Summary
Short description
Explore Bordeaux and its picturesque surrounds on this all-inclusive scenic Uniworld river cruise
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Highlights
- Experience all-inclusive luxury on the S.S. Bon Voyage
- See the stunning Route de la Corniche Fleurie
- Enjoy a wine-pairing lunch at a remarkable 14th-century fortress
- Explore historic Saint-Émilion, the first UNESCO-protected wine region
- Choose from included bicycle or walking tours in charming Bordeaux
In Brief
- 1 Night Bordeaux
- 1 Night Libourne
- 1 Night Pauillac
- 1 Night Cadillac
- 1 Night Libourne
- 2 Nights Bordeaux
In pictures
About
Recommended for:
Escorted tour | Food & wine | History & culture | May holidays | River cruise
This luxury river cruise will showcase the very best of the Bordeaux region. From gourmet wine-paired meals at grand fortresses to scenic bicycle tours of vibrant city streets, there's so much to this journey than just the ship itself – although it is spectacular. Tour farmers markets for fresh produce, visit vineyards in the fertile Médoc region and take in panoramic views of the Gironde and the Dordogne – it's all included. And, onboard the ship, there's everything from an infinity pool to a champagne bar to keep you busy.
Day by day itinerary
Day
1
UK to Bordeaux
Enjoy included airport lounge access before your flight to Bordeaux where included transfers will see you to your luxury river ship. The SS Bon Voyage docks in the heart of Bordeaux, and you may have time to explore the city's busy food markets or the Saint-Michel flea market before boarding the ship. Once onboard, relax in the comfort of your elegant stateroom, complete with handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England bed. Tonight, choose from one of the restaurants onboard, serving classic cuisine inspired by the region.
Stay: S.S. Bon Voyage
Meals: D
Day
2
Blaye, Bourg-sur-Gironde, the Dordogne River, Libourne
Today, the ship will sail across an estuary lined with grassy marshlands, limestone cliffs and tiny fishing huts. You'll take a scenic tour to Blaye Fortress, via the Route de la Corniche Fleurie, past peaceful hamlets and vibrant floral displays. In the afternoon, the ship continues on to the Bourg-sur-Gironde, where you'll have time at leisure to explore. A steep climb up a stone staircase above the riverbanks reveals panoramic views of the Gironde and the Dordogne. The Moorish villa and medieval gates are also worth a visit. Tonight, perhaps enjoy a nightcap or two in the Salon Champagne before retiring to your room.
Stay: S.S. Bon Voyage
Meals: B L D
Day
3
Cruising the Garonne River and Gironde Estuary, Pauillac
As the ship navigates the waters of the Garonne River and Gironde Estuary, the fertile Médoc region awaits, dotted with pretty chateaux and lush vineyards. Take a guided bicycle ride from Pauillac, followed by a curated tasting at a wine estate, or drive to the tip of the peninsula, taking in the endless scenery. And, while the sun is out, spend some time on the Soleil Deck, soaking in the only infinity pool on the river.
Stay: SS Bon Voyage
Meals: B L D
Day
4
Cadillac
The wine-tastings continue today with a visit to Cadillac, home of dessert wine. You'll meet a local Sauternes producer at one of the region's finest estates, where you'll have the chance to sample the very best. It's followed by a wine-pairing lunch at a remarkable 14th-century fortress – Château de Cazeneuve, splendid in its unique polygonal form. And, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner await you onboard the ship this evening.
Stay: S.S. Bon Voyage
Meals: B L D
Day
5
Libourne (Saint-Émilion)
From Libourne you'll have the chance to head to historic Saint-Émilion, the first UNESCO-protected wine region, dating back to Roman times. Its steep, cobblestone walkways are dotted with wine boutiques and bakeries selling delicate almond macaroons. Among the medieval architecture and imposing buildings you'll find a spectacular 12th-century rock-hewn church extending underneath the city – indeed Saint-Émilion's catacombs are well worth exploring. And, before you return to the ship, enjoy a wine tasting in the cellars of a premier Grand Cru estate.
Stay: S.S. Bon Voyage
Meals: B L D
Day
6
Libourne, Cruising the Garonne River, Bordeaux
Visit a local farmers market today to discover the secret to the region's world-class wines and fresh produce – the terroir, perfect for grape-growing. After more time spent cruising the Garonne, you'll arrive back in Bordeaux. An evening walking tour under the stars showcases a different side to the city. And, back onboard perhaps enjoy an intimate food and wine pairing meal at La Cave des Vins – available on request.
Stay: S.S. Bon Voyage
Meals: B L D
Day
7
Bordeaux
You now have plenty of time to uncover the best of Bordeaux, from the Gothic Cathédrale Saint-André to the Musée des Beaux-Arts. Here, a blend of classical and neoclassical architecture have earned the city a UNESCO World Heritage listing, and there's plenty to see – with two included tours to choose from. A “Do as the Locals Do” walking tour covers the many highlights, while a bicycle excursion means covering more ground, taking you past the public gardens on the river quays and the grand Place de la Bourse. On your return to the ship, a special Captain’s Farewell Reception and dinner is a fitting end to the trip.
Stay: S.S. Bon Voyage
Meals: B L D
Day
8
Bordeaux to UK
Today you'll disembark the ship where you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home.
Meals: B
Map
Pricing
Any element of this cruise can be adjusted to suit your needs. Just contact us to find out more.
Prices
8-day luxury river cruise
from £2,445 pp incl. flights
Save up to 30% on selected departure dates
Book by: 31 January 2025
Special offer
- Save up to 30% on selected departure dates in 2025
- Save up to 20% on selected departure dates in 2026
Includes:
- Return scheduled flights from the UK to Bordeaux
- Shared airport transfers to/from ship
- 7-night luxury river cruise aboard SS Bon Voyage
- All gratuities onboard and onshore
- In-suite butler service
- Delicious onboard dining and unlimited beverages (including many premium spirits and wines)
- A variety of excursions led by English-speaking local experts
- Bicycles and Nordic walking sticks for onshore use
- Shipwide internet and wi-fi access
- Onboard entertainment and signature lectures
As an alterative to flying you can also take this itinerary with Eurostar and SNCF from London St Pancras station to Bordeaux (no transfers are included from Bordeaux station to the ship and back it taking this option.
Price varies by departure date and stateroom availability, please call for details.
Departures most Sundays from March to October.
Terms & Conditions: Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin/double room; prices are subject to availability and possible change; normal booking conditions apply.
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