Marseille isn’t just France’s oldest city; it’s also one of the most exciting places to explore by water. With its rugged coastline, clear waters, and dramatic calanque scenery, it’s a natural for paddling excursions. We particularly like the Côte Bleue Calanques Half-Day Kayak Tour because it offers a perfect mix of sightseeing, swimming, and a sense of adventure in just three hours. Plus, you’ll glide past the creeks of Establon and Aragnols, with opportunities to take a dip in the pristine waters. For those looking for a more social outing, the Calanques Catamaran Tour & Standup Paddle offers a boat-based experience with snorkeling and paddleboarding, all while enjoying the stunning Frioul Islands scenery. If a longer, more in-depth exploration appeals, the Sea Kayaking Guided Tour in Calanques delivers six hours of coastline discovery led by a professional guide.
Whether you want a quick paddle, a sunset cruise, or a full-day adventure, Marseille’s waters are calling. Let’s explore each of these top experiences to find the one that matches your style.
1. Marseille: Côte Bleue Calanques Half-Day Kayak Tour
This 3-hour guided kayak trip takes you along the breathtaking Côte Bleue, where the water is so clear you can see the seabed. The tour includes kayaking to the creeks of Establon and Aragnols, with plenty of time to swim and relax on the beach. The group size is small, led by a certified guide who shares insights about the area’s geology and marine life.
What makes this tour special is the access to secluded spots that are hard to reach from land. The calm waters and manageable pace make it suitable for beginners and families alike. Rated 4.6 out of 5 with over 860 reviews, it’s clear many travelers find this a perfect balance of activity and scenery. The price of $64 per person offers excellent value, considering the guided instruction and the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters.
The tour starts from SUD KAYAK, and the experience is known for its friendly guides and stunning water views of Marseille’s coastline. Perfect for those who want a quick, scenic escape with a touch of adventure.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a half-day outing with manageable effort and rewarding views. Great for beginners, families, or anyone wanting a taste of the coast’s beauty.
2. Marseille: Calanques Catamaran Tour & Standup Paddle
For around $65, the Calanques Catamaran and Paddle Tour offers a 3-4 hour escape aboard a comfortable catamaran. You’ll cruise past Vallon des Auffes, Château d’If, and the Frioul Islands, soaking in the scenery from the deck or jumping into the water for snorkeling. The included snorkeling gear and a GoPro for capturing underwater scenes make this a memorable trip.
The highlight is the chance to jump off the diving board into the sea and paddle around in the calanque waters. The boat has plenty of space, with only about 22 passengers, so you can spread out and relax. Like the other tours, it’s perfect for those looking for a laid-back day mixed with activity, and reviews praise the friendly crew and the beautiful coastal vistas.
The combination of a scenic cruise, water activities, and leisure time makes this tour stand out. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a relaxed but engaging day on the water.
Bottom Line: A leisurely, all-in-one experience with excellent snorkeling, paddleboarding, and great views — good for couples or small groups.
3. Guided kayak excursion in creeks
This 3-hour guided tour takes you from the port of l’Estaque along the coast of the Parc Marin de la Côte Bleue. Your guide leads you through small coves and creeks, with a stop at a secluded beach accessible only by water. After swimming and relaxing, you paddle back offshore with panoramic views of the coast and Marseille in the distance.
Rated 4.5 out of 5 with over 50 reviews, it’s praised for its personalized approach and scenic stops. One reviewer called it a “fun time paddling along the coast,” highlighting the combination of exercise and natural beauty. The tour covers roughly 6.5 km, making it suitable for active travelers but still manageable for most fitness levels. The price is around $63.86 per person, offering a good deal for a guided experience with a small group.
The highlight is the private, hard-to-access beach, and the friendly guides who share insights into the local marine environment. The tour’s longer duration makes it ideal for those wanting a deeper coastal experience without the full-day commitment.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want a personalized, scenic paddle with a quiet beach break.
4. Marseille: stand-up paddle tour – discover the calanques
At just 2 hours and costing $53, the Stand-up Paddle Tour is the perfect quick getaway. Departing from Les Goudes, this tour is tailored to all skill levels, with expert instruction from Julien. Paddle through the calm, clear waters of the calanques and discover hidden coastal spots.
The highlight is the personalized approach, which allows for a relaxed, enjoyable experience. Whether you prefer a daytime paddle or a serene sunset session, this tour adapts to your mood. It’s the only stand-up paddleboard tour in the area, making it a unique choice.
Reviewers appreciate the friendly guidance and the chance to explore Marseille’s coastline at their own pace. The small group size ensures individual attention, making it great for beginners who want to learn or experienced paddlers seeking a peaceful activity.
Bottom Line: A short, friendly paddle suitable for all ages, perfect for a quick taste of Marseille’s coastline or sunset magic.
5. Marseille: Sunset Catamaran Tour with Stand-up Paddle & Wine
For a romantic evening, the Sunset Catamaran Tour with Stand-up Paddle and Wine offers an elegant 3-hour cruise costing $65. Setting sail in the late afternoon, you’ll glide past Vallon des Auffes, Château d’If, and the Frioul Islands as the sun dips below the horizon. A swim in a quiet cove, paddleboarding, and a glass of rosé complete the experience.
The vessel holds only 22 people, providing plenty of space for comfort and socializing. The tour’s timing and relaxed pace make it especially suitable for couples or anyone wanting a scenic, restful evening on the water. The inclusion of a little swim and paddleboard adds a dash of activity to an otherwise leisurely cruise.
Reviewers mention the “beautiful views” and the “perfect sunset,” emphasizing the romantic vibe. The only drawback might be the limited availability, so booking early is wise.
Bottom Line: Best for couples seeking a scenic, romantic evening with a mix of swimming, paddling, and wine.
6. Marseille: Calanques Sea Kayaking Guided Tour
This 6-hour guided sea kayaking trip is for those wanting a comprehensive exploration of the Calanques National Park. Starting from Marseille’s coast, your guide leads you along the rugged shoreline, pointing out landmarks like Cap Croisette and natural formations that define the area. This trip covers more ground and offers deeper insights into the area’s geology and natural history.
Rated without a specific score, the focus here is on the quality of the experience. The tour’s longer duration is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to spend more time immersed in nature. It includes learning to kayak with a professional, making it suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
The value is high at $135 per person, given the extensive coastline covered and the guided instruction. It’s best suited for visitors with a full day to dedicate to serious kayaking and exploration.
Bottom Line: A full-day, guided adventure perfect for those who want an in-depth look at Marseille’s spectacular coastline.
$135 per person
How to Choose the Right Kayaking & Canoeing Experience in Marseille
Selecting the best tour depends on your schedule, fitness level, and what you want to get out of your time on the water. For a quick taste, the stand-up paddle tour offers a fun, beginner-friendly experience. If you’re interested in a more immersive, longer trip, the Sea Kayaking Guided Tour provides a full-day deep dive into the calanques.
Budget travelers will appreciate the affordability of the half-day kayak trips, while those seeking a romantic or special occasion outing might prefer the sunset catamaran or the sunset cruise with wine. Families and active travelers will find the guided creek excursion or the longer sea kayaking tour appealing, especially with reviews noting their engaging routes and personalized touches.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular sunset or full-day tours in high season. Consider your fitness level and how much time you want to spend on the water—some trips are short and relaxing, others more strenuous but rewarding.
Final Thoughts
Marseille’s waters are a treasure trove of opportunities for paddling, from quick, scenic jaunts to full-day explorations. The Côte Bleue Calanques Half-Day Kayak Tour is perfect for a half-day escape, while the Sea Kayaking Guided Tour suits those with more time. For a romantic or leisurely afternoon, the Sunset Catamaran Tour or the Sunset Paddle & Wine are excellent choices.
Whatever your style, Marseille’s coastline offers clear, calm waters and stunning scenery that will turn your water-based adventure into a memorable part of your trip. Book early, pick a tour that fits your interest, and enjoy exploring this beautiful maritime city from a different perspective.