Cruise port Bordeaux
Port information & tips for Bordeaux
Bordeaux, the world-famous wine capital and UNESCO World Heritage site, welcomes its visitors in the heart of southwestern France as one of Europe's most elegant destinations. The city impresses with its magnificent 18th-century architecture and a lively waterfront promenade along the Garonne, harmoniously combining historic charm with modern quality of life. Right on the riverbank, architectural masterpieces such as the famous Place de la Bourse with the impressive Miroir d’eau and the futuristic Cité du Vin delight visitors. Cruise ships usually dock at the prestigious "Port de la Lune" pier on Quai Louis XVIII. Thanks to this first-class location directly in the city center, travelers can reach the most important sights and charming alleys of the Old Town within a few minutes' walk or conveniently by modern tram.
Bordeaux welcomes cruise ships either directly in the heart of the city at the Quai des Chartrons or at the outer stations of Bassens and Le Verdon. Thanks to excellent connections to the French high-speed rail network and the international airport, travel from the DACH region is extremely comfortable and flexible for guests.
Airplane
Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD) is located approximately 12 kilometers west of the city center and is regularly served by direct flights from Frankfurt, Munich, and Zurich. From there, you can easily reach the central berths at the Quai des Chartrons in about 30 minutes by taxi, or use the direct connection via tram line A as well as the Navette shuttle bus, which connects the airport with the main train station.
Train
The central station Gare de Bordeaux-Saint-Jean is a major hub for the TGV high-speed train, which connects the city to Paris-Montparnasse in just two hours. From the station, you can take tram line B directly to the city center terminal or reach the berths located further downstream in Bassens and Le Verdon easily via regional train or the shuttle services provided by the cruise lines.
Car
Bordeaux is directly connected to the European long-distance road network via the A10 motorway from the direction of Paris, as well as the A62 and A63, making it easily accessible. For cruises departing from the city center, secure parking garages such as the Parking Cité Mondiale are available directly at the quay; additionally, specialized parking services near the port often offer long-term parking including transfers to the more distant terminals.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination area—is generally scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and the notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
