Beautiful Bordeaux

Welcome to Bordeaux. Your friendly crew are ready to welcome you on board the luxurious Scenic Diamond. (D)

Enjoy a relaxing morning as you cruise into the beautiful 13th century port of Libourne. While cruising, perhaps drop into Scenic Culinaire for a French cooking class. Or you could choose to relax in the on board Salt Therapy Lounge and soak in the healing properties of the salt, or on the Sundeck with a drink in hand as you take in the stunning scenery along the Dordogne River.

Spend the afternoon in the nearby town of Saint-Émilion, a visual feast and the jewel of this ancient wine growing region. Saint-Émilion is a medieval village with world famous wineries, beautiful architecture and fascinating monuments. You’ll get the chance to take in all its beauty, and to explore the underground catacombs of the Monolithic Church – a true highlight. (B,L,D)

Freechoice - Enjoy a guided tour of Libourne and view its quaint 16th century town-houses and Gothic church, or visit the eclectic city of Bergerac. Alternatively, explore the estate of Château Siaurac with a wine tasting, or join a cycling tour through the region to the estate.

During your afternoon at leisure, opt to enhance your culinary prowess in Scenic Culinaire, or simply take in the riverside panoramas while cruising towards Pauillac. (B,L,D)

Freechoice - Travel the scenic Médoc wine route and discover why this region is viewed as the world’s leading red wine producer. Afterwards, sample the region’s finest at a local estate. Alternatively, cycle through the region to a grand château and sample delicious wine produced on the estate.

Enrich - Set in spectacular surrounds in the Médoc countryside, Château d’Agassac is truly enchanting. Dating back to the 13th century, the Château is one of the oldest winemaking establishments in the region, and is the venue for your unforgettable evening concert. Soak in the ambience of this magnificent property as live musicians perform classical masterpieces for your exclusive enjoyment. (B,L,D)

Soak in the vistas as you cruise past the picturesque landscapes of the Garonne River into Cadillac, some of the most beautiful scenic cruising in the Bordeaux region. While on board, you may choose to hone your cooking skills with a lesson in Scenic Culinaire. Tonight, this remarkable space comes to life when fabulous local entertainers perform live in the Panorama Lounge for a night of entertainment. (B,L,D)

Freechoice - Venture into the Sauternes region for a delicious wine tasting at the prestigious Château de Rayne Vigneau, or cycle through the rolling vineyards of Sauternes to the Grand Cru Classé estate of Lafaurie Peyraguey for a tasting.

Freechoice - This afternoon, visit Roquetaillade Castle; it’s one of the region’s most impressive historic sites, and you’ll tour it with the family that now lives within its walls. Alternatively, visit a truffle farm and sample the delicious regional delicacy, or perhaps visit Château Malromé, the family home of well known artist, Toulouse Lautrec. (B,L,D)

Freechoice - Shop with a Chef at a local food market and cook up a storm in Scenic Culinaire. Alternatively, enjoy a guided tour of Bordeaux and her many attractions, or if you’re feeling more active, you may choose to cycle the historic regions of the city.
Back on board your Cruise Director will organise a treat for you, with a tasting of fresh oysters delivered straight from the waters of Arcachon Bay.

Enrich - After the doors have closed to the public, you will be welcomed with a glass of Champagne to Les Bassins des Lumières, Bordeaux’s former submarine base, now an impressive digital art installation. Be treated to an exclusive show, customised and curated just for Scenic guests. (B,L,D)

Freechoice - Journey to Arcachon and join a walking tour including a visit to the local markets, or climb Dune du Pilat, Europe’s largest sand dune. Alternatively, stay in Bordeaux and take a tram to the Cité du Vin museum. After a short introduction enjoy a interactive journey around a world of wine and culture on a self-guided tour.

Tonight enjoy a special dinner on board showcasing regional delicacies before an illuminations cruise on the Garonne River. (B,L,D)

Today explore the unique northern shores of the Gironde Estuary.

Freechoice - Discover the Carriages Museum in the enchanting Bourg Castle and visit the 16th century passageway to the guards rooms and see the immense WWII oil tanks. Alternatively, spend a full day exploring the fortified town of Cognac, renowned for its production of fine brandy and afterwards, enjoy a tasting at the acclaimed property of Rémy Martin.

This afternoon, unwind on the Sun Deck while cruising into the historic port of Blaye. (B,L,D)

Freechoice - Stroll through the charming town during a guided walking tour, or take a more active walk through the Citadel of Blaye and learn about the defence system which was created by the famous architect Sébastien Vauban. Alternatively, join a 30 kilometre roundtrip cycle along the Captain’s Road, or explore the stunning beauty of the fairytale Château de La Roche Courbon, known as ‘The Castle of Sleeping Beauty’. Explore the castle and its beautiful gardens during a guided tour.

Later, enjoy a cooking class in Scenic Culinaire, or simply relax on board as we cruise past beautiful uninhabited islands, bound for Bordeaux. Dine at the Captain’s farewell dinner on board this evening. (B,L,D)

Disembark after breakfast and transfer to Bordeaux airport or train station for your onward journey.

(Itinerary is based on sailngs departing in 2024 and is subject to change)