Our wine tourism experiences told through their protagonists

The beginning

More than seven years ago we started to do wine tours at Bodega Crusoe Treasure.

Initially we did not know very well how to create a wine tourism experience according to our wines. As the winery is located under the sea, the visit was complex…

Our underwater winery has had success in the Media, journalists from all over the world visited us. We’ve received them in our small office in Plentzia, in front of the sea, our first germ. Next, we walked along the promenade of Plentzia beach, we told them curiosities of the town, coming on board of our boat, taking them to the place where the underwater winery is located, while enjoying the impressive landscapes of our coast.

We explained them our history, anecdotes, the difficulties we have encountered along the way, how our wines were made and we ended up tasting our underwater wines paired with local products and /or “Basque pintxos”.

Once, one of those journalists asked us: “Why don’t you make this visit open to everyone? Your winery is not conventional and wine tourism visits shouldn’t be either”.

Wine tourism experiences

And here we are, over the years, with much learned thanks to all people from five continents who has visited us. With them we have shared more than just a tour in the winery. We remember their names and precious moments. Many of these people have become part of our family, the Crusoe Treasure family.

Leilani, a member of Crusoe Treasure family

One of them is Leilani, an American based in London. After her first visit, Leilani decided to repeat the experience and celebrate a very special date with her friends and us. Today you can know more about her experience in this interview.

Leilani’s background

Leilani is a business development manager, experienced Senior Category Manager (Scientific Procurement), experienced Laboratory Manager and Research Technician (Cardiology). She likes new challenges and adventures and is currently working at Cannasa, a new premium English beverage brand.

 

Where did you first hear about us?

I read about Crusoe Treasure in a Guardian article.  I was going to visit Bilbao again with friends and I was looking for things to do.  The Guardian article talked aboutthe underwater winery and I was sold!  I reached out about going on the boat tour and pintxos tasting and the rest is history!

What did you think about the winery?

As soon as I read ‘underwater winery‘ I was instantly intrigued.  I first thought we would be diving or snorkelling to visit a winery underwater but after reading the website I could see that there would be no diving.

What did you like about our services?

I was really impressed with the attention to detail and the exceptional customer service.  Anna was fantastic in getting us booked in and giving us all the instructions on where to go on the day.  The icing on the cake was having Borja, the company director, take us on the tour and take us through the history of the company and the wine tasting. 

Were your expectations met?

My expectations were exceeded!  I was also delighted to learn how Crusoe Treasure was supporting the local community with how they bottle and package the wine.

Why did you repeat the experience?

I had such an awesome visit the first time and I knew that I wanted to do something unique for my 40th birthday and this fit perfectly.

 

 

How did you feel when you tasted our underwater wine?

I was so impressed with how the wine tasted!  I had no idea what the wine would taste like and it was very smooth and so flavorful.

 

How would you describe us to a family member or friend?

I would tell them that if they were looking for something interesting, exciting, and fun to do then they should look up Crusoe Treasure.  Actually, I am planning to take my parents to visit Bilbao and go on the Crusoe Treasure boat tour (again!).  They do not really drink wine but the boat tour and pintxos tasting would more than make up for that….and that would mean more wine for me. 🙂 🙂  I look forward to the day when we can travel again!

Leilani we will be so happy to see you again and meet your family!

Soon we will share with you other interviews of more visitors such as Marisol, Carlos, Jimy, Zoe … but those are other stories.

Come to meet us and be part of the Crusoe Treasure family, it will be a pleasure!