Join us as we sail through charming scenery on a relaxing cruise through the region of France famous for its ‘Art de Vivre’. Our journey combines the glories of the French landscape with the famous wine region of Bordeaux which produces the world’s highest concentration of fine wines.
The success of wine production in the Bordeaux area is attributed to its proximity to sea and rivers which give it a moderate climate with a low risk of severe frosts. While the majority of attention is focused on the top Bordeaux wines, 1855 Classified Growths and the best wines from the prestigious Right Bank appellations, there are 54 different Bordeaux appellations in total with a combined acreage of more than 296,596 acres. Throughout the entire Bordeaux region, close to 450 million bottles of wine are produced in most years. At its heart, sitting alongside the Garonne River, the city of Bordeaux is surrounded in nearly all directions by its world-famous vineyards.
We have timed our river cruise through this picturesque region during the late summer when temperatures are warm and tourist sites are less crowded. There will be a variety of wine tasting opportunities during our cruise whilst other highlights include the Basin d’Arcachon, the seaside city of La Rochelle and charming Bordeaux.
Cyrano de Bergerac
The MS Cyrano de Bergerac is a stylish and elegant vessel built to embody comfort and relaxation with attentive personal service for cruises in the Bordeaux region. The vessel can accommodate up to 174 passengers but for the purposes of this cruise we are limiting the passenger number to 150 to allow for more space on board and a convivial atmosphere. Original paintings throughout the ship and French design touches give the ship a unique character. The vessel is owned and operated by our associates CroisiEurope and we have chartered the ship for this fascinating voyage.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Bordeaux, France.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the MS Cyrano de Bergerac and embark. This evening meet your fellow travellers for the welcome drink and dinner on board as we moor overnight.
Day 2 Cadillac.
Sail this morning to Cadillac, which was founded in 1280 and still retains many original structures. On arrival we depart for a tour of Château de Roquetaillade where the dungeon tower dates from the 11th century, and the quarters of the Seigneurs from the 12th century. The “new castle” was refurbished by Viollet le Duc, initiator of the Gothic Revival Movement in France 1840-1870 and well-known for his interpretive restorations of Medieval buildings such as Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, and the ramparts of Carcassonne. We conclude with a visit to nearby Sauternes for a tasting of this delicious, sweet wine. As we return to Cadillac we explore the port, its ramparts, and the main square and stroll the streets to admire the old homes and 15th century church. This evening we return the short distance to Bordeaux where we moor overnight.
Day 3 Arcachon Basin & Bordeaux.
From our berth in Bordeaux we have a choice of excursions. Join a full day excursion to the centre of the Arcachon basin where we begin our tour by boarding local boats for a mini cruise, touring around Bird Island where we find the “cabanes Tchanquees” houses on stilts and the oyster beds. After lunch in Arcachon, we will visit the Great Dune of Pilat. Culminating at 107 metres, it is the highest sand dune in Europe with an awe-inspiring view from the top. Alternatively, join a half day morning city tour of the Chartrons District of Bordeaux, the old neighbourhood where wine merchants performed their trade. Visit the Wine and Commerce Museum to trace the history of Bordeaux’s classic nectar before enjoying a tasting of wine. Another half day option is to the Bassins des Lumières, a unique digital art centre within a former submarine base built by the Germans during their occupation of France during World War II. Both tours will return to the ship for lunch with the opportunity to explore Bordeaux at leisure this afternoon.
Day 4 Medoc Vineyards.
Today we tour the Medoc vineyards, tucked between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gironde Estuary. We will cross through most of the famed names in the Medoc region including Saint Julien and Haut-Medoc stopping along the celebrated wine route to have a tasting of some of the illustrious regional wines. Afterwards we travel along the Route des Châteaux (Mouton-Rothschild, Lafite-Rothschild, Cos d’Estournel, Saint Estephe) with several photo opportunities of these magnificent châteaux. Return to the ship as we sail to Royan and moor overnight.
Day 5 Royan, Rochefort & La Rochelle.
From our berth in Royan we have a choice of excursions today. Maybe explore Royan, a seaside city and an official French “ville d’Art et d’Histoire.” Villas from the Belle Epoque and the charming “retro” homes from the 1950s line the waterfront. Meanwhile, in the Foncillon District, we see the fascinating church before some free time to explore at our own pace. You may wish to visit the covered market, the modern Palais des Congrès, or the shell auditorium. Alternatively, a full day trip will head to the seaside cities of Rochefort and La Rochelle. Rochefort was originally chosen by Jean-Baptiste Colbert as a refuge, defence, and supply post for the French Navy back in the mid-1660s. Its arsenal remained a naval base and dockyard until as late as 1926. Visit the historic downtown area boasting lovely private mansions and beautiful homes as well as the Corderie Royale, a historical rope-making factory. Built between 1666 and 1669, it was the first industrial building in France, and the factory provided ropes for the French Navy and its ships for over three centuries. After lunch we head to La Rochelle, the capital of the Charente Maritime which is tucked along the Bay of Biscay and features some of the most beautiful natural and architectural heritage in the area. During a guided tour of the old town and port, learn about the Grosse-Horloge gate, Renaissance arcades, lovely half-timbered homes, the finely sculpted facades of the private mansions, and the cathedral. Return to the ship this evening as we sail on the Dordogne River to Libourne.
Day 6 Libourne & Saint-Emilion.
We will have a choice of excursions this morning and you can choose to visit Saint-Emilion and enjoy a guided visit to the underground monuments of Saint-Emilion village. We then visit an exceptional Troglodyte settlement, the cave of Emilion, before visiting one of the region’s vineyards to learn about wine production and enjoy a tasting. Alternatively, spend the morning in Libourne and discover this former English bastide. Located at the confluence of the Isle and Dordogne Rivers, Libourne expanded around its port and we will see the Saint John the Baptist Church, Abel Surchamp Square, and the imposing clock tower in the grand harbour. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy an afternoon cruising towards Bordeaux.
Day 7 Bordeaux to London.
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for the return scheduled flight to London.
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £200 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 21 to 27 September 2025 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| Category 1 Main Deck Twin | £2895 | £2695 |
| Category 2 Middle Deck Twin | £2995 | £2795 |
| Category 3 Upper Deck Twin | £3095 | £2895 |
| Category 4 Main Deck Single Cabin | £2895 | £2695 |
| Category 5 Middle Deck Single Cabin | £2995 | £2795 |
| Category 6 Upper Deck Single Cabin | £3095 | £2895 |
Tour Reference Code: RCCB210925
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Six nights aboard the MS Cyrano de Bergerac on a full board basis • All-inclusive drinks from 10am to 11pm daily (please note that premium brands & sparkling wines are not included) • Shore excursions • Wine tastings as described • Cruise Director • Tour Manager • Guest Speaker • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes • Airport taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
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Deckplan
Cyrano de Bergerac
The MS Cyrano de Bergerac is a stylish and elegant vessel built to embody comfort and relaxation with attentive personal service for cruises in the Bordeaux region. The vessel can accommodate up to 174 passengers but for the purposes of this cruise we are limiting the passenger number to 150 to allow for more space on board and a convivial atmosphere. Original paintings throughout the ship and French design touches give the ship a unique character. The vessel is owned and operated by our associates CroisiEurope and we have chartered the ship for this fascinating voyage.
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Ship Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the ship or click on the adjacent Directory to download.
We are delighted you have chosen the MS Cyrano de Bergerac for your upcoming voyage and hope this information answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel
VESSEL TECHNICAL DETAILS
Passengers: 174
Length: 110 metres
Width: 11.40 metres
Crew/Staff: 25
Year built: 2013
Registered: FranceAIR CONDITIONING
All cabins have individually controlled heating and air conditioning.
ALARM
An alarm will be sounded in the event of an emergency. Please follow the instructions provided on board for what to do should an emergency occur.
BAR/BEVERAGES
All-inclusive drinks are provided on board (excluding premium brands) between 10.00 am and 11.00 pm daily.
CABIN SIZES & FACILITIES
The 87 outward-facing cabins all have large panoramic windows, with twin beds which can be made into doubles; (cabins 104, 106, 107, 112, 114, 115, 122, 124, 230, 232, 238, 240, 358, 360 & 388 have fixed double beds), telephones (cabin-to-cabin calls only), TV, safe, hairdryer, air-conditioning, shower and WC. Cabins 104, 106, 112, 114, 122, 124, 230, 232, 238, 240, 358, 360, 388 measure 8.55 square metres and all other cabins measure 12 square metres. Main Deck cabins have portholes (non-opening), Middle Deck cabins have large picture windows (can be opened partially) and Upper Deck cabins have large picture windows which can be opened fully.
DAILY PROGRAMME
A Daily Programme, detailing the following day’s arrangements as well as any specific information about the day’s activities is produced on board and delivered to your cabin each evening.
DRESS CODE
Comfortable and practical attire is recommended during the day for excursions and something dressier for the evening. More formal dress (smart/casual) is required only for the welcome & farewell dinners (black tie is not necessary).
ELECTRICITY
Electricity on board is 220v with 2-pin power outlets. In the bathroom there is a 110v socket which may be used for electric shavers only. We recommend you take an adaptor with you. In the interests of safety, please note that the use of electrical irons on board is strictly prohibited.
EMERGENCY AND SAFETY PROCEDURES
Full details of the ship’s emergency and safety procedures will be provided following your embarkation. Please note there is no Doctor onboard the vessel.
FIRE SAFETY
On your cabin door is a deck plan displaying your closest (and all other) emergency exits. Emergency exits are marked in green and fire extinguishers fitted in all corridors.
GIFT SHOP
A small gift shop selling various practical and souvenir items is available by reception.
GRATUITIES
Gratuities have been included in your holiday price.
HEALTH & HYGIENE
In order to maintain health standards you will find hand sanitisers at all important contact points around the vessel.
HOUSEKEEPING
Your cabin will be cleaned once a day and you will be provided with a ‘turn down’ service at night.
KEYS TO CABIN
Each cabin will receive their own cabin key. Before leaving the ship we kindly ask all passengers to swap the cabin key with a shore pass which will be provided to you by the ship’s reception desk. After your return to the ship, please return your shore pass back to reception in exchange for your cabin key.
LAUNDRY
There is no laundry or dry cleaning services onboard. Please ensure you pack accordingly.
LIBRARY
There is no library onboard.
LIFT
There is a lift on board serving the Main, Middle & Upper Decks.
LOST PROPERTY
Lost property can be handed in to the ship’s reception. Please ensure you have all of your belongings with you before you return home. Should you leave items on board the ship, please contact Noble Caledonia. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection and to advise of any associated costs.
MEALS
Meals are taken in the ship’s restaurant on the Middle Deck. The open seating restaurant serves local dishes in addition to an international menu, and tables seat four to six guests. Breakfast and afternoon tea are buffet-style, lunch and dinners are served. Wine/beer and soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner. Please note that due to galley restrictions, Croisi Europe is unable to offer a choice at each course, so menus for lunch and dinner are “set” with no choice at courses.
If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten free and low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department. We regret that not all dietary requests can be guaranteed. If you have any specific or special foods that you require we recommend that you take some with you although we will endeavour to accommodate your needs. Once on board, please speak to the Chef or the Maitre D’ at dinner on your first night on board to reconfirm your needs.MOSQUITOES
Please ensure you take the appropriate precautions to guard against mosquito bites.
PAYMENTS ONBOARD
The currency on board is the Euro. At any time during your voyage, passengers can buy pre-paid cards for the purchase of bar drinks on board. You may purchase the pre-paid cards by credit card (Visa, MasterCard) or cash (Euros) only. At the end of the cruise, any unused credit will be refunded to you. Any other services such as gifts from the shop, must be paid for at the time of purchase. Personal cheques or debit cards are not accepted. Regrettably, the ship is not able to offer a money-changing service on board as this would be contravening official regulations.
POST
The vessel’s gift shop sells postcards and stamps for you to purchase (subject to availability) and, items can be posted on your behalf by the ship’s crew (although as they are unable to do so each day, this could take longer than if you were to post yourself).
QUESTIONNAIRES
A questionnaire will be provided to all passengers towards the end of their sailing. We would be grateful for you to complete and return this.
QUIETVOX/AUDIO SYSTEM
Noble Caledonia has arranged for all passengers to have access to a ‘Quietvox’ audio system for shore excursions. Further details shall be provided to you following your embarkation.
RECEPTION
Reception is staffed throughout the day. A member of crew can be contacted 24 hours a day.
SAFE
All cabins are fitted with a safe and we recommend you place your valuables inside the safe whenever you are away from your room. Please remember to remove all items from your safe prior to you departing the vessel at the end of the cruise.
SMOKING
Smoking within your cabin or any of the vessel’s public areas is strictly prohibited. Designated smoking areas are provided and can be advised by the ship’s reception upon embarkation.
SUN DECK
The ship has a Sun Deck which is available for guests to enjoy. There may be times, for example at periods of inclement weather or low bridges (when sailing), whereby it is necessary to close the Sun Deck. Please listen carefully to the Captain and Crew for instruction. Please also note that the Sun Deck and its steps may become slippery if the weather is cool or dew forms.
WI-FI
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the ship’s lounge. There may be times when internet connection is slow or not available.
PLEASE NOTE: These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
V.1 September 2022
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Deck Plan
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Travelling with You
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David Hunter
David went to Germany in 1968 for three months’ work experience in the wine cellars of H Sichel Söhne, Mainz and ended up staying with the company for 25 years. After finishing his apprenticeship at Maison Sichel Bordeaux, he returned to London where he later became the company’s purchasing director. This involved frequent trips to Germany, spending time in the key regions of Mosel-Saar-Ruwer, Nahe, Palatinate, Rheingau, Rheinhessen, as well as the Ahr, Baden, Franconia and Württemberg. He also made regular buying trips to the wine producing regions of France, focusing in particular on Bordeaux, Burgundy, the Rhône and Loire where he was responsible for purchasing wines in bulk and in bottle for the Sichel portfolio. This included buying French classed growth clarets “en primeur” or “futures”. He spent time in Oporto, where he helped to blend port and in Spain including Jerez where he got to appreciate and understand the joys and complexities of sherry. David then spent 20 years with Wine and Spirit Education Trust lecturing on all aspects of wine. He is holder of the Diploma qualification and lectured regularly to Diploma students on his specialist subjects of Bordeaux, France in general and Germany, Austria and Hungary as well as the fortified wines of Port, Madeira, and Jerez. He has visited some of the wine regions further afield, including California, South Africa and Australia. David is a liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Distillers, which dates back to the reign of King Charles 1st where he is secretary of their Spirits and Wine Committee.
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000