river cruise dordogne bordeaux

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Dordogne river cruises.

The Dordogne – a region recognized for its culinary delights, including foie gras, truffles, and wines; medieval castles and prehistoric sites such as the Lascaux caves; and stunning landscapes, and natural beauty.  A Dordogne River cruise is a traveller’s paradise.

Bearing the same name, the Dordogne River winds it’s way through the Limousin and Dordogne regions before flowing into the Gironde.  300 miles long and generally flowing West in southwestern France , the beauty of the river and the preservation of it is such that The Dordogne and its watershed were designated Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in July of 2012.

Those lucky enough to sail the waters of The Dordogne, do so in the comfort of AmaWaterways – where guests enjoy an extensive and varied line-up of included tours, such as, both standard and bike tours, hikes and special interest tours.  No matter your preference, your days will be full of discovery and wonder onboard a Dordogne River Cruise with AmaWaterways.

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Dordogne River Cruise Highlights

The wine capital of the World, Bordeaux is famous for producing some of the World's finest wines.  Each with its own distinct terroir and grape varieties, the region is divided into several sub-regions. Bordeaux wines range from rich reds, such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot blends, to elegant whites, like Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon blends.  

Visitors to Bordeaux can partake in a visit to Cité du Vin wine museum; enjoy a wine tour of the surrounding vineyards, tasting some of Bordeaux's most celebrated wines along the way; gently cycle along the city’s amazing network of bicycle paths; or alternatively, learn of Bordeaux’s rich culture and architecture as part of a city tour - all included excursion options when sailing with AmaWaterways .

TIP:  Wine aficionados should opt to sail during the summer months in anticipation for the Bordeaux Wine Festival which usually takes place during the month of June .

Libourne is a picturesque town known for its charming medieval architecture, as well as serving  as a gateway to Bordeaux’s most elite wine regions - Saint-Émilion and Pomerol.  Whilst an image of pedalling through the vineyard-rich countryside of Saint Émilion or wine tasting at Château de Ferrand or Château de Pressac will always be a great draw for tourists, visitors to this commune may also choose to explore the catacombs and caves of Eglise Monolithe de Saint-Emilion – a monolithic church carved out of one piece of limestone rock.  Either choice, Libourne offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and gastronomy, making it a charming destination for travellers.

Dordogne Ports

Cussac-fort-médoc.

Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points withi...

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Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points within it, is what you'll want to visit in order to understand why Victor Hugo described it as Versailles plus Antwerp, and why the painter Francisco de Goya, when exiled from his native Spain, chose it as his last home (he died here in 1828). The capital of southwest France and the region's largest city, Bordeaux remains synonymous with the wine trade: wine shippers have long maintained their headquarters along the banks of the Garonne, while buyers from around the world arrive for the huge biennial Vinexpo show (held in odd-number years).Bordeaux is, admittedly, a less exuberant city than many others in France, but lively and stylish elements are making a dent in its conservative veneer. The cleaned-up riverfront is said by some, after a bottle or two, to exude an elegance reminiscent of St. Petersburg, and that aura of 18th-century élan also permeates the historic downtown sector—“le vieux Bordeaux"—where fine shops invite exploration. To the south of the city center are old docklands undergoing renewal—one train station has now been transformed into a big multiplex movie theater—but the area is still a bit shady. To get a feel for the historic port of Bordeaux, take the 90-minute boat trip that leaves Quai Louis-XVIII every weekday afternoon, or the regular passenger ferry that plies the Garonne between Quai Richelieu and the Pont d'Aquitaine in summer. A nice time to stroll around the city center is the first Sunday of the month, when it's pedestrian-only and vehicles are banned.

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Luxury River Cruises in Bordeaux & Dordogne

Searching for a luxury cruising experience? Look no further, as our Luxury cruises in Bordeaux & Dordogne will allow you to discover exceptional destinations such as Bordeaux and Blaye. Taste the adventure and discover new cultures while enjoying premium services and facilities. Read more on luxury river cruises .

16 Luxury river cruises on the Bordeaux & Dordogne with 10 reviews

• River Cruise
• Wine tasting

Taste of Bordeaux (Wine Cruise) (Wine Cruise) 2025

Beautiful Bordeaux

• Sightseeing

Grand Seine & Bordeaux 2025

Beautiful Bordeaux with Highlights of Paris

Taste of Bordeaux 2025

• Food & Culinary

Taste of Bordeaux 2023

• Christmas & New Year

Christmas in the Bordeaux region (port-to-port cruise)

• Walking Adventure

Brilliant Bordeaux (2025) (Bordeaux to Bordeaux, 2025)

Wine Roads of France & Portugal (2025) (Bordeaux to Lisbon, 2025)

Bordeaux Affair with Highlights of Paris

Ultimate Southern France (2024, End Paris, 15 Days)

Taste of Bordeaux 2022

Beautiful Bordeaux with Madrid - Libourne > Pauillac

Beautiful Bordeaux with Madrid - Libourne > Fort Medoc

Bordeaux Affair - Médoc

Bordeaux & dordogne tours starting in:.

• Bordeaux (7)

More Luxury Tours in Bordeaux & Dordogne

• Group tours (16)
• Fully Guided tours (15)
• Historical tours (8)
• Wine tasting tours (7)
• 10 Best River Cruise Companies (with Reviews)

Bordeaux River Cruises

Explore the Bordeaux area of Aquitaine and the top French wine growing areas along the Dordogne and Garonne rivers, with excursions to chateaux and along the Wine Route and its famous vineyards.

The city of Bordeaux has long connections with the English and the wine trade. A World Heritage Site, Bordeaux has many 18th century buildings around the Grand Theatre and impressive facades lining the quays along the river. The city centre has extensive pedestrian areas and street cafes to enjoy the city bustle.

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About Bordeaux River Cruises

Bordeaux river cruise highlights, bordeaux river ports, bordeaux cruise reviews, cruise collection 2024/ 2025/ 2026.

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This part of Aquitaine came under English control with the marriage of Eleanor of Aquitaine to Henry II in 1152. The border with France was fortified by Henry II and his successors, leaving ancient castles and fortified medieval bastide towns across the landscape and overlooking the Gironde river. Returned to France in 1453 after the Hundred Years War, the whole area is packed with interesting historical sights.

There are some 10,000 wine producing chateaux in the Bordeaux region, including some of the most expensive wines in the world. Five ‘premier cru’ wines - Chateau Lafite Rothschild, Latour, Mouton Rothschild, Margaux, Haut-Brion are here. Visit Pauillac, capital of the Medoc area, and Blaye, both noted centres for wine culture.

Between the rivers Garonne and Dordogne is the Entre deux Mers wine area. Up the Garonne river from Bordeaux is Cadillac, a bastide town fortified by the English king in 1280 and subsequently a chateau built for the Dukes of Epernon. On the Dordogne call at the market town of Libourne, and from here or Cadillac travel to the village of St Emilion, noted for its catacombs and huge underground church as well as its wine.

Here are a few highlights of a cruise from Bordeaux:

• Stately wine châteaux along the River Dordogne
• Blaye’s 17th-century citadel
• The city of Bordeaux’s fine architecture
• Bourg and its citadel castle
• The fortified town of Cadillac
• Libourne’s renowned vineyards
• Pauillac and the Medoc wine region where some of the finest Bordeaux wines are produced
• Meschers-sur-Gironde with its Troglodyte houses
• St Emilion’s monolithic church carved out of limestone rock
• Medieval Roquetaillade Castle

We very much enjoyed our recent cruise. The quality of the ship, the food and the staff were fabulous. Husbands very strict Gluten Free diet was very well catered for. Our favourite spot on the ship was the outside seating area at the back of the ship down the steps from top deck with its own little bar behind it. It was lovely to be sailing along enjoying the passing scenery and having a nice young lady serving you whatever drink you wanted.. all included in the price.

All the staff were very very pleasant and helpful, they worked together as a team very well and it was clear that they were a happy bunch.

Bordeaux is a great city and easy to get around using the tram system.

Just a note tosay how much we enjoyed our recent river cruise. The boat (Princess DAquitaine) was lovely, the crew friendly and the food fabulous. We were the only English passengers on board but were made very welcome by the crew, many who spoke English and went out of their way to ensure we were included in everything (we speak some French so were actually able to manage anyway). Even some of the French passengers chatted to us once they realised we could understand them a little! Raquel, the hostess, was particularly helpful and friendly, and if possible we would like you to send on our thanks to her at CroisiEurope. Also Jean Pierre the musician. He was from Durham so we were able to have some late night chats with him. The waiting staff were all attentive, in fact we found all the crew (25 of them) lovely - bar staff, cleaners, Purser etc. We would definitely recommend the company cruise, and are planning a trip on the Rhone cruise at a future date.

We enjoyed the cruise immensely. The boat, crew, food and service could not be faulted. Comparing it to last year on the Douro the only thing not so good was the show put on by the crew. Last years was more amusing and more professional. The pianist however was really good and we enjoyed his playing. We didnt find the Dordogne cruise so scenic and the two outings we went on were ok, but again the one in Portugal had much lovelier scenery and the fact that this time, the river was so much wider most of the time, made for less to see. The area is not so interesting. We were given some English translations on the tours but as we were only 4 English speakers on the boat and the other two didnt go on the tours, we realised that this was difficult. Having said that the guides were good and gave us as much time as they could. We did enjoy it and on board was someone who works at the head office in Strasbourg. She was on holiday but obviously interested to see how the cruise was doing. She told us that you were the best firm to deal with! If we cruise again next year we will book with you and probably use Croise Europe as their standards are so high.

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Brilliant Bordeaux

8 days | bordeaux to bordeaux.

4.5/5   438 reviews

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Uncover the proud legacy and heritage of Southwest France.

Set sail along three stunning rivers, the Garonne, Dordogne and Gironde, on one fascinatingly historical and invigorating journey. Explore the country’s breathtaking backdrops, wines and cultural treasures across the region in Bordeaux, Fort Médoc, Cadillac, Blaye, Libourne and more. Wander through archaeological marvels, historic landmarks and magnificent vineyards where you’ll be treated to a sampling of quintessentially French experiences.

Embark on a scenic drive from Blaye to Bourg along the Route de la Corniche Fleurie and marvel at the sights of Blaye Fortress and Lansac Windmill along the way. Slow things down in Libourne and on your return to Bordeaux with multiple wine tastings, village tours, a farmers’ market visit and Bordeaux heritage walking tour. Join us on a showcase of the best Southwest France has to offer.

• Embark/Disembark
• Bordeaux to Bordeaux

Bordeaux (Embark)

Arrive at Bordeaux-Mérignac International Airport. If your cruise package includes a group arrival transfer or if you have purchased a private arrival transfer, you will be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the ship.

The French phrase “la douceur de vivre” is an accurate description for your time in Cadillac, known for its deliciously flavored dessert wines. Visit Château Royal de Cazeneuve, site of Henry IV’s and Queen Margot’s tempestuous love. Meet the owner around a glass of Sauternes in the reception hall.

In the evening, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.

Note: Sailing this stretch of the Garonne depends on the tides. If it is not possible to sail to Cadillac, you will be transferred to your destination via motorcoach.

Choose between...

Private owner's tour of royal château with sauternes toast.

You’ll journey through the vineyards to Château Royal de Cazeneuve, a polygonal 14th-century fortress with a royal pedigree. A favored residence of Henry IV, who inherited it from his mother, Jeanne d’Albret. The beautifully restored château still belongs to descendants of...

You’ll journey through the vineyards to Château Royal de Cazeneuve, a polygonal 14th-century fortress with a royal pedigree. A favored residence of Henry IV, who inherited it from his mother, Jeanne d’Albret. The beautifully restored château still belongs to descendants of the Albret family. After your intimate visit you will meet Louis and Caroline de Sabran-Pontevès, the owner and his wife for a Sauternes toast, sampling the unique perfume and flavor of the area.

The Colorful Life of Toulouse Lautrec at Château de Malromé

Uncover the history of artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec with a visit to Château Malromé. Originally the home of his mother, Adèle, Malromé would soon inspire much of his artwork. As one of the best painters of the post-impressionist period, Toulouse-Lautrec is known for...

Uncover the history of artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec with a visit to Château Malromé. Originally the home of his mother, Adèle, Malromé would soon inspire much of his artwork. As one of the best painters of the post-impressionist period, Toulouse-Lautrec is known for his distinctive and colorful take on Paris in the late 1800s as well as his fascination with Moulin Rouge dancers and famous singers, who were prominent in much of his work. Venture to the nearby town of Verdelais, where you’ll notice two beautiful central walkways lined with trees and 19th-century façades. It is in Verdelais’ cemetery that Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec is buried.

Cussac Fort Médoc

The legendary Médoc region abounds with prestigious wine châteaux in a dizzying array of architectural styles, as well as miles of grapevines stretching to infinity. Take a scenic drive through the storied Médoc wine route, followed by a wine tasting at a beautiful wine estate.

Featured Excursion

Fresh médoc oysters tasting.

Oysters have long been a beloved product of the Médoc—and for good reason. Discover why today as you join an oyster farmer at the Guards’ House terrace for a tasting of this delicacy, accompanied by a glass of local white wine.

Médoc Châteaux Route with Private Wine Tasting

In 1855, when Napoleon III asked for a classification of the best wines in France to give visitors, some 60 Médoc wines were awarded Grand Cru status—out of 61 total. A panoramic tour of this legendary landscape takes you from Pauillac to the tip of the Médoc peninsula, past...

In 1855, when Napoleon III asked for a classification of the best wines in France to give visitors, some 60 Médoc wines were awarded Grand Cru status—out of 61 total. A panoramic tour of this legendary landscape takes you from Pauillac to the tip of the Médoc peninsula, past storied vineyards of the region, including Château Latour, Mouton Rothschild and Pichon Longueville Baron, and through the villages of Margaux, Saint-Julien and Saint-Estèphe. You might be surprised to discover that the peninsula is only three miles wide, though it is 50 miles long, and the road carries you past a dizzying array of architectural styles— Renaissance, Greek Revival and medieval—as well as miles of grapevines. You’ll turn off the road and enter one of these châteaux for a private tour and a tasting of superior wines.

Let’s Go: Bike in the Médoc Vineyards

Combine fresh air, gorgeous scenery and fine wine with a bicycle ride among the prestigious Médoc vineyards. Meet your guide and mount your bicycle to pedal through the lush landscapes of historic estates that have seemingly remained unchanged for centuries. Truly experience the...

Combine fresh air, gorgeous scenery and fine wine with a bicycle ride among the prestigious Médoc vineyards. Meet your guide and mount your bicycle to pedal through the lush landscapes of historic estates that have seemingly remained unchanged for centuries. Truly experience the atmosphere—the earth, the sunshine—of this famous wine-growing region.

Blaye, Bourg sur Gironde

The Route de la Corniche Fleurie…could this be the most beautiful road you’ve ever traveled? Find out today on the drive to Blaye Fortress, passing through one impossibly picturesque hamlet after another. Once you arrive, you’ll discover the wonders of this historic fortress, a UNESCO-designated citadel that once protected Bordeaux from attacks by sea.

Panoramas of Route de la Corniche Fleurie with Blaye Fortress

This little road between Blaye and Bourg-sur-Gironde winds through picturesque hamlets with equally picturesque names—Pain de Sucre, Marmisson and Roque de Thau among them—limestone cliffs on one side, the Gironde on the other. Fishing huts on stilts stand above the waters of the...

This little road between Blaye and Bourg-sur-Gironde winds through picturesque hamlets with equally picturesque names—Pain de Sucre, Marmisson and Roque de Thau among them—limestone cliffs on one side, the Gironde on the other. Fishing huts on stilts stand above the waters of the estuary; charming 19th-century stone houses built by sea captains sit tidily along the road. Many of these captains traveled to far-off places and returned with exotic plants, which they planted in their gardens and along the road (hence the route’s name). But the history of these cliffs extends far beyond the 19th century—people have inhabited the area for thousands of years.

Upon returning to Blaye, your guide will take you through the 17th-century demilune-shaped citadel built by famed military engineer Vauban. This fortress design was the one Vauban, Louis XIV’s favorite military engineer, found most satisfactory, and he built some 300 of them in the Sun King’s realm. The citadel contains the ruins of a medieval castle, houses, squares, streets, even a convent, all enclosed within stark walls. If you stand on top of those walls, you will have a terrific view of the estuary— this view was the field of fire, giving the citadel command of the river.

Masterpiece Collection Providing the most all-inclusive luxury to our guests is the heart and soul of our brand and that will never change. Yet sometimes our guests want something that goes even "above and beyond" our included experiences. In light of this, we now offer guests a curated selection of optional excursions, available for an additional charge.

Rendez-vous chez rémy martin.

Not all wine remains wine: some of it is distilled into cognac. Rémy Martin has been making cognac for almost three centuries, refining the process over the years. Tour the facility and learn how this elixir is created, then taste three different cognacs with complementary nibbles.

*Masterpiece Collection are optional experiences that go above and beyond our daily selection of included excursions and can be booked for an additional fee. Select Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences can be pre-booked. Please note that requests to pre-book must be made by calling our Reservations Team no later than 6 days prior to departure and are subject to availability. Some venues are limited in the number of guests they can accommodate. Guests can book onboard (space permitting) and pay in Euros. Pre-booked Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences are refundable up to 5 days prior to the cruise/tour start date; if inside of 5 days they are non-refundable. Select Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences require a minimum number of participants and are subject to cancellation (with full refund) if minimum is not met. Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences are non-commissionable. Prices are subject to change. Masterpiece Collection excursions may not operate if they occur on a holiday or if they require a minimum number of participants and that minimum is not met.

Libourne (Saint-Émilion)

With Libourne as your base, travel to nearby breathtaking Saint-Émilion and immerse yourself more deeply in the region’s history and wine culture. The medieval town of Saint-Émilion is an ideal place to linger. Wander its cobblestone lanes lined with wine shops and bakeries, and stop to admire the amazing rock-hewn church that extends beneath the city’s streets.

Note: Today's lunch will be on your own; ask your Cruise Manager for recommendations on the best nearby restaurants.

Saint-Émilion Walking Tour with Wine Tasting

Hilltop Saint-Émilion offers both exceptional architecture and historic vineyards. The Romans were the first to plant grapes here, and this was the first vineyard region to be protected by UNESCO because of its history. Shops brimming with wine and wine tools line the steep cobblestone...

Hilltop Saint-Émilion offers both exceptional architecture and historic vineyards. The Romans were the first to plant grapes here, and this was the first vineyard region to be protected by UNESCO because of its history. Shops brimming with wine and wine tools line the steep cobblestone streets; medieval ramparts that bore witness to battles for control between French and English monarchs still stand; and vineyards encroach upon the village. Of all the sights, however, perhaps the most extraordinary is the 12th-century church carved into a cliff. Only the tower is above ground; the rest of the church is subterranean. Its numerous underground galleries provided refuge during periods of strife, and include the grotto where St. Émilion, for whom the town is named, lived out his life in the ninth century. You have to see it for yourself—you’ll be amazed by its almost unfathomable construction. After touring Saint-Émilion, you’ll visit the cellars of a fantastic estate where you’ll taste some of the world’s most highly rated wines.

Château Cooking Class

Château Ambe Tour Pourret, with five hectares planted with merlot and cabernet franc vines, is a comparatively young wine house, dating to 1925 in its current form (though parts of the chateau are much older). Tour the winery before you meet your chef/teacher, then walk to the well-equipped, modern professional kitchen. Tie on your apron and delve into the tasks the chef assigns you. You might zest kaffir limes to season a first course of seared duck foie gras or make the cherry sauce in kirsch that accompanies it or help to prepare wild trout or a decadent strawberry tart. You'll learn something about the art of French sauces in the process, and then you'll take a seat in the elegant dining room and enjoy the lunch you've helped prepare-naturally, each course will be accompanied by the appropriate wine from Chateau Ambe Tour Pourret's cellars.

Grand Cru Tasting

Meet the cellar master of an estate that produces one of St. Émilion's finest wines, Château Beauséjour Bécot. They'll take you on a full tour of the property, during which you'll be privy to insight on the terroir that helps create such incredible wines, the history of the family, their underground cellars and more. After your tour, taste the fruits of this estate yourself on a terrace overlooking the vineyards.

Libourne, Bordeaux

France’s rich agricultural tradition is the heart and soul of the region’s exquisite cuisine—and what better way to get a taste for the freshest vegetables, cheeses, breads and fruits than with a visit to Libourne’s lively farmers’ market?

In the evening, a special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.

Featured Excursions

Village day: libourne with farmer's market.

How could you visit this rich agricultural land without delving into a farmer's market? Libourne’s market is the heart and soul of the town; everyone comes here to choose the freshest vegetables, the ripest cheeses, the most luscious fruits, the loveliest flowers, and to chat with the...

How could you visit this rich agricultural land without delving into a farmer's market? Libourne’s market is the heart and soul of the town; everyone comes here to choose the freshest vegetables, the ripest cheeses, the most luscious fruits, the loveliest flowers, and to chat with the producers and growers. Check out the stalls brimming with produce in the market square, then duck into the covered market and savor the enticing aromas of bread and cheese, fish and meat. After exploring the market, you and a small group of other travelers will be invited to push open the doors of ateliers, homes and shops, meeting the artisans who make some of the goods arrayed so enticingly in the market.

Nights Out: After Hours at the Bassins des Lumières

Bordeaux’s Port de la Lune is home to a submarine base with a checkered past. Originally built during the German occupation of France in WWII, and later the target of allied bombings, this building has since attracted artists who wish to reclaim the site for beauty and culture. Its stark...

Bordeaux’s Port de la Lune is home to a submarine base with a checkered past. Originally built during the German occupation of France in WWII, and later the target of allied bombings, this building has since attracted artists who wish to reclaim the site for beauty and culture. Its stark walls and history have served as a poignant backdrop to artistic installations for decades. Tonight, you’ll experience this for yourself at the Bassins des Lumières , a stunning and immersive light show projected against the walls of the base.

Discover Bordeaux’s many charms today, either on foot with a local expert or on two wheels—the locals’ preferred way to navigate the city’s charming backstreets. You have a wonderful selection of active opportunities to see this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Do as the Locals Do: Bordeaux Walking Tour

Catch a tram at the Quai des Chartrons to the Place de la Comédie, the heart of Bordeaux’ Golden Triangle. Though Bordeaux was the capital of Aquitaine in the Middle Ages and has its share of Gothic churches, it reached its apex in the 18th century. The splendid honey-colored stone...

Catch a tram at the Quai des Chartrons to the Place de la Comédie, the heart of Bordeaux’ Golden Triangle. Though Bordeaux was the capital of Aquitaine in the Middle Ages and has its share of Gothic churches, it reached its apex in the 18th century. The splendid honey-colored stone buildings from this era make up a city core that UNESCO has designated a World Heritage Site (this is the district that inspired Baron Haussmann when he redesigned Paris at the behest of Napoleon III). Trade with the French colonies built this handsome district, furnishing vanilla, sugar, spices and cocoa to inventive chocolatiers and bakers, who used these goods to create iconic desserts. Chocolate, once a Spanish monopoly, became part of Bordeaux’ culinary heritage when banished Spanish Jews brought the art of chocolate-making to France. What are Bordeaux’ present-day residents enjoying when they step inside the luxurious food halls and elegant shops in this neighborhood? Find out as you sample the delicious handiwork of Bordeaux's bakers, and learn a few recipes too!

Let’s Go: Bike Bordeaux Backstreets

Hop on a bike and wheel with your expert guide along the Quai des Chartrons, a riverfront neighborhood that was the purview of British wine merchants back when they dominated the wine trade. It fell on hard times in the 20th century, but the tall merchant houses have since been reclaimed; now they...

Hop on a bike and wheel with your expert guide along the Quai des Chartrons, a riverfront neighborhood that was the purview of British wine merchants back when they dominated the wine trade. It fell on hard times in the 20th century, but the tall merchant houses have since been reclaimed; now they house welcoming shops and cafés. Pedal past the antiques shops of Rue Notre Dame and the Church of St. Louis on your way to major city squares such as the Bourse and Parliament before heading back to the ship along the banks of the Garonne. Of course your outing will include a stop for refreshments at one of the delightful cafés you pass.

Retro Sidecar Bordeaux Tour

Get ready to explore a medley of what's best in Bordeaux! Your gentleman driver will take you on a journey to the unmissable places of the city: Grosse Cloche, Place de la Bourse, the Darwin district, Basilique Saint-Michel, and any requested stops you'd like to make as well. This truly unique and exciting experience will take you well into the night with a local who knows all the histories, folklore, and of course, best spots for a photo-op. Quel charm!

Retro Sidecar Romantic Tour

Watch the city come alive at night with a sidecar tour of brilliant Bordeaux. Wind through backstreets, lit-up avenues and, of course, the most iconic sites of Bordeaux, like the Grosse Cloche, Place de la Bourse and Saint Michael Basilica. Feel the city's festive energy as you zip through town on this vintage masterpiece before stopping for a photo, a sip of champagne and even a romantic moment with your sweetheart. Truly a night to remember!

Bordeaux (Disembark)

Disembark the ship. If your cruise package includes a group departure transfer or if you have purchased a private departure transfer, you will be transferred to Bordeaux-Mérignac International Airport for your flight home.

Optional Extension

Paris Post-Cruise Extension

No visit to France would be complete without seeing the city that is widely regarded as the most beautiful in the world—Paris. Nothing compares to the charm of its neighborhoods, the grandeur of its awe-inspiring architecture and monuments, or the cosmopolitan elegance of its boulevards. Delve into the delights this magnificent city has to offer, from the Eiffel Tower and the Champs-Élysées to the quaint neighborhood cafés beloved by locals.

• 2 nights at the Hôtel du Louvre (or similar)
• Breakfast daily and all service charges, taxes, and porterage
• Opera Garnier Discovery Walk
• English-speaking expert
• All transfers

Click here for full details.

What's Included

• All meals onboard, prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients
• 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 7 dinners
• Captain’s Welcome and Farewell Receptions
• Welcome and Farewell Gala Dinners
• Unlimited beverages onboard, including fine wine, beer, spirits, specialty coffee and tea, soft drinks and mineral water

• 6 days of excursions, including “Choice Is Yours” options, all fully hosted by English-speaking local experts
• Guided “Let's Go,” “Do as the Locals Do” and “Village Day” programs
• State-of-the-art Quietvox portable audio-headset system on all excursions
• Use of bicycles and Nordic walking sticks

Accommodations

• 7-night cruise in a riverview stateroom on the breathtaking S.S. Bon Voyage
• Lavishly appointed riverview staterooms and suites have handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, high thread count 100% Egyptian cotton sheets and European duvets, and a menu of pillow options
• Free Internet and Wi-Fi access

Experiences

• 1 country: France
• 3 UNESCO World Heritage sites
• Captivating onboard local entertainment
• Cultural enrichment, including Signature Lectures
• Services of an experienced Uniworld Cruise Manager
• Group Transfers are included on arrival and departure days (please see terms and conditions for transfer guidelines)
• Gratuities for onboard personnel (ship staff, crew, Cruise/Tour Manager) are included during the cruise/tour

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Essential Guide to a Bordeaux River Cruise with AmaWaterways

As wine lovers, my husband and I had toyed with taking a Bordeaux river cruise for a few years before finally making the leap and booking a journey on the AmaDolce from AmaWaterways. It is no secret that I’m not a huge fan of mega cruise ships since I love spending more time in a destination, don’t love crowds, don’t enjoy being around over drinkers, and really appreciate good food. So while the concept of a much smaller river cruise held a lot of appeal, we had a lot of questions before our trip, such as:

• What would the age demographic be like?
• Would we connect with fellow passengers?
• Would it feel crowded?
• Would there be enough to do?
• Would we have enough time in each destination?
• Would the food be any good? What about the wine?
• What is included?
• Are there a lot of extra fees?
• Would it be worth the price?

If you have wondered the same or more, keep reading because I’m going to give you the full scoop on what you need to know and what to expect onboard the Taste of Bordeaux river cruise from AmaWaterways. I was hosted by AmaWaterways for this experience so that I could share my honest thoughts and review with my readers, all opinions are my own.

If you are interested in learning more about any of AmaWaterways’ journeys, please request more information through my referral link . Note that I may receive a small commission if you book through my link and I thank you for your support.

Request more information about any of AmaWaterways ships or itineraries.

To answer these questions, I’m going to walk you through our experience and cover the cabin accommodations, on-board facilities, dining, crew, excursions, our itinerary, and more .

What is a Bordeaux River Cruise and Why Choose One?

A Bordeaux river cruise operates on the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers, which branch off of the Gironde Estuary near the city of Bordeaux, in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region in southwestern France. The Dordogne River is considered the “right bank” of the region, and where you will find wines that are more predominantly Merlot blends and the famous town of Saint-Émilion, and the Garonne is the “left bank”, which is more Cabernet Sauvignon forward, with the famous Medoc appellation.

If you are staying in the city of Bordeaux, there are many short sightseeing and dinner cruises that operate on the river, but I’m talking about a multi-day Bordeaux river cruise on a ship built for river cruising. There are a number of river cruise companies that operate out of Bordeaux, but we chose AmaWaterways because they have a reputation of being one of the best in the industry and having good food.

While river cruises are popular throughout Europe, especially along the scenic Rhine and Danube Rivers, we chose the Taste of Bordeaux river cruise because we love learning about wine through our travel. My husband is studying for his WSET Level 3 certification, and experiencing the wine first hand is useful and it helps me learn more as well! In fact, we have planned other trips around wine including one to the Languedoc region of France, Piedmont in Italy, and Tuscany . And, I had just wrapped up an amazing barge cruise through Burgundy, France !

If you are looking for beautiful scenery and castles along the river banks and stops in large cities, I’ll be honest with you and tell you that you might prefer one of AmaWaterway’s other European itineraries. The Garonne and Dordogne Rivers are the color of chocolate milk, due to the strong tides stirring up the river bottom, and the river banks can be a bit bland, with the exception of some vineyards and a few chateaux in the distance. The primary reason to choose a Bordeaux river cruise is to get to taste the wines of Bordeaux and experience a few of the region’s chateaux and small villages.

You do not need to be a wine connoisseur to enjoy a Bordeaux river cruise. Actually, if you are truly a passionate enthusiast you may prefer to visit the region by land and arrange tastings and tours at the Chateaux of your choosing. However, I do believe you should have an appreciation of wine and a desire to do some wine tasting, otherwise you are better off selecting a different itinerary (in my opinion.) A Bordeaux river cruise is a great introduction to the wines of this region.

What is the Age Demographic on a Bordeaux River Cruise?

I’m going to address the elephant in the room right away because this is often the number one concern I hear from people in my age bracket (50s) and younger when it comes to river cruising. And, from the other perspective, my in-laws are very interested in a river cruise and want to know if it is suitable for their mobility so I’m going to try to be as clear and honest with my perceptions as possible, noting that this was my first and only (so far) river cruise experience.

The AmaDolce has a capacity of 144 passengers but on our cruise, there were only 63 passengers onboard. Of those, I would estimate that the majority were over 60 years old. There were at least two couples in their 30s and 40s and there were some adult children traveling with their parents as part of a multigenerational group. I know that AmaWaterways does offer some cruises that have family-friendly cabins and excursions, so if you are traveling with kids, I would ask for more information on those.

Most of the passengers were very fit and active. In fact, the bike tours were almost always the most popular excursions each day, with people biking eight to 17 kilometers. AmaWaterways also offered alternative excursions at each stop for those they called “gentle walkers”, meaning that there was very little walking involved. They also offered trekking poles on board to take on excursions to help with stability, as well as canes that offer folding knee rests.

On the AmaDolce, there was an elevator that could be used between decks, but the cabins and decks were not really designed for those in wheelchairs. Getting on an off the ship would also be problematic for those with mobility issues. I advised my in-laws, who have trouble walking too much or navigating steps of any kind, that this probably wouldn’t be the best choice for them. However, I heard stories on board of 90+ year olds joining in on the bike tours. So everyone needs to make these decisions for themselves.

Is a Bordeaux River Cruise Good for Solo Travelers?

The tough thing about cruising is that pricing is usually per person, based on double occupancy of a cabin. Like most cruise lines and many tour companies, AmaWaterways charges an additional “solo traveler supplement” on top of the per person price if you aren’t sharing a cabin with anyone. That’s a bit of a bummer for solo travelers, but, I’d encourage you to keep an eye out for sales as they will often offer discounts on the solo traveler supplement throughout the year, plus early booking discounts are available for future sailings. Reach out to AmaWaterways for more information and current pricing.

If you can swallow the price tag as a solo traveler, I think you will still enjoy your cruise if you are social. While many of the passengers are couples, or part of family groups, we also encountered sisters traveling together and all sorts of passenger combinations. At meals, you have a choice of eating on your own or joining another table. We often started chatting with others during the “Sip and Sail” pre-dinner cocktail hour and then ended up sitting with them at dinner. You will only be alone if you want to be.

The excursions were also small enough to enjoy being part of a small group and not lost in a crowd. We say many instances where a couple or group split up and chose different excursions and someone would be on their own, but easily integrated into the rest of the group. On a ship this size, people soon look familiar and you make multiple connections throughout the week.

AmaWaterways AmaDolce Overview

The AmaWaterways Taste of Bordeaux river cruise itinerary is onboard the AmaDolce, which can hold up to 144 passengers. As I mentioned previously, our sailing in July was less than half full, so we never felt crowded on board. I don’t know if that is typical or not, but we always had a choice of seats in the dining room, lounge, or on deck.

Each of the excursions, which I will go through later in this article, consisted of fairly small groups, ranging from seven people up to about 20 for one of the larger bike tours. We certainly never felt overwhelmed by people and it was very easy to get away for some private downtime on the ship. At the same time, it was nice to make some new friends to share meals, drinks, or activities with throughout the week.

I definitely got the impression that the people on board the Bordeaux river cruise were generally very friendly and happy to chat with strangers. And while there was plenty of wine, there were only a couple of people that overindulged. It was generally a group that were early to bed and early to rise, with minimal hallway noise after 10:00 pm, when the evening entertainment ended, or definitely none after midnight, when the bar in the lounge closed.

Cabin Overview

After coming straight from a barge cruise , which has tight cabin configurations, I wasn’t sure quite what to expect of our cabin on board the AmaDolce, but I was pleasantly surprised. The cabins onboard the AmaDolce are about 170 square feet, which sounds small for a hotel room but it pretty standard for a cruise ship.

We were on the Cello deck in cabin 208, which is a category B stateroom on the middle deck. If you are looking for more space, there are also three suites on board that are 255 square feet and offer a sitting area with a table and a larger bathroom with a bathtub and separate shower.

Our stateroom offered all the standard features including a queen bed, sliding doors to a French balcony (really just a railing to look out and get fresh air), and a small bathroom. I was very impressed with the amount of storage in the room, which included one closet for hanging clothes and another with shelves. There were also drawers in the desk and a sliding drawer or trundle under one side of the bed. Each nightstand also had a small drawer and a shelf.

Once you unpacked, there was room to store suitcases under the bed to tuck them out of the way. The room was also equipped with a laptop-sized safe, robes and slippers, umbrellas, and extra blankets. You had the choice of having your bed made European style with just a fitted sheet and duvet, or American style with a top sheet and blanket and/or duvet. After sweating my way around Europe under a duvet or freezing while sleeping uncovered, I was personally thrilled to have my top sheet again.

The room also offered a flat screen television, which showed you the activities of the day, cameras from the ship, and had complimentary on-demand movies and entertainment. I really enjoyed just hanging out in our room one night and watching a movie. After a month in Europe, it had been too long since I’d had a “Netflix and chill” kind of night. The ship also offered free WiFi, which was generally fairly good except in the evenings when everyone jumped online.

In addition to the desk chair, there were also two arm chairs in front of the French balcony doors, so you don’t always need to sit on the bed. The room also came equipped with a hair dryer and complimentary water, which was replenished daily. I also found it easy to refill my water bottle in the lounge whenever I needed.

The bathroom was compact, as you would expect, but it offered more storage options than many hotel bathrooms these days. There was a mirrored medicine cabinet with two shelves and then two more shelves in the cabinet underneath the sink. The only thing it could have used was another hook for drying towels. Housekeeping refreshed the room twice a day and typically I hate to ask for my towel to be replaced every day but I often needed it because it stayed damp otherwise.

The highlight of the bathroom was the shower, which offered multiple settings and excellent water pressure. If you are large it would be a tight squeeze in the shower but the snugness reminded me not to linger or use too much water. The bathroom was also equipped with refillable shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotion.

See my full cabin tour on Instagram Reels :

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tamara Gruber (@yourtimetofly)

Onboard Facilities

A river cruise ship is never going to compete with the large megaships when it comes to onboard facilities and entertainment, and that is okay with me. The beauty of river cruising is that you spend more time in your destination. In fact, sailing times can be quite short and often the ship is repositioned every night so you have a full day and evening to enjoy port, if you so desire.

However, there is still plenty to do on board and I’ll walk you through all the primary facilities on board:

The top sundeck is the place to go to watch the scenery go by as you are cruising, to relax in the afternoon, or to catch a sunset or star gaze in the evening. There are rows of deck chairs with ottomans lined up under a sun awning for those that want to read, relax, or maybe nap. There are also small clusters of tables and chairs in the open section of the sundeck, where you can gather with friends.

The back of the ship is a designated smoking area and just in front of that is a section set aside for corn hole and a small putting green. A walking track also circles the deck and there are designated exercise walking times. The onboard fitness instructor offers various exercise classes and dance classes on the sundeck throughout the cruise. There is also a large lawn-sized chessboard.

Towards the front of the ship, there is an area with cushioned lounge seating (although you may need to dig the cushions out of the storage chests yourself), along with a six to eight person hot tub. There are chests nearby with fresh towels if you choose to use the hot tub (and you can also wear your robe from your cabin.) The hot tub didn’t tend to get a lot of use so it wasn’t hard to find a time to enjoy it on our own.

Keep in mind that you could bring drinks up on deck, but there weren’t typically servers attending the sundeck.

Fitness Room and Sauna

On the third deck, right below the sundeck, there was a small fitness room, which included a dry sauna. The gym had a treadmill, two stationary bikes, free weights, and yoga mats that you could bring upstairs to the sundeck. Since biking was such a popular excursion, the fitness room was never crowded. However, if you prefer to bike on land, the crew will happily get bikes down for you to explore on your own, even if you haven’t joined an official bike tour excursion.

Right next to the cruise manager’s desk, off the entry atrium, there is a small library. The library has a selection of books and games that can be borrowed and enjoyed on board.

The lounge offers comfortable indoor and outdoor seating, as well as a full bar. This is where the passengers gather in the evening for the nightly “Sip & Sail” event featuring a complimentary cocktail of the day to listen to a presentation about what to expect the next day. The lounge is also open for bistro dining for lunch or dinner, featuring a subset of the main dining room menu. You can also find a small breakfast buffet in the lounge if you miss breakfast in the main dining room, which was perfect for late risers!

After dinner, local musicians, of varying quality, came on board to perform in the lounge. While beer and wine is complimentary during meals and the evening cocktail hour, there is a charge for drinks after dinner or at off hours. It actually took me until almost the end of the cruise to realize there was a charge because there was always so much wine served with dinner that I never needed anything more if we did stop in to enjoy the entertainment or conversation with new friends.

Main Dining Room

The main dining room on the lower deck is where breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served. Meals are offered at a specific time, but you don’t need to show up exactly on time. For example, if lunch is served at 12:30, you just need to get there with time enough for them to serve before they close or before you need to get to your next excursion.

Likewise, there is not any assigned seating in the dining room. I really appreciated getting to move around and eat with different people each night, or pick a table for two if we wanted some time alone. The servers in the main dining room and the crew throughout the ship were extremely attentive, friendly, and cheerful.

Chef’s Table Restaurant

At the back of the ship on the top deck, there is a small restaurant set aside for the Chef’s Table experience. This is a complimentary offering for all guests once per cruise, but you do need to sign up for it within the first day or two as there is limited space each night. This restaurant offers a seven-course chef’s tasting menu, which is different from the main dining room but it is the same each night so you don’t need to worry about having a different experience depending on when you dine.

See my Instagram Reel about our dinner at the Chef’s Table:

Food & Wine on Board the AmaDolce

I’m going to preface this section by saying that my husband and I are foodies. We enjoy fine dining but even more, we enjoy when fresh, local ingredients can be made to shine. It doesn’t need to be fancy, but we like it to be great quality and well-prepared. So we can be a bit picky or critical when it comes to talking about food and if that isn’t you, take what I say with a grain of salt.

I’ve talked to a lot of people that have done a fair number of river cruises, and many of them said that AmaWaterways offers the best food. So going in, I had high expectations. First of all, we were in France, a country known for its exceptional cuisine. Second, we were on a cruise titled the “Taste of Bordeaux”, which had me expecting a French-trained chef focused on local dishes.

While there were many French-style dishes on the menu throughout the week, this cruise was not a “French food experience”. For that, try a barge cruise (seriously!) That’s not to say the food was bad, but it wasn’t “amazing” (in my mind). It wasn’t quite what I was anticipating, and that is on me, so I’d rather set you off with the right expectations. You need to remember that you are still on a cruise that needs to feed 65-144 people three meals a day in a short period of time.

All that aside, you will NOT go hungry on an AmaWaterways cruise. In fact, I think I offended the waitstaff by not ordering all four courses for lunch and dinner. But I just couldn’t eat all that food! Breakfast was my favorite meal, with a buffet of pastries, breads, cereals, yogurt, and fruit as well as a hot dish. You could also get an omelette or eggs made to order, often by the always-smiling hotel manager.

Lunch and dinner would typically start with a salad, which always had fresh greens and vegetables. This would be followed by a soup course, which I typically skipped because it was often cream-based, but my husband enjoyed them. This was followed up by an entree/appetizer plus main at dinner or just the main course for lunch. The meals were rounded out with a selection of cheese and/or a dessert.

For the main course, there were typically one or two options, with at least one vegetarian option. If none of those were to your liking, there were also some “always available” options like hamburgers, pizza, steak, caesar salad with chicken, or pasta. It was very easy to pick and choose and be quite satisfied. The meals were also paired with local, or at least French, wines. While they weren’t the top, top quality, they were usually quite good, although sometimes served a bit warm and needed chilling.

My only other picky complaint, beyond my too-high expectations, was the butter. I just adore a good French butter with that little bit of sea salt on top to spread on my baguette when I’m in France and sadly, the main dining room just served a commercial grade whipped butter. On our last day we had lunch in Bordeaux at Avant Comptoir du Palais and they served the most amazing French butter with silvers of sea salt throughout and we were in heaven. The bread became just a vessel for more butter.

But hey, at least you know I am honest in my reviews, right?

Bordeaux River Cruise Itinerary

The Taste of Bordeaux river cruise from AmaWaterways starts and leaves from Bordeaux. Even though you have your arrival day and the last day of the cruise to explore the city, I’d highly recommend spending a few extra days because there are so many things to do in Bordeaux. The cruise is a seven night trip and ours boarded on a Thursday afternoon and ended the following Thursday morning.

Getting to Bordeaux is fairly easy. If you are flying from the United States or from outside of France, you can connect through Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris and AmaWaterways will pick you up at the Bordeaux airport. Alternatively, if you are already in France, it is only a two hour train ride from Paris’ Gare Montparnasse to Bordeaux St Jean train station. You can either arrange a transfer from AmaWaterways or take the very affordable city trams to the Chartrons stop right near the dock.

Each AmaWaterways cruise includes all shore excursions, so you don’t need to worry about extra costs. There is typically one excursion per day, either in the morning or afternoon, although sometimes there may be two offered. You can pick from two or three choices for each excursion and the selections can be made via the AmaWaterways mobile app in the month leading up to the cruise. Since our cruise was only half-full, we also didn’t have any trouble switching our excursions as long as we gave 48-hours notice.

The AmaWaterways mobile app is a useful tool throughout the cruise because it is also where you can find the cruise itinerary and the Daily Cruiser. This is similar to the paper newsletter that would be left in your cabin each day, but saves on paper. It lists all the activities and events, as well as meal times and excursion times.

The excursions offered were a mix of bike tours, walking tours, wine tastings, and specific attraction entrance tickets. On the app, each excursion listing gives a full description as well as an activity and difficulty level to help you decide on what to do.

While my husband is a Peloton guy, I don’t love biking as much so I only took one bike tour (he took two) and because we love wine, we opted into many of the wine tastings. We also chose the more active walking tours, versus the “gentle walkers” and took some time in Bordeaux to explore on our own.

Day 1 – Bordeaux

The Taste of Bordeaux river cruise leaves from the city of Bordeaux. Since I was already in France, I spent a few days in Bordeaux exploring the city prior to the cruise, which I highly recommend. However, my husband flew in that day. I was able to drop off my bags after noon and have a light lunch in the lounge until the room was ready. Once the room was ready and my husband arrived, we headed out into town so that I could show him around.

We returned to the ship in time for dinner, where we were invited to dine at the Captain’s table. After dinner we enjoyed time on the sundeck, trying our hand at corn hole and the putting green. Since Glenn was jet lagged, we called it an early night, excited for our first excursion the next day.

Day 2 – Saint Émilion

The ship tayed in Bordeaux overnight and on the morning of the second day we cruised to our first port of Libourne on the Dordogne River. After lunch, we headed out on our excursions. There was an option to bike to a vineyard for a tasting and then get a ride back to the ship, tour a Chateau, or have a walking tour of Saint Émilion with free time after.

We chose the excursion that included a walking tour of Saint Émilion and a wine tasting at Chateau de Pressac , a Grand Cru Classé winemaker. After a short tour of the cellars and the beautiful property, we had an abbreviated wine tasting. Our group then took a driving tour through the Saint Émilion and Pomerol appellations before arriving at the small village of Saint Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the most picturesque villages in France .

The walking tour included the underground monuments such as the monolithic church. We also had free time in town to shop or explore the steep, narrow cobblestone streets. Of course, we ended up in one of the other many, many wine shops that line the streets for another wine tasting and had a great conversation with the staff to learn even more about the region and the vineyards they represented.

See my Instagram Reel overview of Day 2:

Day 3 – Libourne

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The morning of day three was spent exploring Libourne and the nearby wine region of Fronsac. I had originally signed us up for a French market tour and walking tour of Libourne, but when I was debating my choice, Maddy, our fabulous cruise manager suggested that we could easily explore Libourne on our own. So we opted to take a wine tasting tour of Fronsac at Chateau de la Riviere and I’m so glad we did!

Our tour started with a walk through some of the five miles of limestone tunnels under the property that are currently used as wine cellars and event space. When the Chateau was overtaken by the Germans during World War II, the owners sealed off most of the tunnels to protect the wine cellar but also to hide local Jewish families. They left just enough open to fool the Germans and it is a wonderful story of rebellion.

We finished our tasting with a selection of their reds and one rosé, paired with some delicious local cheese. I didn’t want to pay to ship home, but we did purchase a couple of bottles to drink later on our trip and one made it home in our suitcase. It is a shame to not buy more but when the wine is included on board, it just doesn’t pay. I still need to invest in one of those awesome wine suitcases for our future wine travels!

When we got back to the AmaDolce, we still had time to walk into town and explore on our own. The town of Libourne is small enough that you don’t really guide and since we weren’t visiting on a day when there was an outdoor open market, we only would have seen the indoor marketplace anyway (which we walked through on our own, just missed the tastings we may have done on a tour.)

That afternoon, we sailed to the town of Blaye, so Glenn and I took the time to enjoy the ship facilities. First we chilled out in the hot tub and then Glenn hit the gym while I detoxed in the sauna. After a nice rest, we had dinner on board and checked out the evening entertainment of local musicians.

See my Instagram Reel overview of Day 3:

Day 4 – Blaye

On the next day, I decided to finally give the bike tour a try since there was a morning tour that was only about eight miles in total. We started off with a bike ride through the 17th-century Citadel, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The largest of its kind in Europe, the Citadel was built by the famous engineer Sébastien Vauban under the reign of Louis XIV.

We then continued our bike tour through vineyards and past crumbling old chateaux, before returning to the ship on the bike path. The bike ride had a few hills and bumps on the dirt roads through the vineyards, but there were plenty of stops along the way to catch your breath.

Later that afternoon, Glenn took on a much longer and more challenging bike ride from Blaye to the town of Bourg, but I decided to stay on board and take the easy way there. Once in Bourg, the entire ship was invited to a wine celebration in town featuring local entertainers and tastings from many small wine producers. Like I said, not a day went by without some sort of wine tasting!

They also offered a walking tour of Bourg, but since the town was small, we decided to explore on our own so that Glenn had time to shower and rest a bit after his long ride.

See my Instagram Reel overview of Day 4:

Day 5 – Medoc

Overnight, we sailed back to Bordeaux since our docking spot near Medoc was taken over by a children’s summer camp. On a river cruise, you do need to be a bit flexible with the itinerary as they may make adjustments to accommodate for water levels and incoming tides. We then took a coach bus on a bit of a long ride (around an hour) to Château Gruaud Larose in Medoc on the left bank of Bordeaux for a tasting of Grand Cru wines. 

I should mention that most of our excursions, outside of the bike tours or walking tours that left from the ship, started with a luxury coach ride. While the coaches are large, we often only had 6-15 people on our excursions, so it wasn’t like those giant tour groups following the umbrella-carrying guides. For the walking tours, they did provide what they call “Quiet Voxes” in each stateroom, along with a wired earpiece. These were used to allow everyone to easily hear the guide. Luckily our groups were small enough and our hearing good enough that we rarely needed them.

We also had the same few English-speaking local guides throughout the trip, depending on what excursion you pick. The guides were friendly, funny, and informative — no complaints about any of the staff we encountered on our AmaWaterways cruise.

Château Gruaud Larose is one of the largest producers in Medoc and the visit started with a climb up the tower that overlooks the vineyards, followed by a visit through the wine cellars and production areas. We finished up with a fabulous tasting — it was easy to see why their wines are pricey (as are most in Medoc.) Following the tasting, we drove past some of the other famous wine estates in the region including Château Latour, Château Mouton Rothschild, Château Lafite Rothschild and Château Pichon Longueville. I wish we could have gotten out to take pictures at more or had other tastings, but that is something you can do easier if you are self-driving.

That evening we enjoyed a fabulous dinner at the Chef’s Table restaurant, paired with lots of terrific wines. We moved the party over to the lounge to enjoy that evening’s fun entertainment, which was a one-man show of classic rock tunes.

See my Instagram Reels overview of Day 5:

Day 6 – Cadillac

Overnight, we sailed to the town of Cadillac. In the morning, we boarded the coach to visit the impressive Castle of Roquetaillade. This amazingly preserved masterpiece of medieval military architecture has been owned by the same noble family for 700 years. Alternatively, we could have gone wine tasting to the Sauternes wine region, but since neither of us are fans of sweet wines, we chose the castle instead.

After returning to town, we had a guided walking tour of the town of Cadillac and Chateau de Cadillac, which was built in 1599 by the Duke of Epernon, a favorite of Henry III, and contains special rooms for the King and Queen. The castle was later transformed into a jail for women from 1820 to 1952 and you can visit the grim cells on the top floor as well, which is quite a contrast to the grandeur below.

There was then a little time to explore the small town of Cadillac, but I admit that there isn’t a lot else to see in Cadillac, Bourg, or Blaye. Unlike Libourne or certainly Bordeaux, the shopping and sights are fairly limited. We needed to get back on board though because the ship needed to leave dock in time for the tidal bore. Between June and October, the tidal bore is a strong wave that happens at the change of low tide to high tide. On a good day, surfers can ride the tidal bore for quite some distance. While it isn’t a tall wave, it is strong so the river boat captains need to plan and maneuver around it.

See my Instagram Reel overview for Day 6:

Day 7 – Bordeaux

On the last full day of our Bordeaux river cruise, it was finally time to explore the capital of the wine world, Bordeaux, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and classified as a “City of Art and History.” The morning offered a choice between a bike tour or a walking tour and both ended with a visit to the indoor Les Halles de Bacalan market for a tasting of local specialties. I was a little nervous about biking through the city, especially after staying there for a few days previously and observing the aggressive bike culture.

However, our walking tour was a little disappointing as half of it was a coach tour through the city and the walking portion didn’t see many of the sites. I’m sure this was to minimize how far people had to walk, but I was really happy to have explored on my own because we only saw the best sites out of the window of the bus. If I was to do it again, I’d either take the bike tour or just explore on my own using the tram system and walking around.

Since I loved the city so much, we decided to skip lunch on the ship and spend more time in the city on our own. In the afternoon, there were two excursions to chose from. Either a visit to the immersive and interactive Bordeaux Wine Museum, housed in an awe-inspiring building, or enjoy a spectacular sound and interactive art exhibit at Les Bassins des Lumières, a World War II era submarine station. I thought the Cité du Vin would be the better option for wine lovers, so I actually visited Les Bassins des Lumières earlier in the week.

The Cité du Vin is a very impressive incorporation of technology to educate about wine and various wine regions around the world but to be honest, I found it a little overwhelming. I think I would have preferred something that had a more cohesive timeline or story telling. It was also very crowded (pre-purchasing tickets is recommended), likely because there was a large ocean liner in port as well. We only spent about an hour going through the exhibits before we headed up to the top observatory for a wine tasting with a view (this is a separate fee but included in our ticket.)

On the flip side, I absolutely LOVED the interactive art exhibit at Les Bassins des Lumieres. When I visited, it was a Dali and Gaudi exhibit set primarily to the sounds of Pink Floyd. I loved the way the music reverberated through the concrete building and the digital art projections reflected in the water below. Personally, I’d recommend this excursion over the Cité du Vin but not everyone felt the same.

The day ended with a special festive Captain’s Dinner, where everyone got a little more dressed up for the evening. After dinner, the AmaDolce headed out on the river for a special illumination cruise to see the lights of Bordeaux at night. It was a lovely end to our Bordeaux river cruise!

The next morning, it was time to leave the AmaDolce but we weren’t quite ready to leave France! Glenn and I took the train down the coast to the seaside resort town of Biarritz for a few days. We had a wonderful time aboard the AmaDolce and I would love to try another river cruise one day. Perhaps the Christmas Markets cruise, the Grand Danube, or maybe even a Nile River cruise.

See my Instagram Reel overview of Day 7:

How Much Does a Bordeaux River Cruise Cost?

The seven-night Taste of Bordeaux cruise on AmaWaterways currently starts at $2500 to $4300 per person, depending on the time of year and what discounts and specials are currently available. Unlike some big ship cruises, an AmaWaterways cruise includes all shore excursions, WiFi, and beer, wine, and soft drinks during meals and happy hour, as well as signature cocktails during the evening Sip and Sail events.

Gratuities and port fees are not included. Recommended gratuities are $50 per person for the cruise manager and $50-100 per person for the rest of the crew (combined.) It is also recommended that you tip tour guides 2€ and coach drivers 1€ for each excursion.

To get a quote, please contact AmaWaterways.

What to Wear on a River Cruise

If you are wondering what to wear on a river cruise, I have put together a complete printable packing list for river cruises . However, there are a few things that I would recommend:

• Comfortable, athletic clothing for bike tours
• Sundresses or short-sleeve button up or golf shirts and shorts for wine tastings and walking tours
• Comfortable walking shoes that are suitable for cobblestones
• Fresh dresses, skirts, pants, and button-up or golf shirts for dinner
• One dressier outfit for the Captain’s dinner
• A light jacket for evenings on the deck
• A sunhat or ball cap to protect from the sun during the day
• A bathing suit for the hot tub or sauna

Interested in Cruising?

• Cruising through Burgundy on a France barge cruise
• What to pack for a European river cruise
• Barge cruise on the Canal du Midi with European Waterways
• How to plan a girls’ trip cruise

Tamara is an over 50, award-winning travel writer, and recent empty nester based in Rhode Island. After years of writing about family travel on We3Travel and inspiring wanderlust as co-host of the Vacation Mavens family travel podcast, she started Your Time to Fly as a place to share ideas for girlfriend getaways, romantic escapes, and solo female travel for midlife women.

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Châteaux, Rivers & Wine

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Châteaux, Rivers & Wine Map

Explore Bordeaux like never before

Discover the ports, vineyards, farms and forests of Aquitaine, once Europe’s richest kingdom. See Bordeaux’s fountains and cellars. Hunt for truffles in Périgord, and create your own personal blend of Cognac at the Camus distillery. Savor France’s finest oysters fresh from the bay at Arcachon. Sip Saint-Émilion, Médoc and Sauternes in their own “ terroir”  on an 8-day cruise through Bordeaux—a region synonymous with fine wine and finer living.

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One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call

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Embark on a lunch or dinner cruise on the Garonne aboard our Sicambre restaurant boat. Les Bateaux Bordelais offer you a table on the river to share a special moment. Our menus are prepared on board by our chef and his brigade around regional southwest cuisine using fresh, seasonal products.

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Cast off and sail to discover the cultural heritage of Bordeaux. Our boat trips offer you a guided tour of the city while sharing the pleasure of sailing with a drink in hand. At aperitif time or for a family stroll, take the time for an unforgettable river cruise.

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The Cap sur le Bec cruise is making a comeback!

A unique 4-hour lunch cruise, discovering the bec d’ambès.

Discover the confluence between Dordogne and Garonne during a lunch cruise, cooked on board by our Chef. Our guide will tell you the history of the river and its inhabitants!

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Aboard our fleet, organize an immersive study day, an original seminar or a management committee: our cruises on the Garonne offer the perfect setting for unforgettable moments. Our teams are at your disposal to organize your tailor-made professional event!

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The only restaurant boat in Bordeaux, the Sicambre offers meal cruises on the Garonne all year round. On board, our chef and his team showcase New Aquitaine in authentic cuisine based on fresh produce. With a capacity of up to 250 guests, Sicambre is also an exceptional venue in Bordeaux for the organization of private or professional events.

The latest in river tourism in Bordeaux, Sirius was designed and built with the most modern technologies in terms of sustainable development. Come and enjoy a unique 360° experience on the Garonne and fully appreciate the many Bordeaux monuments. Can be privatized, this boat can accommodate you for a cocktail, an evening, a seminar or a simple transfer.

Board our boat trip to discover the city from its river. Our guides tell you the history of Bordeaux, closely linked to that of wine. Our “Apéro Bord’O”, in the company of winegrowers, are also great opportunities to enjoy a drink along the water!

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Cruise through the Aquitaine Region from Bordeaux to Royan, along the Gironde Estuary and the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers

BORDEAUX - CUSSAC-FORT-MEDOC - ROYAN - Rochefort - La Rochelle - LIBOURNE(1) - Saint-Emilion - CADILLAC - Arcachon - BORDEAUX

This magnificent itinerary will take you to the heart of Southwestern France, well known for its idyllic landscapes, famous wines, historical monuments, and emblematic sites.

What better way to explore this corner of French paradise than through its longstanding maritime cities and its unequivocal art of living?

CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS

• The Médoc Wine Route
• The charming, retro city of Royan
• Rochefort and the Corderie Royale
• The seaside city of La Rochelle
• Arcachon Bay and the Dune of Pilat

THE CROISIEUROPE DIFFERENCE

• All meals included - DRINKS INCLUDED with meals and at the bar
• Refined French cuisine - Gala dinner and evening - Welcome cocktail
• Free Wi-Fi onboard
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Passengers are welcome to board our ship at 6 p.m. After comfortably settling into your cabins, we’ll introduce our crew at a welcome cocktail and enjoy our first evening together. Our ship will begin to cruise to Cussac-Fort-Médoc. We’ll begin on the Garonne River, before entering the Gironde River, where we’ll pass the islands of Cazeau and Patiras before reaching Cussac-Fort-Médoc.

This morning, join us on a CLASSIC / DISCOVERY excursions: Tour through the Médoc vineyards(only on pre-booking before departure). 

CLASSIC / DISCOVERY excursion: Royan, guided tour on foot.

Join us for an evening of dinner and dancing.

Excursion for both packages: The seaside cities of Rochefort and La Rochelle. We’ll leave by coach for Rochefort. Rochefort was originally chosen by Jean-Baptiste Colbert as a refuge, defense, and supply post for the French Navy back in the mid-1660s. We’ll stop  for lunch in a local restaurant. The over 1,000-year-old city of La Rochelle is the capital of the Charente Maritime. It’s tucked along the Bay of Biscay and contains some of the most beautiful natural and architectural heritage in the area. Enjoy some free time before returning to the ship. After we return on board, we’ll spend the rest of our day cruising up the Dordogne to Libourne.   

This morning, we offer two excursions:

CLASSIC: Saint-Émilion. DISCOVERY: Libourne by bike and wine tasting*.

We’ll return to the ship in Libourne and spend the afternoon cruising to Bordeaux.

We’ll cruise along the Garonne, getting a good glimpse of Bordeaux from the water as we continue on to Cadillac. This morning, we offer two excursions:   

CLASSIC: a visit to the magnificent and prestigious Château de Roquetaillade.

DISCOVERY: Gourmet market in Cadillac.

We’ll spend the afternoon cruising to Bordeaux, and we’ll arrive during the evening. Tonight is our festive gala evening.

Excursion for both packages: To the center of Arcachon Bay. Departure by coach from Bordeaux for the Bassin d'Arcachon. We will start our tour with a boat trip on the Bassin d'Arcachon. You'll be able to see the Bird Island, the famous "Cabanes tchanquées" houses on stilts and the oyster beds. Free time in Arcachon. We will have lunch in a local restaurant. In the afternoon, we will go to the Great Dune of Pilat. Culminating at 107m, it is the highest sand dune in Europe. The view from the top is awe-inspiring. Return to Bordeaux at the end of the day.

This morning, we offer two excursions: 

CLASSIC: The Chartrons District, Wine and Commerce Museum.

DISCOVERY: The Bassins des Lumières.

Lunch will be served on board. Enjoy some free time on your own in the city this afternoon.

Join us for dinner and an evening of entertainment.  

Enjoy breakfast on board this morning before disembarking at 9:00 a.m. End of our services.

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Formalities Some administrative formalities to take into account in order to prepare your trip

For optimal organization of your cruise, the order of the excursions can be modified according to the tides.

(1) Depending on mooring availability, the stopover in Libourne may be replaced by a stopover in Bourg.

*Alcohol can be dangerous to your health. Please drink in moderation.   

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The 10 finest French river cruises to take this year

T he problem with river cruising is that you often get blindsided by “star rivers”. There are several iconic waterways around the globe that just must be travelled, but benefits can be found if you shop around. Nowhere is this truer than in France .

A short ferry, train or plane ride lets you explore the châteaux of the Loire and the wonders of Paris on Seine, while a trip down the Rhône brings you Van Gogh’s favourite café and the opportunity to dance “sur le Pont d’Avignon”, for a small fee.

The trouble is, stars come with crowds, so looking beyond the obvious is a good idea. I defy anyone to gaze at the roof of the Hospices de Beaune on the Saône and not be mesmerised by its geometrical beauty, or walk the streets of Strasbourg on the Ill and not believe you’re back in medieval times. Sail the great rivers, of course, but don’t forget the little guys.

1. The Seine 

The Bayeux Tapestry is one of the highlights of this cruise with a personal commentary on the 1066 Norman invasion as you move along its length. The Cathedral in Bayeux is also worth a visit, as is that of Rouen , the ancient capital of Normandy .

A visit to the D-Day beaches at Arromanches is soothed by walking around the harbour at Honfleur, with its narrow five story houses that seem to have been squashed together like the keys on a piano. Do try the local Calvados.

Riviera Travel (01283 893924: rivieratravel.co.uk ) has the 8 day ‘The Seine, Paris and Normandy River’ cruise from £2,229 per person. Price includes Flights/Eurostar, Free wifi and drink/beverages package. Calling at Paris, Giverny, Rouen, Caudebec. Departs 2024 23 rd September.  

2. The Gironde, Dordogne and Garonne

Bordeaux is a world capital of wine , so as you might expect, names normally associated with supermarket shelves such as Saint-Emilion and Cadillac are part of this cruise. Entered through one of its seven medieval gates, St Emilion has a charming cobblestone village where Grands Crus Classé wines and beautiful architecture are a perfect match.

Similarly, part of the central square in Libourne is surrounded by the traditional arcades and is especially lively on market days. At Blaye, Vauban’s 17 th century citadel is a military masterpiece complete with village and ramparts to explore. 

Scenic (0161 516 5548; scenic.co.uk ) has the 8 day ‘Bordeaux Affair’ cruise from £2,532 per person. Price includes Flights, Free wifi and drink/beverages package. Calling at Bordeaux, Lilbourne, Blaye, Cadillac, Bordeaux. Departs 2024 11 th October.  

3. The Rhône, Saone and Seine

Exploring France by travelling on three of its rivers, with extended stays at ports of call to explore their hinterland, is a great way to truly discover the country. This cruise offers a private, after dark concert in Rouen’s cathedral and a visit to the Normandy beaches. 

You’ll also lock eyes on the towering 2,000-year-old Pont du Gard Roman aqueduct and view the private rooms at Versailles as Marie Antoinette saw them. In Beaune, taste local camembert along with some of the world’s finest Chardonnay wines, and in Giverny, take a stroll through Monet’s beautiful garden at the house where the painter lived for over 40 years.

Uniworld (0808 168 9231; uniworld.com/uk ) has the 15 day ‘Grand France’ cruise from £5,849 per person. Price includes flights, free wifi and drink/beverages package. Calling at Arles, Avignon, Viviers, Lyon, Mâcon , Rouen, Paris. Departs 2025 23 rd March.                                                       

Technically, you’ll see more of Germany than France on this journey, but the River Ill, which surrounds the Unesco-listed Grande Île at the centre of Strasbourg, is worth an honourable mention.

The pink-sandstone facade of the Gothic-style Strasbourg Cathedral, with its cache of ancient murals and astronomical clock, looms large. Canals branch off from the main river course creating scenic walkways and bridges, adding to the allure of the ancient cityscape. Explore the red, half timbered houses of Bernkastel and play spot the castle as you sail further south along the Rhine Valley.

Avalon Waterways (0330 0588243; avalonwaterways.co.uk ) has the 11 day ‘Rhine and Mosel (Southbound)’ cruise from £3,620 per person. Price includes return flights, rail travel, free wines and beers. Calling at Amsterdam , Cologne, Kobelenz, Speyer, Strasbourg, Breisach, Basel. Departs 2024 9th October.  

5. The Yonne and Loing

The waters of the Yonne north of Paris are too shallow for bigger boats, so this cruise lets you experience a quieter slice of French history and life. The Cathedral Saint-Etienne in Sens was one of the first gothic cathedrals to be built in France, while Moret-Loing-et-Orvanne lets you visit the grandeur and magnificence of Fontainebleau. Barbizon has a fascinating eponymous art museum and the studios of Rousseau and Millet, who lived and worked here.

Great Railway Journeys (01904 734 152; greatrail.com ) has the 7 day ‘Waterways of The Yonne, Paris and The Petite Seine by Barge’ cruise from £2,595 per person.

Price includes return rail travel from London, free wifi and drinks package. Calling at Paris, Melun, Barbizon, Moret-Loing-et-Orvanne and Sens. Departs 2024 4th September.  

6. The Rhône and Saône

There is something magical about Arles. Not just that you can sit in the café where Van Gogh watched the world go by then walk a few yards to explore the virtually intact Roman amphitheatre, but the slow pace of life is all around.

Perched on the banks of the Saône, Mâcon has a café-lined promenade, while an overnight stay in Lyon lets you enjoy the city’s best restaurants and watering holes. At Avignon, you can explore the Palais des Papes as well as the huge indoor market to pick up Provençal snacks. 

Newmarket Holidays (0333 060 1339; newmarketholidays.co.uk ) has the 7 night  ‘Rhône, Burgundy and Provence cruise’ from £2,340 per person. Price includes flights, free wifi, premium all-inclusive drinks package. Calling at Chalon-sur-Saone, Mâcon, Lyon, Avignon, Arles, La Voulte-sur-Rhône. Departs 2024  14th September.  

7. Canal du Midi

The Mediterranean section of the 18 th century-built Canal du Midi is often referred to as both a technical innovation and a work of art. Between Portiragnes to Béziers alone, you’ll cross an aqueduct over the River Orb and ascend a seven-lock flight of unique, oval gateways. With a visit to the double walled city of Carcassonne and also Pézenas, Languedoc’s ancient capital, a truffle hunt, a private wine tasting and passing through Europe’s oldest canal tunnel, this cruise lets you get under the skin of Provence.

European Waterways (01753 598555; europeanwaterways.com ) has the 6-night ‘Classic Canal du Midi cruise’ from £4,850 per person. Price includes local transfers, all meals with wines on board, a 24/7 open bar, excursions/admittance fees as per the itinerary, bicycles and spa pool. Calling at Marseillan, Portiragnes, Béziers, Capestang, Sallèles d’Aude, Le Somail. Departs 2024 22nd September.  

8. The Saône 

Passing through Burgundy — a wine region that needs no introduction — this cruise lets you visit walled towns including Beaune with its beautiful 14 th century hospices complete with glazed tile roof and Tournus, which in turn offers its remarkable Romanesque Abbey Saint-Philibert. You’ll berth at towns that reverberate with the names found on sought after red wine labels, finally arriving at the culinary and architectural box of delights that is Lyon.

AmaWaterways (0800 520 2250; amawaterways.co.uk ) has the 7 night ‘Flavours of Burgundy Cruise’ from £2,754 per person based on a Cat E Stateroom. Price includes flights from London or Manchester and savings of £1,000 per couple.  Calling at Dijon, Seurre, Chalon-sur-Saône, Tournus, Mâcon, Lyon. Departs 2025 27th March.  

9. The Loire  

The chateaux of the Loire will always be a draw, and while this cruise has an all-day excursion to discover them, Nantes is a jewel in its own right. The castle of the Dukes of Brittany, giant mechanical elephants — yes really — and taking coffee in La Cigale,  the wonderful 19 th century Belle Epoch Brasserie, are essential sites to tick off.

Explore Angers with its Terra Botanica, a plant-themed amusement park, the Château d’Angers and its Apocalypse Tapestry and the museum of St Nazaire. The 96-guest MS Loire Princess adds to the experience as a luxury paddle steamer designed specifically for the river. 

CroisieEurope (01756 691269; croisieurope.co.uk ) has the 6 day ‘The Loire Valley, a Royal Legacy Cruise’ from £1,752 per person, including all meals, drinks and return flights from London Gatwick and overseas transfers. Calling at St Nazaire, Nantes, Anciens, Chalonnes-sur-Loire, Nantes. Departs 2024 23 rd  July.  

10. The Rhône and Rhine

This cruise offers something special. The chance to experience and compare the Provençal lifestyle of Arles with the Franco-German culture of Strasbourg. In essence a cultural journey along the Rhône and the Rhine. Explore Avignon’s grand Palace of the Popes and Cologne’s majestic cathedral, both Unesco sites.

Savour Lyon’s rich culinary traditions and the Rhineland’s hearty flavours and admire the landscapes that inspired Van Gogh in the Netherlands and Provence.

Viking (0800 319 66 60; vikingrivercruises.co.uk ) has the 14 day ‘Lyon, Provence and The Rhineland’ from £5,390 per person. Price includes all meals, drinks and return flights from Gatwick and overseas transfers. Calling at Avignon, Arles, Viviers, Tournon, Vienne , Lyon, Burgundy, Basel, Breisach, Strasbourg, Speyer, Rudesheim. Departs 2025 21st May.  

If you’re travelling by Eurostar , many cruise companies now offer regional airport and train station departures. Therefore, the price mentioned on the website can be different to what you actually pay. Plus offers come and go, so it’s always a good idea to look around before you book.

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