Bordeaux is located near the European Atlantic coast, in the north of the Aquitaine region in France. The city is built on a bend of the river Garonne, with the city literally divided into two parts. The world's wine capital, Bordeaux has about 60 appellations, 9,000 wine-producing châteaux, and 13,000 grape growers. With an annual production of over 700 million bottles, Bordeaux produces large quantities of everyday wine as well as the most expensive ones.
Join us for an extraordinary afternoon starting with Château Haut-Bailly, one of Bordeaux’s premier Pessac-Léognan estates. Under American ownership and the visionary guidance of Véronique Sanders, a prominent figure in Bordeaux’s wine scene, recent renovations have harmoniously merged natural beauty with architectural elegance, making this château a must-visit gem in the region. We will stroll through the meticulously maintained vineyards and soak in the serene beauty of the landscape. We will have exclusive access to "the chai" winemaking facility, where tradition meets cutting-edge technology and indulge in a private tasting session, savoring some of the finest wines that Château Haut-Bailly has to offer. Our journey will continue to Château Smith Haut Lafitte, a historic and breathtaking Pessac-Léognan estate with a history dating back 800 years. Since Daniel and Florence Cathiard acquired the estate in 1990, it has reached new heights of excellence under their exceptional care. Guests will Immerse themselves in the rich history and stunning architecture that define this iconic château and witness firsthand the dedication and passion that have elevated Château Smith Haut Lafitte to one of the top estates in the region. The experience will include the ultimate VIP treatment with the exclusive "A Taste of Paradise" workshop, designed to delight your senses and deepen your appreciation for these exceptional wines.
Saint-Émilion, the first UNESCO World Heritage site, is the crown jewel of the Bordeaux wine regions. This enchanting village, considered one of the most beautiful in France, seamlessly combines rich history, stunning landscapes, and world-class wine. No trip to Bordeaux is complete without a visit to this storied village. Immerse yourself in the unique charm of this wine epicenter, starting with visits to two prestigious Saint-Émilion châteaux, both featuring historic carrières (caves) originally excavated to provide limestone blocks for regional estates, now transformed into wine cellars. First stop, Château Beauséjour-Bécot. Ranked as one of the elite Premier Grand Cru Classé B châteaux, Château Beauséjour-Bécot offers a blend of historical prestige and modern excellence. Our tour will delve into the château’s ancient caves, a testament to the region’s rich winemaking heritage. We will savor the exceptional wines produced here, each sip a reflection of the château’s dedication to quality. Our next experience will include an exclusive tasting at Château Villemaurine, a renowned Grand Cru estate. We will explore the village’s largest accessible caves, a marvel of historical architecture and winemaking tradition. Guests will enjoy a private tasting session, where the château’s finest offerings will captivate your palate. We will have enough time to wander through the picturesque upper village, where history unfolds before your eyes. Guests will visit the majestic bell tower, the enchanting 13th-18th century church, and the serene cloister and take in picture-perfect views that capture the essence of Saint-Émilion’s timeless beauty. Join us for a day steeped in the rich history, exquisite flavors, and breathtaking beauty of Saint-Émilion. This is more than just a visit; it's an experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the art of winemaking. Cheers to an extraordinary wine adventure!
Imagine spending an enchanting evening at one of Bordeaux’s most illustrious châteaux, indulging in a five-course gourmet menu perfectly paired with Château Kirwan's world-class Margaux wines. Founded in 1710, Château Kirwan boasts deep ties to Bordeaux's rich wine culture, even hosting Thomas Jefferson in 1780. Owned by a renowned négociant family since 1738, Château Kirwan is dedicated to producing some of the most coveted wines in the Médoc region, with grapes from vines over 60 years old. The recently renovated cellar, designed by Kinga and Anatoly Stolnikoff, is a masterpiece that blends modern elegance with historical charm. Its monumental entrance features a sculpted steel arabesque titled “Noah’s Vine,” leading to a stunning, vast nave-like hall that connects the original buildings, housing the vat-house and cellars. This exclusive event promises a sublime experience for any wine lover, celebrating the heritage and exceptional quality of Château Kirwan wines. Don't miss this unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the history and luxury of Bordeaux's wine culture. Sign up now to secure your place at this unforgettable evening.
This evening offers you a once in a lifetime opportunity to dine like it’s 1855. Situated near the Garonne river in the Cadillac region of Bordeaux, the famed and historic property of Chateau Suau established in 1635. The estate is framed by two turrets and a beautifully long lawn lined by orchard trees. Guest will be greeted with Champagne just off the transport. Then invited into a reception to share in caviar and canapés. Classic music of the period and region will be played alongside of the dinner. The theme of the evening is to step back in time and to share the experience with the fellow guest. Guest will dine on the lawn at a large harvest table, adorned with beautiful florals and bottles of the finest wines from Bordeaux and abroad! Guest will enjoy traditional wild boar fire roasted on a spit, oysters, fresh Atlantic Salmon, Foie Gras, and foraged mushrooms. Guests will have an opportunity to enjoy and taste wines from the owners own private cellar. These will be wines from the Chateau, as well as Grand Cru Classe wines from several vintages, and of the other properties in Tuscany, Australia, Uruguay, and California. Wines will be selected, presented, and served by the sommeliers on staff. A dessert cart will be stationed near the table featuring iconic desserts from the region. As well as some of the Sauternes dessert wines, produced at the Estate. Before guest depart and return to the ship the Estate Director, winemaker, and staff of Chateau Suau will say “Bon Voyage” with 3 bottles of wine for each guest to take home to enjoy with fond memories of the evening!
See Bordeaux’s cultural and historical landmarks on an enlightening driving tour and then browse an architecturally stunning museum devoted to wine.
After departing from the pier, you will soon reach the heart of Bordeaux, an extraordinary city that UNESCO has recognized as a World Heritage site for its cultural values and well-preserved architecture. While driving along, you will pass one highlight after another, from the Chartrons riverfront where the wine trade began to the glorious Grand Theatre, an architectural masterpiece inaugurated in 1780.
In time, you will arrive at La Cité du Vin, a museum designed with bold curves and shapes that evoke iconic symbols of Bordeaux such as a gnarled wine stock and wine swirling in a glass. The museum’s interior is just as breathtaking as exterior, as you will discover during a self-guided tour that allows you to explore the themed spaces that you find most captivating.
You might see how grape varieties have spread around the world, how climate affects cultivation and the process of transforming grapes into wine. Some of the art depicts favored methods of transporting wine over waterways, while other artistic expressions touch upon the importance of wine in religion. Another themed space celebrates the art of living with a focus on how wine has been served since antiquity.
You will also have the opportunity to visit the Belvedere, the museum’s eighth floor, where you will enjoy a panoramic, 360-degree view of Bordeaux while savoring a glass of wine.
Admire the architectural treasures in Saint-Emilion, a medieval village and UNESCO World Heritage site, and then savor a private wine tasting at a nearby estate.
After departing from the pier, you will settle in for a picturesque ride toward Saint-Emilion, a region revered for its outstanding wines and natural beauty. The area and its namesake village have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site because Saint-Emilion represents a historic vineyard landscape that has survived intact. Viticulture was introduced here by the Romans and then greatly enhanced in the Middle Ages.
Once you arrive in Saint-Emilion, the guide will lead you to landmarks such as the ancient arched gate over Rue Cadene, one of the roads into the medieval village. You will also see the towering 13th-century King’s Keep and the Collegiate Church, whose construction in the Romanesque style began even earlier. Its cloister is particularly serene.
During free time that follows, you can explore Saint-Emilion even deeper. Fashionable boutiques, wine shops and stores selling gourmet cheeses are abundant. While wine and cheese samples may be available, a more comprehensive private tasting awaits you at a nearby estate.
After an enlightening tour of the vineyards, you will settle in to sample some of the region’s finest wines, which are predominately made from Merlot and Cabernet Franc grapes. The local soil composition is filled with sand and clay, which fosters the creation of rich, savory wines. During the tasting, you will learn about the wines’ complexity and their production.
To ensure that your shoreside experiences are as convenient and enjoyable as possible, we are delighted to offer a complimentary shuttle between your ship and the city center in every port where the ship is not docked within walking distance of the city center. This service runs continuously, aligning perfectly with your ship’s in-port schedule. Best of all, there’s no need to reserve your seat in advance. Simply make your way to the designated stop to board your shuttle, and you’ll be whisked away to the heart of the city. Additional information and schedules can be obtained by visiting the onboard Destination Services Desk during your voyage.