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Chateaux and Wine of Bordeaux Itinerary
Day 1 - Bordeaux (France)
Fly from the UK to Bordeaux where you will be met at and transferred to your ship. The ship will be docked in Bordeaux overnight. (D)
Day 2 - Bordeaux
Tour the city centre this morning and see some of Bordeaux's highlights, including the Place des Quinconces, one of the largest squares in Europe; the neoclassical Grand Theatre de Bordeaux; and several spectacular churches. Visit the Musee d'Aquitaine for a tour of the collections before sailing upstream along the Garonne River to Cadillac, a small town with a towering castle that gave its name to the American car brand. (B,L,D)
Day 3 - Cadillac
Begin with a tour of Cadillac before an excursion to Sauternes to learn about how the area's sweet white wines are made. (B,L,D)
Day 4 - Libourne - Saint Emilion
In 2019, disembark in Libourne, a picturesque city with buildings dating back to the 16th century. You can also take part in one of two optional excursions: an exploration of the Bergerac area in the Dordogne to learn about truffles, or go wine tasting to a nearby chateau. Later take a tour of Saint Emilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In 2020, enjoy a guided walk through the beautiful square, lined with 16th-century builings. There is an optional wine tasting at Chateau Siaurac. After lunch, head to the pretty wine-growing town of Saint-Emilion for a guided tour. (B,L,D)
Day 5 - Libourne - Bourg
In 2019, after a leisurely morning in Libourne, cruise to Bourg arriving in the afternoon. Enjoy a stroll or take the optional excursion to Cognac. This evening, cruise to Blaye. In 2020, enjoy a stroll around Bourg, before cruising to Blaye, renowned for its 17th-century citadel. Explore the ramparts and take in breathtaking views of the estuary. (B, L, D)
Day 6 - Blaye - Pauillac
In 2019, see the extraordinary 17th century citadel in Blaye, set on a rock beside the river. The citadel of Blaye, its city walls and two other forts are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Return to the ship for lunch and cruise to Pauillac. Enjoy a wine country tour, sampling local wines. Travel through the rolling vineyard-laced hulls to dinner at a chateau. In 2020, enjoy a morning of scenic cruising before arriving in Pauillac, where you can enjoy a Wine Country tour. Your drive through the Medoc region includes the opportunity to indulge in wine tastings. This evening, there is a visit to a chateau for dinner. (B, L, D)
Day 7 - Bordeaux
Cruise back to Bordeaux and enjoy time at leisure in the city this afternoon. There is also the option to visit a market with the chef to see where the locals buy their fresh produce, or take the optional full day excursion to Arcachon (2019 only) on the Atlantic coast. In 2020, there is also an optional visit to the French barrel makers, La Nadalie. (B, L, D)
Day 8 - Bordeaux
After breakfast, disembark and transfer to the airport for your return flight.
For navigational reasons the Captain of the ship reserves the right to modify the cruise itinerary. Visit sequence, tours and times may vary. Key: B - breakfast; L - lunch; D - dinner