Brilliant Bordeaux

Selected Departure Dates in 2023

(Pricing based on 2 April 2023 departure)

Uncover the proud legacy and heritage of Southwest France.

Set sail along three stunning rivers, the Garonne, Dordogne and Gironde, on one fascinatingly historical and invigorating journey. Explore the country’s breathtaking backdrops, wines and cultural treasures across the region in Bordeaux, Fort Médoc, Cadillac, Blaye, Libourne and more. Wander through archaeological marvels, historic landmarks and magnificent vineyards where you’ll be treated to a sampling of quintessentially French experiences.

Embark on a scenic drive from Blaye to Bourg along the Route de la Corniche Fleurie and marvel at the sights of Blaye Fortress and Lansac Windmill along the way. Slow things down in Libourne and on your return to Bordeaux with multiple wine tastings, village tours, a farmers’ market visit and Bordeaux heritage walking tour. Join us on a showcase of the best Southwest France has to offer.

DINING

All meals onboard, prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients

7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners

Captain’s Welcome and Farewell Receptions

Welcome and Farewell Gala Dinners

Unlimited beverages onboard, including fine wine, beer, spirits, specialty coffee and tea, soft drinks and mineral water

EXCURSIONS

6 days of excursions, including “Choice Is Yours” options, all fully hosted by English-speaking local experts

Guided “Let's Go,” “Do as the Locals Do” and “Village Day” programs

State-of-the-art Quietvox portable audio-headset system on all excursions

Use of bicycles and Nordic walking sticks

ACCOMMODATIONS

7-night cruise in a riverview stateroom on the breathtaking S.S. Bon Voyage

Lavishly appointed riverview staterooms and suites have handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, high thread count 100% Egyptian cotton sheets and European duvets, and a menu of pillow options

Free Internet and Wi-Fi access

EXPERIENCES

1 country: France

3 UNESCO World Heritage sites

Captivating onboard local entertainment

Cultural enrichment, including Signature Lectures

Services of an experienced Uniworld Cruise Manager

All transfers on arrival and departure days

All gratuities, both onboard and onshore

Exclusive Connoisseur Collection on select summer departures

Your Ship: S.S. Bon Voyage

The S.S. Bon Voyage— designed to immerse guests in French culture, art and wine, from its stunning lobby clad in polished wood, subtle brass details and hand-crafted balustrade, to the stylish emerald tones found in bar Le Salon Champagne, inspired by Yves Saint Laurent’s personal abode, Villa Majorelle.

The dining venues also capture the essence of France. The quintessential La Brasserie, with its natural green and pops of yellow décor inspired by the famous Bouillon Pigalle, serves traditional bistro fare. Le Grand Fromage offers menus reflective of the local cuisine, prepared from locally-sourced ingredients. La Cave des Vins is an intimate space where connoisseurs can gather for expert food and wine pairing dinners upon request.

The stunning Soleil Deck, awash in vibrant fabrics, features the only infinity pool on the rivers and spectacular views of the French countryside. Poolside service at Le Café du Soleil offers casual French cuisine as well as open-air cooking demonstrations from our chefs.

In addition to the public spaces, the S.S. Bon Voyage features four new spacious suites, and every stateroom has received an exquisite redesign with cool marble bathrooms and unique features.

Detailed Itinerary

DAY 1: Bordeaux (Embark)

DAY 2: Blaye, Bourg sur Gironde

The Route de la Corniche Fleurie…could this be the most beautiful road you’ve ever travelled? Find out today on the drive to Blaye Fortress, passing through one impossibly picturesque hamlet after another. Once you arrive, you’ll find your centre with a unique and expertly led yoga session in the heart of this historic fortress, a UNESCO-designated citadel that once protected Bordeaux from attacks by sea.

Featured Excursion: Bourg sur Gironde walking tour

Choice of Panoramas of Route de la Corniche Fleurie with Blaye Fortress or “Let’s Go” yoga in the historic heart of Blaye Fortress

In the evening, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.

DAY 3: Cussac Fort Médoc, Pauillac la Fayette

The legendary Médoc region abounds with prestigious wine châteaux in a dizzying array of architectural styles, as well as miles of grapevines stretching to infinity. Take a scenic drive through the storied Médoc wine route, followed by a wine tasting at a beautiful wine estate. Enjoy the waters of the Garonne River and the Gironde Estuary before heading to the pretty town of Pauillac, gateway to the storied Médoc wine route, the Atlantic coast and remnants of the Atlantic Wall erected during WWII.

Featured Excursion: Fresh Médoc oysters tasting

Choice of Bunker archaeology tour or Médoc Châteaux route with private wine tasting or “Let’s Go” bike in the Médoc vineyards

DAY 4: Cadillac

The French phrase “la douceur de vivre” is an accurate description for your time in Cadillac, known for its deliciously flavoured dessert wines. Visit Château Royal de Cazeneuve, site of Henry IV’s and Queen Margot’s tempestuous love. Meet the owner around a glass of Sauternes in the reception hall.

Choice of Private owner's tour of Royal Château with Sauternes toast or The colourful life of Toulouse Lautrec at Château de Malromé

Note: Sailing this stretch of the Garonne depends on the tides. If it is not possible to sail to Cadillac, you will be transferred to your destination via motorcoach.

DAY 5: Libourne (Saint-Émilion)

The medieval town of Saint-Émilion is an ideal place to linger. Wander its cobblestone lanes lined with wine shops and bakeries, and stop to admire the amazing rock-hewn church that extends beneath the city’s streets. Another treasure awaiting you underground? A wine tasting in the cellars of a Grand Cru estate. With Libourne as your base, travel to nearby breathtaking Saint-Émilion and immerse yourself more deeply in the region’s history and wine culture.

Featured Excursion: Saint-Émilion walking tour with wine tasting

DAY 6: Libourne, Bordeaux

France’s rich agricultural tradition is the heart and soul of the region’s exquisite cuisine—and what better way to get a taste for the freshest vegetables, cheeses, breads and fruits than with a visit to Libourne’s lively farmers’ market?

Featured Excursion: Libourne “Village Day” with farmer's market

DAY 7: Bordeaux

Discover Bordeaux’s many charms today, either on foot with a local expert or on two wheels—the locals’ preferred way to navigate the city’s charming backstreets. You have a wonderful selection of active opportunities to see this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Featured Excursion: Cité du Vin museum visit

Choice of “Do as the Locals Do” Bordeaux walking tour or ”Let’s Go” bike Bordeaux backstreets

In the evening, a special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.

DAY 8: Bordeaux (Disembark)

Want to explore France further? Yes, we know you do…

• A Portrait of Majestic France (combines 2 cruises: Brilliant Bordeaux with Paris and Normandy)

• Ultimate France (combines 3 cruises: Brilliant Bordeaux, Paris and Normandy plus Burgundy and Provence)

Bordeaux, Blaye, Pauillac, Libourne (overnight), Bordeaux (2 nights)

All fares are displayed in Australian Dollars and pricing is per person based on twin share occupancy unless stated otherwise. Although all due care is taken to keep information as up-to-date as possible, pricing and availability are subject to change without notice: due to varying timing schedules of supplier automated update processes; currency fluctuations; fuel surcharges or government tax & fee changes and may not be guaranteed until paid in full. Gratuities may be an additional onboard charge depending on particular cruise line selected. Please ask your cruise consultant for any clarification of Terms & Conditions.