Been to Marseille on NCL Recently?

[Travelling2Some]

I remember reading somewhere on these boards that the cruise line(s) now own the pier in Marseille and are not allowing taxis or any private tour companies to access the ships directly. Depending on where the ship is docked, therefore, it can be a time consuming walk to the port gate to get a cab or meet tour guides. I've been unable to confirm if this is true or not. We will be on the Spirit in November and would prefer to book a small group tour with members of our roll call but would like to know what's up in advance. Anybody been to Marseille on NCL recently? I do know that there is a shuttle to the port gate and/or Old Harbor, but that is not my question. My question is can I arrange a non-ship sponsored tour to pick us up right at the gangplank or not?