
2026 Bonjour Bordeaux Riverboat Cruise
Aug 18, 2026 - Aug 25, 2026- Bordeaux
- Cadillac-Sur-Garonne
- Blaye-Bourg
- Libourne
- Saint-Émilion
- Arcachon’s Bay
- Bordeaux
Our Newest Itinerary in One of France’s Most Exquisite Regions
Explore the bountiful beauty of Bordeaux with a captivating cruise in the company of Olivia on the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers. Embark from Bordeaux itself, the capital of the splendid Nouvelle-Aquitaine region—famed for its legendary vineyards and wines. Be carried away by Avalon’s signature included Classic, Active, or Discovery experiences of your choice—from the regal histories of castles and Châteaux to the romantic cellars where wine bouquets and bon-vivant cuisine tempt the palate. While the landscapes and lush pastoral treasures are plentiful along the shores of the Garonne and Dordogne, we elevate each immersive experience for a deeper discovery of the cultural and architectural treasures that recall the rich traditions of Southwest France. From unparalleled panoramic drives to forested two-wheel excursions by bike to the delicacies of seaside Arcachon—the world is your oyster on this adventure in la belle vie of Bordeaux!

Avalon Waterways
Voted Best in European River Cruises
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Voted Best River Cruise Line Shore Excursions
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Voted Best River Cruise Line Cabins
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Activity Level: Easy-Moderate
This trip requires some mobility without the use of a wheelchair or scooter, as most tours are walking tours for up to 3 hours, which may include walking on cobblestone streets, stairs and unpaved roads. A ‘Gentle Walkers’ group is offered on most included walking tours, which accommodates those needing a little extra time and sometimes offers a shortened version of a tour, designed to encounter as few stairs as possible. If you are bringing a portable wheelchair or collapsible travel scooter, you must be able to collapse it and store it in your cabin. It cannot be used to get around the ship, only while off the ship on tours that are wheelchair/scooter accessible. On tours, the usefulness of a portable wheelchair or scooter may be limited because we will be navigating cobblestone streets with hard curbs (no curb ramps) and stairs.
If you have limited mobility, you are required to travel with someone who can assist you.
- Gentle Walkers Group
Whenever possible, we will create a Gentle Walkers group on each included tour for any guests who need a little extra time walking—perhaps guests with scooters or canes or photographers who like to stop frequently to take photos. For those with mobility issues, we suggest purchasing a cane that can also fold out to be a seat so you can rest while the group stops to listen to the guide. There are many different styles to choose from online. Please note that on the optional tours, we are not able to offer a Gentle Walkers group. If you are unsure of your ability to take a specific tour, please discuss your concerns with the cruise director on board.
What's Included
- Accommodations for 8 days/7 nights on the Avalon Vista, one of the finest riverboats on the Rhine
- All meals while on board
- Complimentary sparkling wine with breakfast; coffee, tea, and juices with all meals; beer, wine, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner. Daily Happy Hour with included drinks (top shelf drinks additional cost)
- Standard wifi in all cabins and public areas
- Olivia entertainment and programming, as well as local entertainment
- Included sightseeing tours in each port
- Gratuities to ship crew and Avalon cruise director
- Group transfer the ship in Basel to the Zürich Airport on April 18, 2026 for flights after 11 am
- Team Olivia assistance throughout

- What's Not Included
- International Airfare / Transfer from Amsterdam airport to the ship
- Optional excursions
- Alcoholic beverages, bottled water, and soft drinks (except where indicated)
- Phone/fax
- Tips to Guides and Bus Drivers
- Travel insurance & personal incidentals
Itinerary
With Olivia and Avalon, you can enjoy three types of included shore excursion experiences. Classic tours guide you through the history and heritage of local destinations. Discovery tours are inspiring and interactive activities (such as cooking classes or painting workshops) that allow you to immerse yourself in each culture you explore. Active tours allow you to embark on energetic excursions to keep you in motion and on-the-go such as a guided jogging tour or biking and hiking.
- Day 1Bordeaux, FranceEmbarkationTuesday, Aug 18, 2026
Welcome to France! Your Suite Ship® is ready for boarding. Flights into Bordeaux must arrive by 3 pm. Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm. Your day is free to explore the city before starting your cruise on the Garonne and Dordogne. Get acquainted with this city, capital of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region and famous worldwide for its vineyards and wines.
Overnight Docking in Bordeaux*
(-/-/D)*Ship may sail in the evening to Cadillac-sur-Garonne based on tide and water levels.
- Day 2Cadillac-Sur-Garonne, France*Wednesday, Aug 19, 2026
On the Steps of Montesquieu
Join a Discovery experience with a delicious onboard tasting of Bordeaux wines and a presentation by a world-class wine sommelier. Join a guided Discovery visit with wine “discovery” tasting at a local wine estate. Sip the sweet notes and fresh acidity of Sauternes, the beloved golden-yellow wine. Or, take a Classic guided tour of Château de la Brède—birthplace of Montesquieu—political philosopher and author of The Spirit of Law. Visit the fortress-style castle still reflected in its impressive moat. This evening, enjoy live entertainment on board your Suite Ship®.Overnight docking in Cadillac-sur-Garonne
(B/L/D)*Sailing to Cadillac-sur-Garonne pending tides and water levels. Alternative motorcoach transportation for today’s excursions provided.
- Day 3Cussac Fort Médoc, FranceThursday, Aug 20, 2026
Bikes, Vines, and Wines
This morning, enjoy a leisurely sailing to Cussac Fort Médoc. Visit the Adventure Center for today’s activities with your Adventure Host. Enjoy an Active, relaxing E-bike guided tour in Bordeaux’s finest wine region. You will be amazed by the picturesque countryside while you enjoy a wonderful ride through the vineyards. Or, take a Discovery scenic drive through the famed Médoc wine country and enjoy a tasting of their wonderful wines, with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon as protagonists. This evening, enjoy a brief sailing to Blaye.
Overnight docking in Blaye
(B/L/D) - Day 4Blaye / Bourg, FranceFriday, Aug 21, 2026
Fine Art, Fine Bubbly, and a Fine Day for a Drive
Ask your Adventure Host for today’s special activities. Join a refreshing Active power walk through the historic Citadel of Blaye with your Adventure Host. Or, join a Discovery guided tour to discover Blaye from a different perspective, including a visit to a local art gallery with wine tasting. Or, take a Classic panoramic drive following the famed Route de la Corniche along the right banks of the River Dordogne, followed by guided visit to the Citadel of Blaye, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon sailing on the Dordogne River to Bourg. Take a Classic wonderful walking tour in the Citadel of Bourg on the banks of the Dordogne River and visit the carriage museum. Alternatively, join an optional guided excursion to learn how the Fine Champagne of Cognac is made while enjoying a Rémy Martin tasting. Later, enjoy live entertainment on board your ship.
Overnight Docking in Bourg
(B/L/D) - Day 5Libourne, France with Excursion to Saint-ÉmilionSaturday, Aug 22, 2026
The Village Amid the Vineyards
Enjoy a guided Discovery visit to Saint-Émilion to discover one Bordeaux’ must-see wine-growing towns and celebrate your day with a wine tasting. Or, join a guided Classic tour of the medieval village of Saint-Émilion—a UNESCO World Heritage site of legends and legendary landscapes. Or, take an orientation walking Classic tour to discover the history and beauty of Libourne, where wine and wonderful views are cherished in the 12th-century fortified town.
While we include your choice of many excursions on your trip, you may wish to explore other optional excursions to enhance your free time. Take a guided optional excursion to learn the art of the perfect French cream puff with a local chef at Château Fleur de Lisse or discover one of the world's most perfect pairings with a chocolate-and-wine tasting at Château Fleur de Lisse! Otherwise, create your own custom wine blends under the guidance of expert winemakers during a hands-on experience at a local wine property.
Overnight Docking in Libourne
(B/L/D) - Day 6Bordeaux, FranceSunday, Aug 23, 2026
Bordeaux Sights and Brilliant Lights
Join your Adventure Host for today’s special activities. While sailing to Bordeaux, enjoy a Discovery pastry demonstration. Join your Adventure Host for an Active bike ride along Bordeaux’ postcard river views of the Les Quais. Or, join a guided walking Classic tour to discover the heart of Bordeaux with a stroll amid its stunning squares, avenues, and cathedrals sights.
Overnight Docking in Bordeaux
(B/L/D) - Day 7Bordeaux, France with Excursion to Arcachon's BayMonday, Aug 24, 2026
Seas, Shells, and Sips
Join your Adventure Host for an Active bike ride along Bordeaux’ postcard river views of the Les Quais. Or, take a guided Classic tour to La Cité du Vin, Bordeaux’s iconic wine museum and cultural center. Or, join a full-day guided Classic tour of the seaside resort of Arcachon on the Atlantic coast. Gaze upon its 19th-century architectural treasures and taste its local delicacy of oysters and wine. This afternoon, consider an optional guided excursion to Les Bassins des Lumières for a breathtaking visit to the submarine base where art and music surround you in an immersive experience.
Overnight Docking in Bordeaux
(B/L/D) - Day 8Bordeaux, FranceDisembarkTuesday, Aug 25, 2026
Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning.
(B/-/-)
*Itinerary is subject to change.
Entertainment
Enjoy nightly entertainment with 2 Olivia entertainers and a few nights with local entertainment too!
We will announce our Olivia entertainment soon.
Your Ship: Avalon Artistry II
Part of Avalon's award-winning fleet of Suite Ships, the Avalon Artistry II features two full decks of Panorama Suites with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows that transform the living space into river cruising's only Open-Air® Balcony. With 200 square feet, Panorama Suites are more than 30% larger than the industry standard, affording you the incomparable opportunity to wake each morning to splendid passing scenery from your window-facing bed. Stretch out on your Comfort Collection bed and cruise with the world at your feet. Onboard amenities include an alternative light dining option in the Panorama Bistro, a Fitness Center, complimentary wifi access, and a spacious Sky Deck with premium lounge chairs, whirlpool, and light al fresco lunches at the Sky Bistro on the Sky Deck. Enjoy exceptional onboard cuisine, including Avalon Fresh® menu options, premium coffee, and spirits, and versatile FlexDining venues, including the casual Panorama Bistro, al fresco Sky Grill (weather permitting), or elegant glass-walled Dining Room. Make yourself at home in the Club lounge with a variety of coffees, teas, cold beverages, and pastries while settling in with your pick of books, cards, and board games. Relax and watch the world go by in the Observation Lounge for the perfect vantage point to enjoy beautiful vistas while cruising your way on the Avalon Artistry II!
Total Occupancy: 128

- Ship Amenities
- An entirely non-smoking interior
- Lounge
- Covered Observation Lounge
- Beautiful bars and lounges
- Sun deck with premium lounge chairs and shade awnings
- Laundry service (not self-service; check pricing on board)
- Fitness center
- Panoramic windows throughout the ship
- Elegant, contemporary design throughout
- Elevator
- Bikes, walking sticks, binoculars, daypacks
- Maps for hiking, biking, and jogging routes
- Included shore excursions with local guides (tipping to guides/bus drivers not included)
- Headsets for shore excursions
- Complimentary wifi
- Space to relax & unwind
- Premium coffees, cappuccinos, and lattes
- Club Lounge with 24-hour self-serve beverage station with complimentary cappuccinos, lattes, tea, hot chocolate and premium coffees, as well as treats throughout the day
- A lounge serving premium spirits (extra charge)
- Sky Deck with whirlpool, shade awnings, game area, and premium lounges
- Daily early- and late-riser breakfast
- Full buffet breakfast with sparkling wine, with complimentary juices and made-to-order egg station*
- Complimentary wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
- Daily “Happy Hour” with complimentary alcoholic drinks as indicated on drink menu
- Al fresco lunches on the Sky Bistro
- Remarkable service throughout the cruise
- English-speaking crew
- Room Amenities
172-300 sq. ft. Staterooms and Suites, some of the largest on the river
- Most with floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding glass doors
- Comfort Collection BedsSM
- Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
- Bathrobes & slippers
- Premium L'Occitane bath products
- Large bathroom featuring shower with glass door
- Flatscreen satellite TV with free movie channels
- Individual climate control and in-room safe
- Full-size closet and mirror
- Additional under-bed storage
- Well-stocked mini-bar
- Nonallergenic duvets and pillows
- Filtered water replenished in bottles daily
- And, much more
- Dining & Drinks
- Chef-prepared onboard meals with regional cuisine and familiar favorites
- Seasonal cuisine featuring the freshest local ingredients
- Avalon Fresh® healthy cuisine options at every meal
- Spacious, open-seating Panorama Dining Room
- Daily breakfast buffet with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and daily a la carte specials
- Complimentary room service for Continental breakfast
- Daily lunch buffet featuring regional specialties, classic dishes, healthy Avalon Fresh® options, and rotating chef’s features including carving & pasta stations. Alternatively, you may dine al fresco at our Sky Grill on the Sky Deck (weather and itinerary permitting) or enjoy a light lunch in the Panorama Lounge
- Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, and sweet treats
- Four-course dinners with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrées, and desserts or cheese
- Complimentary wine, beer, or soft drinks with lunch and dinner
- Complimentary alcoholic drinks during daily “Happy Hour” as specified on drink menu
- Vegetarian options at every meal, as well as vegan, low calorie, low fat, high fiber, low cholesterol, high energy, and allergy-free selections
- Panorama Lounge & Bar with premium spirits*, cozy seating, panoramic windows, & dance floor
- Cocktails* with a view on the Sky Deck
- Specialty coffees, espresso drinks, and beWell Essence flavored and infused water available throughout each day
*Extra charge
Pricing
EARLY-BIRD PRICE EXPIRES 11/15/2025
Prices shown reflect all current discounts. Prices are per person (PP) based on double occupancy. Pricing does not include airfare, insurance, fuel surcharge, or nondiscountable amount (NDA). Per-person NDA of $499 (subject to change) covers taxes, fees, and gratuities.
- Staterooms $4,899 - $4,999 per person
LimitedDeluxe Stateroom - Cat EFrom $4,899 per personLocated on the Indigo Deck, this Deluxe Stateroom features small windows, a comfort collection bed that can convert to two singles, soft and firm pillows, Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, flat-screen satellite TV with movie channels, telephone, mini-bar, full shower with glass doors, robes, slippers, writing desk and chiar, and full-length closets. Windows are high on the wall and do not open. Room is below the water line. (172 square feet)Book Now
LimitedDeluxe Stateroom - Cat DFrom $4,999 per personLocated on the Indigo Deck, this Deluxe Stateroom features small windows, a comfort collection bed that can convert to two singles, soft and firm pillows, Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, flat-screen satellite TV with movie channels, telephone, mini-bar, full shower with glass doors, robes, slippers, writing desk and chiar, and full-length closets. Windows are high on the wall and do not open. Room is below the water line. (172 square feet)Book Now
- Suites $6,299 - $6,499 per person
LimitedPanorama Suite - Cat BFrom $6,299 per personLocated on the Sapphire Deck, this Panorama Suite features floor-to-ceiling windows, sliding glass doors, a comfort collection bed that can convert into two singles, soft and firm pillows, Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, flat-screen satellite TV with movie channels, telephone, mini-bar, full-sized bathroom with marble counter, full shower with glass dorr, robes, slippers, writing desk, chair, sofa, coffee table and full-length closets. (200 square feet)Book Now
Panorama Suite - Cat AFrom $6,399 per personLocated on the Sapphire Deck, this Panorama Suite features floor-to-ceiling windows, sliding glass doors, a comfort collection bed that can convert into two singles, soft and firm pillows, Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, flat-screen satellite TV with movie channels, telephone, mini-bar, full-sized bathroom with marble counter, full shower with glass door, robes, slippers, writing desk, chair, sofa, coffee table and full-length closets. (200 square feet)Book Now
Panorama Suite - Cat PFrom $6,499 per personLocated on the Sapphire Deck, this Panorama Suite features floor-to-ceiling windows, sliding glass doors, a comfort collection bed that can convert into two singles, soft and firm pillows, Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, flat-screen satellite TV with movie channels, telephone, mini-bar, full-sized bathroom with marble counter, full shower with glass door, robes, slippers, writing desk, chair, sofa, coffee table and full-length closets. (200 square feet)Book Now
- Royal Suite $7,899 per person
WaitlistRoyal SuiteFrom $7,899 per personLocated on the Royal deck, the Royal Suite features floor-to-ceiling windows and open-air french-balcony, seating area for six with sofa and coffee table, a Comfort Collection bed that can convert to two single beds, soft and firm non-allergenic pillows, Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, flat-screen satellite TV with movie channels, telephone, minibar, bathroom with marble counter and two sinks, robes, slippers, writing desk and chair, and full-length closets. (300 square feet)Book Now
Payment Plans
Two payment plan options are available when booking online or through a Travel Consultant:
1. Olivia Interest-Free Payment Plans: Olivia payment plans must be paid in full six months or 180 days before your trip. If a reservation is made at the six-month mark or less, payment in full will be required unless otherwise noted.
2. Flex Pay Loans: Need to extend your payments over more time? Apply for a Flex Pay loan!
How To Book
You can book online at any time or speak to a Travel Consultant, Monday through Friday: 8:30am-5:30pm PT.
U.S.A.: 800.631.6277 | INT'L: 1.415.962.5700 | Email: [email protected]
Please note that the following must be booked with an Olivia Travel Consultant by phone: Solo Room Shares; Group Travel Discounts; Sisters Travel Discounts; Military Discounts; Vacation Stretchers; Travel Insurance Transfers; ADA Rooms/Cabins; Reservations intended as a surprise gift; Requests for Waitlisted Trips or Categories.
We accept Discover, MasterCard, and Visa.
Cancellation Policy & Travel Insurance
Unexpected events can cause you to cancel your vacation. Because we are committed to this charter, we must strictly adhere to our cancellation policy as outlined in our Olivia Terms & Conditions. Transfer funds are nonrefundable and nontransferable from the point of sale forward.
Olivia recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help protect you and your trip investment against the unexpected. Visit our Insurance page at olivia.com/travel-insurance for more information. For a travel insurance quote, more information or to purchase a protection plan, please call Olivia at 800-631-6277 and select option 1 for a Travel Consultant. You may also purchase insurance online after your checkout.
Cancellation Fees
- 365 days or more prior to trip date: on or before 8/18/2025
Cancellation Penalty: 50% of trip cost
- 0-364 days prior to trip date: 8/19/2025 - 8/18/2026
Cancellation Penalty: 100% of trip cost (no refund)
Vacation Stretchers
We will be offering optional pre-trip Vacation Stretchers in Bordeaux, France. Information on these 1- and 2-night Vacation Stretchers will be available 11 months prior to the trip.
We always recommend coming in at least one day early to avoid the stress of unexpected delays. Why not come a day or two early to enjoy a meal at one of 27 different Michelin-starred restaurants in Bordeaux before boarding the ship? Be sure you make your reservations with your chosen restaurant in advance!
To assist with your travel, transfer and post-trip plans, we recommend our LGBTQ+ Travel agent Debbie Gudis at Go Travel: (877) 777-5210 or (408) 364-7300.
Traveler Information
- About Our Destination
Being Gay in Europe
Being LGBTQ+ is widely accepted all over France.
Climate
In late summer, the weather in this part of France has ranged from a mild and lightly rainy 61°F, to a sunny, warm 82°F! Plan to dress for warm weather and prepare for anything. Check www.weather.com for the most current weather.
Currency
France uses the Euro. Check www.xe.com for current rates.
Languages
The language most commonly spoken in France is French, but most people also speak English. We encourage everyone to learn a little French before coming to France. The locals appreciate when we try to speak French rather than assuming that everyone speaks English.
- Before Your Trip
Connect with Other Guests: Join the Facebook Group
If you'd like to chat with people who are going on the trip, join Olivia’s official 2026 Bonjour Bordeaux Riverboat Cruise group on Facebook.
Olivia Honeymoons and Celebrations Registration
Register at Olivia Honeymoon Wishes for your honeymoon, anniversary, or other special celebration; browse through the selections and let your friends know just how easy it is for them to purchase a gift for you.
Special Occasions
If you will celebrate a birthday or any other special event during the week of your trip that you have not already told your Olivia Travel Consultant about, please let us know as soon as possible, but no less than 90 days prior to the trip.
NOTE: Birthdays with dates that fall during the dates of the cruise will be celebrated on the actual date. All milestone birthdays being celebrated or acknowledged that have dates that do not fall during the actual dates of the cruise or are within a week before or after a cruise, will be celebrated and acknowledged on one designated night with a large group birthday cake.
Specific Needs: Dietary, Medical, Mobility, and Other
If you have any medical, mobility, dietary, or other special requirements that you haven't yet shared, please reach out to [email protected] as soon as possible. To verify if we can accommodate your needs, kindly do so at least 90 days before your trip.
Travel & Entry Requirements
We’ve provided an easy tool to allow you to check the latest requirements and provisions for your travel plans: please click here. For specific entry requirements to your chosen destination, simply click on your arrival country under "Where to?" and enter your travel dates.
Passports & Visas: All travelers will need a passport that is valid for six months after the last day of your trip. If you are a U.S. citizen, you do not need a visa.
If you are not a U.S. citizen, please check with both your country’s consulate and the consulates of the other countries we will be visiting to ensure that you do not need an entry visa or other additional documentation.
Important New Entry Requirements: The European Union is introducing the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) sometime in mid-2025. ETIAS is designed as an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals traveling from 60 countries, including the United States and Canada. This system is being implemented to enhance security and streamline the entry process for travelers visiting the European Union.
US and Canadian citizens will be/are required to complete a digital application through the official ETIAS website or mobile application to enter the European Union. Starting sometime in 2025, if you are planning to visit one of the 30 EU countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, you will be required to complete a digital application through the official ETIAS website or mobile application. This requirement will apply to travelers who do not currently need a visa for entry into these countries.
While this might be an additional step in your travel preparations, it is designed to improve your overall experience by reducing waiting times and enhancing security measures. You can fill out your applications at: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias_en once the site goes live. Please be aware that most ETIAS applications will incur a processing fee of 7 Euros.
Vacation Stretchers
We will be offering optional 1- and 2-night pre-cruise hotel nights that will include breakfast and a transfer from the hotel to the ship. Information on these hotel packages will be available 11 months prior to the trip. We encourage all passengers to plan to arrive at least one day early in case of any flight/luggage delays. Please check our Vacation Stretcher tab for more information.
To assist with your post-trip plans, air, transfers and more, we recommend our LGBTQ+ Travel agent Debbie Gudis at Go Travel: (877) 777-5210 or (408) 364-7300.
Vaccinations
Please check with your local Public Health Department or personal physician regarding immunization requirements for all countries on your itinerary. You may also check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website at: www.cdc.gov. Just click on “Traveler’s Health” followed by “Vaccinations.”
- Travel and Arrival
Air Travel
Airports: You will need to fly into and out of Bordeaux Airport (BOD). We encourage all guests to arrive at least one day early to avoid the stress of unexpected delays.
Airfare Discounts: Save up to 15% on your airfare through our partner airlines. Airfare discount codes will be available approximately 330 days prior to the departure date.
Flight Arrival and Departure Times: Your flight into Bordeaux Airport (BOD) should arrive by 3 pm on August 18, 2026. All aboard is 5 pm. Your flight home can be made for any time on the morning of August 25 as the ship will overnight in Bordeaux August 24. The reception staff can assist in arranging for a taxi to the airport at your own expense.
Luggage Allowances: Airlines often restrict (or charge) for excess baggage. Because each airline is different, and the regulations change over time, please check with your airline for baggage allowances. For ease of travel in Europe, we recommend bringing no more than one large piece and a smaller carry-on.
Ship Embarkation
Check-In: Official check-in will be available in the late afternoon. If arriving to the ship prior to check-in, you can board the ship after 8:30 am, drop off your luggage, and enjoy the lounge with small snacks and coffee, tea, and water. You can also venture out on your own to enjoy Bordeaux or choose an optional afternoon tour. Suites and staterooms will be available to access after 4 pm.
Port Location and Transfer to the Ship: The riverboat will be docked in Bordeaux. The exact location will be shared in your final trip documents which will be sent 2–3 weeks prior to departure, or on the AvalonGo app a few days prior to embarking.
- During Your Trip
Electricity
The cabins have 110- and 220-volt electricity. Adapters should have 2 round prongs (type C). One USB outlet is also available.
Entertainment & Programming
We will bring two Olivia entertainers to perform on several evenings, as well as enjoy some local entertainment along the way.
River cruising is all about port destinations. Don’t expect the same ship-activity-packed schedule you might find on a big ship or resort! On a typical day, following breakfast, we will enjoy a walking tour of the new city we have arrived in, followed by lunch on board and either an optional extra walking (or other) tour or free time to explore. Perhaps you’ll enjoy a fun and informative lecture on the history of the area or take that well-deserved nap. It’s your vacation! In the evenings, we will be delighted by local entertainers or one of our two Olivia artists. After the shows, enjoy our riverboat version of “Club O,” with our talented staff taking turns being a “guest DJ” to provide dancing music in the main lounge. Or you may choose to get to bed early for your next full day!
Excursions
A walking and/or city tour is included in each of the ports visited. Optional tours, ranging in price from approximately €39 to €79 or more, may be offered. These can be booked on the Avalon website about 30 days prior to the trip or on board and will not conflict with your included tours.
Gratuities
Gratuities are provided to your Avalon cruise director, cabin steward, dining room steward, bus person, maître d’, reception, bar staff, and other behind-the-scenes crew members and are included in the cost of the cruise.
Tipping is not included for the local guides and bus drivers on included tours and optional tours. We recommend the following as a guideline:
Local guide: half day—3-5 Euros pp / full day—5+ Euros pp
Bus driver: half day—1-2 Euros pp / full day—3-4 Euros ppInternet, Email, and Fax
Complimentary wifi is included on board in public spaces and in your cabin for use on your personal digital devices (phone, laptop, or tablet computer). There is an onboard internet center with two desktop computers for guest use. Faxes can be sent from the reception desk for a charge.
Laundry and Dry Cleaning
Laundry and pressing services are available; prices will be available onboard the ship. Dry-cleaning and self-service laundry facilities are not available.
Medical Services
The ship will be minutes away from hospitals when we are docked and will be close to local towns when we are cruising along the river. The ship does not have an onboard doctor.
Money: On-Board Purchases
The currency used on board is Euros (€). All purchases made on the ship will be charged to your onboard account, which you will create when you first check in. Cash, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted. Please check with the ship’s front office for further details.
Phone
Each cabin has a phone for calling other cabins and for making international and local calls. There is an additional fee to use this phone for international or local calls; cost is available on board. We suggest that you check with your cell phone provider for international service.
Smoking policy
The interior of the Avalon Artistry II is entirely nonsmoking. Smoking is not permitted in your cabins or on your cabin’s Open-AirSM balcony. A smoking area will be designated on an outdoor deck.
- After Your Trip
Transfers to the airport
Transfers are not included. The ship will be happy to assist in arranging for a taxi at a specific time. Payment for the taxi can be made with the driver.
Vacation Stretchers
We will be offering optional 1- and 2-night Pre-Hotel Vacation Stretchers in Bordeaux that will include the hotel, breakfast and a transfer to the ship on embarkation day. Coming in a day or two early is a great way to spend some time in this lovely city, stroll the markets or try out one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants. Information on these Vacation Stretchers will be available 11 months prior to the trip. Please check our Vacation Stretcher tab for more information. To assist with your post-trip plans, air, transfers and more, we recommend our LGBTQ+ travel agent, Debbie Gudis at Go Travel: (877) 777-5210 or (408) 364-7300.
Personalized Programs on this Trip
Solo Travelers
Meet your Solos Coordinator at the Solos Welcome on day 1 and enjoy a week of meet-ups, designated dining, and reserved show seating! Travel alone, together!
Please note: Solo guests who want to book a shared room on our Riverboat trips must already have a confirmed roommate at the time of booking. While we’ll do our best to help connect you with another guest, Olivia’s Room Share program is not available for Riverboats, and the trip may sell out before a match is found.
Find Out More
Still Have Questions?
Speak to a Travel Consultant by calling 800.631.6277 (Option 1) during business hours: Monday–Friday 8:30am -5:30pm PT or submit a contact request.
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2025 Canary Islands Luxury CruiseDec 10, 2025 - Dec 20, 2025See the best of the Canary Islands with Olivia!
Waitlist2026 Galapagos Adventure CruiseOct 23, 2026 - Nov 01, 2026Discover the unique wildlife of the enchanting Galápagos Islands with Olivia!
2026 Spain, France, & Italy Luxury CruiseMar 08, 2026 - Mar 15, 2026EARLY-BIRD PRICES EXPIRE 8/30/25Experience the Rivieras of Europe in luxury!
2026 Dublin to Edinburgh Luxury CruiseJun 17, 2026 - Jun 25, 2026Find Magic in Ireland and Scotland with Olivia!
2026 Tahiti Luxury CruiseSep 03, 2026 - Sep 10, 2026Experience tropical paradise in pure luxury with Olivia!