The Gironde is more of an estuary than a river and is formed by the confluence of the Dordogne and the Garonne River in the south of France. It is the largest estuary in Western Europe, stretching from the Bay of Biscay to a point just north of Bordeaux and measures seven miles across at its widest point. It features a number of different islands, including some which are still home to thee forts that have defended the estuary for hundreds of years. Due to the fact that it is tidal, the ships that navigate it need to take great care.

The towns and cities that you are likely to visit during your Gironde river cruise include Blaye, Pauillic. Whilst Pauillic is famous for the fantastic red wine that is produced in the town, whilst a stop in Blaye is likely to include a tour of its 17th century citadel which was built by legendary engineer Vauban and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These itineraries are often combined with Garonne and Dordogne River cruises.