BLACK FRIDAY AT WINGBUDDY: Additional $100 OFF / person on all packages. Book by Dec 4th
 

9

days

France: Wines & Castles

3 reviews   (4.5)

PACKAGE INCLUDES

  • INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS 
  • WELCOME & TRANSFERS
  • 1 NIGHT PRE-CRUISE IN BORDEAUX
  • 6 NIGHTS ON THE GIRONDE RIVER
  • CRUISE ON FULL-BOARD BASIS
PROMO: 100$ off $3698.00
CAD $3,598*
STARTING AT  PER PERSON/TAXES INCL
CLICK HERE TO MAKE A REQUEST

Reviews for France: Wines & Castles

 4.5 out of 5
Based on 3 customer reviews
4.7

October 24, 2024

4.7

October 23, 2024

Un très beau séjour en France et abord de Croisi-europe. Le représentant de Wingbuddy était à temps et sympathique sauf que j'aurais apprécié qu'il s'introduire au groupe simple marque de courtoisie. J'apprécie les changements à l'horaire et les coûts encourus pour réorganiser les excursions dû au niveau des eaux sur la Garonne. Nous n'avons manquer aucune visite. Merci bien et j'anticipe déjà mon prochain voyage avec Wingbuddy !... Read More

4.1

September 25, 2024

BLACK FRIDAY - Book by December 4th (May sell out earlier) - Applicable on a new booking made between November 14th and December 4th 2024 inclusively.

9-day all-inclusive River Cruise package with flights! Explore the beauty of France from Bordeaux to La Rochelle, Arcachon Bay and beyond. Discover the incredible diversity of castles, rich history, and renowned wine regions while cruising along the Gironde River.

Dates & Prices Itinerary Categories Categories Inclusions/Exclusions Inclusions Addons Map FAQ
April 2025
Departure Date Return Date Starting rate    
Sun Apr 20 Mon Apr 28 $3698 $3,598/person
100$ off
MS Cyrano de Bergerac - Premium ship
Departure
Sun Apr 20
Return
Mon Apr 28
$3698 $3,598/person
100$ off
MS Cyrano de Bergerac - Premium ship

May 2025
Departure Date Return Date Starting rate    
Sat May 17 Sun May 25 $4698 $4,598/person
100$ off
MS Cyrano de Bergerac - Premium ship
Departure
Sat May 17
Return
Sun May 25
$4698 $4,598/person
100$ off
MS Cyrano de Bergerac - Premium ship

June 2025
Departure Date Return Date Starting rate    
Sun Jun 08 Mon Jun 16 $4298 $4,198/person
100$ off
MS Cyrano de Bergerac - Premium ship
Departure
Sun Jun 08
Return
Mon Jun 16
$4298 $4,198/person
100$ off
MS Cyrano de Bergerac - Premium ship

*The advertised starting rate is available from Vancouver on Apr 2025
**All prices are subject to change without notice

FRANCE: WINES & CASTLES

7 NIGHTS / 9 DAYS
  • Day 1: Canada - Bordeaux (France) 

    Flight with a good itinerary. 

  • Day 2: Bordeaux

    Arrival at the airport in Bordeaux. You will be greeted by our local representatives and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to discover Bordeaux.

    Bordeaux is a city in southwestern France renowned for its prestigious wine industry, producing some of the world's most celebrated red wines. The city is situated along the Garonne River, known for its stunning 18th-century architecture, including the Place de la Bourse and the Bordeaux Opera House. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Bordeaux attracts visitors with its rich cultural heritage, vibrant culinary scene, and of course, its exceptional wines.

  • Day 3: Bordeaux - Cussac-Fort-Medoc

    After your breakfast at the hotel, you will be able to spend the day sightseeing in this vibrant city. In the afternoon, you will be transferred to the pier to board your beautiful cruise ship. 

    After comfortably settling into your cabins, you will be introduced to the crew with a welcome cocktail. Your ship will begin its journey setting sail towards Cussac-Fort-Médoc. You will start cruising on the Garonne River, before entering the Gironde River, where you will pass the islands of Cazeau and Patiras before reaching Cussac-Fort-Médoc. (Breakfast-Dinner)

    Beginning of your cruise.

    Boarding: 06:00 pm

  • Day 4: Cussac-Fort-Medoc - The Medoc - Gironde Estuary - Royan 

    After breakfast, enjoy free time in the morning to continue exploring Cussac-Fort-Medoc on your own, or opt for an optional morning tour ($) to visit the Médoc vineyards. The tour will take you through renowned locations in the Médoc region, including Saint Julien and Haut-Médoc, offering opportunities for tasting distinguished local wines along the celebrated wine route. As you travel, catch glimpses of iconic vineyards and estates like Châteaux Lafite Rothschild, Latour, and Mouton Rothschild.

    In the afternoon, indulge in a complimentary excursion featuring a panoramic tour of Royan, an officially designated French "ville d’Art et d’Histoire" nestled by the seaside. Continue your exploration of the Foncillon District, where the captivating church eagerly invites you to delve into the secrets of its origin. Following this, relish some time at leisure to wander the port and rediscover the city at your own pace, whether exploring the covered market, the modern Palais des Congrès, the shell auditorium resembling Boston's Hatch Shell, or simply unwinding at waterfront cafes, shopping, or savoring a delightful meal. Conclude your expedition by returning to the ship and savor an evening of delightful dinner and dancing on board.  (Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner)

  • Day 5: Royan - Rochefort - La Rochelle - Royan

    Enjoy breakfast on board, followed by free time to explore the beautiful town of Royan or opt for an optional excursion ($) to visit two coastal cities, Rochefort and La Rochelle. Departing by coach, you will first arrive in Rochefort, a historic maritime town with a renowned naval heritage, including the Arsenal de Rochefort, a 17th-century naval shipyard. You will explore the historic Corderie Royale, the first industrial building in France, which supplied ropes to the French Navy for over three centuries, and learn about rope-making techniques used for large sailing ships.

    Afterwards, continue towards La Rochelle, a city with over 1,000 years of history and the capital of Charente Maritime. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing with a guided tour of the old town and port. Discover landmarks such as the Grosse-Horloge gate, Renaissance arcades, half-timbered homes, intricately sculpted facades of private mansions, and the cathedral. Following the tour, savor some free time before returning to the ship. Once on board, cruise along the Dordogne to Libourne for the remainder of the day. (Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner)

  • Day 6: Libourne - Saint-Émilion - Bordeaux

    Following breakfast, time at leisure to continue your exploration of the rolling countryside or opt for an optional guided tour ($) to explore the underground monuments of Saint-Émilion. Uncover the fascinating history of this medieval city, including its mysterious monolithic church. Afterward, you will head to a vineyard to discover the art of producing the renowned local wine. The tour will conclude with a delightful tasting of local products. Later in the day, return to the ship and spend the afternoon cruising toward Bordeaux. (Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner)

  • Day 7: Bordeaux – Cadillac

    As you enjoy breakfast, capture picturesque views of Bordeaux from the water as you make your way to Cadillac. Upon arrival, you will have free time to explore the small town of Cadillac or opt for an optional excursion ($) to visit Roquetaillade Castle, where you will delve into the medieval architecture. Continue to explore a wine cellar in the Sauternais for a tasting of the renowned Sauternes wine, followed by a guided tour of Cadillac. Situated on the right bank of the Garonne River and founded in 1280, Cadillac maintains its original structure. You will discover the port, explore the ramparts, and wander through the main square, taking a stroll along the streets to admire the charming old homes and a 15th-century church. In the afternoon, return to your ship to continue the cruise towards Bordeaux.

    This is the night we like to dress up, although no dress code is imposed. The crew, all in their dress uniform, are presented to the passengers who are invited to have a drink with the captain. That evening, the chef will serve a banquet paying a special tribute to the world of French gastronomy. Dancing follows this gala dinner in the lounge bar. (Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner)

  • Day 8: Bordeaux - Arcachon Bay – Bordeaux

    Breakfast on board. Enjoy a leisurely day exploring Bordeaux’s charming city at your own pace or opt for an optional excursion ($) to explore the famous Arcachon Bay with a coach departure from Bordeaux. Begin your journey with a boat trip on the Bassin d'Arcachon, offering views of Bird Island, the iconic 'Cabanes tchanquées' houses on stilts, and the picturesque oyster beds. Enjoy some free time in Arcachon, followed by lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, venture to the Great Dune of Pilat, standing at 107m, the tallest sand dune in Europe, providing a breathtaking panoramic view from its summit. The day concludes with a return to Bordeaux. Enjoy an evening of onboard entertainment. (Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner)

  • Day 9: Bordeaux - Canada

    After one last breakfast on board, disembarkation in Bordeaux, you will be transferred to the airport for your return flight home. (Breakfast)

    -End of services-

    *For navigation safety reasons, Croisieurope may alter the cruise itinerary. This program is tidal and arrival times at ports of call may be subject to change.

Main Deck

Middle Deck

Upper Deck

INCLUDES

  • Round-trip international flights between Canada / Bordeaux with good itineraries

  • Greetings and transfers between the airport, the hotel, and the port in Bordeaux

  • 1 night pre-cruise in Bordeaux at the Mercure Bordeaux Gare Atlantic 4* hotel (or similar) in a standard room

  • 6 nights aboard on an all-inclusive basis aboard one of CroisiEurope ships

  • All meals and drinks on board (including alcohol)

  • Welcome cocktail and gala dinner on board

  • Onboard entertainment and travel assistance during the cruise

  • Wifi internet on board

  • All taxes, fees, and OPC

  • Upon reservation, include our 5 EXCURSION PACKAGE and SAVE MORE THAN $100 per person (compared to the regular price on board). Excursions can also be booked individually onboard for each port.

EXCLUDES

  • Travel insurance

  • Fees for checked baggage

  • Tips: Guides, bus drivers, hotel and cruise staff

  • Meals and beverages not mentioned

  • Drinks from the special list during the cruise

  • Personal expenses and optional activities

  • Hotel tax (appr. 4 euros per person and per night, payable at destination)

ADDONS

5 Excursion package - 2024 & 2025 Details

+ 779.00 CAD
Upon reservation, include our 5-excursion package and save more than $100 compared to the regular price. Excursions can also be booked separately on board.

Get a unique chance to discover:

Pauillac and the Medoc Route Castle: Departure by coach from Pauillac to explore the Médoc, a prestigious wine-growing region nestled between an ocean and an estuary. This corner of the world produces some of the most renowned red wines globally. Your journey will take you to taste the region's renowned wines, including visits to major estates such as Laffitte-Rothschild Castle, Latour, and Mouton Rothschild. You will return to the boat at the end of the afternoon.

** The excursion Pauillac and the Medoc Route Castle is only available for pre-booking.

The Seasides Cities of Rochefort and la Rochelle: You will travel by coach to Rochefort, and discover the historic downtown, surrounded by captivating mansions where sailors and explorers lived, exudes an aura of adventure. Explore the Corderie Royale, France's first industrial building supplying ropes to the Navy for three centuries before heading to La Rochelle, a city over 1,000 years old with stunning heritage along the Bay of Biscay where you will discover the Grosse-Horloge gate, Renaissance arcades, and more during a guided tour. Enjoy free time before returning to the ship in the late afternoon.

Guided tour of Saint Emilion and Wine Tasting: Departure by coach from Libourne for the excursion to Saint-Émilion. Enjoy a guided tour of the underground monuments in the village, where your guide will share the history of this medieval town. Explore an exceptional troglodytic site, featuring its most unique monument, the Monolithic Church. Next, venture to a family-owned vineyard, where the owner will warmly welcome you and explain the stages of the winemaking process in Saint-Émilion. The experience concludes with a wine-tasting session. Return to Libourne by coach.

Guided Tour of the Roquetaillade Castle and Cadillac: Depart by coach for the Roquetaillade Castle, a splendid medieval fortress, and a historic monument from the 12th to 14th centuries. Explore medieval keeps, the region's first Renaissance chimneys (1600), and unique 19th-century interiors by Viollet-le-Duc, a now-classified historic monument. Enjoy a vineyard visit in Sauternes for a renowned wine tasting. You will then return to Cadillac for a guided tour where you will discover historic gates, a central square with arcades, antique houses, and a 15th-century church. Return to the boat by coach.

Day Trip in the Arcachon Bay: Depart by coach from Bordeaux to the Bassin d'Arcachon for an immersive experience. The tour starts with a captivating boat trip on the Bassin d'Arcachon, providing breathtaking views of Bird Island, the iconic 'Cabanes tchanquées' houses on stilts, and the scenic oyster beds. Next, you will explore the Oyster Centre and Museum situated in Larros Port, Gujan Mestras, where interactive scenography unveils the fascinating world of oyster farming and its rich history. In the afternoon, venture to the Great Dune of Pilat, standing proudly at 107m, earning its title as the highest sand dune in Europe. As the day concludes, return to Bordeaux with memories of a remarkable day by the Bassin d'Arcachon. (Lunch included)

5 Excursion package - 2024 & 2025 Details

+ 779.00 CAD
Upon reservation, include our 5-excursion package and save more than $100 compared to the regular price. Excursions can also be booked separately on board.

Get a unique chance to discover:

Pauillac and the Medoc Route Castle: Departure by coach from Pauillac to explore the Médoc, a prestigious wine-growing region nestled between an ocean and an estuary. This corner of the world produces some of the most renowned red wines globally. Your journey will take you to taste the region's renowned wines, including visits to major estates such as Laffitte-Rothschild Castle, Latour, and Mouton Rothschild. You will return to the boat at the end of the afternoon.

** The excursion Pauillac and the Medoc Route Castle is only available for pre-booking.

The Seasides Cities of Rochefort and la Rochelle: You will travel by coach to Rochefort, and discover the historic downtown, surrounded by captivating mansions where sailors and explorers lived, exudes an aura of adventure. Explore the Corderie Royale, France's first industrial building supplying ropes to the Navy for three centuries before heading to La Rochelle, a city over 1,000 years old with stunning heritage along the Bay of Biscay where you will discover the Grosse-Horloge gate, Renaissance arcades, and more during a guided tour. Enjoy free time before returning to the ship in the late afternoon.

Guided tour of Saint Emilion and Wine Tasting: Departure by coach from Libourne for the excursion to Saint-Émilion. Enjoy a guided tour of the underground monuments in the village, where your guide will share the history of this medieval town. Explore an exceptional troglodytic site, featuring its most unique monument, the Monolithic Church. Next, venture to a family-owned vineyard, where the owner will warmly welcome you and explain the stages of the winemaking process in Saint-Émilion. The experience concludes with a wine-tasting session. Return to Libourne by coach.

Guided Tour of the Roquetaillade Castle and Cadillac: Depart by coach for the Roquetaillade Castle, a splendid medieval fortress, and a historic monument from the 12th to 14th centuries. Explore medieval keeps, the region's first Renaissance chimneys (1600), and unique 19th-century interiors by Viollet-le-Duc, a now-classified historic monument. Enjoy a vineyard visit in Sauternes for a renowned wine tasting. You will then return to Cadillac for a guided tour where you will discover historic gates, a central square with arcades, antique houses, and a 15th-century church. Return to the boat by coach.

Day Trip in the Arcachon Bay: Depart by coach from Bordeaux to the Bassin d'Arcachon for an immersive experience. The tour starts with a captivating boat trip on the Bassin d'Arcachon, providing breathtaking views of Bird Island, the iconic 'Cabanes tchanquées' houses on stilts, and the scenic oyster beds. Next, you will explore the Oyster Centre and Museum situated in Larros Port, Gujan Mestras, where interactive scenography unveils the fascinating world of oyster farming and its rich history. In the afternoon, venture to the Great Dune of Pilat, standing proudly at 107m, earning its title as the highest sand dune in Europe. As the day concludes, return to Bordeaux with memories of a remarkable day by the Bassin d'Arcachon. (Lunch included)
tour map

How much of a deposit is required?

You need to make a 50% deposit upon reservation to secure your seats. If your departure is in less than 125 days, the full amount is due when booking.

When is the balance due?

The balance is due 125 days prior to the departure date.

What is the group size?

The beauty of this amazing package is that it is completely hassle free for you: all flights, transfers, hotels with breakfasts and of course the cruise are taken care of. During the cruise, you are free to enjoy your vacation whichever way you prefer: relax and enjoy the ship amenities, book a tour or explore on your own each city! There isn't a group that will stay together during the entire time.

Is it a guaranteed departure?

Yes, all our departures are guaranteed.

Will there be someone waiting for us at the airport?

Yes, our local operators will welcome you at the gate holding a sign with your name on it. You will be transferred to the hotel.

Is it possible to book additional tours?

Yes, we suggest a package of 5 excursions that you can book upon reservation. By booking the excursion package, you save more than $100 / person on the normal price. You may also book those tours directly on board or arrange others tours with local companies on your own.

Are the hotels far from the city?

The hotel is centrally located which means that whether you walk or use local transportation, you will be able to reach the city within 15 minutes.

Is it possible to add extra nights?

Yes, you may add pre-nights to your package in Bordeaux. Simply make the request with your reservation agent who will change your flights accordingly. We can include the same hotels or you may stay under your own arrangements. The price will be confirmed by your agent depending on availability.

Are gratuities included?

There are no additional mandatory tips to pay. You may tip at your discretion the cruise or hotel staff and also your guides.

Information regarding the cabin and the ship

Internet on board: WiFi is available in the common areas, on some ships in the cabins as well. It is free of charge.

Electrical outlets: On board, the outlets are the C and E kind with 220V

Available in each cabin: TV, safe, hair dryer, AC

Cabin size: Approx. 118 sq ft.

Window: Depending on the location of your cabin on the ship, you will enjoy porthole windows (main deck) or a large window (intermediate deck) or a french balcony/sliding window (upper deck).

Traveling with children: Children under 2 years old can sleep in the cabin with their parents, however baby cots are not available, you may bring your own. Older children must have their own bed.

Special diets: The request must be made minimum 30 days prior to departure. Kosher, Hallal and Vegan diets are not available.

Water: The water on board is filtered and can be drunk but not to excess (OK to brush teeth and take your medicine). Bottled water is included in the all inclusive formula.

Drinks: Water, hot drinks, fruit juice, sodas, a selection of wines, beers, spirits and cocktails are included. Champagne, selection of fine wines and brand spirits are not included.

Other useful information:

Currencies: On board, all transactions are in Euros. Otherwise, in each country you visit you will have to use the local currency or pay with credit card if possible.


Visa: No visa is required for Canadian or US citizens.


Languages: On board, all crew members speak English. In all the countries where the cruise stops, French is the spoken language.


Vaccines: No vaccine is required. Check with your travel clinic to make sure your health condition allows you to travel.

FAQ

How much of a deposit is required?

You need to make a 50% deposit upon reservation to secure your seats. If your departure is in less than 125 days, the full amount is due when booking.

When is the balance due?

The balance is due 125 days prior to the departure date.

What is the group size?

The beauty of this amazing package is that it is completely hassle free for you: all flights, transfers, hotels with breakfasts and of course the cruise are taken care of. During the cruise, you are free to enjoy your vacation whichever way you prefer: relax and enjoy the ship amenities, book a tour or explore on your own each city! There isn't a group that will stay together during the entire time.

Is it a guaranteed departure?

Yes, all our departures are guaranteed.

Will there be someone waiting for us at the airport?

Yes, our local operators will welcome you at the gate holding a sign with your name on it. You will be transferred to the hotel.

Is it possible to book additional tours?

Yes, we suggest a package of 5 excursions that you can book upon reservation. By booking the excursion package, you save more than $100 / person on the normal price. You may also book those tours directly on board or arrange others tours with local companies on your own.

Are the hotels far from the city?

The hotel is centrally located which means that whether you walk or use local transportation, you will be able to reach the city within 15 minutes.

Is it possible to add extra nights?

Yes, you may add pre-nights to your package in Bordeaux. Simply make the request with your reservation agent who will change your flights accordingly. We can include the same hotels or you may stay under your own arrangements. The price will be confirmed by your agent depending on availability.

Are gratuities included?

There are no additional mandatory tips to pay. You may tip at your discretion the cruise or hotel staff and also your guides.

Information regarding the cabin and the ship

Internet on board: WiFi is available in the common areas, on some ships in the cabins as well. It is free of charge.

Electrical outlets: On board, the outlets are the C and E kind with 220V

Available in each cabin: TV, safe, hair dryer, AC

Cabin size: Approx. 118 sq ft.

Window: Depending on the location of your cabin on the ship, you will enjoy porthole windows (main deck) or a large window (intermediate deck) or a french balcony/sliding window (upper deck).

Traveling with children: Children under 2 years old can sleep in the cabin with their parents, however baby cots are not available, you may bring your own. Older children must have their own bed.

Special diets: The request must be made minimum 30 days prior to departure. Kosher, Hallal and Vegan diets are not available.

Water: The water on board is filtered and can be drunk but not to excess (OK to brush teeth and take your medicine). Bottled water is included in the all inclusive formula.

Drinks: Water, hot drinks, fruit juice, sodas, a selection of wines, beers, spirits and cocktails are included. Champagne, selection of fine wines and brand spirits are not included.

Other useful information:

Currencies: On board, all transactions are in Euros. Otherwise, in each country you visit you will have to use the local currency or pay with credit card if possible.


Visa: No visa is required for Canadian or US citizens.


Languages: On board, all crew members speak English. In all the countries where the cruise stops, French is the spoken language.


Vaccines: No vaccine is required. Check with your travel clinic to make sure your health condition allows you to travel.

Reviews for France: Wines & Castles

 4.5 out of 5
Based on 3 customer reviews
4.7

October 24, 2024

4.7

October 23, 2024

Un très beau séjour en France et abord de Croisi-europe. Le représentant de Wingbuddy était à temps et sympathique sauf que j'aurais apprécié qu'il s'introduire au groupe simple marque de courtoisie. J'apprécie les changements à l'horaire et les coûts encourus pour réorganiser les excursions dû au niveau des eaux sur la Garonne. Nous n'avons manquer aucune visite. Merci bien et j'anticipe déjà mon prochain voyage avec Wingbuddy !... Read More

4.1

September 25, 2024

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