Grigoleit
Editor Travel
