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Bordeaux
Discover Arcachon's Charm & Pilat Dune: Private Bordeaux Shore Trip
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shore excursions
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Shore Excursions
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08 hours
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Small Groups ( 2~8 )
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Quiet
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Multi-languages
Deutsch English Español Français Italiano
- Highlights
- Program
- Gallery
- Know before
- Meeting point
- Inc. / Exc.
- FAQ
Select options and Book
Check availability
Highlights
- Option for a private bay cruise on a traditional Pinasse
- See the breathtaking views atop Pilat Dune
- Stroll the charming Arcachon bayfront and beaches
- Taste oysters fresh from the bay with white wine
- Pickup right at your Bordeaux cruise ship
Program & Itinerary
Private Shore Excursion from Bordeaux to Arcachon Bay & Dune du Pilat
Embark on a private shore excursion from Bordeaux Cruise Port to the elegant seaside resort of Arcachon. Enjoy Atlantic beaches, traditional oyster villages, and your choice of climbing Europe’s highest sand dune or cruising the bay by traditional boat.
Pick up at your cruise ship in Bordeaux
In the morning, your English-speaking driver/guide will meet you directly at your cruise ship in Bordeaux. After presenting the itinerary and options for the day, board your comfortable, air-conditioned Mercedes minivan and leave the city behind for the Atlantic coast.
Travel in comfort to Arcachon
Relax in a spacious premium minivan that can accommodate up to 8 guests, equipped with an on-board PA system so you can hear your guide clearly, plus Wi‑Fi and bottled water. As you drive, learn about the history of Arcachon, a 19th-century seaside resort created for sea bathing and fresh-air escapes.
Discover Arcachon’s oyster sheds & tasting
On arrival, explore the traditional oyster-farming villages around Arcachon Bay, where colorful wooden huts line the shore. Visit a local producer for an oyster tasting and sample fresh oysters typically served with baguette, lightly salted butter, and a glass of white wine. If you are not an oyster fan, alternative local snacks such as charcuterie can usually be arranged, and there is always the opportunity to enjoy a glass of wine.
Lunch by the water
For lunch (at own expense), your guide will recommend one of the many quality seafood restaurants along the waterfront. Enjoy dishes featuring fish, shellfish, and regional specialties, ideally paired with a glass of Bordeaux white or rosé as you take in the sea views.
Afternoon options in Arcachon Bay
In the afternoon, personalize your experience by choosing one of the following options (to be selected at booking):
- Option 1 – Climb the Dune du Pilat: Drive to the Dune du Pilat, the highest sand dune in Europe. In season, a staircase is installed to make the climb easier. At the top, enjoy sweeping views over the ocean, sandbanks, and pine forest.
- Option 2 – Private “pinasse” boat tour: Board a traditional wooden “pinasse” boat for a cruise on Arcachon Bay. See oyster farms, Bird Island and its stilted huts, and you may optionally add an onboard oyster tasting, picnic, or wine service.
- Option 3 – Free time in Arcachon town: Spend more time exploring Arcachon itself, strolling the seafront, browsing shops, or discovering Belle Époque villas and local arts and crafts.
Return to your cruise ship
At the end of the afternoon, your driver/guide will take you back to Bordeaux Cruise Port. You will be dropped off at your ship with lasting memories of Arcachon Bay, its landscapes, and its seafood specialties.
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Pickup at Bordeaux Cruise Port
Meet your driver‑guide directly at your cruise ship in Bordeaux Cruise Port, review the day’s options, then leave the city in a comfortable, air‑conditioned minivan bound for the Atlantic coast.Meet your driver‑guide directly at your cruise ship in Bordeaux Cruise Port, review the day’s options, then leave the city in a comfortable, air‑conditioned minivan bound for the Atlantic coast.Read moreRead less -
Pilat Dune and La Co(o)rniche Area
Arrive near the Dune du Pilat by the La Co(o)rniche area and walk down to the Corniche beach, where Europe’s highest sand dune faces the Banc d’Arguin and offers spectacular views of Arcachon Bay.Arrive near the Dune du Pilat by the La Co(o)rniche area and walk down to the Corniche beach, where Europe’s highest sand dune faces the Banc d’Arguin and offers spectacular views of Arcachon Bay.Read moreRead less
Gallery
Practical Information
Know before you book
- This is a full‑day private shore excursion from Bordeaux Cruise Port.
- Tour is guided in English by a driver/guide and operates April to end October
- The experience includes oyster villages and an oyster tasting
- You must choose in advance between Dune du Pilat climbing or a optional traditional boat tour
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for sand, stairs and coastal weather
- Bring your own refillable water bottle; plastic bottles are not be provided
- Pack sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) and a light jacket
- Check your ship’s all‑aboard time and keep ship time on your watch/phone
Additional information
- Food included: Oyster tasting with one glass of white wine
This Arcachon Bay shore excursion is best for cruise passengers who love combining coastal scenery, local gastronomy and authentic villages in a relaxed, private format. It particularly suits seafood and oyster lovers, wine enthusiasts, and culture‑curious travelers who want to taste regional specialties directly at the source and learn about Arcachon’s seaside history. Active guests who enjoy light outdoor activities—such as climbing the Dune du Pilat or taking a traditional boat ride—will get the most from the customizable afternoon options, while couples, friends and small families who value comfort, storytelling and flexible pacing will appreciate traveling in a premium vehicle with a dedicated driver‑guide.
Voucher info
- All Bordeaux shore excursions and meeting points are based in the town of Bordeaux, not Le Verdon-sur-Mer or La Rochelle. To avoid missed tours and non-refundable costs, please double-check your arrival port before booking. If you have any questions, contact us for assistance.
Group information
Just get in touch to find out more! Contact us by email: groups@ophorus.com (groups from 8 people)
For groups of 2-8 people please fill out this form: ophorus.com/contact-us/
Meeting point /
Departure
Return
Included / excluded
Included
- Luxury premium minivan transport
- Expert English-speaking local guide
- Oyster tasting paired with local wine
- Access to stunning viewpoints of Pilat Dune
- Guided walking tour along Arcachon Bay
Excluded
- Meals, drinks (lunch)
- Personal travel insurance, expesnes
- Gratuities for the driver/guide
FAQ
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Can this excursion accommodate larger groups?
Yes, the service can handle groups of 8 or more, offering transportation options ranging from private vehicles to large buses -
What can I expect during the Private Arcachon Bay & Pilat Dune Shore Excursion?
This excursion offers stunning views of Arcachon Bay, local seafood tastings, and the opportunity to explore the Pilat Dune, the tallest sand dune in Europe -
How many guests can participate in this excursion?
The private minivan accommodates up to 8 guests, ensuring a personalized and comfortable experience -
Where does the tour start and end?
The excursion begins and ends at the Bordeaux Cruise Port, with convenient pick-up and drop-off at your cruise ship -
Are meals included in the price of the excursion?
Meals and drinks are not included; however, your guide will recommend great local seafood restaurants for lunch -
What language will the tour guide speak?
The tour is guided in English by an expert local driver/guide, providing insightful commentary throughout the journey -
Can I customize the itinerary for the afternoon?
Yes, you can choose from various activities, such as visiting Atlantic beaches or exploring additional villages based on your preferences -
Is there a cancellation policy for this tour?
Yes, a full refund is available up to 72 hours before the activity; no refunds are provided for cancellations made less than 72 hours in advance -
What should I bring for a comfortable day out?
It's recommended to wear comfortable shoes, bring sun protection, and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated -
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, advance booking is required to secure your spot and to choose between climbing the Dune du Pilat or an optional traditional boat tour
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