Itinerary

I think that's a bit too much. Marsielle itself has a lot to see, despite having a bad reputation I enjoy the city. But if you want something that feels a little more "French Riveria", you can reach the beautiful town of Cassis in just about 30 minutes from the Marsielle train station. You will have to take a shuttle bus from the Cassis train station down the mountain into the town, so pay attention to the schedule at the stop you get off at, you do not want to miss your shuttle, leave plenty of time to get back to your ship.

Thank you so much Sarah. This is our first trip to Europe as well s our first cruise, so all advice is greatly appreciated!

If you get Rick Steves Mediterranean Cruise Ports (the second edition has just been published), you will find not only the answer to your Marseille question, but all kinds of information about your other ports. Marseille is several hours from the Riviera; while there, it's better to see the city itself, Arles, Aix-en-Provence, or Cassis. But your ship is probably making another port stop that's really on the French Riviera (Nice, Cannes, Monaco, Villefrance-sur-mer). From any of these, you can see Grasse. From Marseille, it's just too far (unless you like spending the whole day looking at your watch and sweating).

Pat - check with CruiseCritic.com Ports of Call
board - lots of info on med cruise ports. You can also join your ships Roll Call and meet other who will be on your cruise.

Thanks to everyone for your help.