There are many types of Bordeaux tours offering immersion into the culture of the city, but none as luxurious as a guided river tour. The waterways of Bordeaux are the perfect venue for private gastronomic cruises for groups or individuals looking to acquaint themselves with all of the finest food and drink in Bordeaux. Tasting cruises with Cité du Vin as well as Master Classes and tastings are available as guests enjoy the views of the Garonne River. Bordeaux guided tours of the surrounding areas are equally remarkable. Bordeaux multi-lingual tours are available on the river cruises with stops at the Gironde Estuary. With stopovers that include visits and tastings at prestigious chateaux of Médoc and Entre-Deux-Mers, those looking to learn more about Bordelais history will appreciate a stopover at a UNESCO World Heritage Site. “Bolt of the Estuary” (Vauban Triptych) was designed by the famous engineer Sébastien Vauban. Built during the reign of Louis XIV, its role was to protect the city of Bordeaux from enemy attacks 50 km (31 miles) upstream.
Arcachon Bay and Silver Coast tours aboard traditional boats called pinasse are also available. The unique interior sea is 50 km (31 miles) from Bordeaux and offers stops at various oyster ports for seafood tastings, as well as stopovers at Dune du Pilat (the largest sand dune in Europe), Cap-Ferret peninsula, and the beach town Arcachon, all of which boast majestic views. Whether looking to spend as little as four days or as many as 12, a river cruise is sure to impress. With its sumptuous dinners and tasting experiences on elegant boats, it’s easy to admire the bustling city of Bordeaux from its extraordinary waterways.