Harbour

Bourg sur Gironde

Maximum length: 39 ft
Maximum draught: 9 ft

River port of 45 berths on the right bank of the Dordogne, about 1 nm upstream of the Bec d'Ambès where the Dordogne and Garonne meet to form the Gironde estuary.

Guide

Approach and anchoring

Access from the Gironde via the Bec d'Ambès, then up the lower Dordogne. Strong tidal streams up to 3 knots on spring tides, so enter near high water to work with the flood. Max draught 3 m. The pontoons sit below the fortified upper town and lie exposed to the current, so moor with doubled lines and springs and lock the rudder amidships. About an hour after slack, especially after low water, a tidal wave sets the pontoon rocking, and passing river cruisers throw a heavy wake. A wreck lies near the pontoons.

Practical

45 berths on pontoons, water and electricity on the quay, though space is limited and availability is uncertain. Capitainerie managed by the municipality, with berthing help from the Club Nautique Bourguais; the pontoon gate opens by digital code. Bakery, butcher, small supermarket and restaurants within 300 m in the upper town above the port, a Carrefour Market about 15 minutes on foot.

Ashore

Fortified old town on a limestone bluff above the river, with ramparts and the Château de la Citadelle at 400 m from the port. Bourg is the seat of the Côtes de Bourg wine appellation, with several domaines open for tasting within 3 km. Véloroute Roger Lapébie and Canal des 2 Mers à Vélo pass nearby.