Cruising to the Heart of Seville & Bordeaux
From sampling fine wines and tempting tapas to marvelling at the world’s largest gothic cathedral, there are plenty of diverse experiences to discover as Braemar brings you closer to five destinations in Spain and France, including beautiful Bordeaux and stunning Seville – Lonely Planet’s top cities to visit in 2017 and 2018 respectively.
Your visits to Bordeaux and Seville are certain to be highlights of this 13-night summer sailing, thanks to your smaller cruise ship’s ability to navigate size-restricted waterways and sail straight into the heart of both cities. The gorgeous Guadalquivir River is your scenic route to Seville, where Braemar will dock overnight close to Parque de Maria Luisa and the iconic Plaza de España. You’ll be able to discover Seville’s very best attractions without losing time travelling to and from the ship; simply step ashore and explore to seek out sites such as the Moorish Alcázar Palace and the magnificent Gothic Cathedral. Your exploration begins at the end of the gangway in Bordeaux too; the famous landmarks of this French gem’s UNESCO-listed centre are within easy reach, while the nearby La Cité du Vin Museum offers a fascinating insight into the city’s legendary wine culture and cuisine. A full day here also affords you a chance to tour to the renowned Medoc vineyards; all before departing via the picturesque Gironde & Garonne rivers. [ReadMore]
As well as the delights of Seville, the Spanish leg of your adventure also packs in authentic cities in the picturesque regions of Galicia and Asturias, and another ancient Andalusian gem. There’s Avilés, where the modernist Óscar Niemeyer Centre – which Braemar will dock alongside – and a collection of fascinating historic architecture offer an interesting contrast. Here you could sample traditional Asturian cider at a charming rural cider house, too. On the northwest coast, Vigo is ripe for your exploration; sandy beaches, a stunning historic quarter and a scenic bay await. After Seville, three days in Andalusia concludes in Cádiz, where a maze of ancient cobblestone streets and alleys lead to a plethora of impressive historical landmarks and restaurants serving tempting tapas, which – according to legend – originated here. Authentic Andalusian flavours are also on offer at nearby Jerez, ‘sherry capital of the world’. On tour to Jerez, you can also visit the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art for a very special dressage show.
Single supplement offers are available on selected grades on this sailing, please call for details.
Your Itinerary
- Plenty of diverse sights and experiences await you on this 13-night cruise, thanks to Braemar’s ability to bring you closer to five incredible destinations in Spain and France, including beautiful Bordeaux and stunning Seville.
- Bordeaux offers world-famous landmarks and legendary wine culture; while Seville boasts attractions such as the Moorish Alcázar Palace and the world’s largest Gothic Cathedral – overnight and full-day stays in Lonely Planet’s top cities to visit in 2017 & 2018 afford ample time to take in the highlights of each.
- The Spanish leg of your adventure also features the authentic cities of Avilés, Vigo and Cádiz, with your smaller-sized ship docking a short distance from the centre of these Galician, Asturian and Andalusian gems.
Adult Only Sailing
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Southampton, England
Jun 08 | Depart - late afternoon
Considered the 'Cruise Capital of the UK', Southampton is the departure port for hundreds for cruise holidays every year, including a number of Fred. Olsen sailings on our smaller sized ships. But beyond being the starting poing for many cruise adventures, you can be assure that this historic city on England's sunny south coast has much to offer as a destination in its own right.
Whether you enjoy a call at Southampton as part of your cruise itinerary, or choose to spend time exploring either before of after your cruise from the city, you'll find there are plenty of attractions, highlights and sights to discover, showcasing fascinating history and local culture. Perhaps see the timber-framed treasures of the Old Town, including the beautiful Tudor House and Gardens, and visit the Sea City Museum to learn of Southampton's links to the Titanic's ill-fated voyage. Other Titanic-related sights include war memorials, the former White Star Line HQ and the Grapes Pub - wander the 'Titanic Trail' to take them in.
There are art galleries and museums aplenty too, as well as an abundance of places to shop, and a number of trendy bars, restaurants and cafés where you can always stop for something delicious. Alternatively, you might opt to explore nature trails and wetlands near to the city, or simply stroll through one of the green spaces or pretty parks.
Avilés, Spain
Jun 10 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - late afternoon
The Spanish city of Avilés in the north-western province of Asturias, is steeped in history and architectural gems just waiting to be discovered. A former maritime and farming town, the scenic city of Avilés is now one of the country’s most important industrial centres.
The city centre remains stylish and easy to navigate, with plenty of high street stores, pretty cafes and a number of museums and galleries to visit, while the Old Town quarter is Aviles’ finest feature.
Largely pedestrianised, the Old Town consists of several historic squares and plazas, interlinked by a series of pretty boulevards from centuries past. The collection of stunning historic buildings includes the Camposagrado Palace, the Palacio de Valdecarzana – Avilés’ sole example of civil medieval architecture – plus a number of outstanding Gothic churches such as San Nicolás and San Francisco.
Vigo, Spain
Jun 11 | Arrive - late morning | Depart - late afternoon
Situated on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, and with one of the world’s finest natural ports, the Galician gem of Vigo has been an important part of Spain’s maritime industry for centuries. Boasting a wonderful historic quarter, modern marina and pretty centre, this city is alive with attractions.
The historic old quarter – like many of Vigo’s other attractions – is a great example of the influence the sea has had on the city. Located around the port, the Cidade Vella has narrow streets lined with old fishing houses and large markets selling locally caught seafood. The Collegiate Church of Santa Maria is a neoclassical cathedral built on the site of a grand gothic church that was burnt down by Francis Drake.
In the newer part of town, La Colegiata de la Santa Maria la Mayor is a fine 16th century church with an authentic Renaissance façade. The Pazo de Castrelos, dating from the 17th century, is home to the Quiñones de León Municipal Museum and contains a vast collection of paintings and artefacts that demand discovery. Elsewhere, the Castro de Vigo archaeological site has reconstructed ancient dwellings.
Vigo is a firm favourite with many visitors. Its mild climate, renowned estuary and golden beaches of the Rías Baixas, fine mariscada (seafood platter) cuisine and expansive culture all add up to something very special.
Seville, Spain
Jun 13 - 14 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - late evening
Compact, rich in history and famous for its flamenco, tapas bars and orange trees, the capital of southern Spain’s Andalusia region, Seville, is bursting with antique charm. Located on the plain of the Guadalquivir River, Seville’s old Roman city is now home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
World-renowned for flamenco dancing, particularly in its Triana neighbourhood, the city’s significant landmarks include the ornate Moorish-Renaissance Alcázar Palace complex, and the 18th century Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza bullring. The colossal Gothic Seville Cathedral is the site of Christopher Columbus’s tomb and the Giralda, an imposing bell tower built on a minaret.
Many arrive ready to soak up the atmosphere in the city’s old town and explore the cobbled streets of the Santa Cruz Quarter, or rest on the banks of the Guadalquivir to admire the views of the stunning Metropol Parasol project, commonly known as Las Setas (Mushrooms), which helped to revitalise the Plaza de la Encarnación. It is the world’s largest wooden structure.
The tapas scene is one of the main cultural attractions of Seville. Visitors go from one bar to another, enjoying the small dishes. Popular desserts include pestiños, a honey-coated fritter; torrijas, fried bread with honey; roscos fritos, sugar-coated ring doughnuts; and magdalenas, while Seville oranges grow on trees lining the city streets.
The Sevillanos are masters of the art of celebrating and the city’s great annual festivals, notably the Semana Santa and Feria de Abril, are truly awe-inspiring Spanish occasions.
Cádiz, Spain
Jun 15 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - late afternoon
Cadiz, one of Europe's most ancient cities, hugs Andalusia’s sunlit Atlantic coast and is characterised by palm trees, lookout towers and weathered old buildings. Now into its fourth millennium, Cádiz's fascinating Old Town district features huge stone walls from the 1500s and is home to a wealth of historic highlights, including the beautifully crafted 18th century Cádiz Cathedral.
Boasting over 100 watchtowers, including the iconic Torre Tavira, traditionally used for spotting ships; traditional tapas bars serving delicious traditional cuisine and local seafood; and fascinating maritime history; Cádiz offers a plethora of authentic sights and experiences. The winding streets assume the feel of a carnival, packed-out with friendly locals and humming to the sounds of upbeat alegrías (flamenco songs).
Cádiz is also the gateway to the stunning city of Seville, with its maze of courtyards, atmosphere old quarters and ornate churches and cathedrals.
Bordeaux, France
Jun 18 - 19 | Arrive - late morning | Depart - late morning
Widely regarded as the world’s wine capital, the graceful French city of Bordeaux offers far more than just vineyards and claret. Having shaken off its rather sleepy image over the last few years, Bordeaux is now amongst France's most exciting and dynamic cities. While a sizeable number of the city's visitors are still enticed by the chance to taste what makes this wine-rich region so special, Bordeaux has many other surprising secrets.
Stretched along the banks of the Garonne River, this City of Art and History is home to 362 historic monuments, with some buildings dating back to Roman times. Awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2007, Bordeaux’s historic centre is home to the Gothic Cathédrale Saint-André, 18th century mansions and popular art museums, such as the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux, and many other impressive treasures to discover. This urban and architectural ensemble includes public gardens that line the curving river quays, and the imposing Place de la Bourse, which overlooks the reflecting pool, Miroir d’Eau. The Place des Quinconces, one of the largest squares in Europe, is a fine space to while away some hours.
Alternatively, other distractions include barista-run coffee shops, delicious food trucks, and exceptional restaurants and, of course, more fine wine than can ever be possibly drunk.
Cruising Gironde & Garonne Rivers, France
Jun 19 | Arrive - late morning | Depart - late afternoon
The beautiful River Garonne is possibly south-west France's most important river, and arguably one of the region's most picturesque too.
Serving a number of important towns and cities, including beautiful Bordeaux, the River Garonne flows through beautiful French countryside, presenting you with stunning views to enjoy from your smaller cruise ship.
Just upstream from Bordeaux, the Garonne meets the Dore River and forms Western Europe's largest estuary, the Gironde.
Southampton, England
Jun 21 | Arrive - early morning
Considered the 'Cruise Capital of the UK', Southampton is the departure port for hundreds for cruise holidays every year, including a number of Fred. Olsen sailings on our smaller sized ships. But beyond being the starting poing for many cruise adventures, you can be assure that this historic city on England's sunny south coast has much to offer as a destination in its own right.
Whether you enjoy a call at Southampton as part of your cruise itinerary, or choose to spend time exploring either before of after your cruise from the city, you'll find there are plenty of attractions, highlights and sights to discover, showcasing fascinating history and local culture. Perhaps see the timber-framed treasures of the Old Town, including the beautiful Tudor House and Gardens, and visit the Sea City Museum to learn of Southampton's links to the Titanic's ill-fated voyage. Other Titanic-related sights include war memorials, the former White Star Line HQ and the Grapes Pub - wander the 'Titanic Trail' to take them in.
There are art galleries and museums aplenty too, as well as an abundance of places to shop, and a number of trendy bars, restaurants and cafés where you can always stop for something delicious. Alternatively, you might opt to explore nature trails and wetlands near to the city, or simply stroll through one of the green spaces or pretty parks.