Unlike many inland stretches of water, the Garonne in Bordeaux is a tidal river: the water level and current change several times a day in step with the ocean tides that push up from the estuary. This is a feature typical of coastal rivers and has a direct effect on river navigation in the city.
For anyone planning a boat trip, whether a private individual or a business, the tide isn't just a technical detail for sailors: it can affect boarding times, the height of the pontoons relative to the quay, or the speed and direction of the current while cruising.
Its proximity to the Gironde estuary is why the Garonne's waters are influenced by the tide as far as Bordeaux and beyond. The river alternates between the flood tide (rising water) and the ebb tide (falling water), with tidal coefficients that vary from day to day within the month.
Depending on the tidal coefficient and timing on the day of your event, access to the quays, the stability of boarding, and even the effective length of the cruise can vary slightly. Operators naturally factor this into the preparation of every trip, just as they do the weather.
The more tightly scheduled the event (guest arrival times, a caterer, timing for a seminar or corporate evening), the more useful it is to discuss in advance the best time slot for the tide on your chosen date. This helps avoid unwelcome surprises and makes welcoming guests smoother.
The operators we work with know the river and its tidal cycles day to day. This local expertise is one of the things worth discussing when planning your event, so you can settle together on the most comfortable time slot for your guests.