Travelers can now discover and explore the heart of France’s most popular wine region by barge, as the Tango is now cruising the waterways of Bordeaux.
With its authentically French style and contemporary appeal, the Tango effortlessly resonates with Bordeaux’s charming balance of historical relevance and modern attractions. Add the sumptuous onboard cuisine, world-class winetasting, and delightfully Continental ambiance for a barging experience sure to please wine enthusiasts, foodies, and Francophiles alike!
Tango is operated by Captain Daniel Sak, a second- generation barge owner whose mother debuted the barge Fandango and operated it for many years. Daniel’s history with Tango is quite amazing. The barge was built in 1931 and used to transport grain between Atlantic and Mediterranean ports; when commercial barging ceased in the 1980’s, Tango was retired in a small canal-side village. As a child, Daniel had seen the abandoned barge when navigating the French canals with his mother. He always said it was the only barge he wanted to own. In 2000 that dream came true when Daniel purchased Tango and lovingly converted her into a deluxe floating hotel carrying up to eight guests.
Captain Sak, a graduate of the prestigious French National Cooking School in Burgundy, personally conceptualizes all of Tango’s culinary experiences, including wine pairings and ingredient sourcing. Tango’s gourmet Chef welcomes passengers with an interest in cooking and will enthusiastically share recipes, techniques, and philosophies on fine dining. All meals prepared aboard Tango are made with fresh and seasonal market produce bought daily, the best quality meats and poultry from area farms, and fresh Atlantic seafood and fish.
Inspired by the nautical beauty and lavish comforts of passenger liners from the 1930’s, the Tango’s décor features large brass portholes, French art deco fixtures, Provençal ivory linens, and rich teak wall paneling. Tango’s spacious common areas provide the perfect spot to relax and socialize while enjoying a glass of Bordeaux wine. Most unusual is the lavish use of beautifully glazed Provencal tiles on the deck and in the gorgeous bathrooms.
Tango’s route begins and ends in the city of Bordeaux, mooring right on the newly redeveloped and iconic waterfront. The historic buildings are lit up at night, creating an extraordinary backdrop for cocktails and conversation on Tango’s deck. Let the moonlight dancing begin — on the barge Tango in Bordeaux!
Last visited in 2017
