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8 Days Bonjour Bordeaux: Chateaux, Wineries & Charming Villages - River Cruise

Duration: 7 Nights

From €2,199pps

20th May 2025

Bid bonjour to the bountiful beauty of Bordeaux with a captivating cruise on the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers to delight in one of France’s most exquisite regions. Embark from Bordeaux itself, the capital of the splendid Nouvelle-Aquitaine region—famed for its legendary vineyards and wines. Be carried away by Avalon’s signature included Classic, Active, or Discovery experiences of your choice—from the regal histories of castles and Châteaux to the romantic cellars where wine bouquets and bon-vivant cuisine tempt the palate. While the landscapes and lush pastoral treasures are plentiful along the shores of the Garonne and Dordogne, Avalon elevates each immersive experience for a deeper discovery of the cultural and architectural treasures that recall the rich traditions of Southwest France. From unparalleled panoramic drives to forested two-wheel excursions by bike to the delicacies of seaside Arcachon—the world is your oyster on this adventure in la belle vie of Bordeaux!

Day 1 BORDEAUX, FRANCE (EMBARKATION)

Welcome to France! Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding

Flights into Bordeaux must arrive by 3 pm. Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm.

Your day is free to explore the city before starting your cruise on the Garonne and Dordogne. Get acquainted with this city, capital of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region and famous worldwide for its vineyards and wines.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BORDEAUX*

*Ship may sail in the evening to Cadillac-sur-Garonne based on tide and water levels.

Meals: Dinner

Day 2 CADILLAC-SUR-GARONNE

On the Steps of Montesquieu

Discovery Excursion

Join a delicious onboard experience in Bordeaux wines with a presentation by a worldclass wine sommelier.

Classic Excursion

Take a guided tour of Château de la Brède—birthplace of Montesquieu—political philosopher and author of “The Spirit of Law.” Visit the fortress-style castle still reflected in its impressive moat, OR:

Discovery Excursion

Join a guided visit with wine tasting at a local wine estate. Sip the sweet notes and fresh acidity of Sauternes, the beloved golden-yellow wine.

This evening, enjoy live entertainment on board your Suite Ship® .

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN CADILLAC-SUR-GARONNE

*Sailing to Cadillac-sur-Garonne pending tides and water levels. Alternative motorcoach transportation for today’s excursions provided.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3 CUSSAC FORT MÉDOC

Bikes, Vines, and Wines

This morning, enjoy a leisurely sailing to Cussac Fort Médoc

Visit the Adventure Center for today’s activities with your Adventure Host.

Active Excursion

Enjoy a relaxing E-bike guided tour in Bordeaux’s finest wine region. You will be amazed by the picturesque countryside while you enjoy a wonderful ride through the vineyards, OR:

Discovery Excursion

Take a scenic drive through the famed Médoc wine country and enjoy a tasting of their wonderful wines, with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon as protagonists.

This evening, enjoy a brief sailing to Blaye.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BLAYE

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4 BLAYE–BOURG

Fine Art, Fine Bubbly, and a Fine Day for a Drive

Ask your Adventure Host for today’s special activities.

Active Excursion

Join a refreshing power walk through the historic Citadel of Blaye with your Adventure Host, OR:

Discovery Excursion

Join a guided tour to discover Blaye from a different perspective, including a visit to a local art gallery with wine tasting, OR:

Classic Excursion

Take a panoramic drive following the famed Route de la Corniche along the right banks of the River Dordogne, followed by a guided visit to the Citadel of Blaye, an UNESCO World Heritage site.

Relaxing afternoon sailing on the Dordogne River to Bourg.

Classic Excursion

Take a wonderful walking tour in the Citadel of Bourg on the banks of the Dordogne River and visit the carriage museum.

Alternatively, join an optional guided excursion to learn how the Fine Champagne of Cognac is made while enjoying a Rémy Martin tasting.

Later, enjoy live entertainment on board your ship.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BOURG

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 LIBOURNE. EXCURSION TO SAINT-ÉMILION

The Village Amid the Vineyards

Discovery Excursion

Enjoy a guided visit to Saint-Émilion to discover one Bordeaux’ must-see wine-growing towns and celebrate your day with a wine tasting, OR:

Classic Excursion

Join a guided tour of the medieval village of Saint-Émilion—a UNESCO World Heritage site of legends and legendary landscapes, OR: Take an orientation walking tour to discover the history and beauty of Libourne, where wine and wonderful views are cherished in the 12th-century fortified town.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN LIBOURNE

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 BORDEAUX

Bordeaux Sights and Brilliant Lights

Join your Adventure Host for today’s special activities.

Discovery Excursion

While sailing to Bordeaux, enjoy a pastry demonstration.

Active Excursion

Join your Adventure Host for a bike ride along Bordeaux’ postcard river views of the Les Quais, OR:

Classic Excursion

Join a guided walking tour to discover the heart of Bordeaux with a stroll amid its stunning squares, avenues, and cathedrals sights.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BORDEAUX

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 BORDEAUX. EXCURSION TO ARCACHON’S BAY

Seas, Shells, and Sips

Active Excursion

Join your Adventure Host for a bike ride along Bordeaux’ postcard river views of the Les Quais, OR:

Classic Excursion

Take a guided tour to La Cité du Vin, Bordeaux’s iconic wine museum and cultural center, OR:

Classic Excursion

Join a full-day guided tour of the seaside resort of Arcachon on the Atlantic coast. Gaze upon its 19th-century architectural treasures and taste its local delicacy of oysters and wine.

This afternoon, consider an optional guided excursion to Les Bassins des Lumières for a breathtaking visit to the submarine base where art and music surround you in an immersive experience.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BORDEAUX

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 BORDEAUX (DISEMBARKATION)

Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning.

Meals: Breakfast

Avalon Artistry II

Part of Avalon's award-winning fleet of Suite Ships, the Avalon Artistry II features two full decks of Panorama Suites with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows that transform the living space into river cruising's only Open-Air Balcony. With 200 square feet, Panorama Suites are more than 30% larger than the industry standard, affording you the incomparable opportunity to wake each morning to splendid passing scenery from your window-facing bed. Stretch out on your Comfort Collection bed and cruise with the world at your feet. Onboard amenities include an alternative light dining option in the Panorama Bistro, a Fitness Center, complimentary Wi-Fi access, and a spacious Sky Deck with premium lounge chairs, whirlpool, and light al fresco lunches at the Sky Bistro on the Sky Deck. A true work of art in relaxed luxury on board and amazing adventures on shore!

Amenities

Elegant, contemporary design
Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Windows
Sky Deck with premium lounge chairs, whirlpool, shade awnings, & outdoor deck game area
Outside viewing deck
Spacious, open-seating Panorama Dining Room
Well-stocked library with books, cards, and board games
Panorama Lounge & Bar with premium spirits, cozy seating, panoramic windows & dance floor
Onboard Adventure Center with active gear, bikes/e-bikes, Nordic walking sticks, & maps
Al fresco lunch in the Sky Grill
Fitness center
Complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi access throughout the ship
Non-smoking staterooms & ship interior
Convenient Elevator Service
English-speaking friendly crew, staff & professional Cruise Director
Choice of Classic, Active or Discovery excursions so that you can experience your cruise your way
Complimentary headsets to hear every word of excursion commentary from your Local Guide
Onshore & Onboard experiences with regional customs, cultures & tastings with local artisans, experts & entertainers
Virtual DJ Music System playing hits from 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, and today.
Onboard assistance is available to recommend, reserve and further personalize your cruise
Flatscreen satellite TV with English-speaking channels & over 50 free movie options
Chef-prepared onboard meals with regional cuisine and familiar favorites
Seasonal cuisine featuring the freshest local ingredients
Daily buffet breakfast with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh options and daily a la carte specials
Complimentary room service for Continental breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Daily lunch buffet with regional and classic dishes, Avalon Fresh® options, and chef specialties, including carving & pasta stations
Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, and sweet treats
Four-course dinners with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrées and desserts or cheese
Complimentary wine, beer, or soft drinks with lunch and dinner
Avalon Fresh healthy cuisine options at every meal
FlexDining flexible dining times with menu & venue options
Options at every meal to accommodate dietary requirements, including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, plus dishes may be prepared upon request to accommodate food sensitivities and allergies
Welcome & farewell cocktails with sparkling wine & canapés
Included Happy Hour every evening featuring house beer, wine, cocktails and a drink of the day
Cocktails with a view on the Sky Deck
Specialty coffees, espresso drinks and beWell Essence flavored and infused water available throughout each day
Linger over several selections from the Panorama Bistro's tasting menu for a less formal "sit-down" atmosphere

Inclusions

Flights from Dublin (Prices from Cork airport are also available)
7 Nights on a Deluxe Stateroom with Open-Air Balconies, Sky Deck with whirlpool, fitness center, complimentary Wi-Fi, and gourmet dining with wine included
Full Board Basis
Excursions
Transfers

*Prices are per person and based on 2 adults sharing