Bordeaux River Cruises

Panoramic Views
Panoramic Views
Frequent Departures
Frequent Departures
Sightseeing & Onboard Meal Options
Sightseeing & Onboard Meal Options
River cruise boat on the Garonne River with Bordeaux cityscape in the background.











Top things to do in Bordeaux

What to expect on a Bordeaux River cruise?

Bordeaux river cruise ship passing by historic buildings on a sunny day.
People enjoying a scenic Bordeaux river cruise inside a boat with large windows.
Group enjoying wine on a Bordeaux river cruise with cityscape in background.
Guide giving live commentary on Bordeaux River Cruise.
Glasses of Lillet being toasted on a Bordeaux River Cruise welcome event.
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Smooth boarding at the riverfront

Your Bordeaux cruise begins at one of the conveniently located quays along the Garonne River. Friendly staff are on hand to guide you through check-in, helping you settle in quickly so you can start enjoying the journey. Popular boarding points include Pont de Pierre and Quai Richelieu.

Comfortable seating and stylish interiors

Bordeaux cruise boats offer a mix of open-air decks for soaking in the sun and panoramic views, as well as climate-controlled indoor lounges with large windows. Whether you prefer fresh river breezes or a cozy interior seat, the ambiance is designed for maximum relaxation.

Picturesque views from the water

Glide past Bordeaux’s iconic riverside landmarks, including the Place de la Bourse, the Water Mirror, and the historic Port of the Moon. From the river, you can admire Bordeaux's UNESCO World Heritage-listed waterfront, celebrated for its 18th-century neoclassical architecture, in a way that's impossible from land.

Live commentary

Discover Bordeaux’s deep-rooted connection to the sea. As your guide highlights the city’s evolution as a major port, you’ll learn about its role in trade, shaping Bordeaux’s culture and economy. This maritime heritage, brought to life from the river, reveals Bordeaux’s journey through history.

Wine and cannelé tasting onboard

Sample the best of Bordeaux with onboard tastings of local wines paired with the city’s famous cannelés. This culinary experience allows you to savor regional flavors while enjoying scenic river views. Special tastings can include red, white, or sparkling wines, depending on the cruise package.

Things to know before booking a Bordeaux River cruise

Planning a Bordeaux cruise is pretty straightforward. Here’s what you need to know.

  • Cruises run at multiple timed slots throughout the day, from morning to evening, so you can pick a departure that fits your schedule. Each cruise lasts about 1.5 hours, and you need to arrive at least 30 minutes early to ensure you don’t miss the boat. There are two kinds of cruises available for you to choose from:
    -Sightseeing cruises: Pick the sightseeing cruises for a budget-friendly way to admire Bordeaux’s famous landmarks and elegant facades along the quays without the premium price tag of cruises.
    -Tasting cruises: If you’re short on time but eager to sample Bordeaux’s world-renowned regional blends, choose a cruise that includes wine tastings. Sample selections from the region and complement your tasting with regional delights like canelés, allowing you to savor Bordeaux’s culinary heritage without the need to visit multiple estates.

  • Most cruises offer interactive and engaging commentary suitable for all ages. The knowledgeable guide, fluent in French and English, will share captivating stories and facts about Bordeaux’s rich heritage, maritime history, and architectural marvels, ensuring an enriching experience for everyone on board.

  • Bordeaux cruises may be canceled due to unfavorable weather conditions or if the minimum passenger requirement (e.g., fewer than 10 passengers) isn’t met. To avoid disappointment, consider scheduling a buffer day around your planned cruise date, allowing flexibility in case of rescheduling.

  • Bordeaux river cruises can be sold out during peak seasons (April to October). Booking online, ideally 3 to 4 weeks in advance, not only guarantees your preferred date and time but often provides access to exclusive discounts and special packages.

Get to know your tour operators

Here’s a quick overview of the tour operators for your memorable Bordeaux cruise, along the Gargonne River.

Cruise boats on the Garonne River near La Cité du Vin in Bordeaux, France.

Croisière Burdigala

  • Cruise style: Classic sightseeing, family-friendly, relaxed and casual
  • Duration: ~1.5 hours
  • Boats: Spacious boats accommodating up to 200 passengers
  • Commentary:
  • Route: Passes Bordeaux’s iconic bridges, Cité du Vin, Port de la Lune, and historic quays
  • Dining: Onboard drinks and snacks; some cruises include local wine and cannelés
  • Ambiance: Relaxed, family-friendly, wheelchair accessible
  • Entertainment: Audio commentary; primarily sightseeing-focused
  • Price: From ~15€ per person; free for children under 5
  • Best for: Families, casual sightseeing, budget-conscious travelers
  • Boarding point: Ponton d’Honneur - Passerelle Garonne
Cruise boat on Bordeaux river with historic tower in background.

Yacht de Bordeaux

  • Cruise style: Premium, intimate, luxury-focused, upscale experience
  • Duration: 1.5–2 hours; options for shared or private cruises
  • Boats: Elegant yacht, accommodating up to 150 passengers; upper deck and saloon seating
  • Commentary:
  • Route: Panoramic 360° views of Bordeaux’s landmarks, quays, and surrounding vineyards
  • Dining: Gourmet wine and food pairings, brunches, custom catering options
  • Ambiance: Upscale, personalized service, perfect for celebrations or special occasions
  • Entertainment: Some cruises offer live music or themed experiences
  • Price: ~19€ per person for shared cruises; private or food-inclusive cruises cost extra
  • Best for: Celebrations, luxury-seekers, for exclusive experiences
  • Boarding point: Ponton d’Honneur - Passerelle Garonne

Check-in & boarding guide

Yacht docked for Bordeaux River Cruise with bridge in background.

✅ How early should I arrive?

Arrive 15–25 minutes before departure to ensure smooth boarding. Boats leave promptly, and seating is generally unassigned, so arriving early gives you the best choice of deck, saloon, or front-row views. Early arrival is especially recommended for sunset, wine, or gourmet cruises, which tend to be busier.

 Bordeaux River Cruise e-ticket

🎫 Tickets & documents

Bring your booking confirmation or e-ticket (digital is fine). No need to print. For private, gourmet, or special cruises, keep any confirmations of drink selections, food pairings, or other preferences handy.

 Bordeaux River Cruise dress code

👗 Dress code

Dress comfortably but semi-formal for a more polished look, especially for premium or evening cruises. Light casual clothing such as t-shirts, shorts, or dresses works during the day, paired with a light jacket for cooler evenings or breezy decks. Don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. For private or tasting cruises, smart-casual attire is ideal.

 Bordeaux River Cruise

🛃 Security & boarding procedures

There’s no airport-style screening, but the crew may briefly check bags. Boarding happens directly from the quay onto spacious sightseeing boats or elegant yachts. Boats are low to the water, so be ready for gentle spray. Storage is limited—bring only essentials.

Child holding a dog on a Bordeaux river cruise boat.

👶 Children & pets

Children are welcome on all cruises and must be supervised at all times. Some premium cruises may have age restrictions for safety or service purposes. Pets are allowed in some cruises—confirm in advance, except on gourmet or private experiences where space is limited. Service animals are always permitted.

waterproof dry bag on Bordeaux River Cruise

🧳 Bags & luggage

Small bags, backpacks, or waterproof dry bags are allowed. Large suitcases, bulky luggage, or oversized items are not permitted due to limited space and safety regulations.

Bottles of wine and canelés on a table during Bordeaux River Cruise.

🍷 Optional onboard experiences

Many Bordeaux cruises include regional blends and local delicacy tastings, like regional wines and cannelés. Specialty cruises may offer gourmet pairings, brunches, or private tastings—perfect for a more indulgent experience.

Top landmarks to spot on your Bordeaux river cruise

Cite du Vin viewed from Bordeaux river cruise, modern architecture surrounded by trees.

Cité du Vin

Cité du Vin is Bordeaux’s must-visit for craft beverage connoisseurs. This contemporary museum showcases the world of wine through interactive exhibits and tastings, making it a great stop for curious travelers.

Place de la Bourse in Bordeaux with classical architecture and central fountain.
Pont Jacques Chaban Delmas bridge in Bordeaux with a boat passing underneath.
Pont de Pierre bridge with tram crossing over the Garonne River in Bordeaux, France.
Matmut Atlantique stadium in Bordeaux

Plan your Bordeaux river cruise

A guide on board doing live commentary during Bordeaux Sightseeing River Cruise

The sightseeing cruises are available daily, at multiple time slots; typically starting at 11am. The last cruise is at 7pm.

Duration: 90 minutes
Arrival: 15 minutes before boarding time

Tourists enjoying scenic views and wine during Bordeaux Guided Tour with Wine & Canele
  • Busy season
    May–October (peaks in September & October)
    Harvest season, which means pleasant weather conditions.
  • Shoulder season
    March–April, November;
    In March, cruises for the year begin, and in November, the last cruises depart.
  • Avoid
    December–February
    Cold winters.

Board your cruise at Ponton d'Honneur.

Find on maps.

Getting there

  • By bus: 1, 20, 24, 25, and 4
  • By train: F41
  • By light rail: A, B, and D
  • By ferry: BAT3
restroom in cruise boat
  • Restroom
  • Bar
  • Disabled access
  • Private reservations (upon request)
  • Fresh drinking water
  • Air conditioning
Boat or Cruise manager checking customers list while boarding
  • The cruise will depart only if there are a minimum of 10 people at the time of departure.
  • Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to complete check-ins and boarding procedures.
women onboard applying sunscreen
  • Depending on the season, pack to protect yourself either from the sun or the cold. If you’re sitting on the deck, the sun and winds can get pretty harsh.
  • To catch the best seats, with tables (to put down your glass of wine and canelé), arrive early.
  • Canelé's not enough? Sweet and savory snacks are available in self-service vending machines.
  • Carry cash on you, in case the on-board bar doesn’t accept card payment.
  • Parking near Ponton d'Honneur can be difficult, expensive, and limited. Opt for public transportation, taxis, or rideshare services to reach the boarding point conveniently.

Frequently asked questions about Bordeaux river cruises

Can I book a Bordeaux River cruise last minute?

Yes, you can book your cruise last minute, but it’s recommended to book it in advance (at least a week), especially during peak tourist seasons (June–August) and on weekends.

What is included in the cruise fare?

The sightseeing cruise fare includes a live guide and a complimentary beverage. For the tasting cruise, enjoy a live guide, a glass of Bordeaux regional blend, and a traditional canelé cake.

Do the cruises offer onboard dining or just snacks and drinks?

The cruise only offers snacks and drinks; dining options are not included. Snacks must be purchased separately, and are not included in the cruise fare.

What are the seasonal differences for the cruises?

Bordeaux river cruises operate year-round, but the scenery and experience change with the seasons. Spring and summer offer warm weather and bustling riverbanks; autumn highlights the golden vineyards surrounding Bordeaux; and winter is cold but decked up in pretty Christmas lights.

Are there any stops during a sightseeing cruise?

No, sightseeing cruises are non-stop, lasting around 90 minutes. However, all boats have accessible restrooms on board.

Is Bordeaux river cruising safe?

Yes, Bordeaux river cruises prioritize passenger safety. Boats are equipped with onboard defibrillators, and certified first aid staff are present during the journey. Passengers with health concerns should consult their doctor before traveling, and pregnant travelers should inform the cruise operator at the time of booking.

Are Bordeaux river cruises suitable for solo travelers?

Yes, Bordeaux river cruises are well-suited for solo travelers. Many cruises offer flexible seating and a relaxed, social atmosphere, making it easy to enjoy the scenic views on your own or meet other passengers if you wish. It’s a comfortable, peaceful experience for solo guests.

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