Bonjour Bordeaux River EduCruise 2026
CREDIT UNION WINDS OF CHANGE FORUM
September 8 – 15th 2026
Avalon Waterways River Cruises – ‘Artistry II’
Bordeaux, France - Round-trip
EXPLORING LEADERSHIP CHALLENGES THAT WILL IMPACT YOUR CREDIT UNION’S SUCCESS
Planning for the future can be a frightening and risky process. Participants in this credit union cruise/conference will be given a better understanding of what changes are coming, and how to strategically plan for future success. This educational cruise/conference will focus on challenges, opportunities and changes that will impact BOARD, COMMITTEE MEMBERS and YOUR MEMBERSHIP.
Bid bonjour with CU EduCruises to the bountiful beauty of Bordeaux with a captivating cruise on the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers to delight in one of France’s most exquisite regions. Embark from Bordeaux itself, the capital of the splendid Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, famed for its legendary vineyards and wines. Be carried away by Avalon’s signature included Classic, Active, or Discovery experiences of your choice, from the regal histories of castles and Châteaux to the romantic cellars where wine bouquets and bon-vivant cuisine tempt the palate. From unparalleled panoramic drives to forested two-wheel excursions by bike to the delicacies of seaside Arcachon, the world is your oyster on this adventure in la belle vie of Bordeaux!
SESSION TOPICS
This Credit Union EduCruise is packed with powerful topics and useful information, focused around these key strategic areas of concentration:
- Questions that Board & Committee Members Need to Ask
- Leadership Principles for Today’s & Tomorrow’s Volunteers
- Effective CEO, Board & Committee Member Relationships
- Regulatory & Economic Impacts on the Credit Union’s Success
- Key Issues and Concerns Impacting your Leadership Strategy
- Why Some Credit Unions Fail: Learning from Others Mistakes
- And much more …
All Sessions are very interactive. Questions, discussion, and exchange of ideas are highly encouraged. Plenty of networking opportunities throughout this educational journey
Benefits To You & Your Credit Union:
• Receive Free Consultation with our on-board industry leader
• Participate in several networking opportunities
• Review new concepts that can make a difference
• Discover how an effective Board/CEO Team equals future success
• Learn from others about their Credit Unions
• Discover how your credit union can thrive in times of change
• Find solutions to problems your CU is facing today
• Share with other CU volunteers and management staff
SPEAKERS FOR THE SYMPOSIUM
Tony Robinson
Tony Robinson is President & Founder of Credit Union EduCruises, an international destination conference and training organization located in Birmingham, Alabama.
Tony has presented credit union educational sessions in numerous states across America, and also in 24 countries. His sessions include such topics as Credit Union Leadership, Board/CEO Communication, Creating World Class Member Service, Understanding Why Some Credit Unions Fail, Credit Union Board/Management Succession Planning, and much more.
KATHY ROBINSON
Kathy Robinsonhas been involved in the credit union industry for over 35 years. Kathy is the President/CEO of EduQuest LLC, a training and consulting firm specializing in Credit Union leadership development. Kathy has presented programs for the World Council of Credit Unions, CUNA, CUES, numerous credit union leagues across the country and in over 15 countries. In addition, she has served on multiple non-profit boards in a position of leadership. In addition, Kathy is a Certified John Maxwell Leadership speaker.
ABOUT THE SHIP
Avalon Artistry II
The ‘Avalon Artistry II’ is a true haven on the river - two full decks of Panorama Suites with Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Windows that transform the living space into a unique Open-Air Balcony. With 200 square feet, Panorama Suites are more than 30% larger than the industry standard, giving you the rare opportunity to wake each morning to enchanting scenery and fresh breezes. Onboard amenities and services include complimentary computer use in public areas and free Wi-Fi access, a Fitness Center with state-of-the-art equipment, a hair salon, elevator, and a spacious Sky Deck with shade system, whirlpool, deck games, and the delightful Sky Bistro for al-fresco lunches of light grill fare.
Begin with a sophisticated and stylish setting. Toss in a cheerful atmosphere. Add our sumptuous cuisine, wonderful regional wines and attentive service; then sprinkle in gorgeous views. The result — an outstanding dining experience. Our expert chefs create culinary masterpieces that highlight regional cultures and traditions. For those less adventurous, amazing American dishes are always available each day! Early Risers enjoy breakfast in the Main lounge while a full buffet breakfast with made-to-order specialties, accompanied by freshly-baked breads and pastries is served from 7am daily. At lunch, you’ll find an enticing buffet laden with fresh salads, pasta dishes, hot entrees, and desserts, as well as meals to order from the menu; a light lunch option is also available in the Lounge. Throughout the day, swing by the Lounge for tea and coffees or complimentary espresso, as well as pastries and cookies. Dinner is a multi-course affair, accompanied by free-flowing wines and beer.
Every lunch and dinner on board includes free-flowing regional wines as well as complimentary beer and soft drinks. In Europe, complimentary sparkling wine is also served with breakfast. Every evening, there will be a special Networking Event. There is a full service bar that offers a wide variety of spirits most of the day and the night.
Enjoy a wide array of music and song from local entertainers brought aboard the ship several evenings. Dance away the night while enjoying your favorite tune played by our onboard musician. The included Small Group Shore Excursions will take you to the heart of our destination, visiting its most famous landmarks as well as its hidden gems. You’ll find an intensive and immersive introduction to the culture and heritage of the region you are visiting. With Avalon Waterways, there is no waiting in line to visit famous landmarks, no getting lost as your bus drops you off within walking distance from your tour, and no language barrier as all Avalon Waterways guides and crew members speak English.
CABIN CHOICES
Avalon Waterways has mastered the art of blending luxury with comfort, and now - blurring the line between outside and in. Not only are our Panorama Suites on our Suite Ships 30% larger than the industry standard staterooms, our wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling windows open wider than any other, creating river cruising’s only Open-Air Balcony and an open invitation to discover and dream. And speaking of dreaming in our Panorama Suites we've turned our beds to face the window, giving you a bed with a view for the sweetest visions ever. Even if you're a seasoned traveler, you've never seen Europe like this.
Imagine a TV screen measuring 11 ft. wide and 7 ft. tall. That's what we deliver...only better! Every Avalon Waterways' stateroom on two full decks of our Suite Ships features wall-to-wall windows, giving you panoramic, floor-to-ceiling views of Europe's awe-inspiring landscapes.
These wall-to-wall windows - in every Panorama Suite - open 7-feet wide and invite the outside to come in. And unlike traditional balconies, you can enjoy them year-round - at any time of the day, in any weather condition.
Peering through the looking glass to determine how we can continue to improve our cruisers on-board experiences, we have invested in the finest bathroom appointments available and such luxury touch-points such as L'Occitane toiletries, quality robes and slippers in each room, fleet-wide. We've also designed contemporary staterooms with the most available storage space, and plenty of "comfort touches" like complimentary bottled water
PORT & SYMPOSIUM SCHEDULE
Because river conditions are always subject to change, exact meeting days and times can also change on a daily basis. Meeting Times will be announced each evening by your CU EduCruise Group Leader.
Day 1: Tuesday, September 8 – Bordeaux, France Welcome to France!
Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding. Your day is free to explore the city before starting your cruise on the Garonne and Dordogne. Get acquainted with this city, capital of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region and famous worldwide for its vineyards and wines. Flights into Bordeaux must arrive by 3 pm. Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BORDEAUX* *Ship may sail in the evening to Cadillac-sur-Garonne based on tide and water levels.
Day 2: Wednesday, September 9 - On the Steps of Montesquieu
Discovery Excursion: Join a delicious onboard experience in Bordeaux wines with a presentation by a world class wine sommelier. Classic Excursion: Take a guided tour of Château de la Brède, birthplace of Montesquieu, political philosopher and author of “The Spirit of Law.” Visit the fortress-style castle still reflected in its impressive moat. OR: Discovery Excursion: Join a guided visit with wine tasting at a local wine estate. Sip the sweet notes and fresh acidity of Sauternes, the beloved golden-yellow wine. This evening, enjoy live entertainment on board your Suite Ship®. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN CADILLAC-SUR-GARONNE *Sailing to Cadillac-sur-Garonne pending tides and water levels. Alternative motorcoach transportation for today’s excursions provided.
Day 3: Thursday, September 10 - Bikes, Vines and Wines
This morning, enjoy a leisurely sailing to Cussac Fort Médoc. Visit the Adventure Center for today’s activities with your Adventure Host. Active Excursion: Enjoy a relaxing E-bike guided tour in Bordeaux’s finest wine region. You will be amazed by the picturesque countryside while you enjoy a wonderful ride through the vineyards. OR: Discovery Excursion: Take a scenic drive through the famed Médoc wine country and enjoy a tasting of their wonderful wines, with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon as protagonists. This evening, enjoy a brief sailing to Blaye. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BLAYE
Day 4: Friday, September 11 - Fine Art and Fine Bubbly
Ask your Adventure Host for today’s special activities. Active Excursion: Join a refreshing power walk through the historic Citadel of Blaye with your Adventure Host. OR: Discovery Excursion: Join a guided tour to discover Blaye from a different perspective, including a visit to a local art gallery with wine tasting. OR: Classic Excursion: Take a a panoramic drive following the famed Route de la Corniche along the right banks of the River Dordogne, followed by guided visit to the Citadel of Blaye, an UNESCO World Heritage site. Relaxing afternoon sailing on the Dordogne River to Bourg. Classic Excursion: Take a wonderful walking tour in the Citadel of Bourg on the banks of the Dordogne River and visit the carriage museum. Alternatively, join an optional guided excursion to learn how the Fine Champagne of Cognac is made while enjoying a Rémy Martin tasting. Later, enjoy live entertainment on board your ship. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BOURG
Day 5: Saturday, September 12 - The Village Amid the Vineyards
Discovery Excursion: Enjoy a guided visit to Saint-Émilion to discover one Bordeaux’ must-see wine-growing towns and celebrate your day with a wine tasting. OR: Classic Excursion: Join a guided tour of the medieval village of Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site of legends and legendary landscapes. OR: Take an orientation walking tour to discover the history and beauty of Libourne, where wine and wonderful views are cherished in the 12th-century fortified town. You may wish to explore other optional excursions that may be available for purchase on your cruise. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN LIBOURNE
Day 6; Sunday, September 13 - Bordeaux Sights and Brilliant Lights
Join your Adventure Host for today’s special activities. Discovery Excursion: While sailing to Bordeaux, enjoy a pastry demonstration. Active Excursion: Join your Adventure Host for a bike ride along Bordeaux’ postcard river views of the Les Quais. OR: Classic Excursion: Join a guided walking tour to discover the heart of Bordeaux with a stroll amid its stunning squares, avenues, and cathedrals sights. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BORDEAUX
Day 7: Monday, September 14 - Seas, Shells, and Sips
Active Excursion: Join your Adventure Host for a bike ride along Bordeaux’ postcard river views of the Les Quais. OR: Classic Excursion: Take a guided tour to La Cité du Vin, Bordeaux’s iconic wine museum and cultural center. OR: Classic Excursion: Join a full-day guided tour of the seaside resort of Arcachon on the Atlantic coast. Gaze upon its 19th-century architectural treasures and taste its local delicacy of oysters and wine. This afternoon, consider an optional guided excursion to Les Bassins des Lumières for a breathtaking visit to the submarine base where art and music surround you in an immersive experience. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BORDEAUX
Day 8: Tuesday, September 15 – Adieu Bordeaux
Your conference cruise ends with breakfast this morning
Daily Itinerary is subject to change. In the event of water level problems or any problems of a technical nature, it may be necessary to operate the itinerary by motorcoach or to alter the program. Included visits and special features are subject to change. If a change is necessary, a substitute will be offered
RATES
Package Pricing: Based on Double Occupancy
- Panoramic Suite B: $7.244.00 per person, double occupancy
- Panoramic Suite A: $7,347.00 per person, double occupancy
- Panoramic Suite P: $7,399.00 per person, double occupancy
Single pricing is available upon request. Triple accommodations are not available.
CU EduCruises Conference Registration:
$1,950.00 registration fee per symposium attendee if paid by credit card, plus credit card interchange fee
$1,750.00 registration fee per symposium attendee if paid by check
Early Bird Symposium Registration Fee Discount:
Before July 1, 2025 - $200 per meeting participant
Before December 1, 2025 - $100 per meeting participant
** Early Bird Discounts CANNOT be combined with any other conference fee discounts
CONTACT INFORMATION
Contact our FOX World Travel Team at:
educruises@foxworldtravel.com
Toll Free: 1-888-367-2571