A Private Shore Excursion From Bordeaux to Arcachon Bay & Pilat Dune

FAQ

• What should I expect on a Shore Excursion with Ophorus?

  As a specialized France Tour Operator and tours & activities provider, we organize worry free shore excursions departing from all cruise ports in France. Our professional team of travel advisors, drivers and guides speak fluent English, are experts in the destination and all our shore excursions take place on board premium vehicles.
  
  All our shore excursions in France include pick up and drop off at your ship, once you have exited the Cruise Port terminal. We will always indicate where your driver/guide will be waiting for you. Our itineraries and programs are customized to suit your needs and never include side visits or stops that you had not confirmed. We guarantee your return to ship on time and have a very flexible cancellation policy. All tours can be cancelled up to 48 hours before the tour.
  
  All our shore excursions are for small groups only, we do not cater for groups larger than 20 persons. Typically, we use premium minivans that will take up to 7 or 8 persons maximum. If your group is larger, then we will provide a small minibus but no larger than 20 passenger seats.

• What type of vehicles are used during a Bordeaux private tour?

  Our company uses only premium cars & minivans that are recent, comfortable and fully equipped including individual A/C, shaded windows and large leg space.

• Who conducts this private tour from Bordeaux to Arcachon?

  This private tour from Bordeaux is conducted by one of our local guides that speaks impeccable English.

• What is there to see & do in Arcachon?

  The town of Arcachon is a lovely small resort town on the Bay of Arcachon. This is where many families from Bordeaux come for week-ends to enjoy the sandy beaches and the mild climate. If you are not interested in oyster tasting or climbing the Pilat Sand Dune, ask your guide to show you around in Arcachon.
  
  One of the most interesting features of here is the Winter Town. Overlooking the town itself and the Bay, the Winter Town district is composed of more than 300 villas that were built during the 19th century. As Arcachon was a 'new town' all architectural styles were allowed and a stroll through the district will reveal some extravagant ones.
  
  Another great option in Arcachon is to walk along the Promenade facing the Bay. Then, enter the town itself and shop for local souvenirs. The town is also filled with great arts & crafts shops as well for those looking for authentic gifts.

• How difficult is it to climb up the Pilat Sand Dune?

  Every year during the summer season between April and November, a special built staircase is installed so as to make the top of the Dune accessible to as many persons as possible. However, this represents a climb of 170 stairs that can be strenuous especially on a hot, sunny day. This activity is not recommended for persons with walking difficulties. Good walking shoes are recommended for the climb of the stairs.

• Is lunch included on this Shore Excursion from Bordeaux?

  No, we never include lunch on our private tours. If you would like to include lunch then just let us know and our team of travel designers will be happy to select a local restaurant for you and make the necessary arrangements. It is also possible for you to ask your guide for suggestions in the morning, on the day of the tour.

• What is a Pinasse Boat and how long is the tour?

  A Pinasse is the traditional fishing boat that was used on the Bay of Arcachon for both fishing and oyster farming. Today, the oyster farmers use more modern boats. Many Pinasse are now being completely renovated and are used for sightseeing boat rides on the Bay of Arcachon. The boats can take small groups of 2 to 12/15 persons depending on the size of the Pinasse.
  
  For the boat tour on the Bay you have several options - 2 or 3 hours or a complete half day that will allow you to reach the Banc D'Arguin. You can include oyster & wine tasting during the tour and it is also possible to have you disembark in the Cap Ferret area for a unique lunch in a local restaurant.