Cruise Advice
13-14 July
Setting sail from Bordeaux
Bordeaux sits at the centre of the world's most famous wine region, and is home to a beguiling blend of beautiful buildings, sophisticated gastronomy and high culture. What's more, the city has been transformed over the last few years: the grandiose 18th century facades have been scrubbed clean, a shiny new public transport system has been installed, and a wonderful new promenade has been created alongside the river Garonne. We think Bordeaux is a marvellous place to spend some time, whether it's a day sampling wines, an evening at the opera or a night on the tiles.
Our tip
Bordeaux is ringed by vineyards and châteaux, and a wine tasting tour is an absolute must. Saint-Emilion, Pauillac, Médoc, Sauternes, Pomerol… You really are spoilt for choice!
14 July
France: Saint Emilion
15 July
France: Libourne
The picturesque town of Libourne, situated at the confluence of the Dordogne and Isle rivers, is an important centre for the wine industry which dominates this region. Popular excursions from Libourne include the delightful medieval town of Saint-Emilion, another name that will be familiar to wine connoisseurs.
15-18 July
France: Cussac-Fort-Médoc, Cadillac
19-20 July
France: Bordeaux
Bordeaux sits at the centre of the world's most famous wine region, and is home to a beguiling blend of beautiful buildings, sophisticated gastronomy and high culture. It's a marvellous place to spend some time, whether it's a day sampling wines, an evening at the opera or a night on the tiles.
20-21 July
France: Bourg
22 July
France: Blaye
The remarkable 17th century citadel of Blaye is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, designed by the famous military engineer Vauban to guard the Gironde river and the city of Bordeaux. The town is also known for its excellent wines, and there are several châteaux nearby.
22-23 July
France: Bordeaux
Bordeaux sits at the centre of the world's most famous wine region, and is home to a beguiling blend of beautiful buildings, sophisticated gastronomy and high culture. It's a marvellous place to spend some time, whether it's a day sampling wines, an evening at the opera or a night on the tiles.
23-24 July
Portugal: Porto
Blessed with a dramatic setting on the steep banks of the river Douro, Portugal’s second city is currently enjoying something of a renaissance, and is best known as the home of the country’s most famous export, port wine.
25 July
Portugal: Entre-os-Rios
Entre-os-Rios means 'between the rivers', situated at the confluence of the Douro and its tributary the Tâmega. From here you can travel into the heart of northern Portugal's Vinho Verde wine region, visit the historic city of Guimarães or enjoy an atmospheric dinner at the Alpendurada Monastery.
25-27 July
Portugal: Régua
Peso da Régua (Régua for short) is the main river port for the vineyards of the Upper Douro Valley, and is the perfect base for exploring the port-wine region. Nearby attractions include the Baroque-style Palacio de Mateus, with its intricate furnishings and beautiful gardens, and the important pilgrimage site of Lamego.
27-28 July
Spain: Vega de Terrón (Salamanca)
Vega de Terrón is the drop-off point for excursions to Salamanca, a beautiful UNESCO-listed city built from golden sandstone. The baroque-style Plaza Mayor is one of the most magnificent squares in Spain, while other highlights include the twin-towered cathedral and the unusual House of Shells.
28 July
Spain: Salamanca
Vega de Terrón is the drop-off point for excursions to Salamanca, a beautiful UNESCO-listed city built from golden sandstone. The baroque-style Plaza Mayor is one of the most magnificent squares in Spain, while other highlights include the twin-towered cathedral and the unusual House of Shells.
29 July
Portugal: Pocinho
29-31 July
Portugal: Pinhão
The pretty little town of Pinhão, situated on a bend in the Douro, is all about one thing: wine. The surrounding hills are covered in vineyards, and you’ll have ample opportunity to sample a variety of tipples, including the region’s most famous product, port.
31 July - 2 August
Arriving in Porto
Blessed with a dramatic setting on the steep banks of the river Douro, Portugal's second city is currently enjoying something of a renaissance. Porto is best known as the home of the country's most famous export, port wine, but there's a lot more to this characterful city than getting sloshed; the crumbling historic centre, Ribeira, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it's a fascinating district to wander around. Porto also serves as the gateway to the spectacular Douro valley, a landscape of verdant vineyards where the city's famous wine is produced.
Don't miss
Walking over the Luís I Bridge for beautiful views over the city and river, and if the steep approach looks a bit much there’s a cable car to help on the South Bank.
Your home from home
Scenic's pair of 149-guest ships - Sapphire and Diamond - were given a full makeover in 2017, bringing a new level of luxury to the rivers of France.
What we love
The recently refurbished Sapphire and Diamond offer stylish, spacious accommodation and a luxurious all-inclusive experience. The innovative onboard cooking school, Scenic Cullinaire, is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the flavours of southern France.
| Capacity | 149 Guests |
|---|---|
| Crew | 57 European Staff |
| Style |
Relaxed and informal during the day, giving way to an elegant evening atmosphere. |
| Inclusions |
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Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Where to stay in Bordeaux
At the heart of the historic centre, the quirky Yndo Hotel is a great choice.
Take a day trip from Bordeaux
The nearby coastal town of Arcachon is renowned for its oysters, and is home to the towering Dune du Pyla, Europe’s largest sand dune.
Where to stay in Porto
In the heart of the city the excellent InterContinental Porto - Palacio das Cardosas overlooks the Avenida dos Aliados and is a short walk from Bolhão Market, Ribeira District and the Clérigos Church.
See more of Portugal
For a taste of wild Portugal, set forth to Peneda Geres National Park.
