Cruise Advice
19-20 June
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!
20 June
France: Saint Emilion
21 June
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.
21-24 June
France: Cussac-Fort-Médoc, Cadillac
25-26 June
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.
26-27 June
France: Bourg
28 June
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.
28-29 June
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.
29 June - 2 July
Arriving in Madrid
Madrid is a dynamic and exciting capital filled with grandiose Habsburg architecture, cultural treasures and enough quirky little bars to spend a lifetime grazing on tapas. The city has an embarrassment of riches when it comes to the arts; the Prado houses some of the world's most important paintings, while the more contemporary-focused Reina Sofia is home to Picasso's nightmarish masterpiece, 'Guernica'. The city brims with innovative restaurants and lively nightspots, but there are plenty of quieter corners too, such as the lovely Retiro park, where Madrileños come to unwind at the weekend.
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.
