Aix en Provence is famous for its charming streets, vibrant markets, and stunning countryside, but it’s also a great base for exploring nearby waters and coastlines. Whether you’re after a relaxing boat ride along the Mediterranean or an active day exploring canyon gorges, the region offers several memorable options. We especially love the Provence Day Trip with Cassis Village Boat Ride and Local Wine Tasting for its combination of scenic cruising, small group intimacy, and authentic wine experiences. If you’re craving something more luxurious and private, the Mediterranean Dream tour offers a personalized boat trip plus a visit to Marseille’s iconic sites. For an adventurous twist, the Gorges du Verdon trip combines lakeside boat rides with walking through stunning villages — a perfect choice for nature lovers.
Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each of these top-rated tours, helping you pick the perfect boat outing based on your interests, budget, and time. From leisurely coastal cruises to full-day explorations, Aix en Provence has a lot to offer.
1. Provence Day Trip with Cassis Village Boat Ride and Local Wine Tasting from Aix
This popular day trip offers a perfect mix of coastal scenery, charming village strolls, and wine tasting. For around $174, this 8-hour small-group tour (max 8 travelers) takes you from Aix to the picturesque village of Cassis, with a highlight being a boat ride through the Calanques National Park. This stretch of rugged coastline with dramatic cliffs and inlets is best experienced from the water, and the boat ride is included in the price, making it a fantastic value.
The tour also includes a visit to the highest cliff in Europe, Cap Canaille, for breathtaking views and photo ops. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a wine tasting in a carefully selected winery, learning how the wines of Cassis, one of the region’s earliest appellations, are crafted. Your guide will share insights into the local wine tradition that dates back to 1936.
What makes this tour stand out is its small group format, which allows for a more personal experience, plus the mix of activities—walking in Cassis, cruising the Calanques, and savoring regional wines. The tour has received glowing reviews, with travelers praising the boat ride, guide knowledge, and scenic variety.
Bottom line: This tour offers a well-rounded, intimate experience of Provence’s coast and countryside, ideal for those wanting a taste of everything in one day.
2. Mediterranean Dream: Cassis, Calanques Boat Ride & Appetizer
For travelers seeking a luxurious and private experience, the Mediterranean Dream tour is hard to beat. Priced at about $1,035 for a group of up to 6 people, this 7-hour adventure combines a scenic boat trip with a personalized touch. The guide leads you through the Calanques of Cassis, where you’ll explore the rugged coastline aboard a boat that can be tailored to your pace and interests.
The trip begins with a visit to Marseille to enjoy sweeping views from the basilica Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde and a stroll through the Old Port. Then you’ll head to Cassis to relax and explore at your leisure — whether that’s shopping, lunch, or simply soaking up the seaside atmosphere. The boat ride allows for a close-up view of the Calanques’ towering cliffs, and the tour includes a wine tasting at Cape Canaille, Europe’s highest cliff, with unforgettable vistas of the Mediterranean.
What sets this tour apart is its flexibility and personal service, offering an intimate experience for small groups or couples. If you’re after a deluxe, customized day on the water with extra time exploring Marseille, this might be your best choice.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a tailored, exclusive boat experience combined with cultural highlights and leisurely exploration.
3. Gorges du Verdon: Lavender Fields, Picnic Boat Ride & Villages
If your idea of a boat tour involves spectacular natural scenery, lakes, and charming villages, the Gorges du Verdon trip is a top choice. At around $223.55 per person, this full-day adventure (about 7 hours) takes you into one of the most dramatic canyon landscapes in Europe. The highlight is the boat ride in the Gorges du Verdon, where you’ll pilot a small electric boat through the canyon, surrounded by towering cliffs and turquoise waters, with a picnic and local wines included.
Beyond the boat ride, the tour visits Moustiers Sainte-Marie, a beautifully preserved village famous for its pottery and mountain setting. You’ll also explore the perched villages of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon and the countryside of the Provence Alps and Var regions, passing through lush landscapes that are postcard-perfect.
This tour appeals to active travelers who want fresh air, water, and mountains. The boat ride is easy and relaxing, with plenty of opportunities to jump into the water or simply admire nature. Reviews note that the canyon is “gorgeous,” and the picnic “delicious,” making it a well-rounded day for outdoor lovers.
Bottom line: Perfect for those craving an active, scenic day in the mountains and lakes of Provence with a touch of local culture.
How to Choose Your Ideal Aix-en-Provence Boat Tour
Choosing the right boat experience depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. If you prefer a comprehensive day with wine and coastal exploration, the Provence Day Trip with Cassis Village Boat Ride and Local Wine Tasting offers exceptional value and variety. For a more exclusive, private experience, the Mediterranean Dream provides tailored service and added luxury. If your focus is on nature, water, and mountain villages, the Gorges du Verdon delivers stunning scenery and outdoor adventure.
Consider your budget: the first tour offers great value for an all-in-one day, while the second’s higher price reflects its exclusivity. Think about your fitness level—are you comfortable walking and exploring villages, or do you prefer a relaxed boat-focused day? Also, check the time of year; summer months bring optimal weather for water-based activities.
Booking early is wise, especially in high season, to secure your preferred date and group size. Each of these tours promises an authentic taste of Provence’s natural beauty and culture — all from the comfort of a boat or by boat.
In summary, Aix en Provence provides a range of compelling boat tours, from scenic coastlines and wine tastings to canyon explorations. For those seeking a balanced experience, the Provence Day Trip hits the sweet spot; for luxury and privacy, the Mediterranean Dream is ideal; and for lovers of mountains and lakes, the Gorges du Verdon offers unforgettable scenery. Whichever you choose, these tours help you see Provence from a new perspective — on water, in the mountains, and along its charming coast. Book early, and enjoy your adventure in this beautiful corner of France.