Uniworld River Cruise through Bordeaux
Stepping aboard the Uniworld SS Bon Voyage, a luxurious river cruise ship, marked the beginning of an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Bordeaux. I spent 7 nights onboard this ship in July gliding along the Dordogne and Garonne rivers. As we set foot on the Uniworld SS Bon Voyage, we were instantly struck by its elegant and sophisticated design. This boutique ship, combined the charm of yesteryear with modern luxury. The ship's interior was opulent, with intricate chandeliers, plush furnishings, and artwork that reflected the rich history and culture of Bordeaux. Our staterooms were tastefully designed, with luxurious fabrics and thoughtful amenities. We were each given a refillable water bottle to avoid the use of single-use plastics. Panoramic windows offered stunning views of the passing landscapes, and we were able to take in the beauty of Bordeaux right from the comfort of our cozy cabin. Warm days were spent in the onboard infinity pool or on the comfortable sun loungers on the Soleil deck, cocktail in hand. Evenings were spent being entertained by Cancan dancers and various singers in the lounge.
A Gastronomic Delight: Cruising on the Uniworld SS Bon Voyage was a culinary experience. The ship's dining venues showcased the finest French cuisine, celebrating the region's reputation as a gastronomic paradise. Every meal was a work of art, meticulously prepared by world-class chefs. Our days began with indulgent breakfast spreads, featuring freshly baked pastries, artisanal cheeses, omelettes cooked to order and a variety of local fruits and even champagne. For lunch and dinner, we were treated to exquisite multi-course meals based on locally sourced ingredients. Every evening before dinner the sommelier advised which wines would be paired with dinner that night, and the attentive staff made sure our glasses were always topped up.
Enriching Excursions: Bordeaux is synonymous with exceptional wine, and no trip to this region would be complete without indulging in its delights. Guided by knowledgeable sommeliers, we explored renowned vineyards and cellars, learning about the art of winemaking and tasting exquisite reds and whites. Every stop on our river cruise brought with it a new opportunity for exploration. Uniworld SS Bon Voyage planned excursions that offered us a chance to immerse ourselves in the culture and history of Bordeaux, from guided walking tours through charming medieval villages to visits to iconic châteaux.
One highlight was our visit to the historic Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning architecture and cobblestone streets. While we were there, we enjoyed a wine tasting at Chateau Balestard La Tonnelle, a grand cru vineyard with amazing views over the vineyards of St Emilion. Another unforgettable experience was our trip to Château Boutinet, a ruined 18th century chateau being restored by its owners who also have a passion for wine growing. We were treated to a wine tasting of clairet during our visit. Clairet is a style of wine which is produced in small quantities. It has a ruby colour but it is not a red or a rose wine.
During the evening that we docked in Bordeaux we had the opportunity to visit Bassins des Lumieres situated in Bordeaux’s former submarine base. This digital arts centre projected the works of Salvador Dali and Gaudi onto its massive walls in an impressive display of colour.
As we said goodbye to the Uniworld SS Bon Voyage and Bordeaux, we were left with unforgettable memories. The combination of luxurious accommodations, wonderful food, fine wines and captivating excursions made this river cruise a truly unparalleled experience. If you're seeking a journey that combines the best of French culture, food and wine, a Uniworld river cruise through Bordeaux is undoubtedly the perfect choice.
Uniworld river cruises visit many different rivers in Europe, plus rivers in Egypt, Asia and South America. Cruises are all-inclusive including transfers, all meals, drinks and excursions. Land extensions are also available.
Please get in touch to learn more about river cruising and cruising with Uniworld.