A boat brings a rare setting to an event, but it also comes with rules that a conventional venue doesn't have. Here's how to structure your project in Bordeaux, without any nasty surprises.
Start with four pieces of information: the date (and a backup date if possible), the number of guests, the format (standing, seated, dancing) and the desired length. These, not the boat itself, are what determine what's actually feasible.
A moored boat stays tied up: you keep the view over the river without depending on sailing conditions. A cruising boat moves along the quays, but requires a timing and route agreed with the operator. Our article on choosing between moored and cruising covers the criteria in detail.
Before committing, always ask about:
In Bordeaux, the Garonne is a tidal river. The current, water level and weather can affect the available timings and routes. Get the operator to confirm the slots that are actually workable for your date.
Depending on the boat, catering may be open or restricted to a set provider, on-board kitchen facilities may be limited or non-existent, and sound systems are subject to volume rules. Also ask about the boarding point, access for people with reduced mobility, and the arrival instructions to pass on to your guests.
Compare what's included (crew, sound system, furniture, cleaning, timings) rather than just the price of the boat. A clear quote sets out the boat, the duration, the services and the cancellation terms.
Sein'ario Bordeaux does this comparison for you: you describe your event once, we contact our partner operators, and you receive a single proposal.