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!
Comfort Collection Beds
USB Ports
Well-stocked minibar
Premium hairdryer
European-style duvets
Luxurious mattress toppers
Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
Soft & firm pillows
Extra blankets
In-room safe
Flatscreen satellite TV with English-speaking channels & over 50 free movie options
Lighted makeup mirror
Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window with Open-Air Balcony
Writing desk and chair
Full shower with glass door
One Queen-Sized Bed or Two Twins
Nightly turn-down service
Direct-dial telephone
Bedside tables with reading lamps
Make-up mirror
Large mirror in bathroom
Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage
Marble countertops in bathroom
Choice of bed configuration
Elegant, contemporary design
Bathrobes & slippers
Complimentary filtered water
L'Occitane bath products
Easy under-bed luggage storage
Individual climate control
6-person sitting area
Coffee table
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Sofa
Alarm clock
*Enjoy $1,800 in savings per person plus free prepaid gratuities—an added value of $216 per guest. This exclusive benefit is available with a group of 8 passengers. Prices are based on double occupancy, CAD, and include all taxes & port charges. Travel insurance, extra nights, airport transfers and airfare are additional.
Ship is Ready for Boarding
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.
This evening, enjoy a very special scenic sailing in Bordeaux.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BORDEAUX
Meal: Dinner
On the Steps of Montesquieu
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.
Discovery Excursion
Join a delicious onboard Bordeaux wine experience while sailing to Pauillac with a presentation by a world-class wine sommelier.
This evening, enjoy live entertainment on board your Suite Ship.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN PAUILLAC
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch
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
Join a guided tour to discover the culture and traditions of the southern Médoc region at one of Margaux' beautiful château and enjoy a wine tasting, OR:
Classic Excursion
Take a scenic drive through the famed Médoc wine country and enjoy a tasting of wonderful wines, featuring Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.
This evening, enjoy a brief sailing to Blaye.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BLAYE
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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.
Enjoy a 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
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:
Classic Excursion
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.
Discovery Excursion
Onboard lecture about WWII hosted by a history expert.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN LIBOURNE
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Bordeaux Sights, Bikes, and Bites
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.
Later, enjoy live entertainment on board your ship.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BORDEAUX
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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
Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning.
Meals: Breakfast
"Bonjour Bordeaux: Chateaux, Wineries & Charming Villages"
Specialized Consultants