We have driven from Paris to Normandy and by car it is much more educational. Have gone by Cruise many times and they are also good. One thing you will find by car is that all of the little roads leading around Normandy are names of "enlisted men". No officers, etc. Also there are a number of statutes honoring freedom fighters, etc. There is so much to see it is critical that if you rent a car to be sure to allow time to get back to the ship as it will leave without you if you are not on one of their excursions. Also, be sure to obey the speed limits as you don't want to miss ship because of a ticket, etc. I would highly recommend you go to Barnes and Nobel and pick up a road map of France/the area so you feel comfortable renting a car and seeing the sites. HAVE A GREAT TIME.
