Bordeaux’s good fortune began in the 12th century when Duchess Eleanor of Aquitaine married Count Henri Plantagenêt, who soon became King Henry II of England. Their wedding in 1152 led to a growing popularity in wine production. Claret was the primary style of Bordeaux wine at the time and England imported it in large quantities. France regained control of the region and its vines at the close of the Hundred Years’ War in 1453. Since then, the city and its surrounding region has produced many styles, from simple table wine to the most prestigious and coveted bottles.
Though its name may not be familiar, the Garonne River is among the most beloved waterways in the world of wine lovers. As you sail its languid waters, gaze upon gentle hills laden with vineyards and riverside outcroppings dotted with honey-colored castles that share long histories of skirmishes. Sleepy French villages set the tone of life along the Garonne, where a slow pace and gentle patience serve the wine-growing industry well. Fishing is also prevalent along the river’s banks; you will pass some of the many carrelets (small fishing huts) hugging the shores.
Shore Excursions
Shore excursions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.
Arcachon: A Day on the Bay
Travel to the elegant resort town of Arcachon to experience the daily life of an oyster farmer.
Le Marché des Capucins
Accompany our onboard chef on a shopping excursion, experiencing France’s unique market culture for yourself.
Bordeaux by E-Bike
Admire the historic sites of Bordeaux during a panoramic pedal by e-bike around this vibrant port’s city center.
Wines of Bordeaux Master Class
Taste a selection of wines from the famed Bordeaux region during a visit to the Wine and Trade Museum.
Bassins des Lumières: Sound & Light Show
Immerse yourself in a multimedia art installation that features the work of two prominent 20th-century artists.
Videos
Viking Longships Christening 2016
During a festive waterfront Christening Ceremony in Amsterdam, Viking was proud to welcome six of its new Viking Longships to the award-winning and innovative fleet.
Viking Longships Christening 2015
During simultaneous christenings in Amsterdam and Rostock, Germany, Viking welcomed 10 award-winning Viking Longships and two custom vessels for the Elbe River to its European fleet.
Making a Viking Longship
Witness the intricate craftsmanship and herculean efforts that go into building a Viking Longship as you pay a fascinating visit to Rostock’s Neptun Yard along Germany’s northern coast.
Camus Cognac: A Bordeaux Favorite
Go behind this famous brand to meet the head of the house of Camus. Hear the story of its logo and learn the family philosophy that has guided the company for five generations.
Cooking with Karine: Steak Bordelaise
Join Karine as she learns the secrets of preparing Steak Bordelaise, Bordeaux’s celebrated and classic dish, with local gourmand, chef Georges Gotrand.
Truffle Hunting
Join Karine in Bordeaux, France as she learns how dogs are trained to sniff out and unearth a treasured French delicacy, the rare and delicious truffle.
The Wine Regions of Bordeaux
Bordeaux, France’s celebrated vineyard-laden province, is home to some of the world’s most prized wines. Learn about its different regions and appellations with Karine.
Sauternes: The Sweet Alternative
Enjoy a glimpse into the intriguing wine of Sauternes. Karine journeys to Bordeaux to take a closer look at this sweet alternative with one of Sauternes’s local experts.
French Language Lesson
Learn a few useful French words and phrases with Maaike, your Viking tutor. À votre Santé!
France, Painter’s Muse
See for yourself how France has inspired famous artists like van Gogh, Monet and so many more.
