{"id":23488,"date":"2016-04-04T08:06:48","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T14:06:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/rivercruiseadvisor.com\/?p=23488"},"modified":"2018-01-11T17:12:28","modified_gmt":"2018-01-11T22:12:28","slug":"amawaterways-bordeaux","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/rivercruiseadvisor.com\/2016\/04\/amawaterways-bordeaux\/","title":{"rendered":"AmaWaterways Bordeaux, A Review & Tips For Making The Most Of Your Time On AmaDolce"},"content":{"rendered":"
\"AmaDolce

AmaDolce docked in Libourne. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p><\/div>\n

AmaWaterways Bordeaux Overview<\/h2>\n

First up, this is an intense itinerary<\/strong>. You\u00a0can busy yourself\u00a0from morning to midnight, if you choose to do so (more on that in a moment). On each day of the seven-night, eight-day cruise along the Dordogne and Garonne rivers \u2014 and through the Gironde Estuary \u2014 you’ll be offered complimentary morning and afternoon tours along with wine tastings, bike rides, vineyard walks, market visits, special events and fabulous dinners. If you’re so inclined, you’ll even find yourself dancing as the clock ticks toward midnight. We certainly did so \u2014 on more than one evening.<\/p>\n

My advice<\/strong>: Don’t try to do it all. Make this cruise your own by giving yourself some downtime to process all that you’ll be experiencing and learning during your time in Bordeaux. You’ll need some free time to fully absorb the beauty of this region.<\/p>\n

Why is this cruise so active?<\/strong> AmaWaterways wants to give its guests\u00a0choices, and the company certainly succeeds in\u00a0doing so on its Bordeaux river cruises. I counted 20 shore activities over six days<\/strong> (the cruise spans eight, days but the first and last days are for embarkation and disembarkation).<\/p>\n

\"Our

Our guide, right, with my friend and colleague Mike Louagie, while riding from Blaye to Bourg. \u00a9\u00a02016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p><\/div>\n

Of course, when you’re traveling, it’s hard to say no to complimentary tours, and we found ourselves opting to do most.<\/p>\n

On some mornings and afternoons, two tours were offered, making it impossible for one person to do both, so we split up. When AmaDolce docked in Libourne, for example, I joined a group of eager cyclists to pedal to Saint-\u00c9milion, a route that took us\u00a0only about 12 kilometers (close to 8 miles) but through gorgeous countryside. The guided bicycle excursion did not \u00a0include an extended tour of\u00a0Saint-\u00c9milion, however. We pedaled to the UNESCO World Heritage village, dismounted, locked our bikes and had free time on our own to explore on our own.<\/p>\n

\"Four

Four guided rides were offered during our one-week cruise on AmaDolce. \u00a9\u00a02016 Mike Louagie<\/p><\/div>\n

Traveling with me, Monica would have cycled, but that meant missing the included tour of Saint-\u00c9milion and in particular, the Monolithic Church, carved into a limestone cave in the 12 century. As it turns out, the church preceded a Breton monk named Emilion who fled to southern France in the 8th century to escape persecution by the Benedictine order. Emilion adopted an eremitic existence, living in a cave. As I had toured the church before on a previous visit, it was good to have the guided bike tour so that I too could experience something new.<\/p>\n

\"Two

Two tours were offered to Saint-\u00c9milion: one by bus and one by bike. The bus tour includes the famous Monolithic underground church. A photo snapped along the way to Saint-\u00c9milion. \u00a9 2016 Monica Frisk<\/p><\/div>\n

Bordeaux, Beautiful & Bountiful<\/h2>\n

We traveled in late March on\u00a0Amadolce’s inaugural Bordeaux cruise. Spring was struggling to make its appearance, giving us a couple of sunny and warm days, mixed with other days that were overcast and grey.\u00a0On our full day in Bordeaux (the day before disembarkation), the sky dumped buckets of rain. That didn’t stop the cyclists on our cruise from touring Bordeaux by bike or the organized city tours in the morning.<\/p>\n

During our time on AmaDolce, we discovered that the Bordeaux region is as beautiful as it is bountiful. Vineyards knit their way across flowery landscapes. \u00a0Stately\u00a0ch\u00e2teaux dot the countryside. At the\u00a0colorful markets, friendly vendors offered us\u00a0tastes of\u00a0French breads, fruits and cheeses.<\/p>\n

If you are someone who believes the French to be\u00a0rude, you owe it to yourself to visit the France we saw on AmaDolce. The French people we met were warm and welcoming.<\/p>\n

Each day, Bordeaux managed to surprise even the most experienced travelers among us. At a morning market in Cr\u00e9on, we saw something you’d only see in “deep France,\u201d said my French colleague Christophe Tissinier.<\/p>\n

Tissinier runs ground operations for a handful of the\u00a0ocean and river cruise lines visiting Bordeaux. His job is to make sure the shore tours run flawlessly and that they serve up something interesting for guests.<\/p>\n

I stood with him as we were watching locals\u00a0choose caged chickens to take home. The vendor reached into a\u00a0cage, grabbed the selected bird by the scruff of its neck and stuffed it, with much squawking, into a box. It was not entirely humane, but I was told that the chicken would have a good life once at home with the owner, who purchased the chicken for its eggs.<\/p>\n

As we walked the market, Tissinier said: “Many of these traditions will be gone in a decade or more I suspect.\u201d I was glad we were seeing them before they were gone.<\/p>\n

\"The

The vendor reached into the cage, grabbed a selected bird by the scruff of its neck and stuffed it, with much squawking, into a box. I was told the chicken would have a good life once at home with the new owner, who purchased the chicken for its eggs. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p><\/div>\n

Earlier in the week, at Ch\u00e2teau de Roquetaillade, our guide turned out to be the owner, though out of modesty perhaps, she never revealed that the ancient ch\u00e2teau had been in her family for more than 700 years.<\/p>\n

Indeed, the most memorable part of our\u00a0cruise was\u00a0the people of this region. AmaWaterways even worked with some of the towns and villages on the\u00a0itinerary to encourage engagement between locals and guests. In Bourg, for example, the company spent nearly a year working with local tourism officials so that guests were greeted by vintners and tourism authorities during a lavish early-evening ceremony in the town\u2019s \u201cHouse of Wine.” It’s a relationship that will continue, exclusive to\u00a0AmaWaterways, as the season progresses.<\/p>\n

\"Friendly

Friendly faces welcome us in Bourg. \u00a9\u00a02016 Monica Frisk<\/p><\/div>\n

Two Tours Not To Miss<\/h2>\n

Which two tours would I recommend not missing? Definitely, do not miss\u00a0Saint-\u00c9milion<\/strong>, whether you choose to do the\u00a0Saint-\u00c9milion excursion by motorcoach and on foot or the bicycle tour. Both include wine tastings at a\u00a0Saint-\u00c9milion vineyard.<\/p>\n

The other tour I would recommend:\u00a0Ch\u00e2teau de Roquetaillade<\/strong> from Cadillac. The castle alone was worth\u00a0seeing but the guide made the tour one that topped the list for us. I wrote about the tour in my first post:\u00a0Beautiful Bordeaux, A First For AmaDolce<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Staterooms On\u00a0AmaDolce<\/h2>\n
\"AmaDolce

Measuring 170 square feet, this category A stateroom (305) features floor-to-ceiling windows that open to a French balcony. Located on Violin Deck. Our stateroom was 311, situated midship, with a queen-bed configuration. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p><\/div>\n

There are eight different categories of accommodation aboard AmaDolce:<\/p>\n

At 140 square feet are the\u00a0Single Accommodation<\/strong>. These two staterooms are located side-by-side on Cello Deck, and feature a French balcony \u2013 making them ideal for solo travelers who don\u2019t want to compromise. These feature a wardrobe, bathroom with shower, and a desk with internet access and a flat-panel television.<\/p>\n

Categories D and E\u00a0<\/strong>measure 170 square feet, and are located on Piano Deck. They feature fixed windows and offer a sitting area, desk with internet access and flat-panel television, and a bathroom with a multi-function shower.<\/p>\n

Categories A,B and C\u00a0<\/strong>are also 170 square feet, but are located on Cello and Violin decks. They feature all the amenities of the Category D and E staterooms, but with the addition of floor-to-ceiling windows which open to a French balcony. Category A staterooms offer a slightly more desirable location, being one deck higher than Category B and are located amidships. Ours was a category A stateroom (311). I photographed stateroom 305, also a category A stateroom.<\/p>\n

\"AmaDolce

Category A, B and C staterooms feature French balconies, queen- or twin-bed configurations, marble bathroom with shower, plenty of closet space, a sitting area and desk, along with iMacs that feature complimentary internet access and first-run Hollywood movies. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p><\/div>\n

AmaDolce has one\u00a0Category A+\u00a0<\/strong>stateroom located all the way forward on Violin Deck. It offers all the amenities and features of a standard Category A stateroom, but is appreciably larger at 225 square feet.<\/p>\n

Topping off the accommodation choices are three\u00a0Junior Suites<\/strong>. Located on Violin Deck, these suites are a comfortable 255 square feet and feature a full bathroom with shower and tub, a flat-panel television, mini bar, spacious wardrobe, and a full size window in addition to a complete French balcony.<\/p>\n

\"Our

Our spacious marble-appointed bathroom featured a shower with multi-jet shower heads as well as bathrobes. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p><\/div>\n

Stateroom televisions feature internet access (available at no charge throughout the ship on WiFi-enabled devices) as well as first-run movies. Bottled water is also stocked as needed in staterooms. You’ll find bathrobes, shampoo, conditioner, bar soap and lotion in the marble bathrooms. There’s plenty of closet space with hangers, as well as a closet with shelves and a safe. Unless your suitcase is humongous, it\u00a0can fit underneath the bed.<\/p>\n

Beds are comfortable with duvets as well as nightstands and reading lamps on each side. A sliding-glass door exposes the French balcony.<\/p>\n

Dining On\u00a0AmaDolce<\/h2>\n Our wonderful waiter Yordan always had a smile. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle\n

AmaDolce’s wait staff made dining a delight. They were both professional and personable, always ready with a joke or a smile.<\/p>\n

Breakfast begins at 7:30 a.m. and runs until 9 a.m. on most days. Not up that early? Late Risers Pastries are available in the lounge until 10 a.m. (and from 6:30 a.m. for those who are up early). Complimentary coffee, tea and hot chocolate are always available in the lounge.<\/p>\n

\"Made

Made with fresh seafood from the region, bouillabaisse, which I had for lunch on one day of our cruise. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p><\/div>\n

Lunch kicks off at noon, and on some days 12:30 p.m. A light lunch is also served in the lounge.<\/p>\n

In the main restaurant, lunch is served buffet-style with a good selection of salads, sandwiches and specials of the day (mussels and shellfish, for example, on one day of our cruise). Menu items also feature dishes that can be ordered from your waiter, and the menu also features “Always Available” dishes, such as Minute Steak and fries, or grilled chicken breast and veggies. Vegetarian options are always available, and\u00a0AmaWaterways can cater to nearly any dietary lifestyle. Gluten-free products are readily available.<\/p>\n

\"Complimentary

Complimentary Bordeaux wines (one red and one white) are poured, along with beer, during lunch and dinner. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p><\/div>\n

Dinner is similar to lunch but without the buffet selections. Dinners typically started at 7 p.m. in either the Main Restaurant or the Chef’s Table, a reservations-only restaurant at the back of the ship.\u00a0AmaWaterways pours Bordeaux reds and whites on this itinerary.<\/p>\n

\"One

One of the highlights: French cheeses at each meal. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p><\/div>\n

We had two\u00a0favorite meals on our cruise that we suggest you do not miss:<\/p>\n

The Chef’s Table<\/strong>. Be sure to make reservations at the start of your cruise. There is no charge to dine here, and the experience (as well as the food and wine) rivals what you’d expect to find in fine restaurants. For an added bonus, try to dine in The Chef’s Table when\u00a0AmaDolce is underway along the river.<\/p>\n

The Chain de Rotisserie dinner<\/strong>. Offered one evening of your cruise in the Main Restaurant, this is the event where the chefs show off their best talents.\u00a0AmaWaterways is the only river cruise line that was invited to join one of the world\u2019s most prestigious culinary organizations – founded in 1950 in Paris.<\/p>\n AmaWaterways is the only river cruise line that was invited to join one of the world\u2019s most prestigious culinary organizations – founded in 1950 in Paris. \u00a9\u00a02016 Ralph Grizzle\n

Life On Board\u00a0AmaDolce<\/h2>\n

During most of your days\u00a0in Bordeaux, you’ll find yourself on tours. You’ll be on the ship for breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as for evening activities. Evening entertainment ranges\u00a0from\u00a0musical performances to dancing to conversation and late-night snacks (I enjoyed the chicken wings after arriving late on\u00a0the first night).<\/p>\n

There’s a gym that was used regularly on our voyage, as well as a salon (I paid 17 euros for a haircut), massage table, shop \u2014 and the upper deck with its expansive space, deck chairs, walking track, putting green, Jacuzzi and a section up front to relax and enjoy away from it all.<\/p>\n

\"All

All hands on deck as we sail toward Bordeaux. Note the walking track in black. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p><\/div>\n

\"AmaDolce

AmaDolce features a small sitting area in front of the Captain’s Wheelhouse. \u00a9\u00a02016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p><\/div>\n

\"Jacuzzi

Jacuzzi on the upper deck. \u00a9\u00a02016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p><\/div>\n

\"Sun

Sun deck on AmaDolce. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p><\/div>\n

When the ship is docked, bikes are always available for you to pedal away free of charge, so long as you bring them back, of course.<\/p>\n

The big attraction is Bordeaux itself, however, with its delectable\u00a0wines and gorgeous landscapes \u2014\u00a0and that wonderful French flair that can only be found when visiting this beautiful nation with its beautiful people on a beautiful ship called\u00a0AmaDolce.<\/p>\n With her accordion, the French beauty entertained guests from AmaDolce in a ceremony that is exclusive for guests of AmaWaterways. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle\n

Prices for AmaWaterways’\u00a0cruise and land program in Bordeaux begin at US$4,399 per person, while the cruise-only program starts at US$2,899. Some departures offer \u201cLimited Time Savings\u201d of up to $1,500 per stateroom plus prepaid gratuities.\u00a0See\u00a0AmaWaterways\u2019 website for a\u00a0detailed itinerary and pricing<\/a>.<\/p>\n I joined a guided bike tour, using AmaDolce’s complimentary bicycles, to pedal from Blaye to Bourg, only 17 kilometers, with a few hills to get the heart pumping. We met AmaDolce about halfway through our trip to Bourg. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle\n

\"AmaDolce

Late evening from the deck of AmaDolce in Bordeaux. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p><\/div>\n

Check out our slideshow in the player below. If you have problems viewing the slideshow, you can also check it out our\u00a0AmaWaterways Bordeaux Flickr Album<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\n
\n \"Sitting\n
\n

Sitting Pretty<\/h3>\n

AmaDolce docked in Libourne. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Morning\n
\n

Morning Stroll In Bazas<\/h3>\n

So typically French: coffee at a sidewalk table and an old man with his cane and beret. \u00a9\u00a02016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Bordeaux,\n
\n

Bordeaux, It's All About The Wine<\/h3>\n

All throughout our week, we'd learn about the Bordeaux wines as we visit the many vineyards strung across the region. \u00a9\u00a02016 Monica Frisk<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"French\n
\n

French Flair<\/h3>\n

With her accordion, the French beauty entertained guests from AmaDolce in a ceremony that is exclusive for guests of AmaWaterways. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Ch\u00e2teau\n
\n

Ch\u00e2teau Margaux<\/h3>\n

When visiting Bordeaux in 1787, Thomas Jefferson made note of Ch\u00e2teau Margaux as one of the \"four vineyards of first quality.\" \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Ch\u00e2teau\n
\n

Ch\u00e2teau Margaux<\/h3>\n

Ch\u00e2teau Margaux produced one of four wines to achieve Premier cru (first growth) status in the Bordeaux Classification of 1855. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Bordeaux\n
\n

Bordeaux Wines<\/h3>\n

Refrigerator magnets representing Bordeaux wines. \u00a9\u00a02016 Monica Frisk<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Ch\u00e2teau\n
\n

Ch\u00e2teau Gruaud-Larose<\/h3>\n

The wine cellar at Ch\u00e2teau Gruaud-Larose held some fascinating vintage wines. \u00a9\u00a02016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Tea\n
\n

Tea Time<\/h3>\n

One of the desserts during tea time, which took place each afternoon in the lounge. \u00a9\u00a02016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Under\n
\n

Under The Bridge<\/h3>\n

All hands on deck as we sail toward Bordeaux. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Captain\"\/\n
\n

Captain<\/h3>\n

AmaDolce's Captain, Louis Devaux . \u00a9\u00a02016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Cycling\n
\n

Cycling To Saint-\u00c9milion<\/h3>\n

On our way to Saint-\u00c9milion. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Induction\"\/\n
\n

Induction<\/h3>\n

In Bourg, Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst, co-owners of AmaWaterways, became honorary inductees to La Conn\u00e9tablie de Guyenne, an organization founded in 1152 to glorify Bordeaux wines. \u00a9\u00a02016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Wine-Pairing\n
\n

Wine-Pairing Dinner<\/h3>\n

A new twist on the scallop. It was delicious. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Cheese\n
\n

Cheese Table<\/h3>\n

One of the highlights: French cheeses at each meal. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Detox\n
\n

Detox Water<\/h3>\n

To the far right, detox water, one of many healthy options on AmaDolce. \u00a9\u00a02016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Bar\n
\n

Bar Waitress<\/h3>\n

She always had a smile. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Sun\n
\n

Sun Deck<\/h3>\n

Sun deck on AmaDolce. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Flying\n
\n

Flying Proud<\/h3>\n

AmaDolce flying its flags. \u00a9\u00a02016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Sun\n
\n

Sun Deck<\/h3>\n

Jacuzzi on the upper deck. \u00a9\u00a02016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Upfront\n
\n

Upfront Relaxation<\/h3>\n

AmaDolce features a small sitting area in front of the Captain's Wheelhouse. \u00a9\u00a02016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Stuffed\n
\n

Stuffed Chickens<\/h3>\n

The vendor reached into the cage, grabbed a selected bird by the scruff of its neck and stuffed it, with much squawking, into a box. I was told the chicken would have a good life once at home with the new owner, who purchased the chicken for its eggs. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"At\n
\n

At The Market<\/h3>\n

Monica Frisk (right) and Kristin Karst with a local olive vender at the market in Creon. \u00a9\u00a02016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Chef's\n
\n

Chef's Table<\/h3>\n

One of the dining highlights of our trip: dinner at The Chef's Table, a complimentary reservations-only restaurant on AmaDolce. \u00a9\u00a02016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Saint-\u00c9milion\n
\n

Saint-\u00c9milion Wines<\/h3>\n

Two tours were offered to Saint-\u00c9milion: one by bus and one by bike. The bus tour includes the famous monolothic underground church. A photo snapped along the way to Saint-\u00c9milion. \u00a9 2016 Monica Frisk<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Saint-\u00c9milion\n
\n

Saint-\u00c9milion Signage<\/h3>\n

Cycling to Saint-\u00c9milion. \u00a9\u00a02016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Pomerol\n
\n

Pomerol Wines<\/h3>\n

On the way to Saint-\u00c9milion, we cycled through the Pomerol wine-producing region. \u00a9\u00a02016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Cycling\n
\n

Cycling Through Wine Country<\/h3>\n

Four guided rides were offered during our one-week cruise on AmaDolce. \u00a9\u00a02016 Mike Louagie<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Cha\u00eene\n
\n

Cha\u00eene des R\u00f4tisseurs Dinner<\/h3>\n

AmaWaterways is the only river cruise line that was invited to join one of the world\u2019s most prestigious culinary organizations - founded in 1950 in Paris. \u00a9\u00a02016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"A\n
\n

A Special Vintage<\/h3>\n

Presenting a private label of C\u00f4tes de Bourg wine for AmaWaterways. \u00a9\u00a02016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Docked\n
\n

Docked In Cadillac<\/h3>\n

AmaDolce docked in Cadillac, France, for excursions to Bazas and its morning market and later to Ch\u00e2teau de Roquetaillade, where we were taken on a tour by the owner. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grlzzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Bourg\n
\n

Bourg Welcome<\/h3>\n

Friendly faces welcome us in Bourg. \u00a9\u00a02016 Monica Frisk<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Robust\n
\n

Robust Reds<\/h3>\n

In Bourg, sampling the excellent reds from Ch\u00e2teau Beaulieu. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Bourg\n
\n

Bourg Welcome<\/h3>\n

AmaWaterways spent nearly a year working with local tourism officials so that guests were greeted by vintners and tourism authorities during a lavish early-evening ceremony in the town\u2019s \u201cHouse of Wine.\" \u00a9\u00a02016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Bourg\"\/\n
\n

Bourg<\/h3>\n

The city of Bourg from AmaDolce. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Three\n
\n

Three Waterways<\/h3>\n

On our Bordeaux cruise, we cruised on the Gironde Estuary and the rivers Garonne and Dordoge. \u00a9\u00a02016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Vineyards\n
\n

Vineyards Galore<\/h3>\n

Passing vineyards and churches while pedaling to Bourg. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Pedal\n
\n

Pedal Power<\/h3>\n

Our guide, right, with my friend and colleague Mike Louagie, while riding from Blaye to Bourg. \u00a9\u00a02016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"My\n
\n

My Bike<\/h3>\n

I joined a guided bike tour, using AmaDolce's complimentary bicycles, to pedal from Blaye to Bourg, only 17 kilometers, with a few hills to get the heart pumping. We met AmaDolce about halfway through our trip to Bourg. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Service\n
\n

Service With A Smile<\/h3>\n

Our wonderful waiter Yordan always had a smile. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Bouillabaisse\"\/\n
\n

Bouillabaisse<\/h3>\n

Made with fresh seafood from the region, bouillabaisse. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Blaye\n
\n

Blaye Citadel<\/h3>\n

AmaDolce docked at the foot of the citadel in Blaye. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Bordeaux\n
\n

Bordeaux Wines<\/h3>\n

Complimentary Bordeaux wines (one red and one white) are poured during lunch and dinner. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"A\n
\n

A Welcome Reception<\/h3>\n

Reception area on AmaDolce. \u00a9 2016 Monica Frisk<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Stateroom\n
\n

Stateroom 305<\/h3>\n

Measuring 170 square feet, this category A stateroom (305) features floor-to-ceiling windows that open to a French balcony. Located on Violin Deck. Our stateroom was 311, situated midship, with a queen-bed configuration. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Our\n
\n

Our Stateroom Bathroom<\/h3>\n

Our spacious marble-appointed bathroom featured a shower with multi-jet shower heads as well as bathrobes. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"iMac\n
\n

iMac Televisions<\/h3>\n

Category A, B and C staterooms feature French balconies, queen- or twin-bed configurations, marble bathroom with shower, plenty of closet space, a sitting area and desk, along with iMacs that feature compimentary internet access and first-run Hollywood movies. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Ch\u00e2teau\n
\n

Ch\u00e2teau Gruaud-Larose<\/h3>\n

Aging barrels at Ch\u00e2teau Gruaud-Larose. \u00a9\u00a02016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Chateau\n
\n

Chateau Cos d'Estournel<\/h3>\n

Chateau Cos d'Estournel, one of the top producers in the Medoc region. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"\"\/\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Ch\u00e2teau\n
\n

Ch\u00e2teau Guiraud Sauternes Tasting<\/h3>\n

Tipping a glass at Ch\u00e2teau Guiraud. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Sampling\n
\n

Sampling Sauternes<\/h3>\n

Sampling the sweet Sauternes at Ch\u00e2teau Guiraud. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Ch\u00e2teau\n
\n

Ch\u00e2teau de Roquetaillade<\/h3>\n

A memorable day at Ch\u00e2teau de Roquetaillade. \u00a9\u00a02016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Ch\u00e2teau\n
\n

Ch\u00e2teau de Roquetaillade<\/h3>\n

We toured with the owner of Ch\u00e2teau de Roquetaillade. \u00a9\u00a02016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Ch\u00e2teau\n
\n

Ch\u00e2teau de Roquetaillade<\/h3>\n

In 1306, Cardinal de la Mothe, who was a nephew of Pope Clement V, built le\u00a0Ch\u00e2teau Neuf, which was square and featured six towers and a central keep. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Ch\u00e2teau\n
\n

Ch\u00e2teau de Roquetaillade<\/h3>\n

On the site of the well-preserved castle, Charlemagne constructed the first earth and timber fortifications as he advanced toward the Pyrenees. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Bazas,\n
\n

Bazas, Back View<\/h3>\n

Bazas along its city wall. \u00a9\u00a02016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Bonjour\"\/\n
\n

Bonjour<\/h3>\n

When asked if we could take a photography, she replied in French that it would be okay but that we could also buy some potatoes. \u00a9\u00a02016 Monica Frisk<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Monica\n
\n

Monica At The Market<\/h3>\n

Monica Frisk, ready to explore the market in Bazas. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"AmaDolce\n
\n

AmaDolce Under Way<\/h3>\n

Cruising the Gironde Estuary toward Bourg. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Hamming\n
\n

Hamming It Up<\/h3>\n

Friendly vendors at the Bazas market were quick to chat or pose for a photo. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Bazas,\n
\n

Bazas, Morning Market<\/h3>\n

Our first full day started under sunny skies with a 30-minute motorcoach transfer to Bazas, where a morning market was in full swing. \u00a9\u00a02016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n

\n \"Evening\n
\n

Evening In Bordeaux<\/h3>\n

Late evening from the deck of AmaDolce in Bordeaux. \u00a9 2016 Ralph Grizzle<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \n \n \n<\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

AmaWaterways Bordeaux Overview First up, this is an intense itinerary. You\u00a0can busy yourself\u00a0from morning to midnight, if you choose to do so (more on that in a moment). On each day of the seven-night, eight-day cruise along the Dordogne and Garonne rivers \u2014 and through the Gironde Estuary \u2014 you’ll be offered complimentary morning and […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":23479,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"full-width-content","footnotes":""},"categories":[79,6,409,498,24,459,41,499],"tags":[599,722,725,716,719,721,720,718,717,726,724,723],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/rivercruiseadvisor.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/23488"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/rivercruiseadvisor.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/rivercruiseadvisor.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rivercruiseadvisor.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rivercruiseadvisor.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=23488"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/rivercruiseadvisor.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/23488\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rivercruiseadvisor.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/23479"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/rivercruiseadvisor.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=23488"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rivercruiseadvisor.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=23488"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rivercruiseadvisor.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=23488"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}