The launch of an astonishing 24 Viking Longships by the end of 2014 has allowed California-based Viking River Cruises to expand its itinerary offerings. Beginning in 2014, the line will offer a brand-new itinerary through France’s stunning Bordeaux region with a focus on wine. Operated aboard the new Viking Forseti, the 2014 itinerary will mark the first deployment of a Viking Longship in France.

“Our itineraries in France have always been very popular, and we are pleased to introduce this unique new experience in the Bordeaux region,” says Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking River Cruises. “We have designed an itinerary that allows our guests to explore this historically fascinating region and enjoy some of the world’s most celebrated wines.”

Dubbed Châteaux, Rivers & Wine, this eight-day voyage takes guests on an exploration of the Dordogne, Garonne and Gironde rivers, sailing through a region that has produced some of France’s most celebrated wines for generations.

Beginning in Boreaux, Viking Forseti sails to Pauillac, where guests can take part in a tasting of some of the full-bodied blends from the renowned Medoc and Margaux wine producing regions.

Next, guests visit the Blaye Citadel and the beautiful town of St. Emilion, both of which are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites.

In Cadillac, guests will have the opportunity to taste the sweet Premier Cru wines that hail from the Sauternes region.

This eight-day journey concludes with an in-depth excursion to fully take in the charm of Bordeaux, with visits to the numerous beautiful churches, cafes and grand Louis XV architecture that defines the famous port city.

Viking has also developed a Culture Curriculum^SM that has been created in conjunction with local experts to provide guests the opportunity to experience the unique culture of the Bordeaux region firsthand. Guests can learn how to make regional pastries, observe winemaking traditions and techniques, or brush up on their appreciation of the region’s wines under the guidance of a master Sommelier.

There is also the opportunity to learn and engage in conversational French language lessons on the Viking Forseti; ideal for travelers looking to enhance their vacations with immersive experiences ashore.

Viking’s new 2014 Bordeaux itineraries are available for booking now, and it may be worth your while to jump on this new itinerary while you can: it’s bound to be popular.

More information on Viking River Cruises and the stunning new Viking Longships can be found by exploring our complete company profile here on River Cruise Advisor.