Bonjour from France! My French collection of Cruise Port Guides will whisk you away to charming villages, bustling cities and sun-drenched coastlines! From the glamorous beaches of Cannes to day trips to Monaco and Nice, my guides are full of insider tips to help you plan your own unique independent shore excursion and enjoy all the romance, culture and exquisite cuisine France has to offer. Don’t miss my all-time most popular post on Marseille👇!
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5 Year-Round Northern European Cruise Ports: Off Season Tips
Did you know that many Northern European Cruise Ports are year-round cruise destinations? That’s right! Forget the myth that it’s too cold to sail in Northern Europe between November and March! Northern European cruise itineraries continue to head to Hamburg,…
Ajaccio Cruise Port: Discover Old Town, Citadel & Beaches
Ajaccio Cruise Port in Corsica, France is strategically located in the Mediterranean and that has made it a coveted prize in modern history. Corsica was part of the Republic of Genoa (now part of Italy), before it became part of…
Cannes Cruise Port Guide: Promenade, Old Town & Beach Bliss
Cannes Cruise Port, leads you directly to Cannes, the glittering gem of the French Riviera, with its promise of sun, glamour, and a taste of the good life! While organized excursions offer convenience, exploring Cannes independently puts you in the…
Cherbourg France Cruise Port Guide: Titanic & WWII History
Nestled on the tip of the Cotentin Peninsula, Cherbourg France, is a historic port city with a wealth of maritime history, authentic Norman culture and dramatic coastal landscapes. Cherbourg Cruise Port is also the world’s largest artificial harbour! Its official…
Decoding Cruise Itineraries: Guide to Real Port Locations
Are you a beginner cruiser? If you are, then you may not be familiar with the subtle art of port naming on cruise itineraries, where a major city is prominently featured while the actual docking location is tucked away in…
Le Havre Cruise Port: UNESCO Architecture Gem & Harbour Walk
Le Havre Cruise Port is often seen as a boring industrial port and many cruisers take a day-trip to Honfleur, Caen, Rouen or the Normandy D-Day landing beaches instead. While Le Havre is definitely not one of France’s most glamorous…
Marseille Cruise Port Guide: Old Port, Forts & Basilicas
Marseille Cruise Port is one of the most popular cruise ports in the Mediterranean, welcoming over 3 million visitors each year! Located on the sunny southern coast of France, it’s also France’s oldest city and the third-largest (after Paris and…
Marseille Cruise Port: DIY Day Trip to Charming Aix-en-Provence (& Lavender Fields During Summer)
Docked in Marseille and yearning for a taste of authentic Provence? Look no further than the charming city of Aix-en-Provence, a haven of centuries old fountain and vibrant markets. From strolling the iconic Cours Mirabeau to tracing the footsteps of…
Tender Ports Explained & Tips for Stress-Free Tendering
Tender Ports, are a unique and often overlooked facet of cruising. While some cruisers may initially balk at the idea of tendering, these ports often offer a more intimate and authentic experience than their larger, bustling counterparts. In this guide, I’ll explain what happens…
The Greek Isles Beckon: Unique Cruise Itineraries From Ravenna, Italy
Ravenna might be a small and relatively new cruise port, but don’t let its size fool you. This charming Italian city, a 3-hour away substitute for Venice, is your gateway to incredible Mediterranean adventures. While you won’t be tossing coins…
