Chateaux, Rivers & Wine
Chateaux, Rivers & Wine
Cruise overview
Cruise ID
VIKINGFRS250323
Cruise Line
Cruise Type
River
Ship
Duration
7 nights
Departure Port
Destination
Bordeaux
Departure Date
23 Mar 25
From £2,445pp
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Day 1
Bordeaux (France)
About Bordeaux
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.
Day 2
Bordeaux (France)
About Bordeaux
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.
Day 2
Libourne (France)
About Libourne
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.
Day 3
Libourne (France)
About Libourne
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.
Day 3
Saint-Émilion (France)
About Saint-Émilion
Day 4
Bourg (France)
About Bourg
Day 4
Blaye (France)
About Blaye
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.
Day 5
Margaux (France)
About Margaux
Day 6
Bordeaux (France)
About Bordeaux
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.
Day 7
Cadillac (France)
About Cadillac
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.
Day 8
Bordeaux (France)
About Bordeaux
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.
Explorer Suite- Cat ES
Min.
occupancy: 1
Min.
occupancy: 2
- Stateroom size: 445 sq ft (includes private veranda)
- River-view suite with private wraparound balcony offering 270-degree views off a spacious, separate sitting room, and French balcony (floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door) in sleeping quarters
- 12 PM Embarkation
- 12 PM priority stateroom access
- Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows
- Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)
- 42" flat-screen TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, CNBC, CNN, FOX & more
- Additional 42" flat-screen TV in sitting room
- 110/220 volt outlets & USB ports
- Large private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated floor, anti-fog mirror & hair dryer
- Premium Freyja® toiletries
- Plush robes & slippers
- Telephone, safe, refrigerator
- Individual climate control
- Bottled water replenished daily
- Welcome champagne; mini-bar with wine, beer & soft drinks (replenished daily); daily fruit plate
- Binoculars
- Personal coffee machine with premium coffee & tea selections
- Stateroom steward & twice-daily housekeeping
- Complimentary in-room breakfast service
- Complimentary laundry & shoe shine services
- Silver Spirits beverage package included
- Private arrival/departure transfer in destination
- Under-bed suitcase storage space
- Roomy wardrobe with wooden hangers
- Complimentary Viking Air Plus
Veranda Suite- Cat AA
Min.
occupancy: 1
Min.
occupancy: 2
- Stateroom size: 275 sq ft (includes private veranda)
- River-view suite with full-size veranda off a spacious, separate sitting room, and French Balcony (floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door) in sleeping quarters
- 12 PM Embarkation
- 12 PM priority stateroom access
- Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows
- Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)
- 42" flat-screen TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, CNBC, CNN, FOX & more
- Additional 32" flat-screen TV in sitting room
- 110/220 volt outlets & USB ports
- Large private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated floor, anti-fog mirror & hair dryer
- Premium Freyja® toiletries
- Plush robes & slippers
- Telephone, safe, refrigerator
- Individual climate control
- Bottled water replenished daily
- Welcome champagne; mini-bar with wine, beer & soft drinks (replenished daily); daily fruit plate
- Binoculars
- Stateroom steward & twice-daily housekeeping
- Complimentary laundry & shoe shine services
- Under-bed suitcase storage space
- Roomy wardrobe with wooden hangers
- Complimentary Viking Air Plus
Veranda Stateroom- Cat A & B
Min.
occupancy: 1
Min.
occupancy: 2
- Stateroom size: 205 sq ft (includes private veranda)
- River-view stateroom with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door opening to full-size veranda
- 12 PM Embarkation
- 3 PM stateroom access
- Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows
- Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)
- 42" flat-screen TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, CNBC, CNN, FOX & more
- 110/220 volt outlets & USB ports
- Private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated floor, anti-fog mirror & hair dryer
- Premium Freyja® toiletries
- Plush robes & slippers (upon request)
- Telephone, safe, refrigerator
- Individual climate control
- Bottled water replenished daily
- Stateroom steward & twice-daily housekeeping
- Under-bed suitcase storage space
- Roomy wardrobe with wooden hangers
French Balcony- Cat C & D
Min.
occupancy: 1
Min.
occupancy: 2
- Stateroom size: 135 sq ft
- River-view stateroom with French balcony (floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door)
- 12 PM Embarkation
- 3 PM stateroom access
- Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows
- Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)
- 42" flat-screen TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, CNBC, CNN, FOX & more
- 110/220 volt outlets & USB ports
- Private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated floor, anti-fog mirror & hair dryer
- Premium Freyja® toiletries
- Plush robes & slippers (upon request)
- Telephone, safe, refrigerator
- Individual climate control
- Bottled water replenished daily
- Stateroom steward & twice-daily housekeeping
- Under-bed suitcase storage space
- Roomy wardrobe with wooden hangers
Standard Staterooms- Cat E & F
Min.
occupancy: 2
Min.
occupancy:
- Stateroom size: 150 sq ft
- River-view stateroom with half-height picture window
- 12 PM Embarkation
- 3 PM stateroom access
- Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows
- Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)
- 42" flat-screen TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, CNBC, CNN, FOX & more
- 110/220 volt outlets & USB ports
- Private bathroom with accessible shower, heated floor, anti-fog mirror & hair dryer
- Premium Freyja® toiletries
- Plush robes & slippers (upon request)
- Telephone, safe, refrigerator
- Individual climate control
- Bottled water replenished daily
- Stateroom steward & twice-daily housekeeping
- Under-bed suitcase storage space
- Roomy wardrobe with wooden hangers
Viking Forseti
Norse God of Justice
The Norse god of justice, Forseti, radiates the light of truth. He is eloquent, wise and, most of all, a fair and persuasive mediator. Forseti presides over all disputes of gods and men, giving all a proper hearing.
Ship Facts
| Speed | 15 | ||||||||
| Width | 29 | ||||||||
| Length | 135 | ||||||||
| Capacity | 190 | ||||||||
| Currency | EUR | ||||||||
| Language | en | ||||||||
| Crew Count | 50 | ||||||||
| Deck Count | 4 | ||||||||
| Refit Year | |||||||||
| Cabin Count | 95 | ||||||||
| Launch Year | 2013 | ||||||||
| Gross Tonnage | 5000 | ||||||||
| Electrical Plugs |
|
||||||||
| Large Cabin Count | 0 | ||||||||
| Wheelchair Cabin Count | 0 |
Sun Deck
- Shaded Sitting Area
- Putting Green
- Herb Garden
- Walking Track
Upper Deck
Internet Room
- Library
- Bar
- The Lounge
- Aquavit Terrace
- Explorer Suites (Cat ES)
- Veranda Staterooms (A, B)
- Veranda Suites (Cat AA)
- French Balcony Staterooms (C, D)
Middle Deck
Shop
- Restaurant
- Guest Services
- Veranda Staterooms (Cat A, B)
- French Balcony Stateroom (Cat C, D)
Main Deck
- Standard Staterooms (Cat E)
- Standard Staterooms (Cat F)
It’s been said that the best way to know a culture is through its food and wine. Both engage your senses and provide a window into the traditions and essence of a land. Viking's trained chefs are passionate about food and committed to providing a complete culinary experience. The ships’ dining areas are hospitable and inviting; the service is friendly, attentive and personalised. Menu selections include regional dishes and contemporary cuisine to offer a variety of flavours designed to suit any palate. You have choices for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Not just in food selection, but also in where and how you enjoy them. Greet the morning with a croissant and cappuccino on deck, or begin your day with a sumptuous buffet breakfast. Have a casual lunch or dinner al fresco, or join friends in the restaurant. Open seating allows you to mingle with the same guests every evening or meet someone new each day.
The Restaurant
Experience: complimentary
Food: wine
Gaze at breathtaking scenery through the Restaurant’s panoramic windows as you dine on regional specialties and contemporary cuisine. The atmosphere is casual yet elegant, with high-quality table linens, china, cutlery and glassware at every meal.
Aquavit Terrace
Experience: complimentary
Food: casual
Revolutionary in concept and design, this spacious outdoor seating area at the bow of the ship is perfect for having a casual meal al fresco, meeting friends for drinks or reading a book, all while enjoying breathtaking views and basking in the fresh air.
As with your stateroom, the public areas are designed to make the most of the splendid views. Whether from the sun deck, the Lounge or the restaurant, a river cruise provides uninterrupted sightseeing, from the time the morning mist rises from the water to when the setting sun announces the end to another remarkable day.
The Bar
Located in the Lounge, the bar is lively and inviting - a gathering place for guests to view the scenery, have a drink and catch up on the day with friends.
Library
Located in the heart of the Upper deck adjacent to the Aquavit Terrace, the library has comfortable seating and excellent reading light. Their ships’ libraries carry approximately 80 books, in various languages but mostly English, and several games such as chess, backgammon and playing cards. Pick up a magazine or board game and enjoy it in the lounge just steps away.
Onboard Boutique
Forget to bring something? Looking for a magazine or some gift items? The onboard boutique on the main deck has everything you need to make your voyage comfortable and convenient.
The Lounge
The lounge has a baby grand piano, where a pianist plays classical and modern melodies during cocktail hour and sometimes at lunch. The music drifts to and through the Aquavit Terrace -a nice accompaniment on warm, sunny days.
The cruise director hosts a variety of informal evening entertainment in the lounge; from pub trivia nights to the cruise slideshow cum sales pitch, it's all done in a spirit of fun and inclusivity. The lounge is also equipped with large pull-down movie screens and surround-sound for movie nights, and regional performers occasionally come onboard to provide additional entertainment.
Reception
Located on the Middle Deck