August 18 – 25, 2026
Avalon Waterways Avalon Artistry II
Bid bonjour to our newest itinerary in one of France’s most exquisite regions Explore the bountiful beauty of Bordeaux with a captivating cruise in the company of Olivia on the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers. Embark from Bordeaux itself, the capital of the splendid Nouvelle-Aquitaine region—famed for its legendary vineyards and wines. Be carried away by Avalon’s signature included Classic, Active, or Discovery experiences of your choice—from the regal histories of castles and Châteaux to the romantic cellars where wine bouquets and bon-vivant cuisine tempt the palate.
While the landscapes and lush pastoral treasures are plentiful along the shores of the Garonne and Dordogne, we elevate each immersive experience for a deeper discovery of the cultural and architectural treasures that recall the rich traditions of Southwest France. From unparalleled panoramic drives to forested two-wheel excursions by bike to the delicacies of seaside Arcachon—the world is your oyster on this adventure in la belle vie of Bordeaux!
While we love the rivers that flows through the Bordeaux region of Southwestern France for its wonderful wines, we are also wowed by the winsome villages, worldclass architecture, and winning cuisine to be discovered in Southwestern France.
You may know Bordeaux for its worldclass vineyards, but on a French river cruise in Bordeaux you'll also be introduced to the history, art, and natural beauty of this capital of the Aquitaine region near the Atlantic Coast. Experience everything we love about the Garonne River in Bordeaux–and toast to so much more.
Your Suite Ship - Avalon Artistry II
Part of Avalon's award-winning fleet of Suite Ships, the Avalon Artistry II features two full decks of Panorama Suites with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows that transform the living space into river cruising's only Open-Air Balcony. With 200 square feet, Panorama Suites are more than 30% larger than the industry standard, affording you the incomparable opportunity to wake each morning to splendid passing scenery from your window-facing bed.
Stretch out on your Comfort Collection bed and cruise with the world at your feet. Onboard amenities include an alternative light dining option in the Panorama Bistro, a Fitness Center, complimentary Wi-Fi access, and a spacious Sky Deck with premium lounge chairs, whirlpool, and light al fresco lunches at the Sky Bistro on the Sky Deck. A true work of art in relaxed luxury on board and amazing adventures on shore!
Some of the features and amenities you'll enjoy onboard:
• An entirely non-smoking interior
• Lounge
• Covered Observation Lounge
• Beautiful bars and lounges
• Sun deck with premium lounge chairs and shade awnings
• Laundry service (not self-service; check pricing on board)
• Fitness center
• Panoramic windows throughout the ship
• Elegant, contemporary design throughout
• Elevator
• Bikes, walking sticks, binoculars, daypacks
• Maps for hiking, biking, and jogging routes
• Included shore excursions with local guides (tipping to guides/bus drivers not included)
• Headsets for shore excursions
• Complimentary wifi
• Space to relax & unwind
• Premium coffees, cappuccinos, and lattes
• Club Lounge with 24-hour self-serve beverage station with complimentary cappuccinos, lattes, tea, hot chocolate and premium coffees, as well as treats throughout the day
• A lounge serving premium spirits (extra charge)
• Sky Deck with whirlpool, shade awnings, game area, and premium lounges
• Daily early- and late-riser breakfast
• Full buffet breakfast with sparkling wine, with complimentary juices and made-to-order egg station*
• Complimentary wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
• Daily “Happy Hour” with complimentary alcoholic drinks as indicated on drink menu
• Al fresco lunches on the Sky Bistro
• Remarkable service throughout the cruise
• English-speaking crew
Dining & Drinks:
• Chef-prepared onboard meals with regional cuisine and familiar favorites
• Seasonal cuisine featuring the freshest local ingredients
• Avalon Fresh® healthy cuisine options at every meal
• Spacious, open-seating Panorama Dining Room
• Daily breakfast buffet with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and daily a la carte specials
• Complimentary room service for Continental breakfast
• Daily lunch buffet featuring regional specialties, classic dishes, healthy Avalon Fresh® options, and rotating chef’s features including carving & pasta stations. Alternatively, you may dine al fresco at our Sky Grill on the Sky Deck (weather and itinerary permitting) or enjoy a light lunch in the Panorama Lounge
• Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, and sweet treats
• Four-course dinners with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrées, and desserts or cheese
• Complimentary wine, beer, or soft drinks with lunch and dinner
• Complimentary alcoholic drinks during daily “Happy Hour” as specified on drink menu
• Vegetarian options at every meal, as well as vegan, low calorie, low fat, high fiber, low cholesterol, high energy, and allergy-free selections
• Panorama Lounge & Bar with premium spirits*, cozy seating, panoramic windows, & dance floor
• Cocktails* with a view on the Sky Deck
• Specialty coffees, espresso drinks, and beWell Essence flavored and infused water available throughout each day *Extra charge
Deluxe Staterooms & Suites Amenities:
• Most with floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding glass doors
• Comfort Collection BedsSM
• Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
• Bathrobes & slippers
• Premium L'Occitane bath products
• Large bathroom featuring shower with glass door
• Flatscreen satellite TV with free movie channels
• Individual climate control and in-room safe
• Full-size closet and mirror
• Additional under-bed storage
• Well-stocked mini-bar
• Nonallergenic duvets and pillows
• Filtered water replenished in bottles daily
• And, much more
Bordeaux France Lesbian River Cruise Itinerary
Date
Port
Meals
18 Aug
Bordeaux, France
D
19 Aug
Cadillac-Sur-Garonne, France
B, L, D
20 Aug
Cussac Fort Médoc, France
B, L, D
21 Aug
Blaye / Bourg, France
B, L, D
22 Aug
Libourne / Saint-Émilion
B, L, D
23 Aug
Bordeaux, France
B, L, D
24 Aug
Bordeaux / Arcachon's Bay
B, L, D
25 Aug
Bordeaux, France
B
Itinerary is subject to change based on river level, traffic, and locks.
You can enjoy three types of included shore excursion experiences. Classic tours guide you through the history and heritage of local destinations. Discovery tours are inspiring and interactive activities (such as cooking classes or painting workshops) that allow you to immerse yourself in each culture you explore. Active tours allow you to embark on energetic excursions to keep you in motion and on-the-go such as a guided jogging tour or biking and hiking.
Bordeaux, France (Embarkation) Tuesday, August 18, 2026
Welcome to Bordeaux, France! Your Suite Ship is ready for boarding. Flights into Bordeaux must arrive by 3 pm. Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm. Your day is free to explore the city before starting your cruise on the Garonne and Dordogne. Get acquainted with this city, capital of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region and famous worldwide for its vineyards and wines.
Overnight Docking in Bordeaux. *Ship may sail in the evening to Cadillac-sur-Garonne based on tide and water levels.
Cadillac-Sur-Garonne, France Wednesday, August 19, 2026
On the Steps of Montesquieu Join a Discovery experience with a delicious onboard tasting of Bordeaux wines and a presentation by a world-class wine sommelier. Join a guided Discovery visit with wine “discovery” tasting at a local wine estate. Sip the sweet notes and fresh acidity of Sauternes, the beloved golden-yellow wine.
Or, take a Classic guided tour of Château de la Brède—birthplace of Montesquieu—political philosopher and author of The Spirit of Law. Visit the fortress-style castle still reflected in its impressive moat.
This evening, enjoy live entertainment on board your Suite Ship.
Overnight docking in Cadillac-sur-Garonne
*Sailing to Cadillac-sur-Garonne pending tides and water levels. Alternative motorcoach transportation for today’s excursions provided.
Cussac Fort Médoc, France Thursday, August 20, 2026
Bikes, Vines, and Wines
This morning, enjoy a leisurely sailing to Cussac Fort Médoc. Visit the Adventure Center for today’s activities with your Adventure Host.
Enjoy an Active, relaxing E-bike guided tour in Bordeaux’s finest wine region. You will be amazed by the picturesque countryside while you enjoy a wonderful ride through the vineyards.
Or, take a Discovery scenic drive through the famed Médoc wine country and enjoy a tasting of their wonderful wines, with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon as protagonists.
This evening, enjoy a brief sailing to Blaye. Overnight docking in Blaye
Blaye / Bourg, France Friday, August 21, 2026
Fine Art, Fine Bubbly, and a Fine Day for a Drive
Ask your Adventure Host for today’s special activities. Join a refreshing Active power walk through the historic Citadel of Blaye with your Adventure Host.<
Or, join a Discovery guided tour to discover Blaye from a different perspective, including a visit to a local art gallery with wine tasting.
Or, take a Classic panoramic drive following the famed Route de la Corniche along the right banks of the River Dordogne, followed by guided visit to the Citadel of Blaye, a UNESCO World Heritage site.<
Enjoy a relaxing afternoon sailing on the Dordogne River to Bourg.
Take a Classic wonderful walking tour in the Citadel of Bourg on the banks of the Dordogne River and visit the carriage museum. Alternatively, join an optional guided excursion to learn how the Fine Champagne of Cognac is made while enjoying a Rémy Martin tasting.
Later, enjoy live entertainment on board your ship. Overnight Docking in Bourg
Libourne, France – Excursion to Saint-Émilion Saturday, August 22, 2026
The Village Amid the Vineyards
Enjoy a guided Discovery visit to Saint-Émilion to discover one Bordeaux’ must-see wine-growing towns and celebrate your day with a wine tasting.
Or, join a guided Classic tour of the medieval village of Saint-Émilion—a UNESCO World Heritage site of legends and legendary landscapes.
Or, take an orientation walking Classic tour to discover the history and beauty of Libourne, where wine and wonderful views are cherished in the 12th-century fortified town.
While we include your choice of many excursions on your trip, you may wish to explore other optional excursions to enhance your free time. Take a guided optional excursion to learn the art of the perfect French cream puff with a local chef at Château Fleur de Lisse or discover one of the world's most perfect pairings with a chocolate-and-wine tasting at Château Fleur de Lisse! Otherwise, create your own custom wine blends under the guidance of expert winemakers during a hands-on experience at a local wine property.
Overnight Docking in Libourne
Bordeaux, France Sunday, August 23, 2026
Bordeaux Sights and Brilliant Lights Join your Adventure Host for today’s special activities. While sailing to Bordeaux, enjoy a Discovery pastry demonstration.
Join your Adventure Host for an Active bike ride along Bordeaux’ postcard river views of the Les Quais.
Or, join a guided walking Classic tour to discover the heart of Bordeaux with a stroll amid its stunning squares, avenues, and cathedrals sights.
Overnight Docking in Bordeaux
Bordeaux, France – Excursion to Arcachon's Bay Monday, August 24, 2026
Seas, Shells, and Sips
Join your Adventure Host for an Active bike ride along Bordeaux’ postcard river views of the Les Quais.
Or, take a guided Classic tour to La Cité du Vin, Bordeaux’s iconic wine museum and cultural center.
Or, join a full-day guided Classic tour of the seaside resort of Arcachon on the Atlantic coast. Gaze upon its 19th-century architectural treasures and taste its local delicacy of oysters and wine.
This afternoon, consider an optional guided excursion to Les Bassins des Lumières for a breathtaking visit to the submarine base where art and music surround you in an immersive experience.
Overnight Docking in Bordeaux
Bordeaux, France (Disembarkation) Tuesday, August 25, 2026
Your cruise ends in Bordeaux, France with breakfast this morning.
Vacation Stretchers We will be offering optional pre-trip Vacation Stretchers in Bordeaux, France. Information on these 1- and 2-night Vacation Stretchers will be available 11-months prior to the trip.
We always recommend coming in at least one day early to avoid the stress of unexpected delays. Why not come a day or two early to enjoy a meal at one of 27 different Michelin star restaurants in Bordeaux before boarding the ship? Be sure you make your reservations with your chosen restaurant in advance!
Located on the Royal deck, The Royal Suite features floor to ceiling windows, Comfort Collection bed can convert to 2 singles, soft & firm pillows, Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, flat-screen satellite TV with movie channels, telephone, mini-bar, bathroom with marble counter and two sinks, robes, slippers, writing desk and chair, sofa, and full-length closets. 300 sq. ft.
$ 10,669
$ 7,899
P - Panorama Suite
Royal Deck. Panorama Suites features floor to ceiling windows, Comfort collection bed can convert to 2 singles, soft & firm pillows, Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, flat-screen satellite TV with movie channels, telephone, mini-bar, bathroom with marble counter, robes, slippers, writing desk and chair, sofa, and full-length closets. 200 sq. ft.
$ 8,899
$ 6,499
A - Panorama Suite
Sapphire Deck. Panorama Suites features floor to ceiling windows, Comfort collection bed can convert to 2 singles, soft & firm pillows, Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, flat-screen satellite TV with movie channels, telephone, mini-bar, bathroom with marble counter, robes, slippers, writing desk and chair, sofa, and full-length closets. 200 sq. ft.
$ 8,799
$ 6,399
B - Panorama Suite
Sapphire Deck. Panorama Suites features floor to ceiling windows, Comfort collection bed can convert to 2 singles, soft & firm pillows, Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, flat-screen satellite TV with movie channels, telephone, mini-bar, bathroom with marble counter, robes, slippers, writing desk and chair, sofa, and full-length closets. 200 sq. ft.
$ 8,699
$ 6,299
D - Deluxe Stateroom
Indigo Deck. Deluxe Stateroom features small windows above the water-line, Comfort collection bed can convert to 2 singles, soft & firm pillows, Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, flat-screen satellite TV with movie channels, telephone, mini-bar, full shower with glass doors, robes, slippers, writing desk and chair, and full-length closets. 172 sq. ft.
$ 6,799
$ 4,999
E - Deluxe Stateroom
Indigo Deck. Deluxe Stateroom features small windows above the water-line, Comfort collection bed can convert to 2 singles, soft & firm pillows, Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, flat-screen satellite TV with movie channels, telephone, mini-bar, full shower with glass doors, robes, slippers, writing desk and chair, and full-length closets. 172 sq. ft.
We will be offering optional pre-trip Vacation Stretchers in Bordeaux, France.
Information on these 1- and 2-night Vacation Stretchers will be available 11-months prior to the trip.
Special Airfares
Rates: Prices are per person based on double occupancy. Pricing does not include airfare, insurance, fuel surcharge or NDA of $499 per person (subject to change).
Early Bird Price Expires November 15, 2025
Availability updated weekly and is provided for informational purposes only. The accuracy is not guaranteed.
Payment Plans
• Pay in full
• 6-month interest free payment plan (20% deposit and 5 installments)
All vacations on an Olivia payment plan must be paid in full six months or 180 days before your trip. If reservation is made at the six-month mark or less, payment in full will be required.
