This 7day cruise was the 2nd of 2 back to back cruises on Royal Princess. We had started this journey with our "dream" of going to Malta being dashed with an unannounced change of itinerary by Princess. We were never advised of the change even though we continued to receive numerous emails promoting services onboard prior to sailing. However, that is another story.
We really enjoyed the itinerary of this 7 day sector, and after the first 7 days were really beginning to feel at home. The most memorable aspects were the service staff, who with a few exceptions, were excellent, meeting so many people from the more than 60 different countries represented on the passenger list, and the cruise excursions we chose. The least memorable was the generally uninspiring entertainment offered, with the exception of Angela and her group Indigo. We were not at all tempted by the choice of movies "under the stars", lots of violence and noise reverberating around the main deck area.
Our stateroom was very pleasant and spacious. As others have mentioned the towels were old and thin and the pump shower products were a nuisance, but we loved being so well looked after by our room attendants. We had to change staterooms since we purchased the 2 cruises separately but this was painless as it was all done for us by the room attendants.
Very happy with stateroom. The " obstructed view" was not a problem. We had a lifeboat below our balcony which meant we could not look down but the outward view was fine. We have almost always had to go with an interior stateroom so it was a luxury to have the natural light and the perfect weather meant we could sit outside often and leave the door open at night.
Took train to nearby Villefranche sur Mer to the beach. 10 minutes on the train and a lovely beach although very crowded in August. Cute seaside village with plenty of cafes
Along with over 300 other passengers did the full day excursion to Aix en Provence. Had a great guide who was very informative about their famous son, Cezanne. About half the time was guided and half free time. About 90mins travelling each way from Toulon.
Princess arrange shuttle charging €12 each from ship to old town. Worthwhile because the ship was several kms away from the city. No shortage of return shuttles which was welcome in the heat. A fairly quick few hours in port but city looked lovely. A mix of history and modern.