Ten years ago, to celebrate my 60th, Jane and I boarded the Seabourn Legend in Monaco.
We arrived the day before and stayed in Monaco, at the boutique Columbus Hotel, part owned by David Coulthard.
Michael and Posie Yeomans joined us from their home in Cannes for a fine alfresco dinner in the hotel and the next morning we explored the Principality with Michael. The Seabourn Legend was moored on the breakwater amongst the magnificent gin palaces. She was not much larger than them. A 208 passenger, 6 star, all inclusive vessel. We boarded her in time for lunch and had a wonderful cruise which took in Portofina, Corsica, Sardinia and Elba.
This Sunday, our very much larger Queen Elizabeth edged into that same berth on the breakwater. It was a magnificent piece of seamanship by Captain Inger. At the time it didn’t appear possible to fit into the gap alongside two large yachts of the multi million pound variety, but she made it look easy.
Monaco was setting up for a Classic Yacht race week, and massive marquees were being constructed around the harbour. Some classic yachts had already arrived and appeared to be sneaking in a little early practice.
In addition four super yacht builders had set up under the Yacht Club de Monaco for demonstrations throughout the day. There were a dozen massive vessels being taken in and out of the harbour with prospective purchasers aboard. Plenty to watch all day.
We enjoyed a day around the harbour and managed to get ourselves into the middle of the marina amongst a plethora of Ferraris and Bentleys sitting alongside the yachts. For some reason no one invited us aboard.
Yet again the weather was superb. Clear blue sky and a lovely temperature. We left our berth just before midnight and set off for the bonus port of Toulon.