Wow! I feel truly blessed to have experienced a luxurious cruise on the shining Scenic Diamond along the serene Garonne river. The 6-star service was simply top-notch! It was indeed a remarkable journey...
A short flight from Bristol to Bordeaux and private transfers to our home for the next 5 nights. A quick easy check in where you are handed your cruise card, which becomes your suite key and identity for the rest of your cruise.
We found our suite on the starboard side of the ship on deck 2 with a balcony that you can sit on and a window that glides down to let the fresh air in. There is plenty of wardrobe space and a lovely shower with products from ESPA. You are also provided with bathrobes, slippers and water bottles, PLUS your own butler!
Our first morning was a lovely buffet breakfast then the obligatory safety drill. Sailing down to Cadillac via the Stonebridge, (also known as Napoleon’s bridge) where the captain needs to lower the wheelhouse so we can pass under. Here had a tour of the Sauternes wine region for a Chateaux visit and some wine tasting. This afternoon we sailed back to Bordeaux relaxed and awoke to amazing sunrise.
A walking city of beautiful Bordeaux, with its Cathedral and a walk back to the ship through the local market, selling fresh produce. This is where on an excursion you can shop with the Chef before a culinary cooking class. Should you wish to partake, there was oyster tasting before we set sail to Blaye.
This evening as the sunset, we experienced L’Amour a la carte restaurant, seating just 16 and a wonderful, menu to tantalise your taste buds. We had a walking tour the next morning of Blaye a small town with military history, home to the world heritage citadel, built to protect Bordeaux 40 miles away. Leaving Blaye, we sail to Fort Medoc, an early dinner and then a Scenic enrichment excursion – Classical concert at Chateaux d’Agassac set in the spectacular countryside.
The following morning is a tour of the Medoc region with wine tasting at the Chateaux Prieure-Lichine, we were given a tour of the processing in a full harvest they have over 1000 barrels producing their red wine! Alternatively, you could take advantage of the electric bikes on board and cycle along the riverbank. Back to the ship for a light lunch then a walking tour of Bourg, here we have crossed from the Garonne river and are now on the banks of the Dordogne, a small picturesque town, perched high overlooking the river, cobbled streets, citadel castle and horse-drawn carriage museum. Some local evening entertainment tonight on board.
We then said ‘goodbye’ to the amazing Scenic Diamond. What a phenomenal journey it has been! Each and every crew member has contributed to making this experience unforgettable and awe-inspiring one I am keen to share… This is a perfect cruise itinerary for any wine connoisseurs.
