Bordeaux’s good fortune began in the 12th century when Duchess Eleanor of Aquitaine married Count Henri Plantagenêt, who soon became King Henry II of England. Their wedding in 1152 led to a growing popularity in wine production. Claret was the primary style of Bordeaux wine at the time and England imported it in large quantities. France regained control of the region and its vines at the close of the Hundred Years’ War in 1453. Since then, the city and its surrounding region has produced many styles, from simple table wine to the most prestigious and coveted bottles.
Though its name may not be familiar, the Garonne River is among the most beloved waterways in the world of wine lovers. As you sail its languid waters, gaze upon gentle hills laden with vineyards and riverside outcroppings dotted with honey-colored castles that share long histories of skirmishes. Sleepy French villages set the tone of life along the Garonne, where a slow pace and gentle patience serve the wine-growing industry well. Fishing is also prevalent along the river’s banks; you will pass some of the many carrelets (small fishing huts) hugging the shores.
Shore Excursions
Shore excursions vary by each itinerary and are subject to change.
Arcachon: A Day on the Bay
Travel to the elegant resort town of Arcachon to experience the daily life of an oyster farmer.
Le Marché des Capucins
Accompany our onboard chef on a shopping excursion, experiencing France’s unique market culture for yourself.
Bordeaux by E-Bike
Admire the historic sites of Bordeaux during a panoramic pedal by e-bike around this vibrant port’s city center.
Wines of Bordeaux Master Class
Taste a selection of wines from the famed Bordeaux region during a visit to the Wine and Trade Museum.
Videos
Cooking with Karine: Steak Bordelaise
Join Karine as she learns the secrets of preparing Steak Bordelaise, Bordeaux’s celebrated and classic dish, with local gourmand, chef Georges Gotrand.
Truffle Hunting
Join Karine in Bordeaux, France as she learns how dogs are trained to sniff out and unearth a treasured French delicacy, the rare and delicious truffle.
The Wine Regions of Bordeaux
Bordeaux, France’s celebrated vineyard-laden province, is home to some of the world’s most prized wines. Learn about its different regions and appellations with Karine.
Sauternes: The Sweet Alternative
Enjoy a glimpse into the intriguing wine of Sauternes. Karine journeys to Bordeaux to take a closer look at this sweet alternative with one of Sauternes’s local experts.
French Language Lesson
Learn a few useful French words and phrases with Maaike, your Viking tutor. À votre Santé!
France, Painter’s Muse
See for yourself how France has inspired famous artists like van Gogh, Monet and so many more.
Bordeaux’s Sublime Wines
Join Karine as she delves into the essence of Bordeaux’s most popular red and white wines with a local expert, learning some secrets of summoning a wine’s character along the way.
Bordeaux’s Prestigious Wines
Venture into the fascinating world of Bordeaux winemaking with Karine. Meet a renowned Master of Wine and learn about regional favorites from local experts.
Bordeaux’s Clairet & Rosé Wines
Introduce yourself to some hidden gems of Bordeaux’s world-renowned viniculture. You will learn subtle differences in wine profiles and why the French treasure their bounty each summer.