After another sea day after Gibraltar and we were coming to the French Navy’s principal port of Toulon. This was the first new port for us on this cruise. We had seen elements of the Russian Navy pass by in the Mediterranean and I looked forward to seeing some of the French Navy here.
Day 7: Thursday 16th May 2024: Toulon, France
We started our day by having a light breakfast in our cabin. This gave me the opportunity to spend a lot of time out on our balcony as we approached Toulon.
Anchored Submarine
The submarine came closer into view.
On the horizon I could see one of the French Navy’s assault ships.
Arrival in Toulon
Toulon port at Pier Fournel
Toulon
Once off our ship we were immediately looking at the fishing boats along the dock.
The Market
Coffee time
We stopped in a shaded little square to have a coffee and a rest. This cafe specialised in their own coffee blends. I was immediately picked up as being English but apparently I had a “sort of” Parisian accent!
The coffees were delicious so the specialised roasting definitely worked.
Lunch on the steps of the theatre
We picked up baguettes and pastries for lunch and then joined the crowds sitting on the steps of the theatre to eat them.
La Flore sculpture
This is a replica of the bow of the frigate “La Flore”, which was based in Toulon in the 18th century.
More buildings in Toulon
Down an alley I came across this art.
The Card Game (“La Partie de Cartes” )
The is a famous bronze sculpture in Toulon’s Old Town, located on Place Raimu. Created by sculptor Eric de Saint-Chaffrey, the sculpture features life-sized figures of César and Panisse. They are characters from Marcel Pagnol’s film “Marius”. I joined other visitors posing with the sculpture.
Back at the fishing port
We stopped and enjoyed a glass of beer in a busy cafe. The quayside was full of tourists passing by as well as lots of sailors.
