This September, I had the pleasure of experiencing my very first river cruise with Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours—a company that’s been close to my heart ever since I entered the travel industry. Scenic was the first river cruise line I learned about as a young travel agent, and over the years, my appreciation for their commitment to excellence has only deepened. With such a wonderful relationship established, stepping aboard a Scenic river cruise felt a bit like joining family—a special and anticipated milestone in my career.
For this inaugural journey, I chose to explore the beautiful rivers of Bordeaux, a region as famous for its exquisite wines as it is for its rich history and scenic beauty. I had high expectations, but what I experienced was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment I stepped onto
Scenic Diamond, I was enveloped in an atmosphere of elegance, comfort and genuine warmth, thanks to the friendly, welcoming crew and staff.
The Bordeaux cruise ship,
Scenic Diamond, is an all-inclusive “Space-Ship” that lives up to every aspect of its luxurious reputation.
My arrival was met with smiles and genuine excitement from the crew, from the captains and cruise director to the hotel director, chefs, front- and back-of-house staff, and personal butlers. Each person was attentive, well-mannered, knowledgeable and dedicated to creating a memorable experience. This heartfelt service made it easy to settle into the cruise, and before long, I was overwhelmed with a deep sense of gratitude. It felt like a dream—almost surreal that I was actually living it.
As a self-proclaimed foodie and wine enthusiast, selecting Bordeaux as my first river cruise destination was an easy choice. The region is world-renowned for its vineyards, exceptional culinary traditions and unique cultural experiences, so I knew it would provide the perfect introduction to river cruising. The itinerary included several unforgettable experiences, including an excursion to Chateau d’Agassac, a historic vineyard nestled in the heart of Bordeaux. This was an enrichment experience I’d eagerly anticipated and one of the primary reasons I selected this itinerary.
The visit to Chateau d’Agassac was truly magical. We were greeted with Champagne and explored the stunning estate grounds. Adding to the enchantment of the visit was a live performance by a string quartet—four talented women playing violin, viola and cello. The moment was extraordinary, one that will forever be etched in my memory. Listening to their exquisite music against the backdrop of the chateau's wine cellar was like being transported to another world; it was a profoundly moving experience that left me in tears. Witnessing such artistry, surrounded by the timeless beauty of the Bordeaux landscape, was a reminder of how transformative travel can be.
Throughout the cruise, I had the opportunity to explore more of the Bordeaux region, including the historic towns of Saint-Emilion, Fort Medoc and Cadillac. Each location offered a unique blend of history, charm and, of course, red wine. Scenic’s meticulously curated excursions allowed us to dive into each destination’s heritage and character, from wine-tasting tours to guided historical walks and enlightening cultural experiences.
Saint-Emilion, a medieval village with UNESCO World Heritage status, was a particular highlight. The winding cobbled streets, quaint stone buildings and breathtaking views over the vineyards were simply enchanting. We enjoyed an expert-led wine tasting here, learning about the rich winemaking traditions that have shaped this area for centuries. The wine was exceptional, and the setting even more so. There’s something undeniably special about tasting wine at its source, surrounded by the land and people that bring it to life.
Cadillac, too, captured my heart. This charming town, known for its fortified castle and rolling vineyards, offered a more relaxed and intimate glimpse into French rural life. Scenic had arranged for us to sample local wines, and the entire experience, from the scenic drive to the warm welcome we received, felt like an authentic immersion into Bordeaux’s soul.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Scenic experience is the level of detail they put into every part of the journey. The all-inclusive nature of the cruise meant I never had to think twice about anything - every meal, drink and excursion was thoughtfully provided. Dining onboard was a delight, with expertly prepared dishes that celebrated local ingredients and French culinary tradition. The food was exquisite, and each meal felt like an event, complete with wines chosen to complement each course. As a lover of fine cuisine, I truly appreciated the dedication Scenic’s culinary team put into making every meal special.
Reflecting on this journey, I’m struck by how the Bordeaux region has left an indelible mark on me. From the picturesque landscapes to the warmth of the people, Bordeaux has found a place in my heart. The memories I made on this cruise, particularly those moments spent at Chateau d’Agassac and the beautiful village of Saint-Emilion, evoke a sense of joy and nostalgia that I’ll cherish forever. Bordeaux now has a warmth and familiarity that brings a smile to my face, and I am already looking forward to returning one day.
This first river cruise with Scenic has only strengthened my admiration for the company and the extraordinary experiences they create. They’ve set a high standard for river cruising that I know will be hard to match. I wholeheartedly recommend a Scenic river cruise to anyone seeking an unparalleled blend of luxury, culture and connection. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a newcomer to river cruising, Scenic offers a journey that promises unforgettable memories and a genuine sense of wonder.
Our agency is a Scenic Diamond agency. What does that mean for guests?
Being a Scenic Diamond Agency means that our agency has achieved a special status with Scenic Cruises, recognising its commitment to providing exceptional service and expertise in selling Scenic's luxury river and ocean cruises as well as their sister brand Emerald Cruises.
Key Features of a Scenic Diamond Agency
- Expert Knowledge: Agents are well-trained in Scenic's offerings, including the unique features of their ships, itineraries and onboard experiences.
- Personalised Service: Agencies provide tailored travel planning to meet individual client needs, ensuring a seamless booking process and an unforgettable experience.
- Exclusive Benefits: Scenic Diamond Agencies often have access to exclusive promotions, offers and amenities that can enhance the overall travel experience for clients.
- Client Support: These agencies typically offer dedicated support throughout the booking process and during the trip, ensuring clients have assistance whenever needed.
- Strong Partnership: Being a Scenic Diamond Agency indicates a strong relationship with Scenic Cruises, which often results in better communication, resources and updates on new itineraries and offerings.
- Commitment to Quality: Agencies strive to maintain high standards of service and are dedicated to delivering luxury travel experiences that reflect Scenic's brand values.
Choosing a Scenic Diamond Agency can enhance your cruise planning experience, ensuring that you receive expert advice and exceptional service tailored to your travel aspirations.
Contact me to book your next Scenic Luxury Tour or Cruise, you won't regret it! Your experience will be one you won't forget with Scenic!