Marseille: Calanques Sailing Cruise with Lunch and Wine offers an inviting way to explore the stunning coastline south of France. For about $152 per person, you get a full day of sailing aboard a beautifully maintained 1949 schooner, with stops for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the breathtaking Calanques National Park. Expect a leisurely pace, informative guides, and the chance to relax while taking in the gorgeous scenery.
Two things we particularly love about this tour are its focus on authentic sailing on a classic vessel and the well-curated vegetarian meal that’s served on board. These details show genuine care for both the experience and the environment. One potential downside is that the weather can influence the sailing—if the wind’s not cooperating, you may spend more time motoring than sailing. Nevertheless, this cruise suits travelers who enjoy beautiful natural landscapes, good company, and a relaxed pace. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate authentic sailing experiences and a scenic escape from the city hustle.
Key Points
- Authentic sailing on a 1949 schooner provides a classic maritime experience.
- Multiple swimming and snorkeling stops allow you to enjoy crystal-clear waters and marine life.
- Gourmet vegetarian lunch made with seasonal ingredients, served with a glass of rosé.
- Knowledgeable guides help you better understand the area’s highlights.
- Spectacular views of the Calanques and Riou archipelago make for memorable photo opportunities.
- Excellent reviews reflect great value and enjoyable atmosphere.
A Classic Sailboat Adventure in the South of France
If you’re visiting Marseille and crave a blend of sea, scenery, and serenity, this Calanques sailing trip fits the bill. You’ll hop on a beautifully maintained 1949 wooden schooner—a vessel with history and character—at the Old Port, just steps from some of the city’s best cafes and shops. The experience promises a full day, approximately from 10:00 AM to around 5:00 PM, exploring the famous Calanques with a few stops for swimming, sunbathing, and underwater exploration.
The tour’s starting point is 72 Quai du Port, just next to the ferry terminal, making it easily accessible whether you’re staying centrally or arriving by cruise. The crew greets you with fresh fruit juice and coffee, setting a friendly tone right from the start. From there, the adventure begins with a crossing of the harbor, heading toward the coast of the Calanques, a UNESCO-protected area renowned for its spectacular limestone cliffs and turquoise waters.
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Why We Like This Tour
One of the highlights is sailing aboard a vessel that actually sails—not just motors—giving you that true feeling of being at sea. Even if the wind isn’t perfect, the crew’s professionalism and ability to adapt mean the day stays enjoyable. Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and friendly staff, especially Captain Fabio and other crew members who keep everyone informed and comfortable.
The snorkeling gear provided, along with swim and mask options, turns these stops into underwater explorations of clear waters full of fish and coral. Several travelers mention how relaxing and enjoyable the swimming breaks are, with crystal-clear water and stunning scenery making every dip feel like a mini-vacation.
The Itinerary: What’s Included and What to Expect
The day’s program is carefully designed to balance sailing, sightseeing, and relaxation. After meeting at the Old Port, the boat departs around 10:00 AM, heading towards the Calanques with some sightseeing en route, including a brief 5-minute glimpse of Château d’If and visits to the Frioul archipelago, Les Goudes, and Île Maïre. These sights, especially Château d’If, add a historical dimension to the journey, even if only for a few minutes.
One of the core experiences is the time spent inside the Calanques National Park—the actual reason for your visit. There are two significant stops: the first lasts about 63 minutes, giving ample time for photo opportunities, swimming, and a delicious vegetarian buffet lunch. The meal, made from fresh seasonal ingredients, is a hit with many, with reviews praising its quality and the fact that it’s vegetarian—something that can be a rarity on boat tours.
After lunch, the boat continues sailing through the Riou archipelago and other coves, with another swimming opportunity if weather permits. The second stop is about 1.5 hours long, again allowing time for snorkeling, relaxing, and exploring. The day wraps up with a final water cruise through the Riou islands, returning to the Old Port around 5:00 PM.
What You Need to Know
- The price includes the boat tour, a cold buffet lunch, apertif with rosé, and snorkel gear.
- Not included are hotel transfers, so you’ll need to organize your own transport to the meeting point.
- Be sure to bring swimwear, a towel, and weather-appropriate clothing—the water can be invigorating, and the sun intense.
- The boat is well-equipped with restrooms and a shaded area, but don’t expect luxury amenities—this is a classic sailing experience.
Authentic Sailing in a Scenic Masterpiece
What sets this tour apart from other boat trips is the focus on sailing on a historic vessel. The schooner, built in 1949, offers a genuine maritime feel, and many reviews note how “beautiful and spacious” the boat is. Some travelers mention that sailing was limited due to weather, but even then, the crew’s professionalism kept everyone comfortable and entertained.
The guides’ multilingual skills—French, English, and Italian—ensure that everyone stays informed about the sites and sailing conditions. Several reviews emphasize how knowledgeable and friendly the crew is, often going above and beyond to make sure guests feel safe and cared for.
Water and Food Highlights
The snorkeling gear is a bonus, allowing you to explore the marine environment in the clear waters of the Calanques. Several reviews highlight how crystal-clear water and abundant fish made snorkeling a favorite part of the day. The vegetarian buffet, prepared with fresh ingredients, received praise for being both healthy and tasty.
The wine and coffee served during the cruise help elevate the experience, creating a relaxed, convivial atmosphere. Many guests mention the rosé as a perfect accompaniment to the scenic views and good company.
The Reviews Tell the Story
With over 350 reviews averaging a 4.7 out of 5, this tour consistently garners praise. Travelers describe it as a “beautiful day”, a “must-do”, with several pointing out the professional crew and high-quality food. For example, a reviewer from Austria calls it a “nice day with summer feeling” and swimming stops, while an American mentions the “relaxing experience” and excellent snorkeling.
Some highlight the value for money, stating that the trip offers more than enough for the price—especially given the included lunch, drinks, and snorkeling gear. Even with occasional weather limitations, many reviews note that the overall atmosphere, scenery, and friendly staff made it worthwhile.
A recurring theme is the relationship between the crew and guests, with many describing the staff as helpful, knowledgeable, and warm—key ingredients for a memorable day at sea.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This Calanques sailing cruise appeals most to nature lovers, sailing enthusiasts, and those wanting a relaxing, scenic escape. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy being on the water, exploring marine environments, and savoring good food and wine in a laid-back setting. If you’re not comfortable with strong currents or cold water, keep in mind that some stops depend on weather conditions, and the water can be quite invigorating.
It’s also perfect for those seeking a more authentic experience—sailing on a vintage schooner rather than a large tour boat. Families, couples, and solo travelers have all found this tour offers a charming, friendly atmosphere that’s easy to enjoy.
Practical Details for Your Planning
- The tour departs from 72 Quai du Port near the ferry terminal.
- It lasts about 7 hours, from 10:00 AM to around 5:00 PM.
- While hotel pickup is not included, the meeting point is accessible from central Marseille.
- The price includes everything needed for a great day: boat ride, lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and guided commentary.
- Cancellation is flexible—up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—adding peace of mind if your plans shift.
FAQs
Is transportation to the meeting point complicated?
Not at all. The departure point is next to the ferry boat, within walking distance from most central Marseille accommodations or cruise terminals.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and weather-appropriate clothing. Since the tour involves swimming and snorkeling, packing a hat or sunscreen is advisable for sun protection.
Can I participate if I don’t snorkel?
Yes. Even if you’re not into snorkeling, you can relax on deck, enjoy the views, and partake in the food and drinks.
Will I get to sail the boat?
While the crew may allow some participation, this is primarily a sightseeing and relaxing cruise. If wind conditions aren’t right, the boat may motor more than sail.
Are the meals and drinks good?
Absolutely. The vegetarian buffet is made with fresh seasonal ingredients, and reviews consistently praise its quality. The included rosé and coffee add a nice touch.
What if the weather isn’t ideal?
The tour is adaptable. If wind conditions prevent sailing, the crew will still provide a lovely experience—motoring through scenic coves and snorkeling in calm waters.
This Calanques sailing cruise offers a well-balanced day of **sailing, swimming, and savoring in one of France’s most spectacular coastal areas. With a friendly crew, authentic vessel, and tasty vegetarian lunch, it’s a superb choice for anyone wanting to enjoy the natural beauty of the Calanques in a relaxed, intimate setting. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just looking for a scenic day on the water, this tour promises an experience full of beautiful views, good company, and genuine adventure.
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