Bordeaux: Evening Apéritif Cruise on the River Garonne

Bordeaux’s scenic River Garonne provides the perfect backdrop for an enchanting evening apéritif cruise. Departing at 6:45 PM, guests can enjoy the city’s 18th-century architecture and modern sights while sipping on regional wines and savoring local delicacies. The 1.5-hour journey offers an engaging commentary on historical landmarks, making it a delightful way to unwind and appreciate Bordeaux’s charm. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local seeking a unique experience, this cruise promises to captivate your senses and leave you eager to explore more of this vibrant French city.

This experience made our list of the 10 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Bordeaux.

Key Points

• The 1.5-hour evening cruise along the River Garonne offers scenic views of Bordeaux’s 18th-century UNESCO facades and modern Bacalan district.
• Passengers can enjoy two glasses of regional wines, a selection of local charcuterie and vegetables, and a complimentary Canelé pastry during the cruise.
• The cruise departs at 6:45 PM from Les Bateaux Bordelais and returns around 8:30 PM, with audio commentary on the city’s history.
• The cruise is not suitable for wheelchair users, but the flexible cancellation policy allows for last-minute changes.
• With an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, the cruise is a highly recommended experience to immerse in Bordeaux’s history and local flavors.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Cruise Overview and Details

The Bordeaux Evening Apéritif Cruise takes place on the River Garonne, allowing visitors to navigate the waterways for 1.5 hours.

The cruise departs at 6:45 PM from the Les Bateaux Bordelais landing stage, and returns around 8:30 PM. Available in French and English, this tour is likely to sell out, with tickets priced from €29 per person.

Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Unfortunately, the cruise isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

The electric drive boat, SIRIUS, provides a relaxing experience as you take in the 18th-century UNESCO façades and modern Bacalan district.

Experience Highlights

Guests aboard the Bordeaux Evening Apéritif Cruise can navigate the River Garonne, taking in views of the 18th-century UNESCO façades, the Stone Bridge, and the modern Bacalan district, home to the Cité du Vin museum.

The cruise also takes passengers under the lift bridge of Pont Jacques-Chaban-Delmas and past Pont d’Aquitaine, known as the Bordeaux Golden Gate.

Onboard, guests can enjoy:

1. 2 regional wines
2. Local cheeses and snacks
3. 1 Canelé pastry
4. Relaxation aboard the electric-powered SIRIUS boat, with free drinking water provided.

Included in the Cruise

As part of the Bordeaux Evening Apéritif Cruise, guests can enjoy an array of inclusions.

The 1.5-hour river cruise along the Garonne provides audio commentary, allowing passengers to learn about the surrounding 18th-century UNESCO facades, bridges, and modern landmarks.

Complementing the scenic journey, the cruise offers two glasses of regional wine, as well as a selection of charcuterie, hummus, and vegetables.

To quench one’s thirst, complimentary drinking water is provided throughout the experience.

With these thoughtful inclusions, the Bordeaux Evening Apéritif Cruise delivers an immersive and well-rounded experience for visitors to savor the city’s history, architecture, and local flavors from the comfort of the boat.

Meeting Point and Directions

You’ll find the meeting point for the Bordeaux Evening Apéritif Cruise at No.24 quai des Chartrons, right in front of Ibaia Café.

Getting there’s easy:

1. From the Quinconces tram station, walk 10 minutes along the quay.
2. If coming by car, there’s paid parking available nearby.
3. The cruise departs promptly at 6:45 PM, so arrive a few minutes early.
4. Look for the Bateaux Bordelais landing stage and the SIRIUS electric boat.

The meeting point is conveniently located, making it simple to find and start your evening cruise along the beautiful River Garonne.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

The Bordeaux Evening Apéritif Cruise has earned a strong overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars based on 198 reviews.

Customers are particularly impressed with the transportation, rating it 4.7/5. The value for money and service also score highly at 4.4/5 and 4.5/5, respectively.

Reviewers praise the quality of the food and drinks, the lovely ambiance, and the professionalism of the staff. Some note a slight discrepancy between the advertised and actual cruise duration, but this doesn’t significantly detract from the overall positive experience.

Overwhelmingly, customers recommend this cruise for its scenic views, regional tastes, and relaxing atmosphere.

Cruise Duration and Timing

Although the cruise is advertised as 1.5 hours in duration, some reviewers noted a slight discrepancy in the actual time spent on the river.

According to customer feedback, the Bordeaux Evening Apéritif Cruise typically lasts:

1. Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
2. Departing at 6:45 PM and returning around 8:30 PM.
3. Some cruises may run slightly longer, up to 2 hours, depending on factors like river traffic.
4. The cruise give you a relaxing 1.5-hour experience, with some flexibility in the actual duration.

Regardless of the exact runtime, the cruise offers a scenic journey along the River Garonne, allowing travelers to enjoy the city’s 18th-century architecture and modern landmarks.

Cuisine and Beverages

Beyond the scenic river views, passengers aboard the Bordeaux Evening Apéritif Cruise can look forward to a delightful array of local cuisine and beverages.

The cruise offers two glasses of regional wines, which guests can enjoy while taking in the 18th-century UNESCO facades and modern landmarks.

Plus, passengers are treated to a selection of charcuterie, hummus, and fresh vegetables, as well as the iconic Canelé, a traditional Bordeaux pastry.

Complimentary drinking water is also provided, ensuring a well-rounded and refreshing experience.

Accessibility and Cancellation Policy

Accessibility and ease of cancellation are important considerations for the Bordeaux Evening Apéritif Cruise.

This river cruise isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the boat’s design.

However, the cruise operator offers a full refund if customers cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

This flexible cancellation policy allows for:

1. Last-minute changes in plans.
2. Accommodation of unexpected events.
3. Worry-free booking for budget-conscious travelers.
4. Confidence in securing a spot on the cruise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Alcoholic Beverages on the Cruise?

No, guests cannot bring their own alcoholic beverages on the cruise. The cruise package includes two glasses of regional wine, and any extra alcoholic drinks must be purchased from the onboard bar.

Are Children Allowed on the Cruise?

Children are allowed on the cruise, but it may not be the most suitable option. The cruise focuses on wine tasting and a relaxing atmosphere, so families with young children should consider if it aligns with their needs.

Can I Customize the Food and Drink Selections?

The cruise offers a fixed menu with 2 glasses of wine, charcuterie, hummus, and vegetables. Customization options are not mentioned, so guests should expect the standard selections. However, any dietary restrictions could likely be accommodated if communicated in advance.

How Many People Typically Participate in Each Cruise?

The cruise typically accommodates around 100-120 passengers per departure, though the exact group size may vary. The boat has ample space to comfortably host the evening aperitif experience along the scenic Garonne River.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?

There are no special discounts mentioned, but the cruise offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Prices start at €29 per person, which seems reasonably priced for the experience.

Sum Up

The Bordeaux: Evening Apéritif Cruise on the River Garonne offers a delightful way to experience the city’s charm. With stunning views, regional wine, and local delicacies, this relaxing cruise is a perfect way to unwind and appreciate Bordeaux’s 18th-century architecture and modern sights. It’s a budget-friendly option that provides an immersive culinary and cultural experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: