River Royale in Bordeaux

Uniworld’s River Royale in Bordeaux

Uniworld is offering a new wine cruise aboard the luxurious River Royale to the famed vineyards, châteaux and other historic treasures in the Dordogne, Perigord, Bordeaux, Saint-Émilion, and Sauterne. The itinerary includes all sightseeing and meals including a special French Master Chef-set dinner menu and tasting of Arcachon oysters—a local delicacy, and demonstration on making Cannelé, a delectable French pastry that originated in Bordeaux.

Caption: Lounge

Ship’s Lounge

The lavishly-appointed 132-passenger river cruise ship was completely remodeled for her new Bordeaux itinerary. Riverview staterooms and suites are elegantly furnished and some offer French balconies. Suite amenities include individual climate control, infotainment center with flat-screen TV, complimentary movie and entertainment options, and luxurious marble baths. Public areas include the Renoir Lounge with full-service bar and dance floor, library, Cezanne Restaurant, patio lounge, sun deck with life-size chess and shuffleboard, fitness center, sauna, Jacuzzi®, Serenity River Spa, boutique, and elevator.

16th century Château Monbazillac Photo courtesy of Atout France

16th century Château Monbazillac | Photo courtesy of Atout France

Itinerary begins in Bordeaux and continues along the Garonne river to the pretty little town of Pauillac where you tour of the storied Haut-Médoc wine region and visit the celebrated winery Château d’Arsac and discover your personal “wine sign”. The cruise continues along the Gironde Estuary to Blaye and the 17th-century citadel built by Vauban, now a UNESCO monument. Bergerac, in the southernmost Périgord, is known for its market, the setting for Cyrano de Bergerac and Roxanne, and splendid views from its 16th-century hilltop Château de Monbazillac. Dinner that night is specially prepared by renowned French Master Chef Philippe Etchebest exclusively for Uniworld guests.

Saint-Émilion Photo courtesy of Atout France

Saint-Émilion | Photo courtesy of Atout France

The historic architecture of Saint-Émilion, the hilltop towns’ celebrated 12th century Saint-Émilion monolithic church and cobbled, shop-lined streets overlook the renowned vineyards where the Romans planted the first grapes and became the first region to be protected by UNESCO. In the cellars of a Premier Grand Cru estate, you’ll taste some of the world’s most highly-rated wines and in nearby Cadillac, you’ll be introduced to the Sauternes, meet the winemakers and enjoy an elegant wine-pairing lunch at Château d’Arche before visiting the grounds of legendary Château d’Yquem.
http://uniworld.com | 800.733.7820