(7/3/05)  It was hard to believe that this was our last full day of the cruise as we docked in Calvi, Corsica on the western coast,    The week had really flown by quickly!  We started the day with a bus ride around that part of the island – interesting scenery, with mountains and sea – but it was too long.  Sadly, a lot of the vegetation was burned several days before in wildfires believed to be started by “pyromaniacs from France” according to our local guide.  We returned to the harbor and took a walk through the pleasant seaside town before lunch – this time with better food and value at Chez Camille.  Paul had moules et frites again, and I had a grilled Dorade – the whole fish was served, and it was delicious - in spite of the tricky bones.

            Then the chore of packing began – never fun.  (While the women were busy with this task, many of the guys enjoyed a swim or water skiing off the Marina Deck!)  At the end of the cocktail hour the captain introduced the entire staff and crew – a fabulous team thanks to the relaxed leadership of captain Patrick Marchesseau – then they applauded each of us as we went outside for another round of champagne toasts and lots of photos.  Some wonderful friendships were made this week and many of us sincerely plan to stay in touch.

            The farewell dinner was delicious – a scallop and mushroom appetizer, gilled gambas, and delicious duck (other options were salads, fish, steak, etc.).  Dessert was a decadent chocolate mousse cake served with fanfare and sparklers.  The pastry chef was definitely the star of the week from the galley!   Our last night ended with music from Michel and it was hard to say goodbye after such a fabulous week.

Continue at Disembark in Nice