BRILLIANT BORDEAUX
Overview
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.
Included/Excluded
- 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, 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
- 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 Wi-Fi
- 1 country: France
- 3 UNESCO World Heritage sites
- Cultural enrichment, including captivating onboard local entertainment
- Services of an experienced Uniworld Cruise Manager
- Gratuities for onboard personnel (ship staff, crew, Cruise/Tour Manager) are included during the cruise/tour
Day 1: 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.
Day 2: Cussac Fort Médoc, Pauillac
- 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.
- In the evening, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.
Included Excursion:
- Freah Medoc Oysters Tasting
Select your choice of these excursion which operate at the same time:
- Médoc Châteaux Route with Private Wine Tasting OR Let’s Go: Bike in the Medoc Vineyards
Day 3: Cadillac
- 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.
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.
Select your choice of these excursion which operate at the same time:
- Private Owner’s Tour of Royal Chateau with Sauternes Toast OR The Colorful Life of Toulouse-Lautrec
Day 4: 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.
Included Excursion:
- Bourg Sur Gironde Stroll
Select your choice of these excursion which operate at the same time:
- Intimate Experience with Local Wine & Art Connoisseurs OR Panoramas of Route de la Corniche Fleurie with Blaye Fortress
Day 5: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.
Include Excursion:
- Saint-Emilion Walking Tour with Wine Tasting
Day 6: 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.
Included Excursion:
- Village Day: Libourne with Farmer’s Market
- Nights Out: After Hours at the Bassins des Lumieres
Day 7: Bordeaux
- 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.
Select your choice of these excursion which operate at the same time:
- Do as the locals do: Bordeaux Walking Tour
- Let’s Go: Bike Bordeaux Backstreets
Day 8: 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.
