Sailing Through Bordeaux

As a travel professional, I’ve spent years helping others plan their dream holidays, but it’s quite the bonus to experience one myself. This summer, my husband and I, embarked on our very first river cruise. We sailed through the Bordeaux region with AmaWaterways on their AmaDolce ship to experience their Taste of Bordeaux itinerary. What followed was a journey filled with elegance, discovery, and unforgettable moments.

We began and ended our voyage in the vibrant city of Bordeaux, a place that immediately charmed us with its blend of history, architecture, and wine culture. From there, our floating boutique hotel took us on a scenic journey through the heart of southwestern France, stopping in Cadillac, Libourne, Pauillac, Bourg, Saint-Émilion, and Blaye, each destination offering its own unique flavour of the region.

The excursions were a highlight. We explored grand châteaux, wandered through sun-drenched vineyards, and tasted some of the finest wines France has to offer. Whether it was sipping bold reds in Pauillac or discovering the medieval charm of Saint-Émilion, every stop deepened our appreciation for the region’s rich winemaking heritage. The guides were knowledgeable and passionate, making each tour both educational and engaging.

Onboard, the experience was just as delightful. The food was delicious, a celebration of French cuisine that changed daily and never failed to impress. From freshly made omelettes in the morning, with a side of champagne; laid-back lunches with a crisp chardonnay to gourmet dinners paired with local wines, every meal was a treat. The staff were incredibly friendly, always attentive and genuinely kind, making us feel like cherished guests rather than passengers.

The ship itself was elegant and intimate, with panoramic views of the Dordogne and Garonne rivers and countryside that made even quiet moments feel special. Whether we were relaxing on the sun deck, enjoying a wine tasting in the lounge, listening to our resident pianist or simply watching the world drift by from our cabin; tranquillity was at the centre.

This cruise was more than a holiday, it was a celebration of culture, history, and wine! For anyone considering a river cruise, I wholeheartedly recommend AmaWaterways.