Bordeaux is a city that shines from the water. Its impressive architecture, UNESCO World Heritage-listed quays, and the flowing Garonne River make boat tours an ideal way to see the city from a fresh perspective. Whether you want a quick 1.5-hour sightseeing cruise, a wine-focused journey, or a full-day private excursion into the Médoc wine region, Bordeaux offers plenty of options. We love the Bordeaux: River Garonne Cruise with Glass of Wine and Canelé for its panoramic rooftop views, live commentary, and relaxed atmosphere — all for just $22. Plus, the Guided River Cruise offers a more intimate, guided experience with local insights.
Bordeaux’s boat tours combine scenic sights, cultural stories, and regional flavors, making them perfect for a leisurely afternoon or a special outing after exploring the city on foot.
Quick Overview
Our list features a variety of boat tours and cruises in Bordeaux designed to suit different interests and schedules. These include short sightseeing cruises, guided river tours, wine and culinary cruises, and even full-day private wine trips into the Médoc wine region. From budget-friendly options like the Bordeaux: Glass of Wine and Canelé cruise at just $22 to an exclusive full-day Médoc wine tour at $879, Bordeaux’s water-based experiences are as diverse as the city itself. Let’s dive into each one!
1. Bordeaux: River Garonne Cruise with Glass of Wine and Canelé
This popular cruise combines sightseeing with a taste of local culture. For $22 per person, you get 1.5 hours on a rooftop boat with 360° views of Bordeaux’s most iconic sights. You’ll enjoy live commentary about landmarks like the Place de la Bourse and the Bordeaux Cathedral, all while sipping a glass of regional wine and nibbling on a canelé, the city’s famous sweet pastry.
What makes this tour stand out is the open bar available throughout the cruise and the air-conditioned interior that seats up to 150 people, making it comfortable regardless of the weather. The itinerary covers major sights like the Miroir d’eau, the Chartrons district, and the Jacques Chaban-Delmas Bridge, providing a rundown of Bordeaux from the river. Rated 4.4/5 from over 3,400 reviews, it’s a favorite for relaxed sightseeing with a social touch.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for budget-conscious travelers wanting a lively, relaxed introduction to Bordeaux with good views, commentary, and regional tastings.
2. Bordeaux: Guided River Cruise
For around $18, this 1.5-hour guided cruise offers a more intimate experience with live commentary from a local guide. It’s ideal if you want to learn about Bordeaux’s architecture and history while floating past monuments like the Place de la Bourse and crossing the Pont de Pierre. The tour passes through the UNESCO-listed Port de la Lune, giving you a chance to appreciate Bordeaux’s elegant riverside layout.
The guide shares insights into the city’s urban development and famous landmarks, making this a good fit for travelers who want more context than just pretty views. Reviewers highlight the great language skills of the guide and the relaxing pace. The cruise includes stops at key sights like the Cité du Vin, where you can later explore Bordeaux’s wine scene.
Bottom Line: An affordable, informative cruise suited for travelers keen to combine sightseeing with educational commentary.
3. Prestige Commented Cruise glass of wine and Canelé in Bordeaux
At around $22.50, this 1.5-hour cruise offers a prestige experience with a guided commentary on Bordeaux’s architecture and UNESCO sites. You’ll enjoy a glass of wine or soft drink and canelé while listening to a guide explain the city’s monuments, including the Cité du Vin and Matmut Atlantic Stadium.
What sets this cruise apart is its luxury feel—an elegant boat with commentary that brings Bordeaux’s past and present vividly to life. Rated 4.5/5 from nearly 500 reviews, guests praise the friendly service and informative narration. It’s a great choice for travelers looking for a relaxed, educational outing that also offers regional tastings.
Bottom Line: A refined, accessible cruise that combines Bordeaux’s beauty with cultural insights and regional treats, ideal for those wanting a little extra sophistication.
4. Bordeaux: Guided Wine and Canelé Discovery Cruise
For $22 per person, this 1.5-hour guided cruise focuses on Bordeaux’s wine heritage and culinary delights. The boat offers 360° views on a panoramic deck, and the tour includes a glass of local wine and a canelé. The guide shares stories about Bordeaux’s past as a UNESCO World Heritage site while pointing out landmarks like the Cité du Vin.
Guests love the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to learn about Bordeaux’s architecture while enjoying regional flavors. The boat is accessible and features an open bar so you can bring snacks or enjoy the included drinks. The itinerary covers both historic sites and modern cultural landmarks.
Bottom Line: Best for wine lovers and foodies who want an immersive, social experience with scenic views.
5. Bordeaux: Garonne River Yacht Cruise with Brunch
Imagine enjoying homemade brunch on a yacht while drifting along Bordeaux’s iconic river. For $64 per person, this 2-hour cruise aboard a classic yacht offers scenic views of the city, including the Jacques-Chaban-Delmas Bridge and Cité du Vin. The cruise includes a full brunch, with seasonal dishes, and an open bar.
Guests appreciate the relaxed, stylish setting and the opportunity to combine a gastronomic experience with beautiful scenery. It’s perfect for special occasions or a memorable Sunday outing. The cruise operates with a small group atmosphere and the boat is fully air-conditioned for comfort.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers seeking a leisurely, upscale brunch experience on Bordeaux’s river.
6. From Le Verdon Cruise Port: Bordeaux Guided Shore Excursion
If you’re arriving in Bordeaux via cruise and have 7-8 hours, this private guided tour is a fantastic way to see the highlights. At $175 per person, it includes a walk through Bordeaux’s core, visits to landmarks like the Cathédrale Saint-André, and free time for shopping or sampling regional foods. The tour is perfect for those wanting a personalized experience with a knowledgeable local guide.
Reviewers praise the comprehensive itinerary and the flexibility of the guide. It’s ideal for cruise passengers who want to maximize their time and see the city without the hassle of figuring out logistics themselves.
Bottom Line: An excellent full-day option for cruise travelers who want a tailored, in-depth Bordeaux experience.
7. Canelés cruise and UNESCO route
This 1 hour 15 minutes cruise highlights Bordeaux’s UNESCO World Heritage facades and historic bridges like the Pont de Pierre and Pont Chaban-Delmas. For $20.18, you get close-up views of 18th-century buildings while enjoying commentary in multiple languages.
Guests rave about the interesting stories and the opportunity to taste Bordeaux’s famous canelés during the cruise. It’s perfect for those who want a short, flavorful introduction to Bordeaux’s architecture and culinary culture.
Bottom Line: A concise, engaging tour for history and food lovers looking for a quick, authentic experience.
8. Bordeaux Cruise Port Shore Excursion: Full-Day Private Medoc Wine Tour
For serious wine aficionados, this private full-day tour offers a deep dive into Bordeaux’s Médoc wine region. Costing around $879 for groups up to 8, it includes visits to Châteaux in Margaux, Pauillac, and St. Julien, with tastings (not included). It’s a premium experience designed to explore Bordeaux’s most acclaimed vineyards.
Guests appreciate the personalized service and the chance to visit famous châteaux not open to the public on regular tours. It’s perfect for wine lovers wanting a luxury, behind-the-scenes look at Bordeaux’s wine production.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for dedicated wine enthusiasts willing to invest in a comprehensive, private experience.
9. Bordeaux Cruise Wine and Canelé Discovery
This 1.5-hour cruise offers a relaxed way to discover Bordeaux’s riverfront while tasting local wine and canelés. Priced at $21.97, the tour includes views of landmarks like the Pont de Pierre and Place de la Bourse. The guide shares stories about Bordeaux’s UNESCO status and architectural highlights.
Rated 4.0/5, reviewers say it’s a nice, informative cruise that’s great for a quick taste of Bordeaux’s flavors and history. The lighthearted commentary and tasty treats make it appealing for casual visitors.
Bottom Line: A friendly, easygoing cruise perfect for those wanting a taste of Bordeaux’s culinary and visual charms.
10. Brunch and cruise on the Garonne in Bordeaux
If you love brunch and scenic cruising, this Sunday experience on a vintage boat is hard to beat. For $64, you enjoy a seasonal brunch on board the Le Maddalena, with views of Stade Matmut Atlantique and the stone bridge. The cruise includes live commentary on Bordeaux’s sights and history, making it both tasty and educational.
Perfect for a relaxed weekend morning, this cruise is praised for its friendly atmosphere and beautiful setting. It’s especially good for families or couples seeking a memorable food-and-sightseeing activity.
Bottom Line: A delightful way to combine gastronomy with scenic water views on Bordeaux’s river.
11. Bordeaux by the Water commented cruise
This 1.5-hour commentated cruise is more casual, at $17.45 per person. It provides live narration about the city’s landmarks as you cruise past the water mirror, Jacques Chaban-Delmas Bridge, and Quinconces Square. The friendly guide and informative commentary make it a fun, laid-back introduction to Bordeaux.
Rated 3.5/5, some reviews note it’s a short trip but still offers a good overview. It’s suited for those with limited time or wanting a more relaxed experience.
Bottom Line: An affordable, lighthearted cruise for quick sightseeing that’s perfect for families or first-time visitors.
$17.45 per person
12. Bordeaux: Farmers Market Tour & Gourmet River Cruise
For the culinary traveler, this 4.5-hour experience combines local market visits, tastings, and a Garonne river cruise. Priced at $198, it includes a guided market tour, sampling regional delicacies, and a 1.5-hour private boat cruise with local wines and food onboard.
Reviewers highlight the authenticity and rich flavors explored during the market visit and the relaxed cruise atmosphere. It’s ideal for foodies who want an immersive, tasty day that combines shopping, sightseeing, and gastronomy.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting to explore Bordeaux’s local flavors intimately, with a comprehensive food and water experience.
$198 per person
How to Choose Your Bordeaux Boat Tour
When selecting the right cruise, consider your budget, interests, and available time. If you want a quick, scenic digest, the Bordeaux: Glass of Wine and Canelé offers great value. For a deeper dive into wine culture, the full-day Médoc private tour is unbeatable but requires more time and budget.
For culinary lovers, the gourmet brunch or food and market tours provide a delicious way to experience Bordeaux’s local produce and regional wines. Meanwhile, the guided sightseeing cruises are perfect for first-timers wanting informative commentary and iconic views.
For cruise times, early morning or late afternoon trips** often offer the best lighting and fewer crowds. Book early, especially for private or full-day tours, to secure your preferred time and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Bordeaux’s boat tours offer a versatile way to experience the city’s architecture, history, and gastronomy. Whether you prefer a relaxed cruise with wine, a guided exploration, or a full-day private wine adventure, there’s something for all. For those on a budget, quick scenic trips like the Commented Cruise provide a taste of Bordeaux’s waterfront charm. For dedicated wine lovers, the full-day Médoc tour promises an immersive experience into Bordeaux’s world-renowned vineyards.
Remember, early booking is advised, especially for popular options during peak seasons. Whatever your choice, Bordeaux’s waterways won’t disappoint — they reveal a city that’s as much about water as it is about wine.