the avid cruiser

Cruise ship transfers from Civitavecchia to Rome's Fiumicino (FCO) international airport can be more than $180 per person - by bus. The cost for seven sharing a private van booked at www.airportconnections.it was $55 per person and could have been less on a per person basis had we filled the private bus to capacity. There are cheaper ways to make the one-hour transfer, but our transfer was reasonable and comfortable.

The lesson: Coordinate transfers with other passengers before leaving home or once on board to save a bundle.

Loading mentions Retweet

Facing a gorgeous sunset over Corsica in Wind Surf's wake, Mark, from Mercer Island, Washington, asked Mozelle, his girlfriend of six years, to be his wife - in front of a deckful of passengers.

Much applause as Mozelle ran to Mark, who was rising from one knee, and jumped into his arms. "Six years ago, Windstar gave me the best vacation of my life," says Mark of a cruise on Windstar in Mexico. There was never any doubt of popping the question, he says. "The only question was when and where." And where better, he adds, than a ship that gave Mark and Mozelle such fond memories? Now they have one more memory to add to their list.

Loading mentions Retweet

An idyllic morning in Porto Vecchio, Corsica - as seen from our breakfast table on Wind Surf. Nearly all of our dining has been al fresco, including dinners at the two evening venues, Candles and Le Marche. Last night, as Wind Surf sailed from Elba, we dined by (electric, but convincing) candlelight aft at Candles. A nearly full moon reflected off the water as our waiter served us a grilled-to-perfection filet mignon with baked potato and all the toppings. The outdoor grill, with steaks sizzling, sets a nice atmosphere. Again, Windstar has been called the industry "most romantic cruise line," and dining al fresco contributes to that romantic ambience.

The night before, we dined on fresh seafood, with a good selection of shellfish also, at Le Marche, an intimate outdoor venue on the upper deck aft. Windstar sails warm-weather destinations, so evenings are comfortable with only a long-sleeve shirt or a wrap.

Entertainment is also offered outdoors. Last night, there was wide participation in "Name That Tune," a team exercise to pencil in the titles and composers of ten popular tunes. The team that correctly guessed the most received a bottle of champagne, and, of course, there was dancing afterward. At midnight, quite a few people were still enjoying sailing under the stars, not wanting to part with the night's beauty. This morning dawned a new day, however, in yet another beautiful place.

Loading mentions Retweet

For €5, the tourist(y) train provides a good island overview. The recorded narration is only audible enough to be annoying, but in a charming Italian sort of way. The driver, however, was extremely friendly, funny and bilingual. Fun and some good history. Even Napoleon would have enjoyed it.

Loading mentions Retweet

Down the gangway and into Portoferraio, Italy, on the island of Elba, Napoleon's exile (no sign of him during our visit - next stop, Saint Helena?). That's the great thing about small ship cruising, easy access to small, untouristed destinations. For those making landfall here in the non-Napoleonic era, internet access is available directly across the street from the pier (€1.50 for 15 minutes) and practically next door, arguably the world's creamiest gelato, made from "fresh milk from bio-farms" (€2 for a small and delicious cone).

Loading mentions Retweet

From Eze Village, it's a 45-minute walk back to Eze-Sur-Mer, where the train departs for Nice and Monte Carlo and points beyond.

Loading mentions Retweet

Be prepared for lots of steps!

Loading mentions Retweet

2 euros and about 90 minutes from the port to the entrance of Eze.

Loading mentions Retweet

Optionally, you may take bus 1 or 2 from the port to Cremaillere bus stop to transfer to bus 112 to Eze (again, only 1 euro). The latest departure from Eze back to Monte Carlo is 18:35. The train offers later return departures (more on that in a later post). Taxis between the port and Eze are approximately 40 each way.

Loading mentions Retweet

After rounding the corner on Rue des Iris, walk up the steps directly in front of you or turn right on Rue des Iris to get to the bus stop A La Cremaillere.

Loading mentions Retweet