Marseille-cruise port to Le Panier suggestions

[pcvtmom]

For those of you who have sought transportation from the cruise port in Marseille to Le Panier district, what suggestions do you have?  I've read that there's a free shuttle (poor reviews concerning wait times), cruise ship shuttles (expensive), and taxis (not allowed in the terminal areas).  We've booked a food walking tour, but would like to know the best way to get from the ship to the meeting place.  What experiences can you share?  If it helps, it appears that ours will be the only ship in port on our particular day.  Thanks, in advance!