Coastal France with Bordeaux

Summary

Sail to Normandy and the historic city of Cherbourg, before reaching fascinating Saint-Malo on the beautiful Brittany coast. Heading south we’ll journey along the Gironde and Garonne rivers, flanked by picturesque countryside scenery to Bordeaux. Immerse yourself in rich history and wine heritage at sites such as Cathédrale Saint-André and the Citeì du Vin wine museum. Then, in Honfleur, the treasures of 16th-century streets and a historic maritime district await you.

Plus:

9 nights cruise on Bolette
26 meals: 9 breakfasts (days 2-10) 8 lunches (days 2-9) 9 dinners (days 1-9)

Plus

Exclusive Titan drinks party on board
Included onboard drinks package
Varied daytime activities, lectures, talks and evening entertainment
2 formal nights
Titan’s VIP door-to-door travel service
Titan tour manager

Day 1 - Dover

Titan’s VIP door-to-door travel service collects you from home for your journey to Dover. Embark our ship in preparation for a late evening sailing.

Bolette (3.5-star)
Day 2 - Cherbourg, France

As one of Normandy’s port towns, Cherbourg has an interesting seafaring history, which can be discovered in the Citè de la Mer ('City of the Sea') museum. It’s home to a Titanic exhibition (Cherbourg was her first port of call on her fateful voyage), as well as La Redoubtable, the world's largest submarine open to visitors. As Normandy is a region famous for its apples, cider, mussels, and rich butters and cheeses, don’t miss the opportunity to try some of these in one of the many restaurants. Or just wander through the large markets of fresh fish, delicatessens and flowers.

Bolette (3.5-star)
Day 3 - Saint-Malo

Originally a fortified island, the walled city of Saint-Malo was once a stronghold for privateers (pirates approved by the king) and a visit here is like stepping back in time. A grey granite citadel protects the old city, with cobbled streets, shops, restaurants, bars and cafés. At low tide it’s possible to walk to the small island of Grand-Bé, to see the tomb of the 19th-century politician and writer, Chateaubriand.

Bolette (3.5-star)
Day 4 - At sea

As we sail south, you’re free to do as much (or as little) as you wish. Maybe start your day off with a brisk walk around the deck. Or opt for a yoga class. Spend the afternoon learning a craft, or perfecting your golf swing. After your choice of dinner, you can catch a show or dance into the night.

Bolette (3.5-star)
Day 5 - Belle-Île

Belle-Île, ‘the beautiful isle’ is Brittany’s largest island and is split into four main communes. Le Palais is the island’s hub, with pastel-coloured buildings housing bakeries, cafés and shops, and an imposing citadel overlooking the harbour. Sauzon is a pretty fishing village close to the magnificent La Pointe des Poulains - a magnificent area of rocky coastline dominated by a lighthouse. Locmaria in the southeast has some excellent beaches, while Bangor is a great place to start for those looking to explore the island’s wild coast. Ship to shore tender service.

Bolette (3.5-star)
Day 6 - Bordeaux (overnight)

Widely regarded as the world’s wine capital, Bordeaux is actually a graceful city with much more to offer. Spend the day exploring, perhaps starting with a scenic wander along the banks of the Garonne River to get a feel for this exciting destination. This UNESCO-listed city of art is home to some 362 historic monuments and many museums, galleries, squares and gardens.

Bolette (3.5-star)
Day 7 - Bordeaux - Cruising Gironde and Garonne Rivers

Depart Bordeaux early morning and begin your scenic sailing along the beautiful French waterways of the Gironde and Garonne Rivers. The Garonne flows through beautiful French countryside and towns, presenting you with stunning views to enjoy from the ship.

Bolette (3.5-star)
Day 8 - At sea

With a variety of experiences, events, classes and much more to enjoy, each day on board can be as varied as you wish. Perhaps start your days with an energising early morning workout in the fully equipped fitness centre or refreshing walk on the open decks; try your hand at bridge, bingo, shuffle board and deck quoits after lunch, or perhaps indulge with a traditional afternoon tea; then in the evenings, enjoy sumptuous, five-course á la carte dining or a tasty buffet before catching a show - the choice is always yours.

Bolette (3.5-star)
Day 9 - Honfleur

Honfleur in northern France's Lower Normandy region is a quaint little port with a rich cultural and artistic heritage. Its old harbour, Vieux-Bassin, has tall 15th and 16th-century architecture towering over it. From the harbour you can explore a maze of cobbled streets, leading to galleries, churches and gift shops. Maybe visit St Catherine’s Church constructed by shipbuilders in the 15th century, the biggest timber-built church in the country.

Bolette (3.5-star)
Day 10 Dover

We arrive back early this morning and your Titan vehicle will be waiting for the journey home.

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