Alouette

In the afternoon, you will be met by a crew member of Alouette at the designated meeting point. From here, relax as you are chauffeured to the barge, moored at Boe Port. Enjoy a warm welcome and chilled champagne in the company of your dedicated crew as you take in the 360-degree views on deck. Your Chef is busy preparing your first feast of the cruise, and, as delicious wines are uncorked, raise a toast to the start of a sublime adventure in the Southwest of France.

Awake to a beautiful day on the water! Relax as Alouette cruises on the idyllic Canal la Garonne across the second longest aqueduct in France. Departing from the lunchtime mooring at Serignac-sur-Garonne, your Tour Guide chauffeurs you to the garden of Latour-Marliac, where thousands of lovely water lilies are on glorious display. Wander through the floral sculptures, explore the placid ponds, and admire the lilies which inspired and provided Monet with flowers for his own garden at Giverny. Returning to Alouette, now moored in Puch-d’Agenais, for aperitifs and appetizers. Chef presents tonight's dinner party onboard.

This morning’s cruise along the serene canal is the perfect time to explore the towpath with a brisk stroll or leisurely bicycle ride. Your Tour Guide then presents Sauternes heaven: Château d’Yquem. This 400-year-old château produces some of the world’s most coveted and celebrated sweet wines. Discover the secrets behind the creation of these signature Sauternes, followed by a sampling. (In July and August, experience an optional excursion to the Damazin outdoor market, where the delightful summer vibes include musical entertainment.) Return to Alouette for cocktails and canapes as Chef puts the final touches on tonight's delicious dinner.

Relax on deck with a freshly brewed cup of coffee during today's short morning cruise. Your Tour Guide then introduces Saint-Émilion, a well-preserved medieval village in the heart of Bordeaux wine country and since 1999 a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Local cafes, speciality boutiques, and wine shops line the lovely cobblestoned streets. After lunch ashore at a charming venue, depart for a private tasting at a prestigious wine estate located in the surrounding vineyards of Saint-Émilion. Sip, swirl, and savor the exceptional elixirs made from Bordeaux's pampered grapes. Back onboard, Chef serves this evening's epicurean dinner.

A lazy morning cruise begins the day. Join your Captain in his wheelhouse, observe Chef in the demonstration kitchen, or just lounge on the and admire the scenery slipping by. Your Tour Guide then introduces the ultimate in Bordeaux bliss, the vinotherapy treatments at Caudalie Spa. A unique experience in the heart of the vineyards of Château Smith Haut Laffite, vinotherapy products contain powerful anti-aging compounds such as resveratrol, polyphenols, and flavonoids, which are found in grape seeds, skins, pulp, and stems. Feeling relaxed and rejuvenated after your "grape" day, return to Alouette for an evening of drinks and dinner.

This morning, bid farewell to the canal as Alouette slips onto the majestic River Garonne. Alight in Cadillac at mid-morning when your Tour Guide chauffeurs you to Bordeaux City, where you will enjoy lunch ashore at a lively bistro. Bordeaux City offers a delightful blend of culture, stunning architecture, gastronomy, and shopping, not to mention the elegantly restored riverfront. Mingle with locals as you discover the bustling boulevards of this beautiful town. Return to Alouette, moored again at Castets-en-Dorthe, where Chef is creating a lavish Farewell Feast. Commemorate your week in the Southwest of France as you end your cruise in sumptuous style.

Checking out no later than 9:00 am, you will be chauffeured to the designated drop off point.