Marseille is a fantastic city for food and fun on the water, especially if you’re looking to combine buffet dining with scenic views. The city’s coastline, with its rugged cliffs and shimmering sea, provides the perfect backdrop for evening cruises. What sets these experiences apart is the chance to enjoy local organic wines, fresh seafood, and stunning sunsets while gently sailing the Mediterranean. Our favorite is the Sunset Boat Cruise with Buffet and Organic wine, which offers a peaceful, electric-powered boat ride that highlights Marseille’s natural beauty without the loud noise of engines.
If you’re someone who appreciates a longer, more relaxed outing, the Sunset catamaran cruise is a great choice—combining a 4-hour trip with swimming stops, a bio-sourced buffet, and open deck lounging. For those who want a truly romantic and scenic evening, the Evening sailboat trip to the Calanques du Frioul offers a sunset with a splash of luxury on a sailboat, with the chance to snorkel and enjoy music as the sun dips behind the islands. Finally, for authentic charm, the Sunset on a sailboat with Provence wine aboard La Flaneuse provides a classic Provençal sailing experience, perfect for lovers of tradition and tranquility.
1. Marseille: Sunset Boat Cruise with Buffet and Organic wine
This 3.5-hour cruise is a favorite for its combination of relaxation, scenic views, and local flavor. Starting from either the Hôtel de Ville or another central location, you’ll hop aboard an electric boat that’s surprisingly quiet—no loud engines here. The cruise includes a swimming stop at the Frioul Islands, giving you a chance to cool off in clear waters before enjoying a buffet-style dinner with organic wines onboard.
What makes this trip stand out is its peaceful ambiance—no loud music or noisy engines, just the gentle hum of the electric boat and the sounds of the sea. The panoramic views of Marseille’s coastline and the Frioul Islands are breathtaking, especially at sunset. Guests typically appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and high-quality organic wines, which pair perfectly with the fresh buffet.
Guests who have taken this cruise often mention the amazing sunset views and the opportunity to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. The two drop-off points make it convenient, and the 3.5-hour duration strikes a nice balance between exploration and relaxation.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a tranquil, scenic evening with good food and wine in a stunning setting. A top pick for couples or anyone wanting a romantic, no-pressure cruise.
2. Marseille: Sunset catamaran cruise, buffet & drinks
This 4-hour catamaran cruise offers a relaxed, social experience, perfect for sharing with friends or meeting new ones. The adventure kicks off from Massilia skip, where you’ll board a spacious catamaran with plenty of lounging space, including nets, decks, and a rooftop—ideal spots to soak in views and the sea breeze.
The highlight is the seasonal, bio-sourced buffet, served onboard, emphasizing local ingredients. During the trip, you’ll stop at the Frioul archipelago for an optional swim, then continue sailing as the sun dips. The open deck and music create a laid-back atmosphere, ideal for enjoying the romantic colors of sunset over the sea.
Guests rave about the flexibility of the space, the quality of the food, and the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters. The multiple stops and longer duration (4 hours) make it suitable for those wanting a laid-back, immersive experience. The onboard drinks complement the meal, ensuring you’re well-hydrated and happy.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers craving a longer, social cruise with organic food, swimming, and open-air lounging. A hit for groups wanting a fun, scenic evening.
3. Marseille: Evening sailboat trip to the Calanques du Frioul with buffet and organic wine
This 3.5-hour sailboat experience offers a more intimate and elegant way to see Marseille’s coastline. Departing from Quai du Port, you’ll sail out on a traditional boat, enjoying a spectacular sunset over the Calanques du Frioul. Along the way, you’ll stop for a swim in a hidden cove—an ideal way to unwind.
The highlight is the onboard meal paired with organic wines, served as you watch the sun set over the islands. The trip includes scenic views of Marseille by night, making it a favorite for romantic couples and photo enthusiasts. The snorkeling opportunity adds an adventurous touch, while the music and relaxed sailing pace keep the vibe festive yet peaceful.
Guests appreciate how this trip combines luxury sailing with authentic local flavors. The scenic route along the coast and the chance to snorkel make this trip stand apart. It’s best suited for travelers seeking a more refined, romantic experience with a focus on scenery and cuisine.
Bottom Line: An elegant choice for couples and those celebrating special occasions, offering sunset sights, swimming, and a memorable meal in a serene setting.
4. Marseille: sunset on a sailboat, buffet, and Provence wine
This is the most intimate tour on our list, with just 11 reviews and a 5-star rating. Boarding La Flaneuse, an authentic Provençal sailing ship, you’ll set off from Marseille’s old port for a classic sailing adventure that combines sunset views, local wine, and a peaceful cruise.
The trip features a sailing experience rather than motorized cruising, giving you a real sense of traditional maritime life. As the sun dips behind the coastline, you’ll enjoy a buffet onboard, paired with Provence wines, in a relaxed, convivial atmosphere. This tour is ideal for those wanting an authentic sailing experience with a focus on local flavors and scenic beauty.
Guests often describe it as a “magical evening,” praising the genuine sailing feel and the quality of the wine and food. The limited number of participants ensures a personal touch, making it perfect for romantic outings or small groups.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers looking for an authentic, relaxed sailing experience with a focus on local wine and scenery. It’s a great pick for a quieter, more refined evening.
How to Choose Your Marseille Buffet Experience
When selecting your ideal water-based buffet experience in Marseille, think about your priorities. If you want a quiet, scenic cruise with organic wine, the Sunset Boat Cruise is a solid choice. For a longer, social outing with swimming and open decks, the Sunset catamaran offers great value. If romantic sailing and sunset views are your focus, the Evening sailboat to the Calanques provides a more intimate experience. Lastly, for a true Provençal sailing adventure with a personal touch, the Sunset on a sailboat is perfect.
Consider your budget, how long you want to be on the water, and whether you prefer a more relaxed or lively atmosphere. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular sunset trips, to secure your spot.
In summary, Marseille offers a diverse range of buffet experiences on the water—from peaceful electric boat cruises to lively catamaran adventures and authentic sailing trips. Whether you’re after a romantic sunset, a fun group outing, or an authentic Provençal journey, there’s an option that fits your style. For a memorable evening, these tours are well worth the time and money—just be sure to reserve ahead and enjoy the best of Marseille’s seaside hospitality.