The cruise that began in Bordeaux April 19 was disappointing in many ways, despite the pleasant and and attentive staff. (The concierge was exceptionally helpful.)

1. It began with a stench from a sewage pump-out that for hours permeated our cabin so strongly that you could taste it.

2. The best cruising on the planned itinerary, from Bordeaux to Cadillac along the Garonne, was cancelled, but not, as we were told on board, because of river conditions. The real reason was that the boat didn't have a permit to turn around in the river at Cadillac, and the dock there required some work to accommodate the new class of longer ships. Read more