Enchanting Gironde, Garonne and Dordognes Cruise

Enchanting Gironde, Garonne and Dordognes Cruise

12 Views
8 Days From

$1889

Enchanting Gironde, Garonne and Dordognes Cruise

8 Days Starting in Bordeaux, France and ending in Cadillac, France

Visiting: Bordeaux, Royan, La Rochelle

Tour operator:

Indus Travels

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 2

Physical rating:

Easy

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

River Cruise

From: $1889

NB: Prices correct on 19-Sep-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on the "Enchanting Gironde, Garonne and Dordognes Cruise" and explore the heart of France's wine country in unparalleled luxury. This river cruise offers a unique blend of cultural, historical, and gastronomic experiences. Visit the prestigious Medoc Region, renowned for its world-class red wines, and take guided tours of Royan, Rochefort, and La Rochelle. Discover the underground monuments of Saint-Emilion and savor local wines. Marvel at the medieval Château de Roquetaillade and enjoy a boat trip on the Bassin d'Arcachon, featuring Bird Island and oyster beds. Climb the Great Dune of Pilat for breathtaking views. Enjoy superior accommodation, full board meals, and onboard entertainment, all while cruising through picturesque landscapes.

Highlights

  • Visit the Medoc Region that nurtures some of the most renowned red wines on the planet

  • Discover Royan's mid-20th-century architecture and scenic harbor on a guided walking tour

  • Visit Rochefort's historic naval arsenal and La Rochelle's charming old town and port

  • Explore the Saint-Emilions underground monuments and learn about local wine production

  • Experience the medieval Château de Roquetaillade and taste Sauternes wine in Cadillac

  • Take a boat trip on the Bassin d'Arcachon and see the Bird Island and oyster beds

  • Climb the Great Dune of Pilat, the highest sand dune in Europe, for awe-inspiring views

Itinerary

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Day 1: Bordeaux Arrival & Embarkation - Cussac-Fort-Medoc (-/-/D)

Location: Bordeaux

Accommodation Name: Vessel

Meals Included: Dinner

Upon arrival in Bordeaux, find your own way to the port (transfer not included). Embarkation begins at 06:00 PM. Today you embark the vessel and get settled into your cabin. This evening, enjoy your welcome dinner with onboard entertainment as the Cruise sets sail at night.




Overnight on board

Day 2: Cussac-Fort-Medoc - The Medoc – Gironde Estuary - Royan (B/L/D)

Location: Royan

Accommodation Name: Vessel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

In the morning, our ship will set sail towards Cussac Fort Medoc. Morning you're invited to join us on excursions as planned: Tour through the Médoc vineyards (only on pre-booking before departure). Visit the prestigious earth that nurtures the most renowned red wines of the planet, tucked between an ocean and an estuary. We will cross through most of the famed names in the Médoc region Saint Julien, Haut-Médoc, etc. stopping along the celebrated wine route to have a tasting of some of the illustrious regional wines. * While we are on the road, well also get a glimpse of the famous label vineyards and domains such as Châteaux Lafite-Rothschild, Latour, and Mouton Rothschild.



Afternoon you're invited to join us on excursions as planned: Royan, guided tour on foot. You'll set out on foot with your guide to discover this Atlantic seaside resort known for its early- to mid-20th-century architecture and vibrant energy. Old villas, luxuriant gardens, quaint boutiques, and the beautiful harbor forge the city's charm. The impressive church was rebuilt in the 1950s using sleek lines and natural light as the focus. Enjoy some time on your own.




Overnight on board

Day 3: Royan - Rochefort – La Rochelle - Royan (B/L/D)

Location: La Rochelle

Accommodation Name: Vessel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

In the morning, our ship will set sail towards Rochefort, Morning you're invited to join us on excursions as planned: The seaside cities of Rochefort and La Rochelle. Well leave by coach for Rochefort. Rochefort was originally chosen by Jean-Baptiste Colbert as a refuge, defense, and supply post for the French Navy back in the mid-1660s. Its arsenal remained a naval base and dockyard until as late as 1926. The historic downtown area boasting lovely private mansions and beautiful homes—where the legendary sailors and explorers lived—still retains their air of adventure and glamor. Well visit the Corderie Royale, a historical rope-making factory. Built between 1666 and 1669, it was the first industrial building in France, and the factory provided ropes for the French Navy and its ships for over three centuries. Well tour the main building and learn about the techniques used to produce the ropes used on the large sailing ships.



 Afterwards, well head to La Rochelle. Well stop for lunch in a local restaurant. The over 1,000-year-old city of La Rochelle is the capital of the Charente Maritime. Its tucked along the Bay of Biscay and contains some of the most beautiful natural and architectural heritage in the area. During a guided tour of the old town and port, youll learn about the Grosse-Horloge gate, Renaissance arcades, lovely half-timbered homes, finely sculpted facades of the private mansions, and the cathedral. Enjoy some free time before returning to the ship. After we return on board, well spend the rest of our day cruising up the Dordogne to Libourne.




Overnight on Board

Day 4: Royan - Libourne - Bordeaux (B/L/D)

Location: Bordeaux

Accommodation Name: Vessel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

In the morning, our ship will set sail towards Libourne, Morning you're invited to join us on excursions as planned: We will take a guided tour of Saint Emilian's underground monuments, discovering the rich history of this medieval city, including its enigmatic monolithic church. Well then head to a vineyard where well learn about how the famous local wine is produced. Well return to the ship in Libourne and spend the afternoon cruising to Bordeaux.




Overnight on Board

Day 5: Bordeaux - Cadillac (B/L/D)

Location: Bordeaux

Accommodation Name: Vessel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We will cruise along the Garonne, getting a good glimpse of Bordeaux from the water as we continue to Cadillac. This morning, we offer an excursion: A visit to the magnificent and prestigious Château de Roquetaillade. This castle has been the backdrop for several French films including Brotherhood of the Wolf (Le Pacte des Loups) and Fanfan la Tulipe. Explore the towers and keeps in this medieval château and take time to learn about the architecture, interiors, and ambiance of French life almost 500 years ago. Well then head to a wine cellar in the Sauternais to enjoy a tasting of the famous Sauternes wine. * Afterwards, well return to Cadillac for a guided tour of the city. Located on the right bank of the Garonne River, the city was founded in 1280 and still retains its original structure. Well explore the port, its ramparts, and the main square and stroll the streets to admire the old homes and 15th-century churches. Well spend the afternoon cruising to Bordeaux, and well arrive during the evening.




Overnight on Board

Day 6: Bordeaux - Archachon Bay - Bordeaux (B/L/D)

Location: Bordeaux

Accommodation Name: Vessel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

In the morning, our ship will set sail towards Libourne, Morning you're invited to join us on excursions as planned: To the center of Arcachon Bay. Departure by coach from Bordeaux for the Bassin d'Arcachon. We will start our tour with a boat trip on the Bassin d'Arcachon. You'll be able to see the Bird Island, the famous \"Cabanes tchanquées\" houses on stilts and the oyster beds. Free time in Arcachon. We will have lunch in a local restaurant. In the afternoon, we will go to the Great Dune of Pilat. Culminating at 107m, it is the highest sand dune in Europe. The view from the top is awe-inspiring. Return to Bordeaux at the end of the day.




Overnight on Board

Day 7: Bordeaux (B/-/-)

Location: Bordeaux

Accommodation Name: Vessel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After you have enjoyed breakfast on board, you will have until 9:00 am to disembark the river cruise in Bordeaux. Make your own way to the Munich airport for your flight back home.

Day 8: Bordeaux (B/-/-)

Location: Bordeaux

Accommodation Name: Vessel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After you have enjoyed breakfast on board, you will have until 9:00 am to disembark the river cruise in Bordeaux. Make your own way to the Munich airport for your flight back home.

What's Included

  • 06 nights accommodation on double sharing basis in listed superior Vessel or similar

    Enjoy a comfortable stay in a superior vessel or similar accommodation for six nights on a double sharing basis.

  • Full board meal plan while on board cruise

    All meals are included while you are on board the cruise.

  • Welcome and farewell reception with the captain

    Participate in a welcome and farewell reception hosted by the captain.

  • Gala dinner and Welcome cocktail

    Enjoy a gala dinner and a welcome cocktail during your cruise.

  • Services of an experienced English tour guide

    Benefit from the services of an experienced English-speaking tour guide.

  • Drinks included with meals and at the bar

    Drinks are included with your meals and at the bar.

  • Pauillac and the Châteaux du Medoc Route

    Explore the Pauillac and the Châteaux du Medoc Route.

  • Guided tour of Royan on foot Onboard entertainment

    Take a guided walking tour of Royan and enjoy onboard entertainment.

  • The seaside cities of Rochefort and La Rochelle

    Visit the seaside cities of Rochefort and La Rochelle.

  • Guided tour of Saint Emilion and wine tasting

    Enjoy a guided tour of Saint Emilion and a wine tasting experience.

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What's Not Included

  • Items of personal nature, tips and gratuities

    Expenses of a personal nature, tips, and gratuities are not included.

  • Arrival and departure transfers

    Transfers to and from the port are not included.

  • Visa fees if applicable

    Visa fees, if applicable, are not included.

  • Items not mentioned as being included

    Any items not specifically mentioned as included are excluded.

Mode of Transport

Travel in style aboard a cruise ship, with excursions by coach to various destinations including the Medoc vineyards, Rochefort, La Rochelle, and Arcachon Bay.

Accommodation

Enjoy 6 nights of superior accommodation on a double sharing basis aboard a luxurious vessel, complete with full board meal plans, welcome and farewell receptions, and onboard entertainment.

Videos

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of accommodation is provided during the cruise?

    You will enjoy 6 nights of superior accommodation on a double sharing basis aboard a luxurious vessel, complete with full board meal plans, welcome and farewell receptions, and onboard entertainment.

  • Are meals included during the cruise?

    Yes, a full board meal plan is included while you are on board the cruise. This includes all meals.

  • What kind of excursions are included in the cruise?

    The cruise includes various excursions such as a tour through the Médoc vineyards, a guided walking tour of Royan, visits to Rochefort and La Rochelle, a guided tour of Saint Emilion and wine tasting, a visit to the Château de Roquetaillade and Cadillac, and a day trip in the Arcachon Bay with lunch included.

  • Is there any onboard entertainment provided?

    Yes, there is onboard entertainment provided during the cruise.

  • Are drinks included during the cruise?

    Yes, drinks are included with your meals and at the bar.

  • Is Wi-Fi available on the cruise ship?

    Yes, free Wi-Fi is available onboard.

  • Are there any additional fees or taxes I need to be aware of?

    All passenger fees and port taxes are included in the cruise package.

  • What is the policy on tips and gratuities?

    Expenses of a personal nature, tips, and gratuities are not included in the cruise package.

  • Are transfers to and from the port included?

    No, arrival and departure transfers to and from the port are not included.

  • Is there a minimum age requirement for this cruise?

    The tour information does not specify a minimum age requirement.

  • What languages are spoken by the tour guides?

    The services of an experienced English-speaking tour guide are included.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, but only in case it was previously agreed by both sides and arranged by us.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Our e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip.

  • If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?

    You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    No, not as standard. Solo travellers can book and occupy their own room for a supplement.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    We have been organizing unforgettable trips since 2001.

  • Can I arrange flights via Indus Travels, too?

    In some cases, yes. Indus Travels can provide flights from/to selected departure points in the USA. If you would like a quote inclusive of flights, please let us know and we'll be happy to check the details for you!

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    Changes to an existing reservation up to the Final Payment Date, whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person amendment fee, potential loss of any supplier fees (such as non-refundable event tickets, park permits, and sea cruise reservations) plus any costs for replacement services. On/ after the Final Payment Date, the $100 change fee is no longer valid, instead cancellations terms apply.

Reviews of this operator

Joyce Elyse Baumbach  

The tour organized by Indus Travels ...

16-Dec-2022

The tour organized by Indus Travels was flawless. Hotels, tours, and transportation all impressed me. We had a very relaxing time knowing what was happening at each stage. The scenery and activities were fantastic and did not disappoint. The highlight of the trip was definitely Galapagos Islands.

Indus Travel Reviews
Sirjirick Gibson (Google Reviewer)  

This is my fourth Indus...

20-Aug-2024

This is my fourth Indus trip coming up. I love the way the app works. I love the way the trips are organized and small groupings. I love the accommodations. I love the transportation it’s just top-notch service for individual traveler. I just completed my fourth trip with This and I have already signed up for my up-and-coming fifth trip with Indus travel. Once again, I have to say the service of this is absolutely top-notch service. I am so grateful to have this opportunity to travel and style and comfort. The organization of this is top-notch service from start to finish.. I have to say this sales management and associate team is absolutely amazing which basically allows me to continuously book my trips through end this. My travel life is to travel to as many countries as possible, and it will all be done through excellent job. I would like to give a special thanks to Rachel P. And Ravi., I have been involved with Rachel for the past five years and I will continue to travel within due to the fact that she makes this such a pleasant experience. Great job to her..

Neeraj Nauhwaar (Google Reviewer)  

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with...

07-Dec-2023

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with them visiting Cairo and a 03 Nights Cruise from Luxor to Aswan in May. All services were perfect since the time we arrived at the airport, we were met by a hospitable Indus Representative who helped us with the purchase of local SIM and currency exchange. He was always there in time to assist for transfers. The Amwaj Cruise which we took from Luxor to Aswan was a Gem. We had great guides and all sightseeing worked like a clockwork. We enjoyed visiting Karnak Temples, Temples of Edfu, Kom Ombo and the boat ride to see Phillae Temple. Evening entertainment on cruise were great and engaging. In Cairo and Aswan, we had ample leisure time to explore on own, the Pyramids were impressive and visiting Khan e Khalili was fun. Overall and impressive and enjoyable tour, Thanks to Indus Travels!

Dhruv R (Google Reviewer)  

Recently went on a Rhine...

09-Jun-2023

Recently went on a Rhine River Cruise, a first for me. I must say the experience was exceptional, their tagline says. The group I was with were some of the most fun and interesting set of people I've ever traveled with. The ground transportation arrangements were top notch and comfortable. Variety in menu that we were provided with in the cruise was astounding. I was a bit worried if they'd have much options for me as I'm a vegetarian. But they not only had options, the taste was something I'd savor for foreseeable future. There's a reason Rhine cruises are popular owing to it's serene and picturesque route. Guided tours were very informative and gave us a bit of an insight of German culture. We had good amount of time to explore the towns on our own too. Strasbourg and Cochem were my favorite stops. Luckily the weather worked in our favour and it didn't rain the way it was predicted originally. No one from our group wanted the tour to end. If this trip was any indication, I can't wait to book my next trip with Indus Travels.

Dennis V (Google Reviewer)  

My wife and I travelled...

02-Jul-2024

My wife and I travelled with Indus on the essentials Portugal Spain Switzerland and Italy tour last October and had the time of our lives. The tour was very well planned we visited a lot of the highlights the countries had to offer. The tour went very smoothly with knowledgeable guides and courteous drivers. We would highly recommend travelling with Indus.

Gloria Parra (Google Reviewer)  

Indus Travel runs a highly...

04-Mar-2024

Indus Travel runs a highly professional organization. From customer service to brochures, bookings, tour guides, etc. and the consideration for their customers is superb. This was the first time I had travelled with Indus Travels. We took the Taste of Portugal Tour. Group numbers are small, accommodation comfortable and food excellent. The expert guide who accompanied us was outstanding - passionate, informative, engaging, and entertaining. This company is obviously at the heart of the itinerary planning, and attention to detail is second to none. I would highly recommend this company to anyone wanting a fun, relaxed, educational vacation with fine food - they will deliver! We will never forget this trip and we are already planning for another one to Wonders of Italy, Vienna, Budapest, and Prague.

Olivia  

Best of Italy

16-Nov-2022

Indus Travels did an excellent job planning the trip to Italy. We were on Best of Italy in Oct 2022. The tour was 5 stars all the way. The hotel accommodations were comfortable and clean & guides were top-notch.

Indus Travel Reviews
DJWalter Capote (Google Reviewer)  

We were looking for a...

07-Oct-2023

We were looking for a customized, small group tour. We took a chance on Indus without knowing much about the company. We just returned from our trip to Greece and are more than highly please and satisfied with our experience. They planned an amazing itinerary, booked amazing hotels, hired knowledgeable tour guides and arranged high quality transportation services. Everyone went above and beyond to please us. We are already planning a trip for next year (2024) and will definitely use Indus to do so.

Carole Pollack (Google Reviewer)  

Glimpse of Egypt Quick paced tour...

11-Jul-2023

Glimpse of Egypt Quick paced tour taken after Egypt opened back up to tourists, particularly Americans. Went in November and weather was beautiful. Decent hotels and overnight Nile cruise. You will see a lot on this tour and be aware there are some early wake ups. Lots of walking but doable if you're in decent shape. Overall a fun tour with all the sites you have only seen in books!

Erik Folke (Google Reviewer)  

Indus has some very good...

24-May-2024

Indus has some very good tour itineraries at very competitive prices. I called with several specific questions about land only vs. air included, and they were immediately responsive, and within hours had the website description updated to assist anyone else who might have the same questions. I called again with specific questions about insurance, and the first person to answer the phone was completely knowledgeable based on past experience and gave me good advice. Four stars vs. five only because I just made the booking yesterday, and withhold one pending how this whole trip turns out two months from now.

1 Select your preferred date

Friday - Friday

Apr 11, 2025 - Apr 18, 2025
$1889

Tuesday - Tuesday

Apr 22, 2025 - Apr 29, 2025
$1942

Thursday - Thursday

May 08, 2025 - May 15, 2025
$3044

Monday - Monday

May 19, 2025 - May 26, 2025
$3044

Tuesday - Tuesday

Jun 10, 2025 - Jun 17, 2025
$2519

Friday - Friday

Jun 27, 2025 - Jul 04, 2025
$2834

Monday - Monday

Jul 07, 2025 - Jul 14, 2025
$2887

Thursday - Thursday

Jul 24, 2025 - Jul 31, 2025
$1994

Tuesday - Tuesday

Aug 19, 2025 - Aug 26, 2025
$2834

Thursday - Thursday

Oct 02, 2025 - Oct 09, 2025
$3044
Prices last published on 19-Sep-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Indus Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 45 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of indus travels charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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