Beautiful Bordeaux & Unforgettable Douro

Lively, commercial Oporto is the second largest city in Portugal after Lisbon. Also called Porto for short, the word easily brings to mind the city’s most famous product – port wine. Oporto’s strategic location on the north bank of the Douro River has accounted for the town’s importance since ancient times. The Romans built a fort here where their trading route crossed the Douro, and the Moors brought their own culture to the area. Oporto profited from provisioning crusaders en route to the Holy Land and enjoyed the riches from Portuguese maritime discoveries during the 15th and 16th centuries. Later, port wine trade with Britain compensated for the loss of the spice trade and the end of gold and gem shipments from Brazil. In the 19th century, the city went through a period of new prosperity with the rise of industries. In its wake followed the building of workers’ quarters and opulent residences. Since the declaration of Oporto as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the city aims to build up a cultural reference that will provide it with a new image, based on deep historical roots. Among the attractions that make Oporto such an interesting place are its graceful bridges spanning the Douro River, a picturesque riverfront quarter and, most notable, its world-famous port wine lodges. Although Oporto is a bustling centre and home to many different businesses, the source of its greatest fame is the rich, sweet fortified red wine we know as port.

Day programme:

Wake in the city of Porto, a 2,000-year-old city that lent its name to the nation of Portugal. And while it is awash in history, it has a youthful vibe. Porto showcases sensory delights, streets are lined with restaurants showcasing local delicacies and historical buildings are decorated with intricate colourful tiles. Freechoice: Explore the region with one of this morning’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:Guided tour of Porto: Discover the rich culture and history of Porto on this guided tour, which includes a visit to the iconic Palácio da Bolsa.Active tour of Porto including cable car: Travel from Porto to Gaia (or Vila Nova de Gaia) where you’ll take a cable car ride to the Dom Luis bridge, which crosses the Douro River. Walk across the bridge towards Porto Cathedral, São Bento railway station, and the bustling street of Rua das Flores. Decorative blue tiles are synonymous with Portugal and this afternoon you will learn about their history while creating a masterpiece of your own during a tile painting workshop.

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Your first port of call along the Douro is the quaint village of Entre-os-Rios. From here, you will set out to explore the verdant Douro Valley, with options to enjoy a hike, sample local wines, or visit a city known as the ‘cradle of Portugal’.Freechoice: Choose from one of today’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:Paiva Walkways: Explore nature at its finest on an active hike along the Paiva River.Quinta da Aveleda: Explore the fairytale-like property of Quinta Aveleda, a renowned sparkling wine producer set on an impressive estate.Excursion to Guimarães: Visit the well-preserved World Heritage-listed city and explore the palace, which dates to the 15th century, and is home to a historic collection of tapestries, furniture, weapons and more.Relax on board this afternoon as you cruise to Regua, the largest of the riverside towns. This region is famous for producing Port wine, with rolling vineyards on the terraced hillsides and wineries dating to the 18th century. This afternoon enjoy a visit to the excellent Douro Museum.

Day programme:

Freechoice: Choose how you wish to spend the morning with the following Scenic Freechoice excursions:Visit Varosa Valley, Tarouca & Ucanha, only with Scenic: Explore the Varosa Valley. Visit the charming village of Tarouca where you'll explore the restored Monastery of Saint John of Tarouca. Walk the fortified bridge of Ucanha, Portugal’s first toll bridge.Quinta visit with olive tasting: Visit a Quinta and learn about the production of olive oil at this family run Quinta that has been handed down for 11 generations.Back on board refuel with a delicious lunch before exploring the region further with a selection from the following Scenic Freechoice activities.Excursion to Lamego: Take a coach to the town of Lamego for a self-guided museum tour and a tasting of local produce.Mateus Palace: Transfer by coach to Mateus Palace, considered one of the best examples of Baroque civil architecture in Portugal.Port Wine Blending Class: Visit Quinta de Pacheca and take a hands-on workshop on the Port blending process.

Day programme:

Take things slowly today as you enjoy a relaxed cruise through the spectacular Vinhateiro wine growing region. Terraced vineyards line the sides of the Douro Valley, dotted with traditional red-roofed farmhouses and tiny villages. Vinhateiro was the first demarcated wine region in the world, established in 1756, and the whole area is World Heritage listed. Arrive in  Vega de Terrón this evening.

Day programme:

Wake this morning in the city of  Vega de Terrón, located on the border of Portugal and Spain and at the confluence of the Douro and Águeda rivers. This small town remains beautifully unspoiled, with quiet streets, lush landscapes and welcoming locals. It’s a popular gateway to the university town of Salamanca, which you will have the opportunity to explore today. Freechoice: Explore your way with one of today’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:Salamanca Full Day Excursion: Salamanca is home to two cathedrals, one dating back to the 12th century and the other to the 16th century, which you will see on today’s guided tour. You will also visit a market to taste local delicacies and you’ll have free time to explore and enjoy lunch at your leisure.Freixo de Espada à Cinta with silk museum: Visit the village of Freixo de Espada à Cinta, the only place in Portugal where handcrafted silk is still processed entirely by hand, and on this guided tour you will visit a silk museum before returning to the ship for lunch.

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Wake in the village of Pocinho, established as the terminus of the Douro Railway in 1887, a great location to explore more of the Douro Valley.Freechoice: Explore your way with one of this morning’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:Côa Valley Museum: Transfer by coach to the Côa Valley Museum. Opened in 2010, this museum is one of the largest in Portugal, housed in a contemporary building designed to blend into the landscape. The museum is a great introduction to the region’s paleolithic rock art sites through original artefacts and digital technology; you’ll also enjoy a pre-historic workshop.Village life in the Côa Valley: Visit Casa Painova estate for a demonstration on how sweet almonds are produced and learn how these nuts are harvested and used in desserts and pastries. Enjoy a tasting of almonds, olives and fruit products.This afternoon, relax as you cruise towards Pinhão.

Day programme:

Wake this morning in Pinhão, set on one of the prettiest parts of the Douro River. This small village is surrounded by terraced vineyards and produces exceptional Port wine.This morning, transfer to the charming village of Provesende, located on a plateau with spectacular views of the region’s fertile rolling landscape. Wander through the village and visit the church, discover the old bakery, witness traditional handicraft being made, and look inside the historic manor house, Morgadio da Calçada, where you’ll enjoy a tasting of delicious bola.Freechoice: Choose one of this afternoon’s Scenic Freechoice activities:Kayaking along the Pinhão River: Explore this beautiful region as you glide past impressive landscapes via kayak on the Pinhão River, a tributary of the Douro.Quinta vineyard hike: Take a guided hike through the breathtaking vineyards of Quinta da Roêda in the Douro Valley.Quinta tasting: Visit Quinta da Roêda estate for a tasting of the region’s most famous export. On a guided walking tour, you’ll learn the secrets of the vineyard.

Day programme:

Enjoy time at leisure as you continue to sail along the spectacular Douro River. Your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive back in Porto this afternoon, where you’ll experience an exclusive classical concert tonight. EnrichClassical concert in São Francisco Church: From the ship, take a short walk (with some stairs) to São Francisco Church, which is one of the most iconic sites in Porto. Built in the 13th century, the Gothic church has an alter decorated with intricately carved wood swathed in gold. In these magnificent surrounds, enjoy a performance of classical music.

Lively, commercial Oporto is the second largest city in Portugal after Lisbon. Also called Porto for short, the word easily brings to mind the city’s most famous product – port wine. Oporto’s strategic location on the north bank of the Douro River has accounted for the town’s importance since ancient times. The Romans built a fort here where their trading route crossed the Douro, and the Moors brought their own culture to the area. Oporto profited from provisioning crusaders en route to the Holy Land and enjoyed the riches from Portuguese maritime discoveries during the 15th and 16th centuries. Later, port wine trade with Britain compensated for the loss of the spice trade and the end of gold and gem shipments from Brazil. In the 19th century, the city went through a period of new prosperity with the rise of industries. In its wake followed the building of workers’ quarters and opulent residences. Since the declaration of Oporto as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the city aims to build up a cultural reference that will provide it with a new image, based on deep historical roots. Among the attractions that make Oporto such an interesting place are its graceful bridges spanning the Douro River, a picturesque riverfront quarter and, most notable, its world-famous port wine lodges. Although Oporto is a bustling centre and home to many different businesses, the source of its greatest fame is the rich, sweet fortified red wine we know as port.

Lively, commercial Oporto is the second largest city in Portugal after Lisbon. Also called Porto for short, the word easily brings to mind the city’s most famous product – port wine. Oporto’s strategic location on the north bank of the Douro River has accounted for the town’s importance since ancient times. The Romans built a fort here where their trading route crossed the Douro, and the Moors brought their own culture to the area. Oporto profited from provisioning crusaders en route to the Holy Land and enjoyed the riches from Portuguese maritime discoveries during the 15th and 16th centuries. Later, port wine trade with Britain compensated for the loss of the spice trade and the end of gold and gem shipments from Brazil. In the 19th century, the city went through a period of new prosperity with the rise of industries. In its wake followed the building of workers’ quarters and opulent residences. Since the declaration of Oporto as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the city aims to build up a cultural reference that will provide it with a new image, based on deep historical roots. Among the attractions that make Oporto such an interesting place are its graceful bridges spanning the Douro River, a picturesque riverfront quarter and, most notable, its world-famous port wine lodges. Although Oporto is a bustling centre and home to many different businesses, the source of its greatest fame is the rich, sweet fortified red wine we know as port.

Day programme:

Wake in Porto, ready for a day of unique experiences, whether that be a ride on a traditional boat, playing a round of golf or sampling wine in one of the most famous cellars in the city. Freechoice: Explore your way with one of today’s Scenic Freechoice activities: Excursion to Aveiro with a cruise: Enjoy a guided walking tour of Aveiro, a city famed for its canals, and cruise the waterways in a brightly coloured moliceiros flat-bottomed boat, that are unique to the city. Round of golf: Play 6 holes at the Quinta do Fojo Golf club, one of Porto's most popular courses.  Wine tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia: Travel to Vila Nova de Gaia to visit one of Porto’s most famous cellars, Cockburn’s Port. Enjoy a guided visit and a tasting. This afternoon you will have free time in Porto to explore the city at your own leisure. Return to your Scenic Space-Ship this evening for a farewell dinner. Before dinner on board take an illumination cruise through Porto, passing the beautiful city including the six bridges that span the Douro.

Lively, commercial Oporto is the second largest city in Portugal after Lisbon. Also called Porto for short, the word easily brings to mind the city’s most famous product – port wine. Oporto’s strategic location on the north bank of the Douro River has accounted for the town’s importance since ancient times. The Romans built a fort here where their trading route crossed the Douro, and the Moors brought their own culture to the area. Oporto profited from provisioning crusaders en route to the Holy Land and enjoyed the riches from Portuguese maritime discoveries during the 15th and 16th centuries. Later, port wine trade with Britain compensated for the loss of the spice trade and the end of gold and gem shipments from Brazil. In the 19th century, the city went through a period of new prosperity with the rise of industries. In its wake followed the building of workers’ quarters and opulent residences. Since the declaration of Oporto as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the city aims to build up a cultural reference that will provide it with a new image, based on deep historical roots. Among the attractions that make Oporto such an interesting place are its graceful bridges spanning the Douro River, a picturesque riverfront quarter and, most notable, its world-famous port wine lodges. Although Oporto is a bustling centre and home to many different businesses, the source of its greatest fame is the rich, sweet fortified red wine we know as port.

Day programme:

Board an included flight from Porto to Bordeaux where you will be welcomed on board by the friendly crew of the Scenic Diamond.

Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points within it, is what you’ll want to visit in order to understand why Victor Hugo described it as Versailles plus Antwerp, and why the painter Francisco de Goya, when exiled from his native Spain, chose it as his last home (he died here in 1828). The capital of southwest France and the region’s largest city, Bordeaux remains synonymous with the wine trade: wine shippers have long maintained their headquarters along the banks of the Garonne, while buyers from around the world arrive for the huge biennial Vinexpo show (held in odd-number years).Bordeaux is, admittedly, a less exuberant city than many others in France, but lively and stylish elements are making a dent in its conservative veneer. The cleaned-up riverfront is said by some, after a bottle or two, to exude an elegance reminiscent of St. Petersburg, and that aura of 18th-century élan also permeates the historic downtown sector—“le vieux Bordeaux”—where fine shops invite exploration. To the south of the city center are old docklands undergoing renewal—one train station has now been transformed into a big multiplex movie theater—but the area is still a bit shady. To get a feel for the historic port of Bordeaux, take the 90-minute boat trip that leaves Quai Louis-XVIII every weekday afternoon, or the regular passenger ferry that plies the Garonne between Quai Richelieu and the Pont d’Aquitaine in summer. A nice time to stroll around the city center is the first Sunday of the month, when it’s pedestrian-only and vehicles are banned.

Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points within it, is what you’ll want to visit in order to understand why Victor Hugo described it as Versailles plus Antwerp, and why the painter Francisco de Goya, when exiled from his native Spain, chose it as his last home (he died here in 1828). The capital of southwest France and the region’s largest city, Bordeaux remains synonymous with the wine trade: wine shippers have long maintained their headquarters along the banks of the Garonne, while buyers from around the world arrive for the huge biennial Vinexpo show (held in odd-number years).Bordeaux is, admittedly, a less exuberant city than many others in France, but lively and stylish elements are making a dent in its conservative veneer. The cleaned-up riverfront is said by some, after a bottle or two, to exude an elegance reminiscent of St. Petersburg, and that aura of 18th-century élan also permeates the historic downtown sector—“le vieux Bordeaux”—where fine shops invite exploration. To the south of the city center are old docklands undergoing renewal—one train station has now been transformed into a big multiplex movie theater—but the area is still a bit shady. To get a feel for the historic port of Bordeaux, take the 90-minute boat trip that leaves Quai Louis-XVIII every weekday afternoon, or the regular passenger ferry that plies the Garonne between Quai Richelieu and the Pont d’Aquitaine in summer. A nice time to stroll around the city center is the first Sunday of the month, when it’s pedestrian-only and vehicles are banned.

Day programme:

Admire the tranquil riverside scenery as you sail towards Libourne this morning. After lunch, join a tour to nearby Saint-Émilion. This World Heritage-listed village has thousands of years of history and beautifully-preserved medieval buildings. Explore the unique Monolithic Church, which is mostly underground and carved directly into the limestone.This evening your Scenic Space-Ship will be docked overnight in Libourne, a beautiful 13th century port and winemaking capital of northern Gironde.

Libourne, France, is a historic town in the Bordeaux wine region, renowned for its vibrant market and beautiful architecture. Located along the Dordogne River, it features a charming blend of medieval and Renaissance buildings, including the striking Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste. Libourne is a gateway to prestigious wine estates, including Pomerol and Saint-Émilion. The town’s bustling market and scenic riverside setting offer a delightful experience for visitors interested in wine, history, and local culture.

Libourne, France, is a historic town in the Bordeaux wine region, renowned for its vibrant market and beautiful architecture. Located along the Dordogne River, it features a charming blend of medieval and Renaissance buildings, including the striking Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste. Libourne is a gateway to prestigious wine estates, including Pomerol and Saint-Émilion. The town’s bustling market and scenic riverside setting offer a delightful experience for visitors interested in wine, history, and local culture.

Day programme:

This morning, spend some time exploring Libourne and its surrounds.  Freechoice: Today choose from the following Scenic Freechoice options.Walking tour of Libourne: Take a guided tour of Libourne, with its rich history linked to the trade of wool, wine, salt and wood.Wines and Vineyards of Saint-Émilion: Journey to the countryside of Saint Emilion and explore its vineyards before a tasting.Biking and tasting at Château Siaurac: Cycle through this acclaimed wine-growing region to the impressive estate of Château Siaurac and enjoy a tasting.Paint and Pour: Join a local artist for a class on the Sun Deck of Scenic Diamond. Learn watercolour techniques and create your own masterpiece while sipping local wines.Set sail this afternoon for Fort Médoc, where you’ll dock overnight.

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The Médoc region is considered the world’s leading red wine producer and is home to many legendary châteaux. Today, you’ll have the chance to explore this remarkable wine region.Freechoice: Today choose from the following Scenic Freechoice options.Médoc wine tasting by coach: With more than 16,000 hectares of vineyards across eight appellations, Médoc is home to the epic ‘Route des Chateaux’, or ‘Route of Castles’. On this coach tour you will travel through this scenic region to a local winery and enjoy a tasting of their wines.Médoc wine tasting by bicycle: Discover the spectacular Médoc countryside by e-bike today and see many grand aristocratic châteaux in the world’s leading red wine producing region. Afterwards, sample the region’s finest at one of the prestigious estates.EnrichClassical Concert at Château d'Agassac: Set in spectacular surrounds in the Medoc countryside, Château D'Agassac dates to the 13th century and is one of the oldest winemaking establishments in the region. Soak in the ambience of this magnificent property as live musicians perform classical masterpieces for your exclusive enjoyment.

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Relax on board this morning as you sail to Cadillac. You could enjoy a treatment at the spa^ or learn more about French cuisine in the Scenic Culinaire cooking school. You will arrive into Cadillac after lunch.This picturesque town was founded in 1280 and retains many of its grand historic buildings. In 1701 French explorer Antoine de la Mothe, sieur de Cadillac took his name from the town and established the port of Fort Pontchartrain du Détroit, which would become modern day Detroit where the American auto industry began. The Cadillac car is named in his honour.

Cadillac, France, is a charming town in the Gironde department, known for its historic architecture and vineyards. Famous for its production of sweet white wines, especially Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux, the town features a well-preserved 18th-century château and picturesque streets. Set along the Garonne River, Cadillac offers scenic views and a rich heritage, blending historical charm with local wine culture. Its vibrant markets and serene atmosphere make it a pleasant destination for those exploring the Bordeaux wine region.

Cadillac, France, is a charming town in the Gironde department, known for its historic architecture and vineyards. Famous for its production of sweet white wines, especially Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux, the town features a well-preserved 18th-century château and picturesque streets. Set along the Garonne River, Cadillac offers scenic views and a rich heritage, blending historical charm with local wine culture. Its vibrant markets and serene atmosphere make it a pleasant destination for those exploring the Bordeaux wine region.

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Cadillac is close to the Sauternes wine region, which is known for its sweet, fortified styles. Today, choose between a variety of experiences in the region surrounding Cadillac, from its bucolic countryside to its historic castles. Freechoice: Morning Freechoice: Today, choose from the following Scenic Freechoice activities.Sauternes by coach: Take a coach through Sauternes to a vineyard for a tasting of the chateau’s fine wines.Sauternes by bike: Cycle through the rolling vineyards of Sauternes for a tasting.Freechoice: Afternoon Freechoice: This afternoon, choose from the following Scenic Freechoice activities.Roquetaillade Castle: Tour the ancient castle with the family whose ancestors have resided here for more than 700 years.Biking in the Loupiac wine region: Cycle the landscapes of the Gironde in the wine region of Loupiac and admire the breathtaking Château Benauge.Château Toulouse-Lautrec: During a guided tour you will discover the historic rooms of this estate including the apartments of the famous painter.

Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points within it, is what you’ll want to visit in order to understand why Victor Hugo described it as Versailles plus Antwerp, and why the painter Francisco de Goya, when exiled from his native Spain, chose it as his last home (he died here in 1828). The capital of southwest France and the region’s largest city, Bordeaux remains synonymous with the wine trade: wine shippers have long maintained their headquarters along the banks of the Garonne, while buyers from around the world arrive for the huge biennial Vinexpo show (held in odd-number years).Bordeaux is, admittedly, a less exuberant city than many others in France, but lively and stylish elements are making a dent in its conservative veneer. The cleaned-up riverfront is said by some, after a bottle or two, to exude an elegance reminiscent of St. Petersburg, and that aura of 18th-century élan also permeates the historic downtown sector—“le vieux Bordeaux”—where fine shops invite exploration. To the south of the city center are old docklands undergoing renewal—one train station has now been transformed into a big multiplex movie theater—but the area is still a bit shady. To get a feel for the historic port of Bordeaux, take the 90-minute boat trip that leaves Quai Louis-XVIII every weekday afternoon, or the regular passenger ferry that plies the Garonne between Quai Richelieu and the Pont d’Aquitaine in summer. A nice time to stroll around the city center is the first Sunday of the month, when it’s pedestrian-only and vehicles are banned.

Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points within it, is what you’ll want to visit in order to understand why Victor Hugo described it as Versailles plus Antwerp, and why the painter Francisco de Goya, when exiled from his native Spain, chose it as his last home (he died here in 1828). The capital of southwest France and the region’s largest city, Bordeaux remains synonymous with the wine trade: wine shippers have long maintained their headquarters along the banks of the Garonne, while buyers from around the world arrive for the huge biennial Vinexpo show (held in odd-number years).Bordeaux is, admittedly, a less exuberant city than many others in France, but lively and stylish elements are making a dent in its conservative veneer. The cleaned-up riverfront is said by some, after a bottle or two, to exude an elegance reminiscent of St. Petersburg, and that aura of 18th-century élan also permeates the historic downtown sector—“le vieux Bordeaux”—where fine shops invite exploration. To the south of the city center are old docklands undergoing renewal—one train station has now been transformed into a big multiplex movie theater—but the area is still a bit shady. To get a feel for the historic port of Bordeaux, take the 90-minute boat trip that leaves Quai Louis-XVIII every weekday afternoon, or the regular passenger ferry that plies the Garonne between Quai Richelieu and the Pont d’Aquitaine in summer. A nice time to stroll around the city center is the first Sunday of the month, when it’s pedestrian-only and vehicles are banned.

Day programme:

Discover Bordeaux’s multitude of culinary delights and scenic treasures today with a variety of Scenic Freechoice activities to choose from.Freechoice: Guided tour of Bordeaux: Join your local guide on a tour of Bordeaux. Discover the highlights of the city, such as the magnificent Gothic cathedral and Place de la Bourse.Cycling tour of Bordeaux: Pedal through historic Bordeaux on a guided cycling tour. Sample delicious treats such as canelé, a custard cake.Shop with a chef: Join Scenic’s on board chef at a local food market to shop for and taste the best ingredients this region has to offer before returning to Scenic Diamond for a cooking demonstration to learn the art of French fare.Back on board, your Cruise Director will organise a special treat for you, with a tasting of fresh oysters delivered straight from the waters of Arcachon Bay.EnrichAfterhours access to Bassins des Lumières: After the doors have closed to the public, you will be welcomed with a glass of Champagne to Bassins des Lumières, Bordeaux’s former WWII submarine base, now an impressive digital art installation. Be treated to an exclusive show, customised and curated just for Scenic guests.

Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points within it, is what you’ll want to visit in order to understand why Victor Hugo described it as Versailles plus Antwerp, and why the painter Francisco de Goya, when exiled from his native Spain, chose it as his last home (he died here in 1828). The capital of southwest France and the region’s largest city, Bordeaux remains synonymous with the wine trade: wine shippers have long maintained their headquarters along the banks of the Garonne, while buyers from around the world arrive for the huge biennial Vinexpo show (held in odd-number years).Bordeaux is, admittedly, a less exuberant city than many others in France, but lively and stylish elements are making a dent in its conservative veneer. The cleaned-up riverfront is said by some, after a bottle or two, to exude an elegance reminiscent of St. Petersburg, and that aura of 18th-century élan also permeates the historic downtown sector—“le vieux Bordeaux”—where fine shops invite exploration. To the south of the city center are old docklands undergoing renewal—one train station has now been transformed into a big multiplex movie theater—but the area is still a bit shady. To get a feel for the historic port of Bordeaux, take the 90-minute boat trip that leaves Quai Louis-XVIII every weekday afternoon, or the regular passenger ferry that plies the Garonne between Quai Richelieu and the Pont d’Aquitaine in summer. A nice time to stroll around the city center is the first Sunday of the month, when it’s pedestrian-only and vehicles are banned.

Day programme:

Continue your exploration of Bordeaux today with a variety of compelling options.Freechoice: Cité du Vin Museum: Take a local tram to the Cité du Vin Museum and enjoy an interactive journey of wine discovery.Tour Bordeaux by motorbike & sidecar: Join your host as you cruise through Bordeaux in the side car and/or on the back of a motorcycle.Visit Arcachon: Join your local guide for a walking tour of the charming bayside town of Arcachon, finishing your visit at Baltard market, an undercover food hall where stallholders tout local delicacies.This afternoon you’ll enjoy time at leisure on board as you sail towards Bourg.

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Your ultra-luxury Scenic Space-Ship will be docked in Bourg today, a picturesque town set on a rocky promontory. Built as a defensive château, it’s a maze of ancient alleyways, moats and bell towers on the Dordogne. Freechoice: Today, choose from the following Scenic Freechoice activities.Bourg with Carriages Museum: Situated inside the grounds of Bourg Castle, visit the Carriages Museum with a local guide and discover the unique collection of horse-drawn carriages on display.Historic Saintes Take a tour of Saintes, a charming town in the Charente-Maritime department of southwestern France that’s steeped in 2,000 years of history and lush gardens.Full day excursion to Cognac: The fortified city of Cognac is renowned for producing some of the world’s finest brandy. Enjoy a walking tour of the town. After lunch, tour the estate of famed Rémy Martin before sampling some of the cognacs.

Day programme:

This morning you will arrive in Blaye. Most famously, this petite hamlet is home to a World Heritage-listed citadel that was constructed to protect Bordeaux city from enemy attacks. Freechoice: Today, choose from the following Scenic Freechoice activities.Walking tour of Blaye: Stroll through the charming city of Blaye with a local guide, viewing a World Heritage-listed monument that overlooks the Gironde Estuary.Active walking tour of Blaye: Tour the fascinating citadel of Blaye on an active walking tour with a local guide. Gain an understanding of the defence system created by the famous architect Sébastien Vauban.Cycling along the Captain’s Road: Join an active cycling tour along the Captain’s Road.Visit Château de la Roche Courbon: Guests will discover this fortified castle transformed into a historic château with sprawling manicured gardens during a guided visit.

Blaye, France, is a picturesque town in the Gironde department, renowned for its historic Blaye Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning views of the Gironde estuary. The town boasts charming streets, vibrant markets, and renowned vineyards producing exceptional wines, including Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux. Blaye’s blend of historical architecture, scenic river views, and local wine culture makes it an inviting destination for history enthusiasts and wine lovers alike.

Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points within it, is what you’ll want to visit in order to understand why Victor Hugo described it as Versailles plus Antwerp, and why the painter Francisco de Goya, when exiled from his native Spain, chose it as his last home (he died here in 1828). The capital of southwest France and the region’s largest city, Bordeaux remains synonymous with the wine trade: wine shippers have long maintained their headquarters along the banks of the Garonne, while buyers from around the world arrive for the huge biennial Vinexpo show (held in odd-number years).Bordeaux is, admittedly, a less exuberant city than many others in France, but lively and stylish elements are making a dent in its conservative veneer. The cleaned-up riverfront is said by some, after a bottle or two, to exude an elegance reminiscent of St. Petersburg, and that aura of 18th-century élan also permeates the historic downtown sector—“le vieux Bordeaux”—where fine shops invite exploration. To the south of the city center are old docklands undergoing renewal—one train station has now been transformed into a big multiplex movie theater—but the area is still a bit shady. To get a feel for the historic port of Bordeaux, take the 90-minute boat trip that leaves Quai Louis-XVIII every weekday afternoon, or the regular passenger ferry that plies the Garonne between Quai Richelieu and the Pont d’Aquitaine in summer. A nice time to stroll around the city center is the first Sunday of the month, when it’s pedestrian-only and vehicles are banned.

Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points within it, is what you’ll want to visit in order to understand why Victor Hugo described it as Versailles plus Antwerp, and why the painter Francisco de Goya, when exiled from his native Spain, chose it as his last home (he died here in 1828). The capital of southwest France and the region’s largest city, Bordeaux remains synonymous with the wine trade: wine shippers have long maintained their headquarters along the banks of the Garonne, while buyers from around the world arrive for the huge biennial Vinexpo show (held in odd-number years).Bordeaux is, admittedly, a less exuberant city than many others in France, but lively and stylish elements are making a dent in its conservative veneer. The cleaned-up riverfront is said by some, after a bottle or two, to exude an elegance reminiscent of St. Petersburg, and that aura of 18th-century élan also permeates the historic downtown sector—“le vieux Bordeaux”—where fine shops invite exploration. To the south of the city center are old docklands undergoing renewal—one train station has now been transformed into a big multiplex movie theater—but the area is still a bit shady. To get a feel for the historic port of Bordeaux, take the 90-minute boat trip that leaves Quai Louis-XVIII every weekday afternoon, or the regular passenger ferry that plies the Garonne between Quai Richelieu and the Pont d’Aquitaine in summer. A nice time to stroll around the city center is the first Sunday of the month, when it’s pedestrian-only and vehicles are banned.

Day programme:

Your cruise concludes this morning in Bordeaux. Disembark after breakfast, taking with you a lifetime of memories. Please note: The Gironde, Dordogne and Garonne waterways are part of a tidal river system which results in changing water levels in the region. Every effort is made to keep to the brochure itinerary however based on tides it will be amended or modified.This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions.