12-Day Cruise from Paris to Bordeaux

August 6 - AUgust 17, 2019 

starting at $6,870* Per person

In fact, the reality of Bordeaux is not that different from the romantic impression most people have of it. Extraordinary landscapes, delicious fare prepared with a finesse characteristic of the French, winemaking that has been refined to an art, and a wealth of historical riches, from elegant châteaux to churches that have been around for longer than most of the new world. Visit Grand Cru Class wine estates, explore the Cognac region and sample its famous brandy, or fresh oysters from the waters of Arcachon Bay. You’ll find that beautiful Bordeaux is everything you imagined it to be, and more.

Itinerary

Day 1, Paris – EMBARKATION

Raise your glass to the marvelous cruise ahead of you at this evening’s welcome reception. Your journey into wonder is about to begin.

Day 2, Paris > Bordeaux

Traverse the landscapes of the Loire Valley aboard the TGV train to Bordeaux. Your friendly crew will welcome you on board the luxurious Scenic Diamond for your cruise through France’s southwestern pocket.

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 3, Bordeaux > Saint-Émilion

Enjoy a relaxing morning on board as you cruise into the beautiful 13th century port of Libourne. While cruising, perhaps drop into Scenic Culinaire for a French cooking class. Spend the afternoon in the nearby town of Saint-Émilion, a visual feast and the jewel of this ancient wine growing region. You’ll also get to explore the underground catacombs of the Monolithic Church – a true trip highlight.

Sundowners

Celebrate the 2,000-year history of wine by enjoying a glass at the estate of Château de la Rivière. Surrounded by the vines, mingle with newfound friends, explore the spectacular property, or discover the artistic heritage of this region and admire a local artist painting the stunning landscape using paint made from the wine grown on the estate.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4, Libourne > Pauillac

During your afternoon at leisure, opt to enhance your culinary prowess in Scenic Culinaire or simply take in the riverside panoramas while cruising to Pauillac.

Freechoice

Enjoy a guided tour of Libourne and view its quaint 16th century town-houses and Gothic church. Alternatively, explore the exclusive estate of Château Franc Mayne and taste its Grand Cru Class wine, or view the eclectic city of Bergerac and enjoy a foie gras tasting at a charming local farm.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5, Médoc

Freechoice: Travel the scenic Médoc wine route and discover why this region is viewed as the world’s leading red wine producer. Afterwards, sample the region’s finest at the Château Gruaud-Larose estate. Alternatively, cycle through the region to a local château and sample delicious wine produced on the estate.

Enrich
Set in spectacular surrounds in the Médoc countryside, Château Agassac is truly enchanting. Dating back to the 13th century, the Château is one of the oldest winemaking establishments in the region and is the venue for your unforgettable evening concert. Soak in the ambience of this magnificent property as live musicians perform classical masterpieces for your exclusive enjoyment.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6, Pauillac > Cadillac

Soak in the vistas as you cruise on board the luxurious Scenic Diamond past the picturesque landscapes of the Garonne River into Cadillac, some of the most beautiful scenic cruising in the Bordeaux region. While on board, you may choose to further develop your cooking skills with a lesson in Scenic Culinaire. Tonight, this remarkable space comes to life when fabulous local entertainers perform live in the Panorama Lounge for your exclusive enjoyment.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7, Cadillac

Freechoice: This morning, venture into the Sauternes region for a tasting of the prestigious Château Guiraud dessert wines. Alternatively, cycle through the rolling vineyards of Sauternes to the Grand Cru Class estate of Château Myrat for a tasting.

Freechoice: This afternoon visit Roquetaillade Castle; founded by Charlemagne, it’s one of the region’s most impressive historic sites, and you’ll tour it with the family that now lives within its walls. Alternatively, visit a truffle farm and sample the delicious regional delicacy, or perhaps enjoy a 12 kilometre roundtrip hike from Cadillac to the village of Loupiac.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8, Bordeaux

Spend the afternoon at leisure to immerse yourself in the culture of the Bordelais. Enjoy a special dinner on board showcasing regional delicacies before an illuminations cruise on the Garonne River. A fabulous local soloist will perform live in the Panorama Lounge to round off a magical evening.

Freechoice

Shop with a Chef at a local food market and cook up a storm in Scenic Culinaire afterwards (seasonal option, will be replaced with panoramic city tour when not available). Or, enjoy a guided tour of Bordeaux and her many attractions. For the more energetic, cycle the historic regions of Bordeaux. Cross beautiful bridges to witness sites such as the Royal Gate and the Palais Rohan, before cycling through public gardens back to the luxury of your floating hotel.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9, Arcachon > Bourg

Situated on the northern tip of Europe’s longest coastal beach, Arcachon is the jewel of France’s western coastline.

Later, take a leisurely cruise into Bourg, perhaps join a masterclass in French cooking in Scenic Culinaire. Tonight enjoy a lively jazz performance on board.

Freechoice

Journey to Arcachon and join a walking tour including a visit to the local Baltard market. Or climb Europe’s largest sand dune and take in the expansive panoramas. Alternatively, stay in Bordeaux and take a local tram to the Cité du Vin museum and enjoy an interactive journey of wine discovery. This afternoon, if you fancy something sweet, stay on board and enjoy a fabulous Mademoiselle de Margaux chocolate and wine-pairing event.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10, Cognac

Today explore the unique northern shores of the Gironde Estuary.

This afternoon, unwind on the Sun Deck cruising on the Gironde River into the historic port of Blaye.

Freechoice

Discover the Carriages Museum in the enchanting Bourg Castle including a visit to the 16th century passageway to the guards rooms and immense WWII oil tanks. Alternatively, spend a full day exploring the fortified town of Cognac, renowned for its production of fine brandy. Afterwards, enjoy a tasting at the acclaimed property of Rémy Martin.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11, Blaye > Bordeaux

Discover the remarkable Blaye region, established to protect the Bordeaux region from invasion.

Enjoy a cooking class in Scenic Culinaire or simply relax on board as we cruise past beautiful uninhabited islands, bound for Bordeaux. Dine at the Captain’s farewell dinner on board this evening.

Freechoice

Stroll through the charming Citadel of Blaye, or take a more active walk throughout the town. Alternatively, join a 30 kilometre roundtrip cycle along the Captain’s Road which is named in honour of the WWI Captains who chose to purchase their homes along this beautiful stretch of waterway in the early 20th century.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12, Bordeaux

Disembark after breakfast and transfer to Bordeaux Airport or Bordeaux Train Station.

Meals included: Breakfast

Interested in this itinerary? Request a quote and our specialists will contact you as soon as possible.

Your Accommodations

Aboard the Scenic Diamond

Every Scenic French river cruise begins aboard one of the company’s custom-built Space-Ships the Scenic Sapphire or Diamond, so named for their spacious guest cabins, dining, and entertaining areas. Each of these four-deck Scenic Space-Ships includes numerous dining and sightseeing areas, as well as a lounge and bar area that offers panoramic views. Additionally, guests can soak up the rays at the top-deck swimming pool or retreat to the wellness center, which is equipped with a fitness area, beauty salon, and massage rooms. These ships are also noteworthy for their luxury suites, which are outfitted with sun lounges, 32-inch high-definition TVs, and complimentary wireless internet access. 

A few key facts

135 METERS LONG

149 GUESTS

75 SUITES

57 CREW

Features

Bolstering the exquisite French fleet upon their re-launch, Scenic Sapphire and Diamond are completely rebuilt to reflect the same level of luxury offered by the newest Scenic Space-Ships. They’ve considered everything when redesigning these much-loved vessels, seeking out the very finest materials and most innovative technologies to ensure these Space-Ships afford the very best travel experience on the majestic waterways of France.

One of the main highlights of these updated vessels however, is the all-new one-bedroom Royal Owner’s Suites. A first for the Scenic Space-Ship fleet, these huge 47 square meter suites are the biggest ever offered on European waters, and boast a vast living space, perfectly proportioned bedroom, en-suite bathroom and full-length balcony — not to mention all of the exquisite luxuries for which Scenic are so regularly applauded.

View Deck Plans

Complete with all of the opulent finishing touches for which Scenic is universally celebrated, Scenic Sapphire and Diamond have transformed upon emerging from the shipyard ahead of the 2017 season. As well as opulent design touches, each vessel has received a host of new features and amenities, including a vitality pool, gym, spa and, for the first time ever, a private cooking area where guests can participate in the new cookery courses, Scenic Culinaire.

Learn More

Couple these sumptuous design changes with their time-tested and truly exceptional service, and a river cruise aboard Scenic Sapphire and Diamond promises the journey of a lifetime. The vessels cruise a selection of French rivers, including the Seine, Rhône and Garonne, transporting guests in complete comfort and elegance on these enchanting waterways.

*All prices are per person, twin share in USD based on two guests sharing. Free roundtrip premium economy air available for featured itineraries with a maximum value of $2,100 per person. Or additional Scenic Savings up to $2,500/pp. Deposit due at the time of booking is required to receive the offer. Offers are based on number of cruise days, and exclude the land portion of the trip. Taxes and port fees are not included.