Welcome to Bordeaux & Our Festive Journey Begins
Today our Taste of Bordeaux – Festive Delights journey officially begins, and Rose and I will be there to welcome you as we board our AmaWaterways ship in beautiful Bordeaux. This first day is all about settling in, slowing down, and letting the excitement of the week ahead sink in. After arriving, you’ll have time to unpack once, get comfortable, and enjoy the elegant surroundings of the ship. As evening approaches, Bordeaux glows with winter lights along the Garonne River, setting the perfect mood for the days ahead. We’ll gather for our welcome dinner onboard, getting to know one another, sharing stories, and raising a glass to the unforgettable food, wine, and festive moments waiting for us. It’s a relaxed, joyful start to a journey that’s meant to be savored together.
Saint-Émilion & the Heart of Bordeaux Wine Country
Today we step into the heart of Bordeaux wine country, and Rose and I will be right there with you as we explore one of the region’s most beloved areas. From Libourne, we’ll make our way to Saint-Émilion, a storybook village surrounded by rolling vineyards and rich history. Cobbled streets, ancient stone buildings, and centuries-old wine traditions make this place feel timeless — and even more special in the quieter winter season. You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy guided sightseeing and tastings of renowned local wines, learning what makes this region so celebrated. After returning to the ship, the afternoon offers time to relax onboard or take in views along the river. As evening arrives, we’ll come back together for dinner, sharing impressions from a beautiful day immersed in wine, culture, and the slower rhythm that makes Bordeaux so unforgettable.
Local Life, Markets & Hidden Gems of Libourne
Today is all about slowing down and experiencing Bordeaux the way locals do, and Rose and I will be right there enjoying it with you. Libourne comes alive with its traditional open-air market, where colorful stalls showcase regional cheeses, fresh breads, pastries, and seasonal specialties — perfect for tasting your way through the region. You may also choose from a variety of experiences that highlight everyday life here, from visiting a historic watermill to exploring quiet vineyard paths on foot or by bike. Winter brings a cozy, authentic feel, allowing us to truly savor the flavors and rhythms of the region without the crowds. As the day winds down, we’ll return to the ship, warm and content, ready to relax together over dinner and reflect on another wonderful day immersed in Bordeaux’s charm and traditions.
Blaye & Bourg: History, Villages & Festive Charm
Today brings us deeper into the rich history of the Bordeaux region, and Rose and I will be right alongside you as we explore two wonderfully authentic towns. Our day begins in Blaye, home to the impressive Citadel of Blaye, a UNESCO World Heritage site overlooking the Gironde Estuary. Walking along its stone ramparts, it’s easy to imagine centuries of history unfolding right beneath your feet — made even more atmospheric by the quiet beauty of winter. Later, we’ll continue on to the charming village of Bourg, where narrow streets, river views, and small local museums offer a glimpse into everyday life along the estuary. This day perfectly blends history, scenery, and a slower pace — one of those moments where you truly feel connected to the place. We’ll return to the ship with full hearts, ready to enjoy another relaxed evening together onboard.
Médoc Vineyards & Grand Cru Traditions
Today is a true highlight of our Taste of Bordeaux journey as we spend the day in the legendary Médoc wine region. Rose and I will be right there with you as we travel through vineyard-lined roads and elegant châteaux that produce some of the world’s most celebrated wines. Winter brings a quieter, more intimate feel to Médoc, allowing us to focus on the craftsmanship, history, and stories behind each glass. You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy guided tastings and learn what makes this region so iconic, from its unique terroir to centuries-old traditions. After a day filled with rich flavors and beautiful scenery, we’ll return to the ship feeling relaxed and content, ready to unwind together onboard and enjoy another wonderful evening of festive dining and conversation.
Cadillac, Châteaux & Sweet Wines
Today invites us into a different side of Bordeaux — one filled with fairy-tale castles, rolling countryside, and some of France’s most celebrated sweet wines. Rose and I will be right there with you as we travel to Cadillac and the surrounding Sauternes region, where historic châteaux and quiet vineyards feel especially magical during the winter season. You’ll have the opportunity to visit a beautifully preserved castle and enjoy tastings of the golden wines this area is famous for, learning how tradition, patience, and craftsmanship come together in every bottle. With festive touches and fewer crowds, today feels relaxed and intimate — the kind of day where you linger, savor, and truly appreciate where you are. This evening, we’ll return to the ship, sharing stories and laughter over dinner as we prepare for our final full day together in Bordeaux.
Bordeaux at Christmas: Culture, Markets & Farewell Evening
Today we return to beautiful Bordeaux to truly soak in the city’s charm, dressed up for the Christmas season. Rose and I will be right there with you as you explore Bordeaux’s elegant streets, historic architecture, and festive atmosphere. You may choose to join a guided city tour, visit one of Bordeaux’s renowned cultural sites, or simply wander the Christmas markets — enjoying local treats, holiday décor, and that unmistakable European Christmas spirit. Winter gives the city a relaxed, inviting feel, perfect for slowing down and savoring these final moments together. This evening, we’ll gather onboard for our farewell dinner, sharing favorite memories, laughter, and perhaps one last glass of Bordeaux wine — celebrating not just the places we’ve visited, but the wonderful journey we’ve shared as a group.
Bordeaux at Christmas: Culture, Markets & Farewell Evening
Today we return to beautiful Bordeaux to truly soak in the city’s charm, dressed up for the Christmas season. Rose and I will be right there with you as you explore Bordeaux’s elegant streets, historic architecture, and festive atmosphere. You may choose to join a guided city tour, visit one of Bordeaux’s renowned cultural sites, or simply wander the Christmas markets — enjoying local treats, holiday décor, and that unmistakable European Christmas spirit. Winter gives the city a relaxed, inviting feel, perfect for slowing down and savoring these final moments together. This evening, we’ll gather onboard for our farewell dinner, sharing favorite memories, laughter, and perhaps one last glass of Bordeaux wine — celebrating not just the places we’ve visited, but the wonderful journey we’ve shared as a group.
Onboard the AmaWaterways, you’ll find thoughtfully designed staterooms and suites that blend comfort, style, and wonderful river views — perfect for relaxing in between holiday markets and sightseeing.
All accommodations come with plush bedding, private bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, climate control, and ample storage — making your time onboard as relaxing and comfortable as possible.
Twin Balcony Suites – Most spacious option
These suites feature AmaWaterways’ signature twin-balcony design with both a traditional French balcony (floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors) and a step-out outside balcony, giving you flexible ways to enjoy the scenery and fresh air. Suites are about 300 sq ft and include a sitting area with sofa, premium bath amenities, and upgraded space throughout.
Twin Balcony Staterooms – Most popular choice
Also equipped with dual balconies — both the French and step-out veranda — these cabins (about 210–235 sq ft) let you enjoy panoramic river views in any weather. Perfect for soaking up passing castles, villages, and shoreside scenery from your private space.
French Balcony Staterooms
Elegant and comfortable, these rooms feature floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open to a railing, offering excellent views and a light, airy feel.
Window Cabin Stateroom
Cozy and bright, these cabins have fixed windows that let in abundant light — a great value choice for guests who plan to spend more time exploring ashore.
I’m a retired Mission Pastor with a lifelong passion for people, a wanderlust heart, and a gift for planning. For many years, I had the privilege of leading mission trips around the world - organizing everything from global outreach projects to hands-on local service events.
As my journey has evolved, I’ve discovered a new joy: helping others experience the beauty of travel through cruising. While cruising is my specialty, I also help travelers with other kinds of adventures - whether that’s exploring vibrant cities, relaxing at all-inclusive resorts, or creating custom journeys that fit your unique style.
940-391-5927
doug@travelwithdoug.com