2021 Bordeaux > Bordeaux

A patchwork of the finest vineyards in the world.

Journey through this beguiling part of France and indulge in the outstanding gastronomy of Bordeaux.

Your cruise on the three waterways of this region will introduce you to extraordinary landscapes, delicious fare and refined winemaking. Visit the Rémy Martin estate to taste Cognac, sample some of the finest wines in the world and enjoy the freshest of seafood from the crystal clear waters of Arcachon Bay. You’ll even have the opportunity to learn how to cook your own French delicacy on board with Scenic Culinaire.

Tour Code:: FRBC
Duration:: 11 days
Departure City:: Bordeaux
Return City:: Bordeaux

Selected Itinerary

11 Day Itinerary

Day 1 - Bordeaux

Welcome to Bordeaux. On arrival, your friendly crew will welcome you on board the luxurious Scenic Diamond.

Meals Included: Dinner
Day 2 - Bordeaux > Cadillac

Soak in the vistas as you cruise along the Garonne river into Cadillac. Perhaps enjoy Scenic Culinaire as you cruise.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 - Cadillac

Freechoice

Venture into the Sauternes region for a delicious wine tasting at a prestigious Château. Or, cycle through the rolling vineyards of Sauternes to taste the exquisite Grand Cru Classé wines of Château Lafaurie Peyraguey.

Freechoice

This afternoon, learn about Lillet, the refreshing French aperitif, during a visit to a renowned local producer. Alternatively, visit a truffle farm and sample this delicious regional delicacy, or visit Roquetaillade Castle. Or for those more active, enjoy a hike to the village of Loupiac.

Tonight, enjoy a sumptuous welcome dinner created using regionally sourced truffles.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 - Cadillac > Libourne

As you cruise to Libourne, your Cruise Director will host an enjoyable game of blind wine tasting, featuring wines produced in the region. Spend the afternoon in the nearby town of Saint-Émilion. Explore the underground catacombs of the Monolithic Church, before visiting the estate of Château de La Rivière for a cocktail and tasting experience. Sample regional delicacies such as soft creamy cheeses served with crunchy bread and fresh local charcuterie.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 - Libourne > Pauillac

Freechoice

Enjoy a guided tour of Libourne, or travel by coach through the Pomerol region, famed for its red wines, and visit one of its acclaimed estates for a wine tasting. Alternatively, take one of our on board e-bikes out for a cycle through the region, including a wine tasting, or discover the history of the renowned delicacy foie gras, during a farm visit in Bergerac.

This afternoon your mouth will water as your Cruise Director regales you with a presentation on French food.

Enrich

Set in the spectacular surrounds of the Médoc countryside, Château d’Agassac is truly enchanting. Dating back to the 13th century, the Château is one of the oldest winemaking establishments in the region and tonight it is the venue for your unforgettable exclusive classical concert.
Day 6 - Pauillac

Freechoice

Travel the scenic Médoc wine route by coach and sample the region’s finest at a local estate. Alternatively, cycle through the region to a grand château and sample delicious wine produced on site, or learn about the traditional craftsmanship of barrel making with a local cooper.

Back on board this afternoon, we’ve organised a Cheese of France experience. Taste the country’s celebrated cheeses, matched with bread and wine.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 - Bordeaux

Freechoice

Shop with a Chef at a local food market and cook up a storm in Scenic Culinaire afterwards. Or, enjoy a guided tour of Bordeaux and her many attractions. For the more energetic, see the sights by e-bike. Alternatively, stay on board for a food photography class and learn the tricks and techniques of taking incredible pictures of food.

Enrich

During exclusive after hours access be welcomed with a glass of champagne as you visit Les Bassins de Lumières, Bordeaux’s former submarine base which has been transformed into an impressive digital art installation.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8 - Bordeaux

Freechoice

Journey to Arcachon and join a walking tour including a visit to the local Baltard market, or stay in Bordeaux and take a tram to the Cité du Vin museum and enjoy an interactive journey of wine discovery. Alternatively, you can visit a local producer at Moon Harbour Whisky.

Later, indulge in a tasting of fresh oysters with champagne, before your highlight dinner of seafood, sourced from the clear waters of Arcachon Bay.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9 - Bourg

Freechoice

Spend a full day exploring the fortified town of Cognac, renowned for its fine brandy and enjoy a tasting at the acclaimed property of Rémy Martin. Alternatively, visit the Carriages Museum inside Bourg Castle.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10 - Bourg > Blaye

Freechoice

Stroll through the charming city of Blaye, or take a more active walk through the Citadel. Alternatively, join a 30-kilometre roundtrip cycle along the Captain’s Road. Or, explore the stunning beauty of the fairytale Château de La Roche Courbon

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11 - Bordeaux

Disembark and transfer to Bordeaux airport for your onward journey.
This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above.

Meals Included: Breakfast