A charming town in the heart of Bordeaux’s wine region.
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Overview
Pauillac is a charming town and a prominent cruise port located on the Gironde estuary in the world-famous Médoc wine region of France. As a key destination for both river and ocean cruise lines, it is celebrated as the "Capital of the Médoc" and serves as a gateway to some of the most prestigious vineyards and châteaux on the planet. The town itself has a scenic waterfront, but the real allure lies in the surrounding countryside, home to legendary Bordeaux wines.
A cruise stop in Pauillac is an immersion into the culture of fine wine. From the moment you arrive, you are surrounded by the legacy of winemaking, with vineyards stretching to the horizon and elegant châteaux dotting the landscape. It is the perfect opportunity to embark on an exclusive tour, learn about the art of winemaking, and taste some of the world’s most sought-after vintages directly at the source.
Pauillac is the home of three of Bordeaux's five First Growth châteaux: Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Mouton Rothschild, and Château Latour. A visit to one of these legendary estates offers an unparalleled look into the history and prestige of winemaking, with tours of the cellars and beautiful grounds.
Tip: Visits to these exclusive estates often require a pre-booked appointment and are most reliably accessed through your cruise line's excursions.
Embark on a guided tour that takes you on the famous "Route des Châteaux" through the Médoc region. This scenic drive allows you to admire the beautiful châteaux and vineyards. Many excursions include a visit to a highly-regarded château for a tour and a tasting of their exquisite wines.
Tip: You can often find tours that combine visits to different classifications of wineries for a comprehensive experience.
Take some time to stroll along the waterfront promenade of Pauillac. You can see the small fishing boats, admire the views of the Gironde estuary, and browse the local shops. The town has a peaceful, authentic atmosphere and is the perfect place for a relaxed walk.
Tip: Stop at a local restaurant or cafe to try some regional specialties, like fresh seafood or the famous Médoc lamb.
Located in the heart of the town, the Maison du Tourisme et du Vin is an excellent place to start your visit. Here, you can get information about the region, learn about the various classifications of Pauillac wines, and browse an extensive collection of local vintages for sale.
Tip: This is a great place to buy a bottle of wine as a souvenir to take home.
Beyond the First Growths, the Pauillac appellation is home to a total of 18 classified growths, or "Grand Crus." Wineries such as Château Pichon-Longueville Baron and Château Lynch-Bages offer superb quality wines and memorable tours and tasting experiences that are often more accessible.
Tip: These tours are perfect for those who want to experience the best of the Médoc without the exclusivity of the First Growths.
For those who want to see more of the region, a day trip to the city of Bordeaux is a great option. A scenic drive of about an hour and a half, it offers a day of exploring a UNESCO World Heritage city with stunning 18th-century architecture, lively plazas, and world-class museums.
Tip: This excursion is best arranged through your cruise line to ensure efficient transportation and timing.
Aboard
S.S. Bon Voyage
From
Bordeaux, France
14 Sailings
Mar 28 - Oct 24, 2027
Aboard
Marina
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Lisbon, Portugal
1 Sailing
May 10, 2027
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1 Sailing
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Insignia
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1 Sailing
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Insignia
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Helsinki, Finland
1 Sailing
Aug 19, 2027
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Marina
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Reykjavik, Iceland
1 Sailing
Aug 19, 2027
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From
Southampton (London), England
1 Sailing
Sep 11, 2027
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Aboard
Avalon Tapestry II
From
Arles, France
2 Sailings
Jul 21 - Aug 18, 2026
Aboard
Avalon Tapestry II
From
Nice, France
2 Sailings
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Aboard
Avalon Artistry II
From
Arles, France
2 Sailings
Jul 21 - Aug 18, 2026
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