CRUISE THE FRENCH RIVIERA

Enjoy the glamour of an all-inclusive trip on a Club Med schooner

- HEATHER SEABROOK

Just before landing in Nice on an early-morning flight, I spy Club Med 2's unique quintet of masts in the harbour. The schooner is hard to miss it's one of the largest sailing cruise ships in the world. However, being less than half the size of some 'floating city' cruise ships, it has access to smaller ports that larger vessels can't reach perfect for a Riviera cruise.

If you've ever been to a Club Med resort, you'll know the iconic French travel brand is famed for its all-inclusive policy, developed by founder Gérard Blitz in the 1950s to eliminate the hassle of carrying cash. Club Med 2 is like a floating version of a resort, with two chic restaurants, spacious cabins and an interior that evokes 1960s French Riviera style – think aqua blues and nautical- inspired art installations.

ALL ABOARD

Kicking off with drinks in Le Cannes bar at the stern, followed by a gourmet buffet, we sail away at 8pm with all crew standing to attention on the stairways. Sails were dramatically unfurled to the soundtrack of Conquest of Paradise by Vangelis – a sight to behold!