Bordeaux by the Water commented cruise

Bordeaux by the Water Commented Cruise Review: A Relaxed Dip into the City’s Waters

If you’re looking to see Bordeaux from a different perspective without committing hours to touring, the Bordeaux by the Water cruise might catch your eye. This 1.5-hour trip offered by Croisières Burdigala promises an easy, scenic way to get a glimpse of the city’s iconic sights along the Garonne River. While it’s not a comprehensive tour, it’s a pleasant way to relax and enjoy Bordeaux’s beauty from a boat.

What we really like about this cruise is its accessible design and the engaging commentary that brings the sights to life. Plus, the opportunity to bring along your own snacks or drinks and the fact that children under 5 and pets are welcome makes it a flexible option for many travelers. However, a potential downside is that if you’re expecting a highly detailed, in-depth experience, this might not fully satisfy that craving. It’s more of a scenic overview rather than a deep dive into Bordeaux’s history.

This cruise works best if you’re seeking a laid-back activity to add a splash of water-based sightseeing to your trip, especially if you’re traveling with family, friends, or even just looking for a peaceful break. It’s not a stand-alone adventure for those wanting extensive insight into Bordeaux — but for a gentle cruise with easy logistics, it fits the bill.

Key Points

• Accessible for all: Fully wheelchair accessible, making it a comfortable experience regardless of mobility.
• Engaging commentary: Local guides share stories and anecdotes, adding personality to the cruise.
• Affordable price point: At around $17.45 per person, it offers a budget-friendly way to enjoy Bordeaux from the water.
• Flexible for families and pets: Kids under 5 go free, and pets are welcome onboard.
• Scenic highlights: Includes views of Bordeaux’s famous landmarks, the water mirror, and the suspension bridge.
• Limited depth: If you’re expecting detailed historical insight or extensive exploration, this cruise might feel a bit surface-level.

An In-Depth Look at the Bordeaux Water Cruise

When considering a boat trip in Bordeaux, it’s worth understanding exactly what this cruise covers and what you’ll experience during those 1.5 hours. We’ll break down the itinerary, the views, and what makes this trip both charming and, at times, a little limited.

Starting Point and First Impressions

The cruise kicks off at the Pontoon of Honor on Quai Richelieu, a convenient spot close to the cruise ships, which is great if you’re staying nearby or arriving by boat. The boat itself is described as ‘very nice,’ and the fact that it’s fully accessible and has onboard beverage services makes it a comfortable choice for many.

The Itinerary – What’s on the Route

The cruise hits several notable points along the Garonne, each offering a glimpse into Bordeaux’s rich cityscape:

• The First Bridge: The initial stop provides a good vantage point and serves as a starting point for the tour. It’s a visual anchor, giving you an idea of Bordeaux’s longstanding river crossings.

• Old Walls of Bordeaux: Passing by remnants of Bordeaux’s historic fortifications, this stop offers a nod to the city’s past defenses and urban development.

• Place de la Bourse and Water Mirror: One of Bordeaux’s most famous sights, the water mirror is a marvel to behold, especially when reflected on the river. It’s a spot that photographers love, and you’ll likely hear stories about its design and significance.

• Jacques Chaban Delmas Lift Bridge: Named after a notable mayor, this lift bridge is an engineering highlight and a regional icon. Watching it operate gives you a sense of Bordeaux’s blend of history and innovation.

• The City of Wine Museum: Bordeaux’s fame as a wine capital is woven into this stop. While the cruise itself doesn’t explore wine tasting, viewing the museum from the river offers a different perspective on Bordeaux’s vinicultural heritage.

• The Science Museum at the 20th Hangar: This stop hints at Bordeaux’s modern scientific pursuits, and the large hangar architecture stands out along the riverbank.

• Suspension Bridge: Spanning 1.7 km, this striking bridge is a defining feature of Bordeaux’s skyline. Its impressive length and design are easy to appreciate from the water.

• Place des Quinconces: The city’s largest square, which combines elements of Bordeaux’s medieval roots with contemporary life. The monument to the Girondins adds a political historical note.

What to Expect During the Cruise

As you glide along the Garonne, the guide’s commentary offers a narrative that makes the sights more than just visual. However, based on one review, it seems that the language may occasionally lean heavily into French, which could be a drawback if you’re expecting an entirely English-speaking experience. The guide’s passion for Bordeaux shines through, but language consistency could vary.

The views are described as breathtaking, with many guests appreciating how the landmarks are framed from the water. But it’s important to note that, as a short tour, it provides a surface-level overview rather than detailed historical insights.

Onboard Experience and Comfort

The boat’s full accessibility is a major plus, especially if mobility is a concern. The onboard beverage service, offering bottled water and other drinks, adds to the relaxing vibe. The fact that you can bring your own snacks or drinks gives you flexibility, making it a good option for a low-key outing.

Who Will Enjoy This Cruise?

This experience is well-suited for travelers who want a light, scenic overview of Bordeaux, especially if they’re short on time or prefer a more relaxed activity. It’s particularly convenient for those arriving on cruise ships or with limited mobility. Kids and pets make it a family-friendly choice, though it’s not specifically geared toward children’s activities.

The Downsides and Limitations

A key criticism from a reviewer was that the tour isn’t particularly engaging if you’re looking for deep historical or cultural insights. One traveler said, “There isn’t much of interest down river where the trip went,” which suggests that the route might focus mainly on scenic views rather than hidden gems.

Plus, the tour is advertised as English but was mostly in French for some guests, which could be a concern if language is important to you. The limited duration means you won’t see everything Bordeaux has to offer, so if you’re after a thorough exploration, you’ll need to supplement this with other activities.

Final Thoughts

The Bordeaux by the Water cruise offers a simple, affordable way to see some of Bordeaux’s key sights from the river. It’s relaxed, accessible, and provides a friendly guide to keep the experience engaging. For those seeking a quick, scenic overview rather than an in-depth tour, it’s a solid option that balances comfort and views.

If you’re a traveler who values ease, affordability, and a chance to sit back with a drink while soaking in the scenery, this cruise fits well. It’s especially fitting if you’re traveling with family, pets, or prefer a gentle introduction to Bordeaux’s waterfront.

However, if you’re craving more detailed stories, historical context, or a route that covers hidden corners, you might find this cruise a bit too limited. It’s best paired with other explorations of Bordeaux to get a fuller picture of the city’s charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this cruise accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the boat is fully accessible, ensuring a comfortable experience for everyone, including those with mobility needs.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a relaxed addition to your sightseeing plans.

Can I bring my own snacks and drinks?
Absolutely. You’re welcome to bring your own snacks or drinks, though onboard beverages are also available for purchase.

Are children allowed on this cruise?
Yes, children under 5 travel free, making it family-friendly. Pets are also welcome onboard.

What landmarks will I see during the cruise?
Expect views of Bordeaux’s famous water mirror, the suspension bridge, the Chaban Delmas lift bridge, and historic walls, among others.

Is the commentary in English?
It’s advertised as an English commentary, but some reviews mention it was mostly in French, so if language is a concern, check with the provider beforehand.

What’s the price for this cruise?
The ticket costs about $17.45 per person, which is quite reasonable for a scenic water tour in a city like Bordeaux.

Are there any cancellation policies I should know?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, receiving a full refund, which adds a layer of flexibility.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the cruise requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In all, this cruise is best suited for those wanting a gentle, scenic overview of Bordeaux’s waterfront, with easy logistics and friendly service. It’s a good choice for a brief, relaxing activity, especially if you’re not looking for an in-depth historical tour but want to enjoy the sights from the water in a comfortable setting.