Itinerary

Bordeaux, Pauillac, Cussac Fort Medoc, Blaye-Bourg, Libourne, Bordeaux

Description

Pricing based on departure date: 25 August 2026

Selected departure dates available in July and August 2026. 

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

Bordeaux

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

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

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

This evening, enjoy a very special scenic sailing in Bordeaux.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BORDEAUX

Bordeaux - Pauillac

On the Steps of Montesquieu

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

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

Discovery Excursion
Join a guided visit with wine tasting at a local wine estate. Sip the sweet notes and fresh acidity of Sauternes, the beloved golden-yellow wine.
This evening, enjoy live entertainment on board your Suite Ship®.

Cussac Fort Medoc

Bikes, Vines, and Wines

This morning, enjoy a leisurely sailing to Cussac Fort Médoc

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

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

Discovery Excursion
Join a guided tour to discover the culture and traditions of the southern Médoc region at one of Margaux' beautiful château and enjoy a wine tasting, OR:

Classic Excursion
Take a scenic drive through the famed Médoc wine country and enjoy a tasting of their wonderful wines, with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon as protagonists.
This evening, enjoy a brief sailing to Blaye.

Blaye - Bourg

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

Ask your Adventure Host for today’s special activities.

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

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

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

Relaxing afternoon sailing on the Dordogne River to Bourg.

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

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

Libourne, Excursion to Saint-Emilion

The Village Amid the Vineyards

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

Classic Excursion
Join a guided tour of the medieval village of Saint-Émilion—a UNESCO World Heritage site of legends and legendary landscapes, OR:

Take an orientation walking tour to discover the history and beauty of Libourne, where wine and wonderful views are cherished in the 12th-century fortified town.

Discovery Excursion
Onboard lecture about WWII hosted by a history expert.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux Sights and Brilliant Lights

Join your Adventure Host for today’s special activities.

Discovery Excursion
While sailing to Bordeaux, enjoy a pastry demonstration.

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

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