Avalon Waterways confirms Bordeaux as new hub in 2025

Go back to the e-newsletter

Avalon Waterways has unveiled new one-, two- and three-week sailings from Bordeaux that will commence in 2025. The new sailings on the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers can be paired with multiple combinations that also include the Seine, Saône, Rhône and Rhine Rivers. Pam Hoffee, President of the river cruise operator, hinted at the addition of a new European waterway to LATTE when in Australia last October. The focus on Bordeaux equates to a 30% increase in small ship cruising in France by Avalon Waterways. From the historic halls of castles and Châteaux to romantic cellars and kitchens where wine bouquets and bon-vivant cuisine tempt the palate, Avalon is bringing Bordeaux to life for the first time for cruisers in new ways thanks to Active, Discovery and Classic excursions on its new France-focused itineraries.

---

Subscribe to LATTE Cruise’s free eNewsletter to keep up to date with everything in the luxury cruise space.

---

“Wine-lovers aren’t the only cruisers raising a glass to Avalon’s new Bordeaux itineraries,” said Hoffee this week of the now confirmed destination and program. “Along the shores of the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers, we’re elevating immersive experiences for guests, offering them deeper discoveries of the richest traditions in Southwest France. “From unparalleled panoramic cruising aboard the Avalon Artistry II to on shore Châteaux visits, Sauternes tastings and crème puff baking classes mixed with e-biking through vineyards and free time in postcard-perfect places like Saint-Émilion, Bourg and Arcachon, for Avalon guests in Bordeaux, the world is their oyster to enjoy as they please,” Hoffee remarked. The all-new France cruise being unveiled by Avalon Waterways in 2025 is Bonjour Bordeaux: Châteaux, Wineries & Charming Villages. This eight-day cruise starts and ends in Bordeaux with visits to Cadillac-sur-Garonne, Cussac Fort Médoc, Blaye, Bourg and Libourne.

Avalon’s new, eight-day itinerary can be combined for two- and three-week cruising options, including:

• French Masterpiece: Paris, Normandy & Bordeaux. This 15-day cruise from Paris to Bordeaux sails on two Suite Ships on the Seine, Garonne and Dordogne Rivers. It combines Avalon Waterways’ Paris to Normandy itinerary with the river cruise line’s new Bordeaux cruise.
• France Uncorked: The Rhône, the Seine & Bordeaux. This 22-day cruise from Arles to Bordeaux sails on three Suite Ships on the Rhône, Saône, Seine, Garonne and Dordogne Rivers. It combines Avalon Waterways’ Grand France itinerary with its new Bordeaux cruise.
• Vineyards, Châteaux & Bordeaux. This 22-day cruise from Basel to Bordeaux sails on three Suite Ships on the Rhine, Seine, Garonne and Dordogne Rivers. It combines three itineraries: the Romantic Rhine, Paris to Normandy and new Bordeaux cruises.

See avalonwaterways.com.au.

Go back to the e-newsletter