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Dordogne river cruises.

The Dordogne – a region recognized for its culinary delights, including foie gras, truffles, and wines; medieval castles and prehistoric sites such as the Lascaux caves; and stunning landscapes, and natural beauty.  A Dordogne River cruise is a traveller’s paradise.

Bearing the same name, the Dordogne River winds it’s way through the Limousin and Dordogne regions before flowing into the Gironde.  300 miles long and generally flowing West in southwestern France , the beauty of the river and the preservation of it is such that The Dordogne and its watershed were designated Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in July of 2012.

Those lucky enough to sail the waters of The Dordogne, do so in the comfort of AmaWaterways – where guests enjoy an extensive and varied line-up of included tours, such as, both standard and bike tours, hikes and special interest tours.  No matter your preference, your days will be full of discovery and wonder onboard a Dordogne River Cruise with AmaWaterways.

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Dordogne River Cruise Highlights

The wine capital of the World, Bordeaux is famous for producing some of the World's finest wines.  Each with its own distinct terroir and grape varieties, the region is divided into several sub-regions. Bordeaux wines range from rich reds, such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot blends, to elegant whites, like Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon blends.  

Visitors to Bordeaux can partake in a visit to Cité du Vin wine museum; enjoy a wine tour of the surrounding vineyards, tasting some of Bordeaux's most celebrated wines along the way; gently cycle along the city’s amazing network of bicycle paths; or alternatively, learn of Bordeaux’s rich culture and architecture as part of a city tour - all included excursion options when sailing with AmaWaterways .

TIP:  Wine aficionados should opt to sail during the summer months in anticipation for the Bordeaux Wine Festival which usually takes place during the month of June .

Libourne is a picturesque town known for its charming medieval architecture, as well as serving  as a gateway to Bordeaux’s most elite wine regions - Saint-Émilion and Pomerol.  Whilst an image of pedalling through the vineyard-rich countryside of Saint Émilion or wine tasting at Château de Ferrand or Château de Pressac will always be a great draw for tourists, visitors to this commune may also choose to explore the catacombs and caves of Eglise Monolithe de Saint-Emilion – a monolithic church carved out of one piece of limestone rock.  Either choice, Libourne offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and gastronomy, making it a charming destination for travellers.

Dordogne Ports

Cussac-fort-médoc.

Cadillac, France, is a charming town in the Gironde departme...

Blaye, France, is a picturesque town in the Gironde departme...

Libourne, France, is a historic town in the Bordeaux wine re...

Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points withi...

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Cadillac, France, is a charming town in the Gironde department, known for its historic architecture and vineyards. Famous for its production of sweet white wines, especially Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux, the town features a well-preserved 18th-century château and picturesque streets. Set along the Garonne River, Cadillac offers scenic views and a rich heritage, blending historical charm with local wine culture. Its vibrant markets and serene atmosphere make it a pleasant destination for those exploring the Bordeaux wine region.

Blaye, France, is a picturesque town in the Gironde department, renowned for its historic Blaye Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning views of the Gironde estuary. The town boasts charming streets, vibrant markets, and renowned vineyards producing exceptional wines, including Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux. Blaye’s blend of historical architecture, scenic river views, and local wine culture makes it an inviting destination for history enthusiasts and wine lovers alike.

Libourne, France, is a historic town in the Bordeaux wine region, renowned for its vibrant market and beautiful architecture. Located along the Dordogne River, it features a charming blend of medieval and Renaissance buildings, including the striking Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste. Libourne is a gateway to prestigious wine estates, including Pomerol and Saint-Émilion. The town's bustling market and scenic riverside setting offer a delightful experience for visitors interested in wine, history, and local culture.

Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points within it, is what you'll want to visit in order to understand why Victor Hugo described it as Versailles plus Antwerp, and why the painter Francisco de Goya, when exiled from his native Spain, chose it as his last home (he died here in 1828). The capital of southwest France and the region's largest city, Bordeaux remains synonymous with the wine trade: wine shippers have long maintained their headquarters along the banks of the Garonne, while buyers from around the world arrive for the huge biennial Vinexpo show (held in odd-number years).Bordeaux is, admittedly, a less exuberant city than many others in France, but lively and stylish elements are making a dent in its conservative veneer. The cleaned-up riverfront is said by some, after a bottle or two, to exude an elegance reminiscent of St. Petersburg, and that aura of 18th-century élan also permeates the historic downtown sector—“le vieux Bordeaux"—where fine shops invite exploration. To the south of the city center are old docklands undergoing renewal—one train station has now been transformed into a big multiplex movie theater—but the area is still a bit shady. To get a feel for the historic port of Bordeaux, take the 90-minute boat trip that leaves Quai Louis-XVIII every weekday afternoon, or the regular passenger ferry that plies the Garonne between Quai Richelieu and the Pont d'Aquitaine in summer. A nice time to stroll around the city center is the first Sunday of the month, when it's pedestrian-only and vehicles are banned.

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River Cruises in Bordeaux & Dordogne

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Taste of Bordeaux (Wine Cruise) (Wine Cruise) 2026

Taste of bordeaux 2024, a cruise in aquitaine : the great wines of southern france (port-to-port cruise) (10 destinations), brilliant bordeaux (2024) (bordeaux to bordeaux, 2024) (7 destinations), new year in the bordeaux region (port-to-port cruise), taste of bordeaux (wine cruise) (wine cruise) 2025, bordeaux affair with highlights of paris, bonjour bordeaux: chateaux, wineries & charming villages 2025, brilliant bordeaux (2025) (bordeaux to bordeaux, 2025), brilliant bordeaux (2024) (bordeaux to bordeaux, 2024) (9 destinations).

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River cruises in Brantôme en Périgord

Embark on the Brantôme canal and the Dronne river. Enjoy magnificent scenery and a unique experience in the company of our experienced guides.

A unique experience on a boat in Brantôme

Take advantage of our boat tours to discover the picturesque beauty of the canal that surrounds the town of Brantôme. With our company, you can expect unique and memorable experiences that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

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A cruise in total comfort

Sail serenely along the Dronne in Brantôme, and let yourself be lulled by the charm and serenity of the "Venice of the Périgord". Aboard our spacious, electrically-powered boat, discover the hidden treasures of our medieval town and enjoy a unique moment of relaxation.

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We attach great importance to the safety of our customers. Our boats are regularly inspected and maintained to ensure optimum sailing conditions.

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Our recommended visits near Brantôme

Immerse yourself in the heart of our region: with its historic heritage, unspoilt nature and local gastronomy, discover our recommendations for a memorable visit to the "Venice of Périgord" and the surrounding area.

• Dordogne River Cruises

DORDOGNE RIVER CRUISE HOLIDAYS

2024 & 2025 river cruises.

Some of France's most incredible scenery can be experienced from the top deck of your river cruise ship, as you sail blissfully along the Dordogne River. In the heart of one of the world's most famous wine-producing areas, the Bordeaux region, you'll succumb to the charms of traditional French chateaux and treat your palate to the local cuisine.

The Dordogne, is one of three rivers running through Bordeaux, and you'll also experience cruising along the Garonne and Gironde. Your French River Cruise will include time in the wonderful towns and cities along the river's edge, such as Blaye, Cadillac, Pauillac, Bourg and Libourne. Ready yourself for stunning scenes and making incredible memories on your Dordogne river cruise holiday.

Search below for your perfect Dordogne river cruise! Speak to our team today and discover why, time and time again, people recommend RiverCruising.co.uk from the award winning Travel Village Group.

DORDOGNE RIVER CRUISE ITINERARIES

Exploring France's Wine Region aboard the AmaDolce

Taste of bordeaux.

From $3,599

Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

• Complimentary land package on select departures
• $2000 cruise savings per stateroom + complimentary stateroom upgrade on select departures
• No single supplement on select departures

Your cruise begins in Bordeaux, the capital of Aquitaine in Southwestern France and one of the world's undisputed wine capitals. You'll discover stately chateaux, abundant vineyards, and stunning scenery as you sail along the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers and their surrounding estuaries, calling upon port cities like Cadillac, Bourg, and Libourne. Enjoy tastings of some of the region's most distinguished wines and visit notable sites before concluding your journey.

Arrive: Bordeaux, France

Depart: Bordeaux, France

• Sip and savor wine tastings in picturesque ports of call in France's beloved wine region
• Cruise the enchanting rivers of Dordogne and Garonne
• Optional activities include bike tours, market visits, and city excursions

Note: This trip is not exclusive to, nor operated by, Wilderness Travel, who acts solely as an agent in booking your reservation with the operator. Please download the Rate Sheet in the Dates & Pricing section to see the full pricing details and contact our Cruise Collection Specialists to check availability.

Dates & Pricing

Payment & cancel schedule.

At time of reservation: $400 100 days prior to departure: Balance Please note that this differs from our standard policy.

Cancellation & Transfer Schedule

Minimum fee: $200 per person 90-120 days prior to departure: $400 per person 60-89 days prior to departure: 35% of trip cost 30-59 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost 7-29 days prior to departure: 80% of trip cost 6 days or less: 100% of trip cost

Please note that this differs from our standard policy.

• 7 nights luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom (most with French balconies)
• All meals aboard the ship in a variety of venues
• Entertainment on Demand system featuring, movies, TV shows, news and music
• Knowledgeable guides
• Immersive tours in every destination
• Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land programs
• Internet and Wi-Fi access
• Sun deck whirlpool and walking track
• Fitness room, massage services and hair
• Main Lounge with panoramic views and bar
• Daily entertainment including cultural performances
• Personal headset for easy exploration
• Regionally inspired cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients
• The Chef's Table specialty restaurant
• Captain's Welcome Cocktail and Dinner
• La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs exclusive dining experience
• Unlimited fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
• Unlimited sparkling wine and fresh juice with breakfast
• Tapas, sandwiches, snacks and refreshments served daily in the Main Lounge
• Bottled water replenished daily
• Gentle, regular, active and late-riser tour options
• Bike tours and hikes
• Limited Edition Tours

Not Included

• Airfare to/from points of embarkation and debarkation of the boat
• Optional travel insurance
• Any activities and services described as an upgrade or optional
• Optional gratuities to leaders or staff
• Expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)

Accommodations

Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

Days 1-7 (7 nights)

What the Trip is Like

This cruise is rated Level 1, Easiest , and is appropriate for anyone in good health who is physically active. Daily shore excursions require a moderate amount of walking, often along uneven cobblestone streets and up and down stairs. To better accommodate guests and their individual fitness levels, AMA Waterways programs provide several levels of walking tours whenever possible: "Gentle Walkers" are designed for slower walkers to enjoy the tour in a relaxed manner, "Active Walkers" enjoy the tours at a normal pace, and there is also a "Late Starters" group offered to guests who prefer to sleep in.

Staterooms range from 160-350 square feet (depending on category), and typical hotel room amenities include hair dryer, bathrobe, television, and mini-safe. Every stateroom has individually controlled air conditioning, internet access, wi-fi (free throughout the ship!) and a movie-on-demand system that offers a variety of English language channels, films and music options. Most staterooms have balconies, either walk-on or French, but lower categories just have fixed windows or portholes.

AMA is known for its efforts to bring in regional cuisine, which is always fun as you explore new countries and cultures. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet-style with made-to-order specialties. Dinner is multi-course. Every lunch and dinner includes free-flowing regional wines as well as complimentary beer and soft drinks. Bottled water, specialty teas, and coffees are always available free of charge. All ships have an open seating policy in the main restaurant to encourage you to meet your fellow travelers.

On Board AMA Riverboats

AMA Waterways specializes in high-end river journeys that navigate some of Europe's most famous waterways. Their ships accommodate approximately 150 passengers in comfortable staterooms, all with scenic views. While this might sound like a lot of travelers compared to Wilderness Travel's traditional small group trips, it's a modest number of passengers in the cruise ship world and there are a number of comfortable lounges, dining rooms, bars, and sitting areas on board for you to find a perfect spot to socialize or quietly relax, depending on your mood.

There is a warm and welcoming feel to all AMA cruises. From the moment you step onboard, you will be welcomed by crew, staff, and leaders who are friendly, professional and English speaking. There is a high staff to guest ratio (1:3) that assures a feeling of being well-taken-care-of at all times. Your fellow passengers will come from a variety of English-speaking countries and guests tend to mingle freely. No need to bring fancy clothes as the atmosphere onboard is casual, although guests do tend to dress up for the Captain's dinner.

Daily shore excursions are included in the cost of the cruise, along with free time to explore on your own. Each tour is led by a qualified, local guide. At many stops, you'll be free to choose from one of several options. Complimentary headset systems ensure that you hear every word of your tour. AMA ships carry more than two dozen bicycles and helmets, free of charge, for your use should you want to venture into the countryside.

There is a reception desk onboard that is open 24 hours a day with somebody available to help you, should you need it. All announcements and lectures will be presented in English as the clientele is mainly North American, Australian, and European. All AMA cruises prohibit smoking inside their ships. Smoking is only permitted outside on the sun deck.

Electricity on board all ships is 220v, with 2-pin power outlets. You will need an adapter, and/or converter depending on which electrical appliances you bring with you. There are no medical facilities on board although if medical services are needed, they can easily be called from shore. Laundry services are available for a fee.

All ships are equipped with either a whirlpool or a small, heated swimming pool. If you think you might want to use this, be sure to pack a swimsuit!

Tips are not included in the price of the cruise, and are entirely at your discretion. The recommended rate suggested is 3 Euros per passenger per day to the Cruise Manager and 12 Euros per passenger per day to the crew, which will be divided up and distributed. You can use your credit card for this expense. It is also customary to acknowledge a particularly good performance of a local guide by leaving a tip of 1-2 Euros per tour.

Wilderness Travel enjoys partnering with AMA Waterways because they offer a high quality product with thoughtfully planned itineraries, allowing travelers to experience Europe's most glorious architecture, medieval castles, historic villages, and idyllic countryside with minimal effort. Since these trips are relatively short, you may consider this as part of a longer, European adventure!

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Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

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Trip Levels

With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

Level 1 – Easiest

Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.

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Level 2 – Easy to Moderate

Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.

• Our African safaris
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Level 3 – Moderate

Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

• Tuscany & the Cinque Terre
• Argentina: Hikes and Estancias of Patagonia
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• Some trips with minimal hiking but rugged travel conditions or long drives, such as  Tribal Ghana, Togo & Benin,  are Trip Level 3.

Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.

• Ultimate Patagonia
• Hiking the Spanish Pyrenees

Level 5 – Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.

• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
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Level 6 – Very Strenuous

Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.

• Everest Base Camp
• Climb Kilimanjaro!

Bordeaux and Dordogne River Cruises

Explore the Bordeaux area of Aquitaine and the top French wine growing areas along the Dordogne and Garonne rivers, with excursions to chateaux and along the Wine Route and its famous vineyards.

The city of Bordeaux has long connections with the English and the wine trade. A World Heritage Site, Bordeaux has many 18th century buildings around the Grand Theatre and impressive facades lining the quays along the river. The city centre has extensive pedestrian areas and street cafes to enjoy the city bustle.

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About Bordeaux River Cruises

Bordeaux river cruise highlights, bordeaux river ports, bordeaux cruise reviews, cruise collection 2024/ 2025/ 2026.

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This part of Aquitaine came under English control with the marriage of Eleanor of Aquitaine to Henry II in 1152. The border with France was fortified by Henry II and his successors, leaving ancient castles and fortified medieval bastide towns across the landscape and overlooking the Gironde river. Returned to France in 1453 after the Hundred Years War, the whole area is packed with interesting historical sights.

There are some 10,000 wine producing chateaux in the Bordeaux region, including some of the most expensive wines in the world. Five ‘premier cru’ wines - Chateau Lafite Rothschild, Latour, Mouton Rothschild, Margaux, Haut-Brion are here. Visit Pauillac, capital of the Medoc area, and Blaye, both noted centres for wine culture.

Between the rivers Garonne and Dordogne is the Entre deux Mers wine area. Up the Garonne river from Bordeaux is Cadillac, a bastide town fortified by the English king in 1280 and subsequently a chateau built for the Dukes of Epernon. On the Dordogne call at the market town of Libourne, and from here or Cadillac travel to the village of St Emilion, noted for its catacombs and huge underground church as well as its wine.

Here are a few highlights of a cruise from Bordeaux:

• Stately wine châteaux along the River Dordogne
• Blaye’s 17th-century citadel
• The city of Bordeaux’s fine architecture
• Bourg and its citadel castle
• The fortified town of Cadillac
• Libourne’s renowned vineyards
• Pauillac and the Medoc wine region where some of the finest Bordeaux wines are produced
• Meschers-sur-Gironde with its Troglodyte houses
• St Emilion’s monolithic church carved out of limestone rock
• Medieval Roquetaillade Castle

We very much enjoyed our recent cruise. The quality of the ship, the food and the staff were fabulous. Husbands very strict Gluten Free diet was very well catered for. Our favourite spot on the ship was the outside seating area at the back of the ship down the steps from top deck with its own little bar behind it. It was lovely to be sailing along enjoying the passing scenery and having a nice young lady serving you whatever drink you wanted.. all included in the price.

All the staff were very very pleasant and helpful, they worked together as a team very well and it was clear that they were a happy bunch.

Bordeaux is a great city and easy to get around using the tram system.

Just a note tosay how much we enjoyed our recent river cruise. The boat (Princess DAquitaine) was lovely, the crew friendly and the food fabulous. We were the only English passengers on board but were made very welcome by the crew, many who spoke English and went out of their way to ensure we were included in everything (we speak some French so were actually able to manage anyway). Even some of the French passengers chatted to us once they realised we could understand them a little! Raquel, the hostess, was particularly helpful and friendly, and if possible we would like you to send on our thanks to her at CroisiEurope. Also Jean Pierre the musician. He was from Durham so we were able to have some late night chats with him. The waiting staff were all attentive, in fact we found all the crew (25 of them) lovely - bar staff, cleaners, Purser etc. We would definitely recommend the company cruise, and are planning a trip on the Rhone cruise at a future date.

We enjoyed the cruise immensely. The boat, crew, food and service could not be faulted. Comparing it to last year on the Douro the only thing not so good was the show put on by the crew. Last years was more amusing and more professional. The pianist however was really good and we enjoyed his playing. We didnt find the Dordogne cruise so scenic and the two outings we went on were ok, but again the one in Portugal had much lovelier scenery and the fact that this time, the river was so much wider most of the time, made for less to see. The area is not so interesting. We were given some English translations on the tours but as we were only 4 English speakers on the boat and the other two didnt go on the tours, we realised that this was difficult. Having said that the guides were good and gave us as much time as they could. We did enjoy it and on board was someone who works at the head office in Strasbourg. She was on holiday but obviously interested to see how the cruise was doing. She told us that you were the best firm to deal with! If we cruise again next year we will book with you and probably use Croise Europe as their standards are so high.

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As well as being a region in the south of France, the Dordogne is also a river that runs through this part of the country. It combines with the Garonne River to form the Gironde estuary and a journey along these two waterways is often included in a Dordogne river cruise. It flows towards the Bay of Biscay from the mountains above Auvergne and its entire length of 310 miles is within France. The river takes its name from the two streams from which it is formed, the Dore and the Dogne.

Just like the Garonne, the Dordogne exhibits a tidal bore. This is when waves travel up the river, in the opposite direction to the current, and means that ships plying the route need to take great care. The Dordogne Valley is a popular holiday spot for both the French and us Brits. The beautiful scenery, excellent food and wine, and exciting water sports make it a prime tourist destination throughout the summer.

The main ports that might visit along the river include Libourne and Bourg. The former lies close to the famous wine village of Saint �milion, which has been growing grapes since Roman times, whilst the latter offers medieval charms and quaint, historic streets.

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Traditional Barge Boat Trip, La Roque-Gageac

48 person traditional boat trip with commentary

This traditional wooden barge will take you on a picturesque cruise down the river Dordogne from La Roque-Gageac to the Castelnaud bridge.

The gabare is an authentic reproduction of an 18th-century boat that was once used to transport wine, wood, fish, salt, chestnuts and truffles along the river. You can learn about the history and traditions of the area as you take this hour long cruise. An audioguide is available in several different languages, including both French and English.

Visitor comments

• "La Roque Gageac is stunning and this lazy boat trip is so relaxing and interesting. These traditional Dordogne boats take you down a 6k stretch with stunning views to Castelnaud and back. Loads of great photo ops. The guide was really funny and really involved the trippers onboard with Q&A's as well as well observed jokes...but in French but there is an onboard audio guide you can hire. Well worth an hour of your time while visiting La Roque." - Trip Advisor
• "Well worth the €8 for this trip. Lovely gentle boat trip. Very informative about that section of the Dordogne. There was a leaflet in English as the tour was narrated in French but the guide took the time at every stage to explain everything to us in English." - Trip Advisor
• "This turned out to be one of those things which was much better than we though it would be. For 10Euro each you get almost an hour on the river with great views of buildings and attraction along the riverbank. Included in the price is an audio tour for non-French speakers. If you speak French you will have the benefit of the French tour guide who was enormously animated and was fun to watch and listen to, even if you can't understand anything. This was fun and interesting and I wish we'd done this sooner when we have been in the area previously." - Trip Advisor

How to book

You can make a booking in advance using the online booking system or at the ticket desk by the harbour. It is highly recommended that you book in advance so as to avoid waiting or queuing, especially during high season.

The trips take place between March and October. Group rates are available on request.

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Dordogne River Cruise 2024

There is no better way to spend your vacation time in 2024 than on a boat down the stunning Dordogne River. A sail along the Dordogne seems like a peaceful way to view some of Europe's most historic cities. Rising in the Massif Central, Dordogne River flow west to Bec d'Ambes, north of Bordeaux, where it unites with the Garonne to form the Gironde Estuary. Enjoy a spectacular river cruise along the along the Garonne and Dordogne, two of France's most scenic rivers.

Dordogne River

Departure port on Dordogne River

The most common starting points for the Dordogne River river itinerary are As you cruise along the Dordogne, you will have the opportunity to see some of the most picturesque landscapes and towns in Europe.

Stops on a Dordogne River cruise

The Dordogne passes through and France . Passengers on a Dordogne River cruise will have the unique opportunity to learn about and participate in a wide variety of local customs, traditions, and pastimes. On a Dordogne River cruise, major ports like Bourg , Libourne , are frequently visited, but there are also some lesser-known ports that are not any less intriguing than the more well-known ones.

Cruise Lines on Dordogne River

Embark on an unforgettable adventure on a luxury river cruise on the Danube in 2024. Danube river cruises are offered by a number of cruise lines, such as Every river cruise line has its own range of prices as well as its own level of included amenities.

Length of Dordogne cruises

In 2024, Dordogne river cruises range from to days. You can choose between depending on the length of your holiday.

The best time of year for a Dordogne river cruises

The Dordogne season for river cruising generally runs from March through December. However, the months of late spring (April–May) and early fall (September–October) are considered to be the finest times to take a Dordogne river cruise. In the end, it all depends on the time of year you choose to explore the banks of the Dordogne. You will find a Dordogne river cruise in River cruising offers a unique and relaxing way to visit some of Europe’s most beautiful destinations, so any month you choose, you won't go wrong.

2024 Dordogne River Cruise Schedule

Find out more about the Dordogne river cruises that depart from and other European cities in 2024.

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Garonne and Dordogne River Cruise Fleet

Our Ships on the Gironde, Garonne and Dordogne

The boats MS Cyrano de Bergerac and MS Princesse d'Aquitaine sail on the Garonne, the Gironde and the Dordogne. On board, a cozy and well refined design, the cabins guarantee the comfort of your stay.

Enjoy our sun deck, bars and panoramic lounges, which offer you the best views of the most beautiful landscapes of your cruise around Bordeaux.

Fid here full details of our fleet, and find the one that suits you best.

Each ship is designed with care and taste, featuring a unique interior, chic and comfortable with decorative elements in line from the local colour.

The cabins are all equipped with shower and toilet, TV, hairdryer and safe.

Click on the ship to discover our cruises in the Bordeaux region . 

MS Cyrano de Bergerac

Every shade of blue, from night blue on the walls to the soft blue on the leather sofas, dress every space of the ship. The colour orange brings a touch of pep to the lounge / bar.

The upper deck cabins have wide windows with French balconies, the ones on the middle deck have large windows and on the main deck the cabins have portholes. During the cruise, all meals are served in the restaurant which is located on the middle deck. The lounge / bar, at the front of the ship, will welcome passengers during evening entertainment, aperitif games... Do not hesitate to go to the sun deck to relax! Equipped with armchairs and sun loungers you can relax while enjoying a panoramic view of the landscapes.

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2024-2027 RIVER CRUISE AND AIR FARES:  Offer applies to bookings made from August 1-31, 2024. Terms & conditions for select promotions may vary. $25 deposit is applicable to all River itineraries. Special fares plus up to FREE International airfare valid on select departures of Grand European Tour, Lyon Provence & the Rhineland, European Sojourn and Capitals of Eastern Europe, Paris to the Swiss Alps, Cities of Light, London DDAY & Paris, Rhine & Main Explorer. Airfares may vary on other gateways & departures. Airfare does not have to be purchased to get cruise\cruisetour offer. All prices are in CA dollars and for CA residents only. Additional restrictions may apply. 2024 : Pay in full by August 31, 2024 or at time of booking if within 120 days of departure. 2025 : Pay in full by September 30, 2024. 2026 : Pay in full by March 31, 2025. 2027 : Pay in full by November 30, 2025. Offers expires August 31, 2024.

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GENERAL RESTRICTIONS: Cruise fares listed are cruise only in CAD dollars, per person, based on double occupancy and for CA residents only. All fares and offers are for new bookings made August 1, 2024 to August 31, 2024, are subject to availability; may not be combinable with other offers except Viking Explorer Society Credit and Viking Referral Rewards. Special cruise fares are based upon published full cruise fares; cruise fares do not include prepaid charges, optional facilities, and personal charges, as defined in the terms and conditions of the  Passenger Ticket Contract  which may be viewed elsewhere on this website. Full cruise fares may not have resulted in actual sales in all stateroom categories and may not have been in effect during the last 90 days. Promotional fares may remain in effect after the expiration date. Air promotion applies to economy, roundtrip flights only from select Viking River Cruises CA gateways and includes airport-to-ship or hotel transfers, air taxes and air fuel surcharges. Viking reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares at any time. For up-to-date prices, please call Viking or your Travel Agent. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Complete terms and conditions may be found in the  Passenger Ticket Contract .

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NOTE:  North American flights depart one day prior to check-in date. Paid Business or Premium Economy Class may require travel in economy on flights within North America or Europe. Premium economy is limited to specific airlines and we may not be able to accommodate based on aircraft type and availability. Roundtrip airport transfers are included when air is purchased with a cruise or cruisetour package; if air is not purchased from Viking, transfers may be purchased separately. All transfers must be in conjunction with a Viking-purchased cruise, cruisetour, land extension or extra hotel nights. Air prices are per person based on cruise/cruisetour check-in date and include transfers plus all government taxes/fees of approximately $160 and air fuel surcharges. Air seats are limited; airfares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full payment of air is received.

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2024-2027 RIVER CRUISE AND AIR FARES:  Offer applies to bookings made from August 1-31, 2024. Terms & conditions for select promotions may vary. $25 deposit is applicable to all River itineraries. Special fares plus up to FREE International airfare valid on select departures of Grand European Tour, Lyon Provence & the Rhineland, European Sojourn and Capitals of Eastern Europe, Paris to the Swiss Alps, Cities of Light, London DDAY & Paris, Rhine & Main Explorer. Airfares may vary on other gateways & departures. Airfare does not have to be purchased to get cruise\cruisetour offer. All prices are in US dollars and for US residents only. Additional restrictions may apply. 2024 : Pay in full by August 31, 2024 or at time of booking if within 120 days of departure. 2025 : Pay in full by September 30, 2024. 2026 : Pay in full by March 31, 2025. 2027 : Pay in full by November 30, 2025. Offers expires August 31, 2024.

$25 DEPOSIT:  $25 DEPOSIT: For itineraries 35 days or less, a $25 deposit applies to January 2025 & onward departures; for itineraries greater than 35 days, a $25 deposit applies to March 2025 & onward departures; World Cruise products excluded; call for details.

AIR UPGRADE:  Upgrade to Premium Economy air from $799 per person or Business Class air from $3,499 per person based on select gateways and dates. Additional airline-imposed baggage charges may apply; for more information visit  Airline Luggage Restrictions  . Air prices are per person based on cruise/cruisetour check-in date and include transfers plus all government taxes/fees of approximately $160 and air fuel surcharges. Air seats are limited; airfares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full payment of air is received. For more information about customized air services and US gateways, visit the Viking Air Plus page.

GENERAL RESTRICTIONS:  Cruise fares listed are cruise only in U.S. dollars, per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplement savings are off applicable rates. Cruise fares listed are valid for U.S. residents only. All fares and offers are for new bookings only and are subject to availability, may not combinable with other offers except Viking Explorer Society Travel Credits and Viking Referral Rewards, are capacity-controlled and may be withdrawn at any time without prior notice. Special fares are based upon published full brochure fares; cruise fares do not include pre-paid charges, optional facilities, and personal charges, as defined in the terms and conditions of the  Passenger Ticket Contract  which may be viewed elsewhere on this website. Full brochure fares may not have resulted in actual sales in all stateroom categories and may not have been in effect during the last 90 days. Promotional fares may remain in effect after the expiration date. Air promotion applies to roundtrip flights only from select Viking Cruises U.S. gateways and includes airport-to-ship or hotel transfers, air taxes and air fuel surcharges. Roundtrip airport transfers are included when air is purchased with a cruise or cruisetour package; if air is not purchased from Viking, transfers may be purchased separately. All transfers must be in conjunction with a Viking-purchased cruise, cruisetour, land extension or extra hotel nights. Viking reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares at any time. For up-to-date prices, please call Viking or your Travel Agent. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Complete terms and conditions may be found in the  Passenger Ticket Contract .

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NOTE: U.S. flights depart one day prior to check-in date. Paid Business or Premium Economy Class may require travel in economy on flights within North America or Europe. Premium economy is limited to specific airlines and we may not be able to accommodate based on aircraft type and availability. Roundtrip airport transfers are included when air is purchased with a cruise or cruisetour package; if air is not purchased from Viking, transfers may be purchased separately. All transfers must be in conjunction with a Viking-purchased cruise, cruisetour, land extension or extra hotel nights. Air prices are per person based on cruise/cruisetour check-in date and include transfers plus all government taxes/fees of approximately $160 and air fuel surcharges. Air seats are limited; airfares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full payment of air is received.

Cue the wanderlust: 10 dreamiest European river cruises

R iver cruising has taken me to some of the most spell-binding places I’ve ever visited in Europe. Storybook architecture, castles, and bucolic landscapes are sprinkled like pixie dust along the region’s waterways. You can walk right off your ship and find yourself in a fairytale.

Carrying only 100 to 200 passengers on average (some even less), river ships offer one of the most intimate styles of cruising. Their more inclusive pricing models complement easygoing, “explore at your own pace” itineraries—and most lines give you at least one free tour—making it all about the destination. Many European rivers also flow through multiple countries, so you can experience a wide range of scenery, cultures, and adventures in one trip.

SEE THE WORLD: Best companies for guided tours

I’ve combed through all the major river cruise lines’ itineraries to handpick the most wanderlust-worthy routes. Dream big with these 10 cruises that give you access to some of the most magical cities and small villages in Europe.

Note: Though often grouped together with river cruising, barge cruising is an entirely different ball game. Barge ships have much smaller passenger counts (think less than 10 passengers) and don’t include as many amenities as river ships. For this article, my focus will be river cruising.

1. Germany’s Rhine River Valley

River cruise line: amawaterways.

Itinerary: Rhine and Moselle Fairytales

Using the Rhine River and its tributary, the Moselle, to reach more remote areas, AmaWaterways has curated the ultimate fairytale itinerary. Its Rhine and Moselle Fairytales cruise is peppered with some of the region’s most winsome villages. Half-timber houses, old stone bridges, and storied castles conjure up images of storybooks from childhood. The magic only grows as you head into Germany’s Black Forest and close to the Swiss Alps.

SAVOR AND SIP: Our top picks for European wine tours

2. Paris and the Seine River

River cruise line: a-rosa.

Itinerary: Seine Experience Normandy with Paris

Napoleon Bonaparte once said “Secrets travel fast in Paris.” The magic of a Seine River cruise is no secret, but the Seine Experience Normandy with Paris itinerary from “city-nature-gourmet-active-adventure-wellness-romance-family cruise” line A-Rosa holds some of its own. Each bridge tells a story, and every village you pass on your way to Normandy—including Les Andelys and Rouen—begs for you to get a little lost in its mystical alleyways. It’s no wonder so many famous artists documented life along the Seine in their work.

FRENCH HOLIDAY: These France tours really stand out

3. Portugal’s Douro River

River cruise line: scenic.

Itinerary: Delightful Douro with Lisbon

Portugal river cruises continue to grow in popularity, and for good reason: the Douro Valley is just as breathtaking as it is rich in ancient traditions. The Delightful Douro with Lisbon itinerary from ultra-luxury cruise line Scenic offers different ways to experience the region, with active, moderate, and relaxed options for its all-inclusive excursions. From Pinhao, with its traditional Portuguese tile murals, to Lisbon and Sintra, one of Europe’s most fabled, fairytale villages, this cruise is a feast for the senses.

4. The South of France

River cruise line: emerald cruises.

Itinerary: Aix-en-Provence with Sensations of Lyon and Provence

Pastel facades and fields of lavender and poppies meld with Roman ruins and Medieval stone villages in the South of France. The Aix-en-Provence with Sensations of Lyon and Provence itinerary from Emerald Cruises serves up a memorable taste of all the region’s glory. Munch on some calissons (Provencal candies) while you wander at a slower pace. Keep your eyes peeled, and you’re bound to run into landscapes straight out of a Vincent Van Gogh painting.

5. The Netherlands and Belgium

River cruise line: viking river cruises.

Itinerary: Tulips and Windmills

As the name of the itinerary implies, Tulips and Windmills from Viking River Cruises makes the most of the charms of Belgium and the Netherlands during the blooming season. Much of your time will be spent in Amsterdam, but the Dutch countryside has its fair share of storybook hamlets to relish, too. Highlights include the villages of Kinderdijk and Veere, as well as Enkhuizen, which even has its own fairytale-inspired attraction called Sprookjeswonderland.

6. German Christmas Markets

River cruise line: uniworld boutique river cruises.

Itinerary: Classic Christmas Markets

It’s hard to match the magic of a European river cruise during Christmas time, when cities and towns are cozy and inviting with holiday markets. Uniworld sets itself apart from other lines with its Classic Christmas Markets cruise, with stops you typically don’t see. Wertheim, Kitzingen, and Rothenburg are local favorites for perusing handcrafted gifts with a hot mug of gluhwein in hand. These sought-after, storybook towns are all included on Uniworld’s itinerary.

HOLIDAY SPIRIT: Companies with the best European Christmas market tours

7. Loire Valley, France

River cruise line: croisieurope cruises.

Itinerary: Loire River Cruise

Some say the Loire Valley is home to France’s most fairytale-like scenery. Hallmarked by its chateaus and castles, the region was even the inspiration for a real fairytale: “The Sleeping Beauty in the Wood,” by Charles Perrault. While some river cruise lines incorporate visits to the Loire Valley as supplemental packages, CroisiEurope is among only a few that have a ship specifically designed to sail the shallow Loire River. CroisiEurope’s Loire River cruises fully immerse you in the scenery that surrounds France’s last “wild river,” so you’ll never miss a view.

8. Oktoberfest in Germany

River cruise line: tauck.

Itinerary: Autumn Along the Rhine: Munich’s Oktoberfest

Fall foliage adds a splash of color to the Rhine’s storybook setting, where ancient castles, fortresses, and cathedrals collide. On the Autumn Along the Rhine: Munich’s Oktoberfest cruise from Tauck , passengers can savor it all—the scenery, the season, and the most authentic celebration of Oktoberfest. Tauck, which is known for its thoughtfully planned cultural experiences, makes this itinerary even more special with stops in France’s Alsace countryside and Switzerland’s enchanting Lucerne.

9. Eastern Europe to the Black Sea

River cruise line: grand circle cruise line.

Itinerary: Eastern Europe to the Black Sea

The Danube River is one of the most popular European river cruise itineraries, but many don’t venture far enough to reach the Black Sea. But that’s where its more unassuming beauty begins. From Budapest, Hungary, Grand Circle ’s cruise itinerary Eastern Europe to the Black Sea passes through Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania. As you enter the Balkans, you’ll discover storybook scenery that still bears scars of its tumultuous recent history. The experience is equal parts awe-inspiring and humbling.

10. Bordeaux, France

River cruise line: avalon waterways.

Itinerary: Bonjour Bordeaux: Chateaux, Wineries, and Charming Villages

There’s much more to France’s Bordeaux region than wine, and Avalon Waterways ’ itinerary Bonjour Bordeaux: Chateaux, Wineries, and Charming Villages is the perfect way to make the most of it. The Garonne and Dordogne Rivers meander through rolling, pastoral hills full of hidden treasures. This route takes you beyond the vineyards to landmarks like the Chateau de la Brede castle and Medieval city of Saint-Emilion. The ship docks overnight in every port, too, leaving you with even more time to explore.

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The post Cue the wanderlust: 10 dreamiest European river cruises appeared first on Tour Scoop .

Cruise Into European Legend With This Family-Owned River Cruise Line

Amid the meanders of Europe's storied rivers, where mist-kissed mornings yield to vineyard-clad hillsides and turreted castles pierce the sky, you'll find AmaWaterways riding the current. For over two decades, this family-owned company has been crafting extraordinary journeys along Europe's liquid highways, elevating river cruising with each passing season. The AmaWaterways saga, born in 2002 from the shared dream of three families, is as rich and layered with personal touches as the cultures they traverse. Even cofounder and President Rudi Schreiner, who grew up in Vienna along the Danube River, infuses each itinerary with the intimate memories of his homeland, proof of the insider knowledge that has always propelled AmaWaterways to the vanguard of river cruising.

As the company's renown has blossomed like springtime along the Rhine, so too has its fleet. Today, AmaWaterways' 26 vessels glide along the waterways of Europe, Asia, and Africa. Each ship is a floating sanctuary of sophistication, meticulously curated to amplify every facet of your sojourn. Step aboard, and you'll immediately sense the AmaWaterways difference. The attentive crew pampers guests with an industry-leading ratio and transforms your journey into an intimate, boutique experience. From remembering your preferred wine at dinner to orchestrating surprise celebrations, their dedication to crafting unforgettable moments is unmatched. This commitment to excellence extends to every facet of life on board, particularly in the realm of gastronomy. Indeed, AmaWaterways has elevated river cruise dining to an art form. Multiple included restaurants serve locally sourced gourmet cuisine, each dish a canvas painted with regional flavors. At The Chef's Table, the kitchen—usually hidden to diners—becomes part of the entertainment. Watch in awe as the chefs conjure a multi-course feast before your eyes, each plate paired with hand-selected wines that flow as freely as the rivers outside – and everything offered with AmaWaterways’ compliments.

But be it culinary, wine, or wellness, the passion for immersion doesn't end at the ship's rail. Gone are the days when river cruising catered only to passive sightseers. AmaWaterways offers up to eight included excursions daily, ensuring that every traveler—from history buffs to fitness enthusiasts—can craft their perfect adventure. Knowledgeable local guides unveil the secrets of grand capitals and charming villages alike, while a fleet of complimentary bicycles opens up a world of two-wheeled exploration, whether you'd like to cruise through sun-dappled vineyards or among distant spires of medieval towns piercing the horizon. The company's commitment to wellness, overseen by former Ironman participant Selina Wank, extends from onboard complimentary fitness classes to shore excursions. For those who prefer a gentler pace, leisurely walking tours balance cultural insights with comfort, while “late riser” excursions cater to guests who value a relaxed morning as much as they do exploration.

As diverse as the experiences you'll have are the special-interest tours catering to a wealth of passions. Culinary enthusiasts can find themselves knotting pretzels in Wertheim, Germany, or uncovering hidden gastronomic gems in Vienna's lesser-known neighborhoods. Wine aficionados can revel in AmaWaterways' Celebration of Wine River Cruises , where expert hosts guide you through exclusive tastings and renowned vineyards; liquid journeys through terroir, where Old World classics mingle with New World innovations. AmaWaterways also offers specialty cruises that dive deep into specific heritage and traditions. The Soulful Experiences itineraries, for example, highlight Black history and culture along Europe's waterways like exploring the history of the Black and African diaspora in Lisbon and along the Douro River, while Latin Touch cruises cater to Spanish-speaking travelers.

Just as the rivers change with the seasons, so too do AmaWaterways' carefully curated itineraries unfold their unique charms year-round. Winter transforms Europe into a magical wonderland, where Budapest's outdoor ice rinks glisten against a backdrop of steaming thermal baths. As frost gives way to bloom, spring heralds a revival of both nature and culture, with legendary gardens bursting to life and seasonal delicacies like Germany's prized white asparagus gracing menus. Summer voyages harness the energy of long, sun-drenched days, leading guests to off-the-beaten-path towns inaccessible to larger vessels. Extended daylight hours and overnight stays in select cities invite leisurely exploration, while thoughtful amenities like chilled towels and artisanal ice cream offer respite from the summer heat. Revolutionary vessel AmaMagna —twice the width of traditional river ships—redefines the essence of cruising with unprecedented spaciousness in its expansive Zen Wellness Studio, where the boundaries between ship and sky blur on the Sun Deck, and spirited bouts of pickleball are played with newfound companions.

For those captivated by France following 2024's sporting spectacular, AmaWaterways offers a trio of enchanting itineraries throughout the rest of the year and next. Paris & Normandy weaves together the City of Light's romance with Normandy's poignant history. Taste of Bordeaux guides oenophiles through vineyards and centuries-old châteaux, contrasting the grandeur of Roquetaillade Castle with Saint-Émilion's pastoral charm. Flavors of Burgundy elevates culinary travel to an art form, offering wine tastings in picturesque locales along the scenic Saône River. As 2025 dawns, AmaWaterways charts new waters with three grand 14-night river cruises, designed for travelers thirsting for deeper immersion. Grand Seine & Rhône marries French history, art, and gastronomy across three iconic rivers, a flowing feast for the senses. Grand Seine & Bordeaux expands this sensory journey to include the Garonne and Dordogne, while Grand Rhine & Dutch Canals invites guests on a five-country odyssey from the Netherlands to Switzerland.

Yet among this cornucopia of classic and debut voyages, it's the inaugural Best of the Danube itinerary that has captured the heart of cofounder Rudi Schreiner, crowning it his top pick for 2025. This 7-night round-trip cruise from Budapest promises the quintessential Danube experience, gliding through the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley and exploring grand capitals like Vienna and Bratislava. AmaWaterways' pioneering spirit, however, knows no bounds as 2026 heralds the arrival of AmaSofia on the Rhine and Danube. If there's one thing to note about AmaWaterways, it's that each journey is designed to show you a destination with all five senses—beyond sightseeing to sightfeeling .

As you contemplate your next European adventure, consider the unparalleled experience of an AmaWaterways river cruise. With limited availability on new itineraries and seasonal cruises, now is the time to secure your place on these extraordinary journeys. Contact your preferred travel advisor or visit AmaWaterways.com to reserve your stateroom today.

The Meandering Traveler

A Travel Blog with Travel Tips and Interesting Facts

Get Ready for a New Tauck Tour in Europe!

Next year marks Tauck’s 100th anniversary and its 35th year of European touring. To help celebrate, Tauck has just unveiled four new enticing tours in Europe for 2025!

Are you interested in a new Tauck tour? Covering destinations within Italy, Switzerland, France or the United Kingdom, the new quartet includes two types of new escorted tours.

• Two additions to Tauck’s popular “A Week In… ” collection of eight-day tours. The new tours are “ A Week In… Piedmont ” and “ A Week In… Switzerland . ”
• Two lengthier tours including 11-day “ England & the West Country ” and 14-day “ Paris, Dordogne & Bordeaux ” itineraries.

Keep reading below; we’ll talk about several trends that have surfaced for Tauck. Then, we’ll offer a snapshot look at all four itineraries with hotel stays, itinerary highlights and starting prices.

100 Years Young

T auck’s European business is surging. We’ve learned that the tour operator’s 2025 bookings to Europe are up by double digits percentagewise, compared with the same time frame a year ago for 2024 European bookings.

In fact, Europe continues to be Tauck’s most popular destination.

“Certainly, travelers have a great selection of options — 39 land tours to Europe in 2025,” says Shelby Steudle , president, Pavlus Travel , the world’s top seller of Tauck. “That includes five Tauck Bridges itineraries designed specifically for families.”

From the tour operator’s perspective, “Tauck will be 100 years young in 2025, but we’re certainly not slowing down in any way,” says Dan Mahar, Tauck’s CEO. “In fact, our commitment to innovating and enhancing our global portfolio of land tours, river cruises, small-ship ocean cruises, and Tauck Bridges family adventures is stronger than ever.”

Trends in European Travel

Do you enjoy a tour vacation with the operator handling all the details, so you can just relax and enjoy the sights and experiences? Tauck is known for doing just that and creating a smooth trip flow for guests. “So, check out the potential for a new Tauck tour on your next vacation,” says Steudle.

Small Group Sizes

Tauck also has enhanced the guest experience by offering reduced group sizes for many land tours. That’s happened both in Europe and elsewhere too.

Already highly popular are Tauck’s Small Group departures averaging 24 guests. More recently, Tauck also debuted new Smaller Group trips averaging just 15 guests.

With those reduced group sizes, travelers will enjoy more intimate and interactive touring. Within destinations, they’ll connect to people, places and experiences often unavailable to larger groups.

Boosting “Shoulder Season” Departures

For 2025, another change is that Tauck is boosting its “shoulder season departures” by 50 percent. That’s happening primarily in the fall months of October and November.

“Touring during shoulder seasons often means fewer crowds,” points out Pavlus’ Steudle. “Those on vacation will typically find that attractions, downtown areas, restaurants and transportation are ‘less packed.'”

European destinations also can better accommodate more visitors in fall and spring. “Another perk is weather-related,” says Steudle. “Travelers will typically encounter cooler temperatures without sweltering heat.”

Definitely, “expanding our shoulder season departures – and hosting more of our guests in Europe during the spring and fall – is a true ‘win-win’ that benefits everyone,” says Mahar.

So, okay, without further ado, here are a few more details on each of the new Tauck tours in Europe.

New Tauck Tour: “A Week In… Piedmont”

Over eight days, guests taking Tauck’s “ A Week In… Piedmont ” itinerary will stay at three different upscale hotels or resorts. They’ll stay for multiple nights at each. Here’s the lineup.

• Principi di Piemonte in Turin, Italy (Nights 1-2)
• Il Boscareto Resort & Spa in Serralunga d’Alba, Italy (Nights 3-5)
• Grand Hotel des Iles Borromees & Spa  in Stresa, Italy (Nights 6-7)

Top tour experiences? One is expected to be the wine tasting, cooking demonstration and lunch at the Slow Food University . That will unfold within Italy’s Langhe Hills, where the natural slow food movement began.

Tauck’s guests will also set out with specially trained dogs on a truffle-hunting excursion. That’s followed by a chef-hosted cooking class amid vineyards and nut trees.

Also, in Italy’s Gavi region, guests will sip and savor at a Tauck-provided wine tasting lunch. Best of all, it will unfold in the cellar of an award-winning Piedmont winery.

At press time, “ A Week In… Piedmont ” starting prices began at $ 6,990 per person, double occupancy, plus airfare. 

“A Week In… Switzerland” 

Spanning eight days, “ A Week In… Switzerland “ will take tour guests to Europe’s highest peak, Jungfraujoch , to savor panoramic views and enjoy lunch.

Tauck guests will also take an included Swiss Alps rail excursion aboard the Golden Pass Train for breathtaking scenic views. And in Lucerne’s picturesque Old Town, they’ll take a walking tour and be treated to a chocolate tasting, followed by wine tasting at a nearby vineyard.

• Lausanne Palace in Lausanne (Nights 1-2)
• Grand Hotel Beau Rivage in Interlaken (Nights 3-5)
• Mandarin Oriental Palace , Luzerne (Nights 6-7)

At press time,  A Week In… Switzerland “ started at $7,590 per person, double occupancy. Airfare is additional.

New Tauck Tour: “England & The West Country”

For those seeking a bit longer tour, Tauck’s new 11-day “ England & The West Country ” tour explores that region of the United Kingdom. Guests will stay at these lovely hotels:

• Estell Manor in Eynsham (Nights 1-2)
• The Gainsborough Bath Spa in Bath (Nights 3-4)
• Fowey Hall Hotel in Fowey (Nights 5-7)
• Bovey Castle in Newton Abbot (Nights 8-9)
• Fairmont Windsor Park in Windsor (Night 10)

Among the touring itinerary highlights is a guided tour of Chavenage House, a 400-year-old Cotswold manor home. Separately, guests will participate in a private cooking class at the Philleigh Way Cookery School .

For something truly unique, Tauck’s travelers will also visit the Morgan Motor Company’s sports car factory for a guided tour; they’ll also have an opportunity, if desired, to pilot one of the high-performance sports cars produced there.

At press time, pricing for this “ England & The West Country ” tour started at $8,790 per person, double occupancy. Airfare is additional.

“Paris, Dordogne & Bordeaux”

For an in-depth France tour, check out Tauck’s new 14-day “ Paris, Dordogne & Bordeaux ” tour. One special highlight is an early-opening private visit to 12th-century Chateau de Beynac; that’s one of the best preserved and most famous feudal castles in Perigord.

Guests will also enjoy an expert lecture, accompanied by aperitifs, about the Dordogne’s prehistoric sites. That will be followed by dinner prepared by a chef from a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Separately, Tauck’s guests will participate in a private tour and tasting at the 1702-era Chateau de Ferrand .

Guests will overnight in five different French destinations and stay in top accommodations.

• Sofitel Paris Baltimore in Paris (Nights 1-3)
• InterContinental Lyon/Grand Hotel Dieu in Lyon (Nights 4-5)
• Hotel les Glycines in Dordogne (Nights 6-8)
• Hotel Burdigala by Inwood Hotels in Bordeaux (Nights 9-11)
• Hotel du Palais Biarritz in Biarritz (Nights 12-13)

The starting price for this 14-day tour began at $11,790 per person, double occupancy, at press time. Airfare is additional.

New Tauck Tour: Need More Information?

For more information on the four new tours mentioned above, click on the individual itinerary links above. Those will take you to the official Tauck pages for those tours. Or to reach Tauck’s main site page, go here .

“But if any of these tours specifically appeal or you have questions, be sure to give Pavlus Travel a call,” says Steudle. “We’re the world’s top seller of Tauck, so we offer the best pricing coupled with superb customer service.”

Did you know that all Pavlus staff have graduated from the Tauck Academy? Yes, and many also have traveled with Tauck across the globe.

So, the team is skilled at assisting you with picking the perfect Tauck vacation — perhaps one of the new tours, if those are of interest? They’ll also smooth and manage the booking process. Just follow the contact details below!

Important Notes from  Pavlus Travel

• For information about the best deals, sign up for Pavlus’ email newsletter, which  spotlights terrific pricing  on a multitude of cruise and travel options. Readers can simply add their email to the sign-up box on the top right corner of the  Pavlus Travel website .
• If anything tweaks your interest in this blog above, and you DO have questions about specific pricing, brochures, savings, accommodations, accessible options and so on, please contact us at  800-528-9300. 
• Or  visit us online at Pavlus Travel’s official agency Web site;  t here you can “live chat” with us online too!
• This blog site provides “basic, general information” about travel. It’s not staffed by travel advisors.
• Any price examples and included vacation features in blogs are subject to change. They also don’t represent the full range of options; a travel advisor can assist with additional information.
• Please don’t use the Reply Section below if you are asking for pricing, travel dates, accommodations, brochures or other specific requests. Please use the 800 number or online link. 

Susan J. Young

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I thought river cruises were just for retirees, but a Disney river cruise proved me wrong

Editor's Note

When my Gen X and younger friends ask me about river cruises, I always tell them to stay away. River cruises are wonderful vacations, but they're targeted at retirees, not families with kids. Each day, you'll dutifully follow a flag- or sign-carrying guide to World War II memorials and local cathedrals — your ever-present Quietvox headset marking you immediately as a tourist. River cruises are like bus tours, just on the water, and geared toward the pace and interests of older couples.

But that was before I signed up for an Adventures by Disney Rhine River cruise.

We might have stopped at the same French, German and Dutch cities as other river cruises, but the vibe was completely different. In the Black Forest, I whooped and hollered as my alpine toboggan sped around stomach-dropping curves. In Strasbourg, I got an upper-body workout canoeing through the city's canals, and in Cologne, I visited a chocolate museum with lots of samples.

Even better? My entire family came with me, allowing me to introduce my kids to several countries in Europe with activities that appealed to them, on a ship filled with other families and knowledgeable guides that would ease our travel.

Apparently, river cruising can actually appeal to younger travelers.

If you didn't know that a Disney river cruise was a vacation option, you're not alone. Disney's oceangoing cruise ships are better known. Your friends and family members have likely considered or even booked a vacation on one of Mickey's floating resorts, full of fabulous kids clubs, adults-only escapes and numerous opportunities to hobnob with princesses and your favorite Disney characters. Shorter sailings out of Florida or California make these cruises easy to pair with theme park vacations at Disney World or Disneyland.

Adventures by Disney isn't always about the water. The brand's escorted-vacation arm mainly offers land-based explorations of places like Wyoming and Paris, but also partners with river cruise line AmaWaterways to run multigenerational-family-friendly cruises on the Rhine, Seine and Danube rivers. These trips offer all the attention to detail and magical moments you love from Disney, but with a more refined vibe and a tiny fraction of the Mouse. The Disney guides on board will take the stress out of vacationing while also bringing all the fun.

If you've fantasized about floating down European waterways and introducing your kids to new countries in a hassle-free way, but are looking for more active excursions and like-minded shipmates, Adventures by Disney might be the vacation you didn't know you needed.

I spent a week in July with my husband and two kids (ages 10 and 13) on an Adventures by Disney Rhine River cruise. From our experience, here's how Disney does river cruising differently.

Everyone age 5 and up is welcome

The under-8 crowd on our river cruise was small ... but mighty.

They were always the first people on the dance floor after dinner, even though it was well past their regular bedtime. They proudly helped the guides hold their "paddles of power" signs high in the air for the rest of us to follow along. They were the clear favorites of the ship's wait staff, who made them flowers out of napkins and masks and swords out of paper.

Adventures by Disney recommends its cruises for travelers ages 8 and up, but everyone over 5 is welcome. Nearly one-third of the guests on our 160-passenger ship were under 18, with a handful of college-age young adults mixed in. Most were traveling with their parents, but a few were in multigenerational or skip-gen groups with their grandparents.

Our shipmates included several adult couples and friend groups traveling without children, which I wasn't expecting. They tended to be Disney adults — members of the Disney Vacation Club, Disney Cruise Line devotees or folks who had vacationed with Disney with their children or grandchildren and appreciated the Disney service.

This age mix is not the typical river cruise passenger base. Whenever our ship berthed next to a ship from another company, I saw mainly gray-headed couples.

If you love Disney or its attention to detail, but you don't want to sail with kids, know that Adventures by Disney offers adults-exclusive food and wine and Oktoberfest cruises on specific dates.

Related: Best cruise lines for families

The ship is designed with families in mind

Disney doesn't just charter river ships — it partners with AmaWaterways to create a family-friendly environment on the European waterways. The family-owned cruise line even built a few river ships with its Disney passengers in mind.

Unlike most other ships sailing the Rhine, Seine and Danube, our ship, AmaLucia, has cabins and suites that can accommodate more than two travelers. Some cabins have a connecting door, so families of four or five can create a shared space. Others are triples with an easy chair that transforms into a single bed. Suites have pull-out sofa beds.

AmaWaterways' unique twin balcony setup — a true balcony just large enough to fit two chairs plus a French balcony adjacent to a small sitting area — creates space for those bed chairs and the connecting doors. My daughter was a big fan of sitting on our balcony to read, and I doubt she would have gotten as much pleasure from an open window or door inside the cabin.

AmaLucia also has one amenity that most other river ships don't have — a pool.

It's small and only 3 feet deep, but you'd be wrong if you thought it wasn't the main hangout for many of the kids on board. My daughter said the pool was half sunscreen by the end of the trip, but that didn't stop her and her new buddies from heading there every afternoon they could. The giant chess set behind it on the sun deck was also a gathering spot for the young teens.

The chefs on board make sure to have kid-friendly meal options special for the Disney river cruises. I doubt the regular AmaWaterways passengers consume as many chocolate cornflakes as my son did each morning. (They might not even be offered sugar cereals!) A kids menu each night at dinner included pasta (buttered noodles were a big hit), burgers, chicken tenders and hot dogs. One day when we came back to the ship for lunch, we ate in the casual dining space behind the lounge because pizza was on the menu.

On many days, we had the option to eat lunch in town or head back to the ship for a buffet lunch. If your kids are willing to be adventurous, you can all try the local cuisine, but if they're not, you have the option of going back to the ship for more familiar fare. Or, you can do like my family and eat giant scoops of gelato for lunch rather than sitting down to a meal.

Adventure Guides hold your hand and entertain your children

Most river cruises have a cruise manager who will organize tours and answer questions. Adventures by Disney sailings employ up to five Adventure Guides (the number is based on passenger count) who wear many hats and bring the service level on the ship up a notch.

The guides perform the cruise manager role — hosting briefings each evening to explain the next day's schedules and options, shepherding guests on and off buses, liaising with local guides, and answering guest questions. But they go above and beyond. When the lunch options on our Black Forest tour changed to something my family doesn't eat, our guide Gina proactively reached out to find an alternative and made certain that our family got the special meals we ordered.

The Adventure Guides are not technically youth staff, and they don't always plan kids activities during time spent on board. But they make a point to engage with the younger travelers. They host at least two Junior Adventure dinners, where they supervise a kids buffet so parents can enjoy an adults-only meal in the ship's restaurant or Chef's Table, and run a movie night one evening in the lounge.

They also distract kids during more adult-oriented excursions so parents can participate rather than wrangle children. On our cruise, one 6-year-old reported that her favorite excursion was the wine tasting because she got to drink juice and play with the Adventure Guides, who had whisked all the kids into a courtyard away from the adults. The guide on our tour of the Van Gogh Museum also took a young cruiser aside to help her with a scavenger hunt so her parents could listen to the local guide talk about the art; she also asked my son about the books he was reading, and patiently listened while he talked a mile a minute about this favorite fantasy series.

The Adventure Guides also know the best local treats to try ("spaghetti" ice cream in Heidelberg, chimney cakes in Rudesheim) and where to find them. They can give recommendations about activities during free time in town, but don't expect them to personally tour you around.

Guides hail from a mix of backgrounds; our fearless leaders were Americans Amanda and Gina, French Hugo and Clement, and German Susanna. All are chosen for their knowledge of the cruise area and the local language, but many also have experience working in Disney parks around the world. They come to the job with excellent people skills (Amanda has a psychology degree; Gina worked as a teacher) and an understanding of the Disney brand philosophy when it comes to creating magical family experiences.

While we loved all the guides, I found that the American guides were perhaps the best at understanding the needs of American tourists, but the European guides brought a local perspective to the places we visited. Clemente told a moving tale about discovering how his grandmother's family in Normandy had hidden Jewish families during WWII, and Susanna told funny stories about driving in Germany.

Excursions are varied and active

The biggest appeal to me of an Adventures by Disney river cruise was the excursions. Instead of endless walking tours and history lessons, we could choose from more active and hands-on tours.

In the Black Forest, we raced down a hill on alpine toboggans before visiting an open-air museum where the kids churned butter and decorated wooden whistles. In Strasbourg, France, we canoed through the canals before a macaron-making event on the ship, and in Rudesheim, Germany, we took a cable car to the top of the hill. In Cologne, we visited a chocolate museum.

More adult-minded tours were offered for cruisers traveling without children or for families willing to split up for the day. Several winery tours were offered, as well as a jovial pub crawl in Cologne to try German beer. More relaxed tours included a short trip to the village of Riquewihr in France that inspired Disney's "Beauty and the Beast" and a canal boat ride instead of the canoe in Strasbourg.

After some of the organized activities, passengers had free time in a city like Heidelberg or Cologne with multiple bus options back to the ship. Tired children or grandparents could return early, while more intrepid sightseers could stay all afternoon. In several ports, passengers could walk from the ship into town to do their own exploration or enjoy dinner off the ship. The flexible schedule worked for both independent travelers and those who wanted their hands held.

Most river ships carry bicycles for guest use, and AmaLucia had a fleet of adult-sized bikes we could borrow. Adventures by Disney makes sure to bring aboard a few kid-sized bikes and helmets, which allowed us to go biking with our 10-year-old in Rudesheim.

Related: Best river cruise lines around the world

The Disney touches are sweet and subtle

A life-sized Mickey Mouse did not cruise with us; no princess made an appearance. Still, you never forgot you were on a Disney-run cruise.

Music from the Disney songbook was always playing in the background in the ship's lounge, and Disney movies were shown on a few nights. Ratatouille made an appearance at the macaron-making event, and the afternoon tea service included Mickey-shaped cookies.

But there were two Disney traditions throughout the cruise that the whole ship loved. Each evening, a stuffed Captain Minnie doll was handed off to a new passenger, who had to take her on adventures (and keep her safe) the following day. At the evening recap, Minnie's minder would have to recount her adventures and choose which passenger would travel with her the following day. (On our cruise, Minnie loved riding the bus and always made sure to wear her seat belt.)

The other much-anticipated daily event was the presentation of the day's pin. Each day, the Adventure Guides handed out Disney-character pins related to the day's destination and activity with slogans like "Rendezvous on the Rhine." Some we found on our pillows, along with our turndown chocolates, while others were distributed on the tour bus or at the evening recap. My usually too-cool-for-school kids would get anxious when evening came around and we hadn't gotten a new pin.

You can attach the pins to a lanyard, hat or backpack, or save them to trade at Disney pin-trading events on land and sea.

Your kids will make friends

My kids are not social butterflies. They tend to be shy in big groups of kids and prefer to hang out alone or with us when we travel. My daughter is always hesitant about going to the kids club on ocean cruise ships; my son goes exclusively to play video games and not to talk to other tweens.

So I was not sure what to expect from the kid and teen social scene on board.

To my surprise and delight, my 10-year-old daughter made friends on day one with a 14-year-old girl in our group. They sat on the bus together and shared a toboggan on their first ride. Although my daughter wasn't thrilled about attending the Junior Adventurer dinner, she was willing to go because her friend was there. That friend introduced her to some of the other kids, so that by the last night my daughter was inviting other girls her age to play giant chess on the sun deck.

My son didn't make any specific friends, but he met all the young teens at the first teen dinner. When they got bored, the teens would knock on all the other teens' doors, including my son's, and invite everyone to play Roblox in the lounge or chess up on deck. Sometimes they would run through the hallways knocking on doors or try to play pranks on each other, but as far as I could tell, they were being inclusive and not forming exclusive cliques.

The trip is all-inclusive

Adventures by Disney river cruises aren't cheap. Prices start at $5,799 per adult or $5,199 per child under age 12, so upward of $21,996 for a family of four sharing two cabins. But you get a lot for your money.

All of the excursions are included; unlike other river cruises, there are no tour options you need to pay extra for. The guides would hand out tickets or tokens to try a local coffee for free or to gain entrance to a windmill, rather than letting those things be add-on costs.

All meals on the ship are included, including the multicourse Chef's Table, as well as select meals during longer excursions. Wine, beer and soft drinks are always included at lunch and dinner (as well as sparkling wine and fresh juices at breakfast). You can also enjoy free cocktails during a daily Sip and Sail happy hour, with mocktail options for the kids.

Wi-Fi, crew gratuities, airport transfers and taxes are also included.

We mainly spent money on lunch or treats off the ship, as well as one dinner in Amsterdam when we were docked overnight, but on all of those occasions, we could have eaten on the ship if we wished. During free time off the ship, we also chose to pay for a few activities on our own, such as climbing to the top of the cathedral in Cologne and riding the funicular in Heidelberg all the way to the top (our Disney-included castle ticket included the cost to ride the lower funicular). AmaLucia offers a spa and salon, and guests can book treatments for an additional cost.

Bottom line

River cruises aren't the perfect vacation for all families. They're not cheap, and days are busy with morning tour departures at 8 or 9 a.m. and often jam-packed days of sightseeing. You're constantly surrounded by other people, sharing tables at dinner or buses to activities, and that can be overwhelming for some families.

However, if you want the ease of one home base, prescheduled meals and activities, and the support of knowledgeable guides as you introduce your kids to the joys of overseas travel, a Disney river cruise can be the ideal way to travel. It's a familiar environment from which to explore foreign countries, with just the right amount of fairy dust to make your vacation magical. And unlike typical river cruises, Adventures by Disney cruises are built to appeal to kids, teens, parents and grandparents alike.

Now when my friends express interest in a river cruise, I don't have to burst their bubble. I can tell them they've got options for family-friendly adventures on the Rhine, Seine and Danube.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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Tauck Adds New European Tours for 2025

A Week In — Switzerland tour. Photo: Tauck

Tauck announced today (Aug. 19) four new European land journeys in Italy, Switzerland, France, and England for 2025.

The new itineraries include two new eight-day tours, “A Week in … Piedmont” and “A Week in … Switzerland,” the 11-day “England and the West Country,” and the 14-day “Paris, Dordogne, & Bordeaux.”

In addition to the new itineraries, luxury tour operator Tauck plans to boost its shoulder seasons by 50%, focusing in October and November when guests can enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds than in the peak summer months.

“Expanding our shoulder season departures – and hosting more of our guests in Europe during the spring and fall – is a true win-win that benefits everyone,” said Tauck CEO Dan Mahar.

European journeys are booming for the tour operator: Not only is the continent Tauck’s most popular destination, but bookings are up year-over-year. In total, the company will offer 39 European land tours.

Next year marks an important milestone for the tour operator: Tauck will be celebrating its 100th year of operation, and its 35th offering Europe-based tours.

“Tauck will be 100-years-young in 2025, but we’re certainly not slowing down in any way,” said Mahar. “In fact, our commitment to innovating and enhancing our global portfolio of land tours, river cruises, small ship ocean cruises, and Tauck Bridges family adventures is stronger than ever.”

The guided travel specialist offers over 150 land tours, safaris, river cruises, small ship ocean cruises and family travel adventures to more than 70 countries and all seven continents. More than half of its non-cruise business comes from small group tours (maximum 24 people). This year, Tauck introduced “Smaller Group” tours for even more intimacy, capping the limit at 15 people per group.

For more information, call Tauck at 800 468 2825, or visit the company’s website at http://www.tauck.com .

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