Exclusive Wine Cruise Taste of Bordeaux (Wine Cruise) Nov 12 - 19, 2026

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Hosted by James Quaile, Certified Sommelier & Author

Jimmy’s journey started at just six years old, when he began singing and playing drums in his family’s band, The Quailes. By the time he was a teenager, The Quailes were performing at local and national nightspots.

Jimmy’s road then took a sharp turn from 2002 to 2011 when he and his chef wife, Janet, opened and operated Big Daddy’s Crabcakes. Their seafood restaurant was recognized as the Best of Philly by Philadelphia Magazine.

The route recalculated further when Jimmy became Wine Consultant for leading wine retailers Roger Wilco Wines & Spirits and WinesTillSoldOut.com (WTSO.com). In 2014, he received the title of Certified Sommelier by the Court of Master Sommeliers.

All roads eventually lead to Jimmy combining his entertainment background and his passion for wine with his book, Tales from the Wine Floor: 100 Questions Asked of a Sommelier. The book, published by Lyons Press (Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc.) is available wherever books are sold.

In addition to writing about wine, he teaches wine classes, hosts “Somm Dinners” for corporate clients and casino special events and donates his time and talents in support of his favorite charities.

Expertly Curated WINE EXPERIENCES

Immerse yourself in the many flavors of Europe on one of AmaWaterways unique Wine Cruises, which let you add a unique, epicurean dimension to one of our European itineraries. Like our standard river cruises, guests have the opportunity to join tours that highlight the famous sights in each port of call. These special itineraries, however, offer guests a perfect blend of wine-related experiences and excursions in grand capitals and charming towns. You’ll taste local cuisine, discover how wine is made and, of course, partake in tastings — all at no additional cost. Whether you have a seasoned appreciation for fine wine, or simply indulge in a sip here and there, this is a wonderful way to uncork the traditions of the local culture and learn about the region you’re visiting.

About the Wine Region – The Garonne, Dordogne and Gironde Estuary

In the corner of southwestern France, the Garonne and Dordogne rivers merge together to form the Gironde Estuary that naturally divides the famous Bordeaux region into the Left and Right banks. One of the largest controlled wine regions in France, Bordeaux is made up of several sub-regions each with its own strictly governed appellation, unique climate and terroir. Unlike most wines around the world, the quality of Bordeaux wine is determined by these factors rather than the grape varietal. Bordeaux is acclaimed for its legendary red blends, though white blends from this region also make a big impression. The Left and Right banks of the river have different soil types that bring these exceptional blends to life.

Overview Taste of Bordeaux (Wine Cruise)


7-night Cruise

Roundtrip Bordeaux

Travel to France’s legendary wine capital, Bordeaux, on an enhanced epicurean experience. Iconic châteaux, timeless vineyards and delicious wine tastings are plentiful on this wine-themed journey. Attend an exclusive wine festival in Bourg, sample Grand Cru Classé wines and experience the wonderful world of viticulture with all your senses at the immersive Cité du Vin museum in Bordeaux. Hosted by a dedicated wine expert who leads tastings and a specially curated food and wine pairing dinner on board, this journey is a must for anyone interested in the best of French wine and cuisine.

COUNTRIES: France

RIVERS: Dordogne, Garonne

Taste of Bordeaux (Wine Cruise) At A Glance

On our river cruises, you will enjoy an extensive lineup of included tours. In many cases, you will have a choice of excursions, such as standard tours, bike tours, hikes and Special Interest Tours. We always include a large variety of activities so that you can choose how you want to explore. No matter your preference, your days will be full of discovery and wonder.
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Itinerary is subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the itinerary schedule provided with your final documents.

Included Features Taste of Bordeaux (Wine Cruise)


7-night Cruise

SPACIOUS STATEROOMS

  • 7 nights luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom (most with French balconies)
  • Entertainment-On-Demand in all staterooms featuring free high-speed internet access, movies, a music library and English language TV stations
  • Desk and sitting area
  • Bottled water replenished daily

AN ARRAY OF AMENITIES

  • Wellness Activities with a dedicated Wellness Host leading various exercise classes as well as discussions on healthy eating and relaxation techniques, both on board and on shore.
  • Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land packages
  • 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

AWARD-WINNING DINING

  • All onboard dining in a variety of venues
  • Regionally inspired cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients
  • The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant
  • Welcome Cocktail, Welcome Dinner, La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs Dinner, Captain's Cocktail and Gala 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
  • Sip & Sail Cocktail Hour with complimentary wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks
  • Tapas, snacks and refreshments served daily in the Main Lounge

A WORLD OF EXPLORATION

  • Immersive tours in every destination
  • Gentle, regular, active and late-riser tour options
  • Bike tours and hikes
  • Special interest tours
  • Knowledgeable guides
  • Personal headset for easy exploration
  • Airport transfers with purchase of air from AmaWaterways

Dates & Prices Taste of Bordeaux (Wine Cruise)

EMBARK November 12
7-NIGHT CRUISEBordeauxBordeaux
Save $1500 Per Stateroom
PRICES ARE PER PERSON
ADD 2 NIGHTS BILBAO, 2 NIGHTS SAN SEBASTIAN PRE-CRUISE AND 2 NIGHTS LOIRE VALLEY, 1 NIGHT PARIS CHARLES DE GAULLE POST-CRUISE
ADD 2 NIGHTS BILBAO, 2 NIGHTS SAN SEBASTIAN PRE-CRUISE AND 3 NIGHTS PARIS POST CRUISE
ADD 2 NIGHTS MADRID, 2 NIGHTS SAN SEBASTIAN PRE-CRUISE AND 2 NIGHTS LOIRE VALLEY, 1 NIGHT PARIS CHARLES DE GAULLE POST-CRUISE
ADD 2 NIGHTS MADRID, 2 NIGHTS SAN SEBASTIAN PRE-CRUISE AND 3 NIGHTS PARIS POST CRUISE
Category E
Fixed Windows
Piano Deck
170 sq. ft.
INCLUDED IN PRICE
LOCATED ON DECK:
Piano Deck
Category D
Fixed Windows
Piano Deck
170 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL $299 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Piano Deck
Category C
French Balcony
Violin & Cello Deck
170 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL $1,499 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin & Cello Deck
Category B
French Balcony
Violin & Cello Deck
170 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL $1,799 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin & Cello Deck
Category A
French Balcony
Violin Deck
170 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL $1,899 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin Deck
Category A+
French Balcony
Violin Deck
225 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL $2,899 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin Deck
Suite
French Balcony
Violin Deck
255 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL $3,199 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin Deck

Notes:

ImportantDates, prices & itineraries are subject to change.

Port Charges (included in cruise price)$250 per person.

Single Supplement for Cruise50% of twin price; A+ and Suite 100% of twin price.

Single Supplement for LandA single supplement charge will be applied to pre- and post-cruise hotel extensions. Please call for pricing details.

BeddingPlease select bedding configuration at the time of booking. The Options are: Option A: Two twin beds Option B: One large bed (larger than queen size).

Terms & Conditions:

All rates are per person for cruise only, inclusive of port charges and are based on double occupancy in an entry level category stateroom unless stated otherwise. Offers are valid on select sailings only and applicable to new bookings only. Unless explicitly stated that single supplement is waived, solo travelers in a double occupancy stateroom must pay an additional single supplement amount before receiving any discounts. Ask about Solo Traveler promotions. Offers are not combinable with any other promotions/discounts, limited to availability, capacity controlled and subject to change or termination without notice. Stateroom upgrades, optional land programs and round-trip airfare are not included in cruise price. Other restrictions apply. AmaWaterways reserves the right to correct any errors or omissions at any time. Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California. CST#2065452-20.

Ships Taste of Bordeaux (Wine Cruise)

AmaDolce

The custom-designed AmaDolce was introduced in 2009 and features spacious staterooms, most with French Balconies, Internet/WiFi access, walking track along our Sun-deck and guided bicycle tours at stops along the river.Learn more

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