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21-night France, Uncorked: The Rhone, The Seine & Bordeaux Cruise

Arles/Bordeaux
21-night France, Uncorked: The Rhone, The Seine & Bordeaux Cruise
April 15, 2025
Avalon Waterways: Avalon Poetry II®
Arles/Bordeaux
Vacation Offer ID 1553829
Reference this number when contacting our travel specialist.
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Exclusive Offer
  • One Complimentary Pre or Post-Cruise Night OR $300 per Couple Savings*

*Savings, applied to a purchased Land Extension, is provided only if the Pre or Post-Cruise Night is unavailable.

Overview
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Ship Info
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Activities & Services
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Staterooms
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Deckplans
The Signature Collection – Exclusive Amenities
The Signature Collection Sailings offer Exceptional Value and Exclusive Amenities.

Cruise Inclusions

  • Choice of complimentary sightseeing excursions in every port – choose between Classic, Active or Discovery options
  • Whisper headsets for all excursions
  • Digital Signage ship-wide with daily agenda, menus, key details
  • Unlimited free Wi-Fi
  • Visits to UNESCO Sites
  • Enrichment lectures & local entertainment, dance floor and nightly song lists
  • Meals with regional specialties, including local wine
  • Sky Deck grill for lunch – weather permitting
  • Welcome Dinner & Farewell Dinner
  • Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner – sparkling wine with breakfast
  • 24-hour specialty coffees, teas & water filling station, including flavored waters
  • 24-hour Club Lounge (includes coffee machine), games, books, TVs, great views!
  • Walking track & sky deck
  • Fitness room with machines and free weights
  • Adventure Host and Adventure center (maps, binoculars, walking sticks, etc)
  • Afternoon tea (coffee, tea, sandwiches and cookies)
  • 16 bikes on board
  • Movie Night
  • Elevator between stateroom decks
  • 24-hour guest services
  • All port taxes & fees
  • Airport transfers on embarkation/disembarkation day with Avalon Air purchase
  • No single use plastics

YOUR STATEROOM INCLUDES:

  • River-view stateroom Hotel-style bed with optional twin-bed configuration; Comfort Collection bedding, including choice of pillow and firmness (Panorama Suites 200 sq feet)
  • Desk area with chair
  • Spacious closets and under bed storage
  • Panorama Suites include Wall-to-wall window with Open-Air Balcony
  • Panorama Suites include loveseat and table with chair seating area
  • Panorama Suites include extra large bathroom and spacious glass enclosed shower
  • Flat-screen LCD TV with complimentary Movies On Demand
  • 110/220 volt outlets & USB ports
  • Mini Bar; security safe; hair dryer
  • L’Occitane® toiletries; plush robes & slippers in every stateroom
  • Stateroom steward & multiple times daily housekeeping
21-night France, Uncorked: The Rhone, The Seine & Bordeaux Cruise
  • Destination Guide
  • Suggested Shore Excursions
Destination Arrival Departure
Arles

Arles 04/15/2025

ARLES, FRANCE (EMBARKATION) Welcome to France! Your Suite Ship® is Ready for BoardingFlights into Marseille must arrive by 3 pm. Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm.OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN ARLES(D)ARLES-WINDOW-DETAIL.jpg
04/15/2025 04/15/2025
Arles

Arles 04/16/2025

ARLES A Brush with GeniusVisit the Adventure Center for today’s activities with your Adventure Host.ACTIVE Get your daily dose of exercise through a Power Walk in Arles with your Adventure Host, OR:DISCOVERY Attend a Painting Workshop to learn techniques of Vincent van Gogh. Create your own painting in the style of the legendary artist, OR: CLASSIC Enjoy a Guided Walking Tour of Arles—the captivating city of the Provence region. You’ll visit the Roman Amphitheater in this visually stunning city.Take free time to stop in Le Café Van Gogh for a glass of wine before sailing to Avignon. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN AVIGNON(B,L,D)ARLES-PAINTING-CLASS.jpg
04/16/2025 04/16/2025
Avignon

Avignon 04/17/2025

AVIGNON The City of Popes in Picturesque Provence CLASSIC Take a Guided Sightseeing Tour of the fortress city of Avignon—with its ramparts encircling the city—and a visit to the amazing Palace of the Popes.Guided Optional Excursions include a visit to the ancient Roman aqueduct of Pont du Gard, or a trip to the famed wine cellars of Châteauneuf-du-Pape for a true taste of the Rhône wine region. Or explore Avignon on your own for the city’s art and culture, theatre, and museums. Be sure to snap photos of the captivating countryside, historic monuments, and the medieval Pont Saint-Bénézet. Later, enjoy onboard live entertainment. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN AVIGNON(B,L,D)AVIGNON-BRIDGE.jpg
04/17/2025 04/17/2025
Viviers

Viviers 04/18/2025

VIVIERS World History in a Charming French Country Village Enjoy a leisurely morning sail to Viviers.ACTIVE Walk your way up to Vivier's hilltop Cathedral with your Adventure Host, OR:CLASSIC Explore the pale-stone buildings of Viviers on an afternoon Guided Walking Tour of this charming village. You’ll see its Romanesque cathedral and Old Town with a mix of historical Christian, Roman, and medieval influences.EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO TAIN L’HERMITAGE (B,L,D)VIVIERS.jpg
04/18/2025 04/18/2025
Tain L'Hermitage

Tain L'Hermitage 04/19/2025

TAIN L’HERMITAGE A Rendezvous with Castle Views and VineyardsJoin your Adventure Host for today’s special activities.ACTIVE Explore Tournon by foot as you follow your Adventure Host for a morning hike in this beautiful town along the Rhone, OR:CLASSIC Take a morning Guided Walking Tour to explore Tournon—one of France’s oldest medieval cities. See its 16th-century castle, and Roman ruins between the Rhône River and the granite slopes of the Hermitage.In the early afternoon, cruise to Lyon. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN LYON(B,L,D)TOURNON.jpg
04/19/2025 04/19/2025
Lyon

Lyon 04/20/2025

LYON La Vie En Rose in Lyon CLASSIC Join a Guided Sightseeing Tour to survey Lyon from Fourvière Hill with its numerous churches. You’ll also explore the Old Town with its maze of medieval alleyways, and the lively cafés, monuments, and famed fountain of Place des Terreaux.Spend free time riding a bike through Lyon’s town squares, over bridges, and along the banks where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet. Enjoy live entertainment while sailing to Tournus. EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO TOURNUS(B,L,D)LYON-BRIDGE.jpg
04/20/2025 04/20/2025
Tournus

Tournus 04/21/2025

TOURNUS–CHALON-SUR-SAÔNE Wine and Cheese on the Stunning Saône DISCOVERY Travel into the rolling landscapes of the Mâconnais region to learn about its world-famous Chardonnay vineyards, the wines produced here, and to attend a wine-tasting in the cellars of a real medieval castle!Enjoy a leisurely afternoon cruising along the majestic Saône River.DISCOVERY Later, enjoy a delicious Cheese Tasting on board your ship.Enjoy live entertainment on board this evening. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN CHALON-SUR-SAÔNE(B,L,D)TOURNUS.jpg
04/21/2025 04/21/2025
Chalon-Sur-Saone
04/21/2025 04/21/2025
Chalon-Sur-Saone

Chalon-Sur-Saone 04/22/2025

CHALON-SUR-SAÔNE (DISEMBARKATION) BEAUNE–DIJON–PARIS (EMBARKATION) Drive to Beaune and take a High-Speed Train from Dijon to Paris.CLASSIC Visit the Hôtel-Dieu Charity Hospital in Beaune, built in 1443, today home of the Van der Weyden’s painting of the Last Judgment and is one of France’s architectural highlights.This afternoon, take a high-speed train from Dijon to Paris to board your Suite Ship®.EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO VERNON(B,D)BEAUNE-HOTEL-DIEU.jpg
04/22/2025 04/22/2025
Vernon (Giverny)

Vernon (Giverny) 04/23/2025

VERNON Monet’s Muses, Castle Courtyards, and Crêpes du Jour Visit the Adventure Center for today’s activities with your Adventure Host.ACTIVE Explore Vernon's Chateau des Tourelles by foot with your Adventure Host, OR:CLASSIC Take a Guided Tour of Giverny, home and inspiration of the master impressionist painter Claude Monet. Walk the grounds and see Monet’s charming residence, and the flower and water gardens captured in his masterpieces*, OR:CLASSIC Join a Guided Visit to Bizy Castle—called “Normandy’s Versailles” for its magnificent courtyard, water garden, and stables.DISCOVERY While sailing, enjoy a traditional French luncheon of authentic French crêpes, followed by a Pastry Demonstration.This afternoon, enjoy a beautiful cruise to the picturesque town of Les Andelys. LES ANDELYSSerenity on the SeineACTIVE Join a Guided Hike up to the castle ruins of Château Gaillard—historic home of King Richard the Lionheart, OR:CLASSIC Take a Guided Walking Tour of Les Andelys—one of France’s most picturesque spots on the Seine.EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO CAUDEBEC(B,L,D)*Monet’s House is closed in March and November. During this period, this excursion will be replaced with a Guided Tour of La Roche-Guyon and its castleVERNON.jpg
04/23/2025 04/23/2025
Les Andelys
04/23/2025 04/23/2025
Caudebec-en-Caux

Caudebec-en-Caux 04/24/2025

CAUDEBEC Ancient Abbeys Along the SeineACTIVE Enjoy a relaxing bike ride along the river with your Adventure Host, OR:CLASSIC Take a Guided Trip along the Normandy Abbeys Route—where more than 100 medieval Benedictine and Augustine abbeys and churches were built along the Seine.This afternoon, you may choose a Guided Optional Excursion to the old seaside town of Honfleur. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN CAUDEBEC(B,L,D)CAUDEBEC.jpg
04/24/2025 04/24/2025
Caudebec-en-Caux

Caudebec-en-Caux 04/25/2025

CAUDEBEC. EXCURSIONS TO NORMANDY Heroic Bravery on Normandy Beaches and French Farming Traditions CLASSIC Join a Guided Tour of Normandy’s WWII landing beaches, visit significant U.S. sites, including Omaha Beach, the Pointe du Hoc monument, and the American Cemetery, OR: CLASSIC Take a full-day Guided Tour of the British and Canadian commemorative sites, including the British cemetery, Pegasus Memorial, the seaside town of Arromanches, the Juno Beach Center, and the Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery, OR: CLASSIC Join “A Taste of Normandy” Guided Tour for an in-depth look at this rich agricultural region. See the famous Bayeux Tapestry, visit the beautiful village of Beuvron en Auge and taste Calvados at a local distillery.Later, enjoy live entertainment on board your ship. EVENING CRUISE TO ROUEN(B,L,D)NORMANDY-OMAHA-BEACH.jpg
04/25/2025 04/25/2025
Rouen

Rouen 04/26/2025

ROUEN The Cathedral of Notre-Dame, and a Heroine for France ACTIVE Take a Guided Bike Tour to discover and explore the most famous monuments and the lesser known hidden gems of Rouen on two wheels, OR:CLASSIC Take a Guided Walking Tour of Rouen—home of the martyred Joan of Arc—and see the medieval quarter with its 16th-century Astronomical Clock, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO CONFLANS(B,L,D)ROUEN.jpg

Optional Private Excursions

Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!

Le Havre: D-Day Beaches - 9 hours
The numerous monuments and memorials on the Normandy coastal area bear witness to the fierce fighting that took place here during and after the D-Day Landings of World War II. Your driver-guide meets you after you have departed your cruise ship and takes you on a full-day tour of the American Sector to visit some of the most important sites of this pivotal point in the war.

Your day starts on the famous coastline at Pointe du Hoc, which the US Rangers scaled, demonstrating a triumph of planning, training and execution by elite and well-led troops. Further eastwards along the coast is the sector known as Omaha Beach, also captured by invading American forces, and where you can examine several sites from both the German and US perspectives. You also hear about Operation Aquatint, a failed 1942 British Commando raid on the area. Your day ends with a poignant visit to the US Military Cemetery and Interpretation Centre at Colleville-sur-Mer, the final resting place of over 9300 US soldiers located on a bluff overlooking Omaha Beach. You are transferred back to your cruise ship from here.

Highlights:
  • Visit Pointe du Hoc and Omaha Beach; two of the most significant D-Day sites
Tour Duration: 9 hours

Tour Can Operate: Morning

Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information

Physical Activity Level: Moderate

Inclusions:
•    Private transport by luxury car or minivan
•    An expert local driver-guide for 9 hours
•    Entrance fees to all sights and museums
•    All taxes

Exclusions:
•    All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
•    Gratuities
04/26/2025 04/26/2025
Conflans-Ste-Honorine

Conflans-Ste-Honorine 04/27/2025

CONFLANS The Footsteps of Van Gogh, Bonaparte, and Louis XIV ACTIVE Enjoy a relaxing bike ride along the Seine with your Adventure Host, OR:CLASSIC Join a Guided Visit to Auvers-sur-Oise, home and resting place of Vincent van Gogh, OR:CLASSIC Take a Guided tour of the opulent Château de Malmaison*—home of Napoléon Bonaparte and his wife Josephine.Perhaps, join a Guided Optional Excursion to the Palace of Versailles—home to a succession of French kings. EVENING CRUISE TO PARIS(B,L,D)*Château de Malmaison is closed the 1st Sunday of each month. On these dates, this excursion will be replaced by a visit to Château de Chantilly.CONFLANS.jpg
04/27/2025 04/27/2025
Paris

Paris 04/28/2025

PARIS Cafés, Cathedrals and Canvases in the City of LightJoin your Adventure Host for today’s special activities.ACTIVE Experience the Seine river by foot with your Adventure Host, OR:CLASSIC Discover the ancient heart of Paris on a captivating Guided Walk featuring the Palais-Royal, Louvre pyramid, ancient sites on Île de la Cité, the Left Bank, bustling Latin Quarter, and more, OR: CLASSIC Join a Guided City Tour, that shows you the iconic sites of Paris, such as the Louvre Museum, the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, Opéra Garnier, and the famous Champs-Élysées.Stroll through Paris on your own or linger over wine in a literary café on the Left Bank.OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN PARIS(B,L,D)PARIS-EIFEL-TOWER.jpg
04/28/2025 04/28/2025
Paris

Paris 04/29/2025

PARIS (DISEMBARKATION)–BORDEAUX (EMBARKATION) Your Suite Ship® is Ready for BoardingThis morning, travel to Bordeaux to board your Suite Ship® and start your cruise on the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers.OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BORDEAUX(B,D)*Ship may sail in the evening to Cadillac-sur-Garonne based on tide and water levels.BORDEAUX_CITY.jpg
04/29/2025 04/29/2025
Bordeaux

Optional Private Excursions

Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!

Bordeaux - About Grape Varietals… - 8 hours
Several possibilities based on the theme of grape varietals, be it wine tastings or, practical activities. The great Bordeaux wines will no longer hold any secrets for you. 

It's possible to have this activity in any Bordeaux wine appellation!

Wine tasting:  Merlot or Cabernet?

There are 2 major top grape varieties in Bordeaux:  Cabernet Sauvignon produces Ch. Mouton Rothschild and Merlot Pétrus. Each grape variety taste very different. The terroir and the work carried out by Man can exalt each grape and create amazing Bordeaux wines. During the blind tasting find out which grape has been used in the wine before or after its oak ageing. Merlot or Cabernet? 

Theory put in practice:
Blending is an art
Several grape varieties tasting different are available to the wine maker. He/she is an artist making rational or subjective choices in order to elaborate a great wine. Be the wine maker and create your own cuvée but explain your logic first. Does it match? Each group forms a team. 

Wine taster & Expert
Learn how to taste wines like a professional with fun. You also learn about the tricks of the trade. Words like single variety, futures, blended wines, bottled wine and ageing wine will have no more secrets for you. While tasting several wines, you may recognize which wine and term match together. 
 
09:00 am - Departure from the harbor of Bordeaux
10:00 am - First winery tour
12:30pm to 02:00 pm - Time to stroll and have lunch
02:30 pm - Wine tasting separate grapes varieties and then have a blending session
05:00pm - End of the tour


Tour Duration: 8 hours 
Wheelchair Accessible: NO
Physical Activity Level: Light,

 
Package price includes
  • Transportation: pick up/drop off at the Port
  • English speaking driver guide with sedan deluxe car
  • 2 winery visits
  • Blending sessions
Bordeaux - Wine Architecture in Saint-Emilion - 8 hours
Modern Temples of Bacchus
 
To wine lovers everywhere, the grand vintages of the Bordeaux region of France have long been regarded as the true pinnacle of excellence.

The methods and philosophies used in their production have by and large remained true to the old traditions; modern technology however has undeniably played an ever-more important role in recent years.

To add even more significance to this glorious culture of the grape, if that was possible, the past  decade has seen some of Europe’s most highly-acclaimed and imaginative architects taking time off from their ground-breaking and spectacular major urban projects to contribute their innovative designs to the cellars and vat rooms of some of the region’s top châteaux.

Discover Architectures / Understand Classification/Discover techniques of wine making and appreciate wine tastings!

09:00 am - Departure from the harbor of Bordeaux
10:00 am - First winery tour such as Château Faugères                         
11:30   am - Discover the enchanting medieval village of Saint-Emilion, classified by Unesco in 1999. A luminous, ochre-colored jewel built of limestone and Roman roof tiles, it’s perched on a plateau and completely surrounded by a sea of vineyards.
The steep and narrow cobblestone streets are lined with remnants of monasteries and convents dating from the 11th to 18th centuries that tell the story of the village. A Unesco World Heritage-inspired scavenger hunt will bring you face to face with the art, wine and stunning landscapes of Saint-Emilion.
12:30pm to 02:00 pm - Time to stroll and have lunch
02:30 pm - Wine tasting Chateau La Dominique
05:00pm - End of the tour

Tour Duration: 8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible:  no
Physical Activity Level: Light,

Package price includes 
  • Transportation: pick up/drop off at the Port
  • English speaking driver guide with sedan deluxe car
  • 2 winery visits
  • Monument tour in Saint-Emilion
Bordeaux - Gourmet tour - 8 hours
We invite you to enjoy a gourmet guided tour of Bordeaux which has been listed as a World Heritage Site by Unesco in June 2007.

“The historic centre of Bordeaux forms an outstanding urban and architectural ensemble, created in the Age of Enlightenment, whose values continued up to the first half of the 20th century, with more protected buildings than any other French city, except Paris. It is also recognized for its historic role as a place of exchange of cultural values over more than 2,000 years, particularly since the 12th century due to commercial links with Britain and the Low Countries.

From its medieval quarters to the Classical splendour of the Golden Age in the 18th Century, you will be able to discover a city emerging from a long face lift of over 5 years of work.

Our visit offers to combine historic discovery with regional and typical "delicacies" punctuated by three stops at specialized producers:

Tasting of ewe cheese with jam of cherries from Pyrenean mountains
Tasting of cannelé a very local sweet specialty at Baillardran,
And of course a "wine tasting" in a bistro…

Tour Duration: 8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: NO
Physical Activity Level: Light

 
Package includes 
- Transportation: pick up/drop off at the Port
-  English speaking licensed driver guide with a deluxe car with AC at disposal 
- All entrance fees & tasting
- All tax and Vat 

Does not include 
- Lunch 
- Gratuities 
- Travel insurance and personal expenses 

Departure dates : all day , all year  
Not available during French Bank Holiday
Bordeaux - Cultural tour - 8 hours
“The historic centre of Bordeaux forms an outstanding urban and architectural ensemble, created in the Age of Enlightenment, whose values continued up to the first half of the 20th century, with more protected buildings than any other French city, except Paris. It is also recognized for its historic role as a place of exchange of cultural values over more than 2,000 years, particularly since the 12th century due to commercial links with Britain and the Low Countries.

From its medieval quarters to the Classical splendour of the Golden Age in the 18th Century, you will be able to discover a city emerging from a long face lift of over 5 years of work. 

The futuristic tram network established in 2005 is evidence of the dynamism of today’s Bordeaux and the historic heart which has been given back to pedestrians, allow the visitors to discover the principal monuments illustrating the city’s History: the Palais Gallien amphitheatre (4th century), the Saint Seurin Basilica (11th century foundations), the Saint André Cathedral (13th century), the Porte Cailhau and the "Grosse Cloche" ("big bell", 15th century). 

The 18th century gave the city its outstanding "Grand Theatre", a national opera house built in 1781, and the Allées de Tourny, as well as the remarkable waterfront buildings and the Place de la Bourse (formerly the Place Royale), a quarter over 4 kilometres in length which serves as the backdrop for the port’s trading activities.

Tour Duration:8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: NO
Physical Activity Level: Light
 
Package includes
  • Transportation: pick up/drop off at the Port
  • English speaking licensed driver guide with a deluxe car with AC at disposal 
  • All entrance fees
  • All tax and Vat 

Does not include 
- Lunch 
- Gratuities 
- Travel insurance and personal expenses 

Departure dates : all day , all year  
Not available on May 1st, January 01st & December 25
Bordeaux -Saint Emilion Wine Tour - 8 hours
In the morning, departure with your English speaking driver guide to Saint Emilion.
 
Surrounded by its vineyards, the city offers ancient ramparts, monuments and narrow streets. The village and the vineyards have been classed as a World Heritage Site by the Unesco in 1999.

“Grape production was introduced into this fertile region of Aquitaine by the Romans and was intensified during the Middle Age. The area of Saint-Émilion benefited from its position on the pilgrim route to Santiago de Compostella and several churches, monasteries and hospices were built there from the XIth century onwards. It was granted its own jurisdictional status during the period of English rule in the XIIth century. This is an exceptional landscape entirely given over to grape-production and whose towns and villages are home to outstanding historic monuments.” (Unesco Cit.)

Centuries after the Latin poet Ausonius, the hermit Emilion found here peace and tranquility, which were necessary for his meditation. He discovered a grotto watered by a natural spring in the rocky centre of what is now the town bearing his name, where he lived until his death.

Private guided tour of the principal sights of the medieval town: the Emilion Hermitage, the Tour du Roy built in the 13th century by Richard the Lion heart, the collegiate church and its 14th century cloister and, above all, the exceptional monolithic church and its catacombs dug out of the limestone cliff between the 9th and the 11th centuries. Its 38 metre span makes it the largest such church in Europe.

Lunch will take place at a restaurant located in the city.

In the afternoon, visit with wine tasting at a Grand Cru Classé Saint Emilion.

Tour Duration:8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Light, 

 
Package Includes 
  • Transportation: pick up/drop off at the Port
  • English speaking licensed driver guide with a deluxe car with AC at disposal 
  • All entrance fees & tasting
  • All tax and Vat 

Does not include 
- Lunch
- Gratuities 
- Travel insurance and personal expenses 

Departure dates : all day , all year  
May 1st - due to French law, cost double and most of the Wine estate are close 

 
Bordeaux - A Wine, a Vintage, a Tasting… - 8 hours

 A Wine, a Vintage, a Tasting…

Taste and identify the differences between the great Bordeaux wines, according to the vintage…

Wine experts give a great importance to Vintages. Why is it so important? How to recognize the quality of the vintage? How to guess the vintage? Should we agree or is it a matter of taste? Let us taste 4 vintages from the same wine property and comment. The expert guides you and shares his knowledge while you comment and learn tricks of the trade.
 

Château Grand Vertical Tasting Workshop

The privilege of tasting 6 great vintages dating back as far as 20 years:

• Château de Ferrand 1988 & 1989

• Château de Ferrand 1998 & 1999

• Château de Ferrand 2008 & 2009


This workshop includes a private tour, an initiation into aromas, a tasting of 6 vintages, and a food/wine pairing with our “Assiette Gourmande”.

Schedule: 

09:00am - Departure from the harbor of Bordeaux

10:00am - First winery tour such as Château Faugères

11:30am - Discover the enchanting medieval village of Saint-Emilion, classified by Unesco in 1999. A luminous, ochre-colored jewel built of limestone and Roman roof tiles, it is perched on a plateau and completely surrounded by a sea of vineyards.

The steep and narrow cobblestone streets are lined with remnants of monasteries and convents dating from the 11th to 18th centuries that tell the story of the village. A Unesco World Heritage-inspired scavenger hunt will bring you face to face with the art, wine and stunning landscapes of Saint-Emilion.

12:30pm to 02:00pm - Time to stroll and have lunch

02:30 pm - Wine tasting at Chateau  La Dominique

05:00pm - End of the tour

Tour Duration: 8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: NO
Physical Activity Level: Light,


Package price includes

  • Transportation: Pick up/drop off at the Port
  • Day Tour: English speaking driver guide with sedan deluxe car
  • 2 winery visits and vertical workshop
04/29/2025 04/29/2025
Cadillac

Cadillac 04/30/2025

CADILLAC-SUR-GARONNE On the Steps of MontesquieuCLASSIC Take a guided tour of Château de la Brêde—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 Join a Guided Visit with wine tasting at a local château. 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 (B,L,D)*Sailing to Cadillac-sur-Garonne pending tides and water levels. Alternative motorcoach transportation for today’s excursions provided.CADILLAC-SUR-GARONNE.jpg
04/30/2025 04/30/2025
Garonne
04/30/2025 04/30/2025
Fort Medoc

Fort Medoc 05/01/2025

CUSSAC FORT MÉDOC Bikes, Vines, and Wines This morning, enjoy a leisurely sailing to Cussac Fort MédocVisit the Adventure Center for today’s activities with your Adventure Host.ACTIVE 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 Take a Guided Visit to an historic Château in the Médoc area and enjoy a tasting of their wonderful wines, with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon as protagonists.OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN CUSSAC FORT MÉDOC(B,L,D)CUSSAC FORT MEDOC_BIKING.jpg
05/01/2025 05/01/2025
Blaye

Blaye 05/02/2025

BLAYE–BOURG Fine Art, Fine Bubbly, and a Fine Day for a DriveA brief morning sailing to Blaye. Ask your Adventure Host for today’s special activities.CLASSIC Take a guided visit to the Citadel of Blaye, an UNESCO World Heritage site, followed by a panoramic drive following the famed Route de la Corniche along the right banks of the River Dordogne, OR: DISCOVERY Join a Guided Tour to discover Blaye from a different perspective, including a visit to a local art gallery with wine tasting.Relaxing afternoon sailing on the Dordogne River to Bourg. Enjoy free time to explore this storybook village or 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(B,L,D)BLAYE_CITADEL.jpg
05/02/2025 05/02/2025
Libourne

Libourne 05/03/2025

LIBOURNE. EXCURSION TO SAINT-ÉMILION The Village Amid the VineyardsCLASSIC Join a guided tour of the medieval village of Saint-Émilion—a UNESCO World Heritage site of legends and legendary landscapes. Later, sail Bordeaux.OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BORDEAUX(B,L,D)SAINT-EMILION.jpg
05/03/2025 05/03/2025
Bordeaux

Bordeaux 05/04/2025

BORDEAUX Bordeaux Sights and Brilliant Lights Join your Adventure Host for today’s special activities.CLASSIC Join a guided walking tour to discover the heart of Bordeaux with a stroll amid its stunning squares, avenues, and cathedrals sights.This afternoon, consider an optional guided excursion to Les Bassins des Lumières for a breathtaking visit to the submarine base where art and music create an immersive experience.OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BORDEAUX(B,L,D)BORDEAUX_PLACE DE LA BOURSE.jpg

Optional Private Excursions

Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!

Bordeaux - About Grape Varietals… - 8 hours
Several possibilities based on the theme of grape varietals, be it wine tastings or, practical activities. The great Bordeaux wines will no longer hold any secrets for you. 

It's possible to have this activity in any Bordeaux wine appellation!

Wine tasting:  Merlot or Cabernet?

There are 2 major top grape varieties in Bordeaux:  Cabernet Sauvignon produces Ch. Mouton Rothschild and Merlot Pétrus. Each grape variety taste very different. The terroir and the work carried out by Man can exalt each grape and create amazing Bordeaux wines. During the blind tasting find out which grape has been used in the wine before or after its oak ageing. Merlot or Cabernet? 

Theory put in practice:
Blending is an art
Several grape varieties tasting different are available to the wine maker. He/she is an artist making rational or subjective choices in order to elaborate a great wine. Be the wine maker and create your own cuvée but explain your logic first. Does it match? Each group forms a team. 

Wine taster & Expert
Learn how to taste wines like a professional with fun. You also learn about the tricks of the trade. Words like single variety, futures, blended wines, bottled wine and ageing wine will have no more secrets for you. While tasting several wines, you may recognize which wine and term match together. 
 
09:00 am - Departure from the harbor of Bordeaux
10:00 am - First winery tour
12:30pm to 02:00 pm - Time to stroll and have lunch
02:30 pm - Wine tasting separate grapes varieties and then have a blending session
05:00pm - End of the tour


Tour Duration: 8 hours 
Wheelchair Accessible: NO
Physical Activity Level: Light,

 
Package price includes
  • Transportation: pick up/drop off at the Port
  • English speaking driver guide with sedan deluxe car
  • 2 winery visits
  • Blending sessions
Bordeaux - Wine Architecture in Saint-Emilion - 8 hours
Modern Temples of Bacchus
 
To wine lovers everywhere, the grand vintages of the Bordeaux region of France have long been regarded as the true pinnacle of excellence.

The methods and philosophies used in their production have by and large remained true to the old traditions; modern technology however has undeniably played an ever-more important role in recent years.

To add even more significance to this glorious culture of the grape, if that was possible, the past  decade has seen some of Europe’s most highly-acclaimed and imaginative architects taking time off from their ground-breaking and spectacular major urban projects to contribute their innovative designs to the cellars and vat rooms of some of the region’s top châteaux.

Discover Architectures / Understand Classification/Discover techniques of wine making and appreciate wine tastings!

09:00 am - Departure from the harbor of Bordeaux
10:00 am - First winery tour such as Château Faugères                         
11:30   am - Discover the enchanting medieval village of Saint-Emilion, classified by Unesco in 1999. A luminous, ochre-colored jewel built of limestone and Roman roof tiles, it’s perched on a plateau and completely surrounded by a sea of vineyards.
The steep and narrow cobblestone streets are lined with remnants of monasteries and convents dating from the 11th to 18th centuries that tell the story of the village. A Unesco World Heritage-inspired scavenger hunt will bring you face to face with the art, wine and stunning landscapes of Saint-Emilion.
12:30pm to 02:00 pm - Time to stroll and have lunch
02:30 pm - Wine tasting Chateau La Dominique
05:00pm - End of the tour

Tour Duration: 8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible:  no
Physical Activity Level: Light,

Package price includes 
  • Transportation: pick up/drop off at the Port
  • English speaking driver guide with sedan deluxe car
  • 2 winery visits
  • Monument tour in Saint-Emilion
Bordeaux - Gourmet tour - 8 hours
We invite you to enjoy a gourmet guided tour of Bordeaux which has been listed as a World Heritage Site by Unesco in June 2007.

“The historic centre of Bordeaux forms an outstanding urban and architectural ensemble, created in the Age of Enlightenment, whose values continued up to the first half of the 20th century, with more protected buildings than any other French city, except Paris. It is also recognized for its historic role as a place of exchange of cultural values over more than 2,000 years, particularly since the 12th century due to commercial links with Britain and the Low Countries.

From its medieval quarters to the Classical splendour of the Golden Age in the 18th Century, you will be able to discover a city emerging from a long face lift of over 5 years of work.

Our visit offers to combine historic discovery with regional and typical "delicacies" punctuated by three stops at specialized producers:

Tasting of ewe cheese with jam of cherries from Pyrenean mountains
Tasting of cannelé a very local sweet specialty at Baillardran,
And of course a "wine tasting" in a bistro…

Tour Duration: 8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: NO
Physical Activity Level: Light

 
Package includes 
- Transportation: pick up/drop off at the Port
-  English speaking licensed driver guide with a deluxe car with AC at disposal 
- All entrance fees & tasting
- All tax and Vat 

Does not include 
- Lunch 
- Gratuities 
- Travel insurance and personal expenses 

Departure dates : all day , all year  
Not available during French Bank Holiday
Bordeaux - Cultural tour - 8 hours
“The historic centre of Bordeaux forms an outstanding urban and architectural ensemble, created in the Age of Enlightenment, whose values continued up to the first half of the 20th century, with more protected buildings than any other French city, except Paris. It is also recognized for its historic role as a place of exchange of cultural values over more than 2,000 years, particularly since the 12th century due to commercial links with Britain and the Low Countries.

From its medieval quarters to the Classical splendour of the Golden Age in the 18th Century, you will be able to discover a city emerging from a long face lift of over 5 years of work. 

The futuristic tram network established in 2005 is evidence of the dynamism of today’s Bordeaux and the historic heart which has been given back to pedestrians, allow the visitors to discover the principal monuments illustrating the city’s History: the Palais Gallien amphitheatre (4th century), the Saint Seurin Basilica (11th century foundations), the Saint André Cathedral (13th century), the Porte Cailhau and the "Grosse Cloche" ("big bell", 15th century). 

The 18th century gave the city its outstanding "Grand Theatre", a national opera house built in 1781, and the Allées de Tourny, as well as the remarkable waterfront buildings and the Place de la Bourse (formerly the Place Royale), a quarter over 4 kilometres in length which serves as the backdrop for the port’s trading activities.

Tour Duration:8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: NO
Physical Activity Level: Light
 
Package includes
  • Transportation: pick up/drop off at the Port
  • English speaking licensed driver guide with a deluxe car with AC at disposal 
  • All entrance fees
  • All tax and Vat 

Does not include 
- Lunch 
- Gratuities 
- Travel insurance and personal expenses 

Departure dates : all day , all year  
Not available on May 1st, January 01st & December 25
Bordeaux -Saint Emilion Wine Tour - 8 hours
In the morning, departure with your English speaking driver guide to Saint Emilion.
 
Surrounded by its vineyards, the city offers ancient ramparts, monuments and narrow streets. The village and the vineyards have been classed as a World Heritage Site by the Unesco in 1999.

“Grape production was introduced into this fertile region of Aquitaine by the Romans and was intensified during the Middle Age. The area of Saint-Émilion benefited from its position on the pilgrim route to Santiago de Compostella and several churches, monasteries and hospices were built there from the XIth century onwards. It was granted its own jurisdictional status during the period of English rule in the XIIth century. This is an exceptional landscape entirely given over to grape-production and whose towns and villages are home to outstanding historic monuments.” (Unesco Cit.)

Centuries after the Latin poet Ausonius, the hermit Emilion found here peace and tranquility, which were necessary for his meditation. He discovered a grotto watered by a natural spring in the rocky centre of what is now the town bearing his name, where he lived until his death.

Private guided tour of the principal sights of the medieval town: the Emilion Hermitage, the Tour du Roy built in the 13th century by Richard the Lion heart, the collegiate church and its 14th century cloister and, above all, the exceptional monolithic church and its catacombs dug out of the limestone cliff between the 9th and the 11th centuries. Its 38 metre span makes it the largest such church in Europe.

Lunch will take place at a restaurant located in the city.

In the afternoon, visit with wine tasting at a Grand Cru Classé Saint Emilion.

Tour Duration:8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Light, 

 
Package Includes 
  • Transportation: pick up/drop off at the Port
  • English speaking licensed driver guide with a deluxe car with AC at disposal 
  • All entrance fees & tasting
  • All tax and Vat 

Does not include 
- Lunch
- Gratuities 
- Travel insurance and personal expenses 

Departure dates : all day , all year  
May 1st - due to French law, cost double and most of the Wine estate are close 

 
Bordeaux - A Wine, a Vintage, a Tasting… - 8 hours

 A Wine, a Vintage, a Tasting…

Taste and identify the differences between the great Bordeaux wines, according to the vintage…

Wine experts give a great importance to Vintages. Why is it so important? How to recognize the quality of the vintage? How to guess the vintage? Should we agree or is it a matter of taste? Let us taste 4 vintages from the same wine property and comment. The expert guides you and shares his knowledge while you comment and learn tricks of the trade.
 

Château Grand Vertical Tasting Workshop

The privilege of tasting 6 great vintages dating back as far as 20 years:

• Château de Ferrand 1988 & 1989

• Château de Ferrand 1998 & 1999

• Château de Ferrand 2008 & 2009


This workshop includes a private tour, an initiation into aromas, a tasting of 6 vintages, and a food/wine pairing with our “Assiette Gourmande”.

Schedule: 

09:00am - Departure from the harbor of Bordeaux

10:00am - First winery tour such as Château Faugères

11:30am - Discover the enchanting medieval village of Saint-Emilion, classified by Unesco in 1999. A luminous, ochre-colored jewel built of limestone and Roman roof tiles, it is perched on a plateau and completely surrounded by a sea of vineyards.

The steep and narrow cobblestone streets are lined with remnants of monasteries and convents dating from the 11th to 18th centuries that tell the story of the village. A Unesco World Heritage-inspired scavenger hunt will bring you face to face with the art, wine and stunning landscapes of Saint-Emilion.

12:30pm to 02:00pm - Time to stroll and have lunch

02:30 pm - Wine tasting at Chateau  La Dominique

05:00pm - End of the tour

Tour Duration: 8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: NO
Physical Activity Level: Light,


Package price includes

  • Transportation: Pick up/drop off at the Port
  • Day Tour: English speaking driver guide with sedan deluxe car
  • 2 winery visits and vertical workshop
05/04/2025 05/04/2025
Bordeaux

Bordeaux 05/05/2025

BORDEAUX. EXCURSION TO ARCACHON’S BAY Seas, Shells, and Sips ACTIVE Join your Adventure Host for a bike ride along Bordeaux’ postcard river views of the Les Quais, OR:CLASSIC 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.OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BORDEAUX(B,L,D)ARCACHONS BAY_OYSTERS.jpg

Optional Private Excursions

Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!

Bordeaux - About Grape Varietals… - 8 hours
Several possibilities based on the theme of grape varietals, be it wine tastings or, practical activities. The great Bordeaux wines will no longer hold any secrets for you. 

It's possible to have this activity in any Bordeaux wine appellation!

Wine tasting:  Merlot or Cabernet?

There are 2 major top grape varieties in Bordeaux:  Cabernet Sauvignon produces Ch. Mouton Rothschild and Merlot Pétrus. Each grape variety taste very different. The terroir and the work carried out by Man can exalt each grape and create amazing Bordeaux wines. During the blind tasting find out which grape has been used in the wine before or after its oak ageing. Merlot or Cabernet? 

Theory put in practice:
Blending is an art
Several grape varieties tasting different are available to the wine maker. He/she is an artist making rational or subjective choices in order to elaborate a great wine. Be the wine maker and create your own cuvée but explain your logic first. Does it match? Each group forms a team. 

Wine taster & Expert
Learn how to taste wines like a professional with fun. You also learn about the tricks of the trade. Words like single variety, futures, blended wines, bottled wine and ageing wine will have no more secrets for you. While tasting several wines, you may recognize which wine and term match together. 
 
09:00 am - Departure from the harbor of Bordeaux
10:00 am - First winery tour
12:30pm to 02:00 pm - Time to stroll and have lunch
02:30 pm - Wine tasting separate grapes varieties and then have a blending session
05:00pm - End of the tour


Tour Duration: 8 hours 
Wheelchair Accessible: NO
Physical Activity Level: Light,

 
Package price includes
  • Transportation: pick up/drop off at the Port
  • English speaking driver guide with sedan deluxe car
  • 2 winery visits
  • Blending sessions
Bordeaux - Wine Architecture in Saint-Emilion - 8 hours
Modern Temples of Bacchus
 
To wine lovers everywhere, the grand vintages of the Bordeaux region of France have long been regarded as the true pinnacle of excellence.

The methods and philosophies used in their production have by and large remained true to the old traditions; modern technology however has undeniably played an ever-more important role in recent years.

To add even more significance to this glorious culture of the grape, if that was possible, the past  decade has seen some of Europe’s most highly-acclaimed and imaginative architects taking time off from their ground-breaking and spectacular major urban projects to contribute their innovative designs to the cellars and vat rooms of some of the region’s top châteaux.

Discover Architectures / Understand Classification/Discover techniques of wine making and appreciate wine tastings!

09:00 am - Departure from the harbor of Bordeaux
10:00 am - First winery tour such as Château Faugères                         
11:30   am - Discover the enchanting medieval village of Saint-Emilion, classified by Unesco in 1999. A luminous, ochre-colored jewel built of limestone and Roman roof tiles, it’s perched on a plateau and completely surrounded by a sea of vineyards.
The steep and narrow cobblestone streets are lined with remnants of monasteries and convents dating from the 11th to 18th centuries that tell the story of the village. A Unesco World Heritage-inspired scavenger hunt will bring you face to face with the art, wine and stunning landscapes of Saint-Emilion.
12:30pm to 02:00 pm - Time to stroll and have lunch
02:30 pm - Wine tasting Chateau La Dominique
05:00pm - End of the tour

Tour Duration: 8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible:  no
Physical Activity Level: Light,

Package price includes 
  • Transportation: pick up/drop off at the Port
  • English speaking driver guide with sedan deluxe car
  • 2 winery visits
  • Monument tour in Saint-Emilion
Bordeaux - Gourmet tour - 8 hours
We invite you to enjoy a gourmet guided tour of Bordeaux which has been listed as a World Heritage Site by Unesco in June 2007.

“The historic centre of Bordeaux forms an outstanding urban and architectural ensemble, created in the Age of Enlightenment, whose values continued up to the first half of the 20th century, with more protected buildings than any other French city, except Paris. It is also recognized for its historic role as a place of exchange of cultural values over more than 2,000 years, particularly since the 12th century due to commercial links with Britain and the Low Countries.

From its medieval quarters to the Classical splendour of the Golden Age in the 18th Century, you will be able to discover a city emerging from a long face lift of over 5 years of work.

Our visit offers to combine historic discovery with regional and typical "delicacies" punctuated by three stops at specialized producers:

Tasting of ewe cheese with jam of cherries from Pyrenean mountains
Tasting of cannelé a very local sweet specialty at Baillardran,
And of course a "wine tasting" in a bistro…

Tour Duration: 8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: NO
Physical Activity Level: Light

 
Package includes 
- Transportation: pick up/drop off at the Port
-  English speaking licensed driver guide with a deluxe car with AC at disposal 
- All entrance fees & tasting
- All tax and Vat 

Does not include 
- Lunch 
- Gratuities 
- Travel insurance and personal expenses 

Departure dates : all day , all year  
Not available during French Bank Holiday
Bordeaux - Cultural tour - 8 hours
“The historic centre of Bordeaux forms an outstanding urban and architectural ensemble, created in the Age of Enlightenment, whose values continued up to the first half of the 20th century, with more protected buildings than any other French city, except Paris. It is also recognized for its historic role as a place of exchange of cultural values over more than 2,000 years, particularly since the 12th century due to commercial links with Britain and the Low Countries.

From its medieval quarters to the Classical splendour of the Golden Age in the 18th Century, you will be able to discover a city emerging from a long face lift of over 5 years of work. 

The futuristic tram network established in 2005 is evidence of the dynamism of today’s Bordeaux and the historic heart which has been given back to pedestrians, allow the visitors to discover the principal monuments illustrating the city’s History: the Palais Gallien amphitheatre (4th century), the Saint Seurin Basilica (11th century foundations), the Saint André Cathedral (13th century), the Porte Cailhau and the "Grosse Cloche" ("big bell", 15th century). 

The 18th century gave the city its outstanding "Grand Theatre", a national opera house built in 1781, and the Allées de Tourny, as well as the remarkable waterfront buildings and the Place de la Bourse (formerly the Place Royale), a quarter over 4 kilometres in length which serves as the backdrop for the port’s trading activities.

Tour Duration:8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: NO
Physical Activity Level: Light
 
Package includes
  • Transportation: pick up/drop off at the Port
  • English speaking licensed driver guide with a deluxe car with AC at disposal 
  • All entrance fees
  • All tax and Vat 

Does not include 
- Lunch 
- Gratuities 
- Travel insurance and personal expenses 

Departure dates : all day , all year  
Not available on May 1st, January 01st & December 25
Bordeaux -Saint Emilion Wine Tour - 8 hours
In the morning, departure with your English speaking driver guide to Saint Emilion.
 
Surrounded by its vineyards, the city offers ancient ramparts, monuments and narrow streets. The village and the vineyards have been classed as a World Heritage Site by the Unesco in 1999.

“Grape production was introduced into this fertile region of Aquitaine by the Romans and was intensified during the Middle Age. The area of Saint-Émilion benefited from its position on the pilgrim route to Santiago de Compostella and several churches, monasteries and hospices were built there from the XIth century onwards. It was granted its own jurisdictional status during the period of English rule in the XIIth century. This is an exceptional landscape entirely given over to grape-production and whose towns and villages are home to outstanding historic monuments.” (Unesco Cit.)

Centuries after the Latin poet Ausonius, the hermit Emilion found here peace and tranquility, which were necessary for his meditation. He discovered a grotto watered by a natural spring in the rocky centre of what is now the town bearing his name, where he lived until his death.

Private guided tour of the principal sights of the medieval town: the Emilion Hermitage, the Tour du Roy built in the 13th century by Richard the Lion heart, the collegiate church and its 14th century cloister and, above all, the exceptional monolithic church and its catacombs dug out of the limestone cliff between the 9th and the 11th centuries. Its 38 metre span makes it the largest such church in Europe.

Lunch will take place at a restaurant located in the city.

In the afternoon, visit with wine tasting at a Grand Cru Classé Saint Emilion.

Tour Duration:8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Light, 

 
Package Includes 
  • Transportation: pick up/drop off at the Port
  • English speaking licensed driver guide with a deluxe car with AC at disposal 
  • All entrance fees & tasting
  • All tax and Vat 

Does not include 
- Lunch
- Gratuities 
- Travel insurance and personal expenses 

Departure dates : all day , all year  
May 1st - due to French law, cost double and most of the Wine estate are close 

 
Bordeaux - A Wine, a Vintage, a Tasting… - 8 hours

 A Wine, a Vintage, a Tasting…

Taste and identify the differences between the great Bordeaux wines, according to the vintage…

Wine experts give a great importance to Vintages. Why is it so important? How to recognize the quality of the vintage? How to guess the vintage? Should we agree or is it a matter of taste? Let us taste 4 vintages from the same wine property and comment. The expert guides you and shares his knowledge while you comment and learn tricks of the trade.
 

Château Grand Vertical Tasting Workshop

The privilege of tasting 6 great vintages dating back as far as 20 years:

• Château de Ferrand 1988 & 1989

• Château de Ferrand 1998 & 1999

• Château de Ferrand 2008 & 2009


This workshop includes a private tour, an initiation into aromas, a tasting of 6 vintages, and a food/wine pairing with our “Assiette Gourmande”.

Schedule: 

09:00am - Departure from the harbor of Bordeaux

10:00am - First winery tour such as Château Faugères

11:30am - Discover the enchanting medieval village of Saint-Emilion, classified by Unesco in 1999. A luminous, ochre-colored jewel built of limestone and Roman roof tiles, it is perched on a plateau and completely surrounded by a sea of vineyards.

The steep and narrow cobblestone streets are lined with remnants of monasteries and convents dating from the 11th to 18th centuries that tell the story of the village. A Unesco World Heritage-inspired scavenger hunt will bring you face to face with the art, wine and stunning landscapes of Saint-Emilion.

12:30pm to 02:00pm - Time to stroll and have lunch

02:30 pm - Wine tasting at Chateau  La Dominique

05:00pm - End of the tour

Tour Duration: 8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: NO
Physical Activity Level: Light,


Package price includes

  • Transportation: Pick up/drop off at the Port
  • Day Tour: English speaking driver guide with sedan deluxe car
  • 2 winery visits and vertical workshop
05/05/2025 05/05/2025
Bordeaux

Bordeaux 05/06/2025

BORDEAUX (DISEMBARKATION) Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning. (B)BORDEAUX_CORKS.jpg

Optional Private Excursions

Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!

Bordeaux - About Grape Varietals… - 8 hours
Several possibilities based on the theme of grape varietals, be it wine tastings or, practical activities. The great Bordeaux wines will no longer hold any secrets for you. 

It's possible to have this activity in any Bordeaux wine appellation!

Wine tasting:  Merlot or Cabernet?

There are 2 major top grape varieties in Bordeaux:  Cabernet Sauvignon produces Ch. Mouton Rothschild and Merlot Pétrus. Each grape variety taste very different. The terroir and the work carried out by Man can exalt each grape and create amazing Bordeaux wines. During the blind tasting find out which grape has been used in the wine before or after its oak ageing. Merlot or Cabernet? 

Theory put in practice:
Blending is an art
Several grape varieties tasting different are available to the wine maker. He/she is an artist making rational or subjective choices in order to elaborate a great wine. Be the wine maker and create your own cuvée but explain your logic first. Does it match? Each group forms a team. 

Wine taster & Expert
Learn how to taste wines like a professional with fun. You also learn about the tricks of the trade. Words like single variety, futures, blended wines, bottled wine and ageing wine will have no more secrets for you. While tasting several wines, you may recognize which wine and term match together. 
 
09:00 am - Departure from the harbor of Bordeaux
10:00 am - First winery tour
12:30pm to 02:00 pm - Time to stroll and have lunch
02:30 pm - Wine tasting separate grapes varieties and then have a blending session
05:00pm - End of the tour


Tour Duration: 8 hours 
Wheelchair Accessible: NO
Physical Activity Level: Light,

 
Package price includes
  • Transportation: pick up/drop off at the Port
  • English speaking driver guide with sedan deluxe car
  • 2 winery visits
  • Blending sessions
Bordeaux - Wine Architecture in Saint-Emilion - 8 hours
Modern Temples of Bacchus
 
To wine lovers everywhere, the grand vintages of the Bordeaux region of France have long been regarded as the true pinnacle of excellence.

The methods and philosophies used in their production have by and large remained true to the old traditions; modern technology however has undeniably played an ever-more important role in recent years.

To add even more significance to this glorious culture of the grape, if that was possible, the past  decade has seen some of Europe’s most highly-acclaimed and imaginative architects taking time off from their ground-breaking and spectacular major urban projects to contribute their innovative designs to the cellars and vat rooms of some of the region’s top châteaux.

Discover Architectures / Understand Classification/Discover techniques of wine making and appreciate wine tastings!

09:00 am - Departure from the harbor of Bordeaux
10:00 am - First winery tour such as Château Faugères                         
11:30   am - Discover the enchanting medieval village of Saint-Emilion, classified by Unesco in 1999. A luminous, ochre-colored jewel built of limestone and Roman roof tiles, it’s perched on a plateau and completely surrounded by a sea of vineyards.
The steep and narrow cobblestone streets are lined with remnants of monasteries and convents dating from the 11th to 18th centuries that tell the story of the village. A Unesco World Heritage-inspired scavenger hunt will bring you face to face with the art, wine and stunning landscapes of Saint-Emilion.
12:30pm to 02:00 pm - Time to stroll and have lunch
02:30 pm - Wine tasting Chateau La Dominique
05:00pm - End of the tour

Tour Duration: 8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible:  no
Physical Activity Level: Light,

Package price includes 
  • Transportation: pick up/drop off at the Port
  • English speaking driver guide with sedan deluxe car
  • 2 winery visits
  • Monument tour in Saint-Emilion
Bordeaux - Gourmet tour - 8 hours
We invite you to enjoy a gourmet guided tour of Bordeaux which has been listed as a World Heritage Site by Unesco in June 2007.

“The historic centre of Bordeaux forms an outstanding urban and architectural ensemble, created in the Age of Enlightenment, whose values continued up to the first half of the 20th century, with more protected buildings than any other French city, except Paris. It is also recognized for its historic role as a place of exchange of cultural values over more than 2,000 years, particularly since the 12th century due to commercial links with Britain and the Low Countries.

From its medieval quarters to the Classical splendour of the Golden Age in the 18th Century, you will be able to discover a city emerging from a long face lift of over 5 years of work.

Our visit offers to combine historic discovery with regional and typical "delicacies" punctuated by three stops at specialized producers:

Tasting of ewe cheese with jam of cherries from Pyrenean mountains
Tasting of cannelé a very local sweet specialty at Baillardran,
And of course a "wine tasting" in a bistro…

Tour Duration: 8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: NO
Physical Activity Level: Light

 
Package includes 
- Transportation: pick up/drop off at the Port
-  English speaking licensed driver guide with a deluxe car with AC at disposal 
- All entrance fees & tasting
- All tax and Vat 

Does not include 
- Lunch 
- Gratuities 
- Travel insurance and personal expenses 

Departure dates : all day , all year  
Not available during French Bank Holiday
Bordeaux - Cultural tour - 8 hours
“The historic centre of Bordeaux forms an outstanding urban and architectural ensemble, created in the Age of Enlightenment, whose values continued up to the first half of the 20th century, with more protected buildings than any other French city, except Paris. It is also recognized for its historic role as a place of exchange of cultural values over more than 2,000 years, particularly since the 12th century due to commercial links with Britain and the Low Countries.

From its medieval quarters to the Classical splendour of the Golden Age in the 18th Century, you will be able to discover a city emerging from a long face lift of over 5 years of work. 

The futuristic tram network established in 2005 is evidence of the dynamism of today’s Bordeaux and the historic heart which has been given back to pedestrians, allow the visitors to discover the principal monuments illustrating the city’s History: the Palais Gallien amphitheatre (4th century), the Saint Seurin Basilica (11th century foundations), the Saint André Cathedral (13th century), the Porte Cailhau and the "Grosse Cloche" ("big bell", 15th century). 

The 18th century gave the city its outstanding "Grand Theatre", a national opera house built in 1781, and the Allées de Tourny, as well as the remarkable waterfront buildings and the Place de la Bourse (formerly the Place Royale), a quarter over 4 kilometres in length which serves as the backdrop for the port’s trading activities.

Tour Duration:8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: NO
Physical Activity Level: Light
 
Package includes
  • Transportation: pick up/drop off at the Port
  • English speaking licensed driver guide with a deluxe car with AC at disposal 
  • All entrance fees
  • All tax and Vat 

Does not include 
- Lunch 
- Gratuities 
- Travel insurance and personal expenses 

Departure dates : all day , all year  
Not available on May 1st, January 01st & December 25
Bordeaux -Saint Emilion Wine Tour - 8 hours
In the morning, departure with your English speaking driver guide to Saint Emilion.
 
Surrounded by its vineyards, the city offers ancient ramparts, monuments and narrow streets. The village and the vineyards have been classed as a World Heritage Site by the Unesco in 1999.

“Grape production was introduced into this fertile region of Aquitaine by the Romans and was intensified during the Middle Age. The area of Saint-Émilion benefited from its position on the pilgrim route to Santiago de Compostella and several churches, monasteries and hospices were built there from the XIth century onwards. It was granted its own jurisdictional status during the period of English rule in the XIIth century. This is an exceptional landscape entirely given over to grape-production and whose towns and villages are home to outstanding historic monuments.” (Unesco Cit.)

Centuries after the Latin poet Ausonius, the hermit Emilion found here peace and tranquility, which were necessary for his meditation. He discovered a grotto watered by a natural spring in the rocky centre of what is now the town bearing his name, where he lived until his death.

Private guided tour of the principal sights of the medieval town: the Emilion Hermitage, the Tour du Roy built in the 13th century by Richard the Lion heart, the collegiate church and its 14th century cloister and, above all, the exceptional monolithic church and its catacombs dug out of the limestone cliff between the 9th and the 11th centuries. Its 38 metre span makes it the largest such church in Europe.

Lunch will take place at a restaurant located in the city.

In the afternoon, visit with wine tasting at a Grand Cru Classé Saint Emilion.

Tour Duration:8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Light, 

 
Package Includes 
  • Transportation: pick up/drop off at the Port
  • English speaking licensed driver guide with a deluxe car with AC at disposal 
  • All entrance fees & tasting
  • All tax and Vat 

Does not include 
- Lunch
- Gratuities 
- Travel insurance and personal expenses 

Departure dates : all day , all year  
May 1st - due to French law, cost double and most of the Wine estate are close 

 
Bordeaux - A Wine, a Vintage, a Tasting… - 8 hours

 A Wine, a Vintage, a Tasting…

Taste and identify the differences between the great Bordeaux wines, according to the vintage…

Wine experts give a great importance to Vintages. Why is it so important? How to recognize the quality of the vintage? How to guess the vintage? Should we agree or is it a matter of taste? Let us taste 4 vintages from the same wine property and comment. The expert guides you and shares his knowledge while you comment and learn tricks of the trade.
 

Château Grand Vertical Tasting Workshop

The privilege of tasting 6 great vintages dating back as far as 20 years:

• Château de Ferrand 1988 & 1989

• Château de Ferrand 1998 & 1999

• Château de Ferrand 2008 & 2009


This workshop includes a private tour, an initiation into aromas, a tasting of 6 vintages, and a food/wine pairing with our “Assiette Gourmande”.

Schedule: 

09:00am - Departure from the harbor of Bordeaux

10:00am - First winery tour such as Château Faugères

11:30am - Discover the enchanting medieval village of Saint-Emilion, classified by Unesco in 1999. A luminous, ochre-colored jewel built of limestone and Roman roof tiles, it is perched on a plateau and completely surrounded by a sea of vineyards.

The steep and narrow cobblestone streets are lined with remnants of monasteries and convents dating from the 11th to 18th centuries that tell the story of the village. A Unesco World Heritage-inspired scavenger hunt will bring you face to face with the art, wine and stunning landscapes of Saint-Emilion.

12:30pm to 02:00pm - Time to stroll and have lunch

02:30 pm - Wine tasting at Chateau  La Dominique

05:00pm - End of the tour

Tour Duration: 8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: NO
Physical Activity Level: Light,


Package price includes

  • Transportation: Pick up/drop off at the Port
  • Day Tour: English speaking driver guide with sedan deluxe car
  • 2 winery visits and vertical workshop
05/06/2025 05/06/2025
Avalon Waterways: Avalon Poetry II®
The Avalon Poetry II offers a delightfully intimate cruise setting. Like its sister Suite Ships, the Poetry II features two full decks of Panorama Suites with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows that create river cruising's only Open-Air Balcony. With a spacious 200 square feet, Panorama Suites are more than 30% larger than the industry standard. Stretch out at day's end and wake to the world at your feet with Comfort Collection bed that faces the view. It truly is a view with a room!
Ship Highlights
  • Sky Deck with whirlpool, shade awnings, game area and premium lounges
  • Chef-prepared onboard meals with regional cuisine and familiar favorites
  • Covered Observation Lounge
  • Fitness Center
  • Spacious, open-seating Panorama Dining Room
Ship Statistics
Built Year
2014
Ship Length
361 ft (110 m)
Number of Crew
37
Dining / Restaurants
2
Bars / Lounges
6
Fitness Center
Yes
Number of Staterooms
64
Number of Suites
52
Kids Friendly
No

Dining

Dining
Chef-prepared onboard meals with regional cuisine and familiar favorites.

Bar and Lounge

Bar
Bar.
Club Lounge
Club Lounge.
Panorama Bar
Panorama Bar.

Onboard Area

Fitness Center
Fitness Center.
Atrium
Atrium.
Coffees Station
Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, and sweet treats.
Guest Service
Guest Service.
Internet Corner
Internet Corner.

Suite

Royal Suite (S) Call for pricing
Royal Suite
  • Category: S
  • Royal Deck
Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door with French Balcony, Full shower with glass door, Writing desk, Vanity, Bed, Sink, Toilet, Sofa, Coffee table. Size: 258 sq.ft. Stateroom Amenities: • Comfort Collection by Avalon • Deluxe beds with premium mattress covers • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens • European-style duvets • Choice of soft or firm pillows • Extra blankets • Choice of bed configuration • Nightly turn-down service • Bedside tables with reading lamps • Hairdryer • L'Occitane bath amenities • Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage • Easy under-bed luggage storage • Flatscreen satellite TV with movie channels • Alarm clock • Direct-dial telephone • Bathrobes & slippers • Well-stocked minibar • Complimentary bottled water • In-room safe • Individual climate control • Modern Finishings • Large mirror in bathroom • Marble countertops in bathroom
(P) Call for pricing
  • Category: P
  • Royal Deck
Panorama Suite (B) Call for pricing
Panorama Suite
  • Category: B
  • Sapphire Deck
Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door with French Balcony, Full shower with glass door, Writing desk, Vanity, Bed, Sink, Toilet. Size: 172 sq. ft. Stateroom Amenities: • Comfort Collection by Avalon • Deluxe beds with premium mattress covers • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens • European-style duvets • Choice of soft or firm pillows • Extra blankets • Choice of bed configuration • Nightly turn-down service • Bedside tables with reading lamps • Hairdryer • L'Occitane bath amenities • Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage • Easy under-bed luggage storage • Flatscreen satellite TV with movie channels • Alarm clock • Direct-dial telephone • Bathrobes & slippers • Well-stocked minibar • Complimentary bottled water • In-room safe • Individual climate control • Modern Finishings • Large mirror in bathroom
Panorama Suite (A) Call for pricing
Panorama Suite
  • Category: A
  • Sapphire Deck
Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door with French Balcony, Full shower with glass door, Writing desk, Vanity, Bed, Sink, Toilet. Size: 172 sq. ft. Stateroom Amenities: • Comfort Collection by Avalon • Deluxe beds with premium mattress covers • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens • European-style duvets • Choice of soft or firm pillows • Extra blankets • Choice of bed configuration • Nightly turn-down service • Bedside tables with reading lamps • Hairdryer • L'Occitane bath amenities • Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage • Easy under-bed luggage storage • Flatscreen satellite TV with movie channels • Alarm clock • Direct-dial telephone • Bathrobes & slippers • Well-stocked minibar • Complimentary bottled water • In-room safe • Individual climate control • Modern Finishings • Large mirror in bathroom

Oceanview

Deluxe Stateroom (E) Call for pricing
Deluxe Stateroom
  • Category: E
  • Indigo Deck
Size: 172 sq. ft. Stateroom Amenities: Two windows • Comfort Collection by Avalon • Deluxe beds with premium mattress covers • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens • European-style duvets • Choice of soft or firm pillows • Extra blankets • Choice of bed configuration • Nightly turn-down service • Bedside tables with reading lamps • Hairdryer • L'Occitane bath amenities • Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage • Easy under-bed luggage storage • Flatscreen satellite TV with movie channels • Alarm clock • Direct-dial telephone • Bathrobes & slippers • Well-stocked minibar • Complimentary bottled water • In-room safe • Individual climate control • Modern Finishings • Large mirror in bathroom
Deluxe Stateroom (D) Call for pricing
Deluxe Stateroom
  • Category: D
  • Indigo Deck
Size: 172 sq. ft. Stateroom Amenities: Two windows • Comfort Collection by Avalon • Deluxe beds with premium mattress covers • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens • European-style duvets • Choice of soft or firm pillows • Extra blankets • Choice of bed configuration • Nightly turn-down service • Bedside tables with reading lamps • Hairdryer • L'Occitane bath amenities • Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage • Easy under-bed luggage storage • Flatscreen satellite TV with movie channels • Alarm clock • Direct-dial telephone • Bathrobes & slippers • Well-stocked minibar • Complimentary bottled water • In-room safe • Individual climate control • Modern Finishings • Large mirror in bathroom
Price is per person (double occupancy) and includes cruise taxes and port charges.

"Starting at" or "From" price is per person (double occupancy) and includes cruise taxes and port charges but does not include airfare to or from your vacation. Some cruise/tour packages require intra-vacation flights (and in some cases intra-vacation segments must be purchased from Avalon Waterways) in which case intra-vacation air and taxes are included in the price shown.

Important Notes

  • Vacation departures, itineraries and prices are subject to change.
  • A non-refundable, non-transferable deposit is required for Avalon Waterways to reserve space for you.
  • The hotels and accommodations listed are provisional and subject to change and may be substituted with properties of similar standard. Hotels are confirmed approximately 30 days prior to departure and can be found in your travel documents, but are not guaranteed until check-in.
  • The following charges are not included in the land/cruise vacation price unless otherwise noted: airfare to and from the start of your vacation; intra-vacation air, unless specified in the itinerary; airline baggage fees including checked and/or excess baggage fees; Federal inspection fees for the Federal U.S. Customs and Immigrations; International Air Transportation tax; agricultural tax; other per person taxes imposed by government entities; airport taxes and fees, including the September 11th Security fee up to $11.20 per person, passenger facility charges up to $18 per person, Federal domestic flight segment fees up to $4.10 per segment, and U.S. and international arrival and departure and other government-imposed added by the airline and applicable at time of booking; passports; visas and vaccinations; tips to your Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ship's crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted Avalon menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant or onboard your vessel (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); airport transfers on non-qualifying flights; optional excursions; additional activities and excursions purchased online; porterage at airports and train stations; Travel Protection; and all other items of a personal nature.
  • Additional airline-imposed fees for seat assignments may apply and are not included in your total package cost. Please refer to carrier websites for seat assignment policies and applicable pricing.

All fares are quoted in US Dollars.

Sky Deck

Stateroom Key

  • Royal Suite (S)
  • (P)
  • Panorama Suite (A)
  • Panorama Suite (B)
  • Deluxe Stateroom (D)
  • Deluxe Stateroom (E)
Royal Deck

Stateroom Key

  • Royal Suite (S)
  • (P)
  • Panorama Suite (A)
  • Panorama Suite (B)
  • Deluxe Stateroom (D)
  • Deluxe Stateroom (E)
Sapphire Deck

Stateroom Key

  • Royal Suite (S)
  • (P)
  • Panorama Suite (A)
  • Panorama Suite (B)
  • Deluxe Stateroom (D)
  • Deluxe Stateroom (E)
Indigo Deck

Stateroom Key

  • Royal Suite (S)
  • (P)
  • Panorama Suite (A)
  • Panorama Suite (B)
  • Deluxe Stateroom (D)
  • Deluxe Stateroom (E)