Cruise, Coffee and Swimming in the Calanques of Frioul

Starting your day with a boat trip in Marseille might sound like just another tour, but this experience offers a refreshing twist. For around 2.5 hours and with a price of just $56 per person, you’ll set sail from the Old Port in a silent, hybrid electric boat—designed for comfort, eco-friendliness, and plenty of relaxing moments. Once on board, you’ll enjoy a morning cruise towards the Frioul Islands, with plenty of opportunities to swim in crystal-clear waters, nibble on snacks, and soak in some truly spectacular views of the Calanques National Park.

What we love most about this tour is how peaceful it is—no loud engines ruining the serenity—and how personalized the experience feels, with small groups of just 12 people max. The crew’s friendliness and knowledge shine through, making each stop not just scenic but informative. The other highlight: the ample time for swimming in quiet coves, perfect for cooling off and snapping some photos.

A slight consideration: the itinerary and timing are quite structured, which might limit spontaneity for those looking for a more flexible adventure. Also, since the boat placement is random (you cannot choose your vessel), some travelers might prefer a specific type of boat for comfort or style.

This tour suits travelers who want a relaxing, authentic experience of Marseille’s coastal beauty without the noise or crowds. It’s perfect for cruise passengers looking for a quick, scenic escape or anyone who values environmentally friendly transport and small-group intimacy.

Key Points

• Silent Electric Boats: Enjoy a peaceful ride with no engine noise disrupting the natural sounds.
• Ideal for Swimming: Plenty of time to relax in tranquil coves with snorkeling gear provided.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 12 people, ensuring personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere.
• Spectacular Views: Stunning vistas of Marseille’s coast and the Calanques National Park.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Reserve without payment upfront and cancel within 24 hours if plans change.
• Inclusive Snacks: Coffee, fruit juice, and biscuits accompany your relaxing morning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Setting Out from Marseille’s Old Port

The tour begins with a warm welcome at one of three possible boarding points in Marseille’s historic harbor: 32 Quai de Rive Neuve, 70 Quai du Port, or 1 Esp. J4. Be sure to check your booking for your specific location. The adventure kicks off with a smooth crossing aboard a hybrid electric vessel, designed for quiet operation and environmental sustainability.

Traveling in a small group of up to 12, we appreciated how this setup fosters a more intimate experience. Our guide, whose friendly and knowledgeable demeanor impressed us, pointed out sights along the way, making the journey both relaxing and informative.

The Cruising Experience

Once in the Frioul Archipelago, the boat slows, giving us a chance to appreciate the rugged beauty of the islands. The calm waters and crystal-clear surroundings immediately set a tone of serenity. The lack of engine noise meant we could hear the gentle lapping of waves and the calls of seabirds—an uncommon luxury on many tours.

Swimming and Snorkeling in the Coveted Coves

The highlight for many is the time allocated for swimming. The crew provides masks and snorkels, so you can explore underwater life in the tranquil coves. Several reviewers, like Sadie and Karolina, mention how the snorkeling was a memorable highlight, with some noting the safety of the guides, especially when jellyfish were spotted.

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Snacks, Coffee, and Relaxation

While lounging in the boat’s comfort, you can enjoy a light snack—coffee or tea, fruit juice, and biscuits. The option to share playlists and tailor the onboard ambiance makes this feel more like a friendly gathering than a typical tour. It’s a great way to unwind and soak in the scenic surroundings.

Exploring the Frioul Islands

During the 80-minute stop, you can take photos of the rugged coast, wander around, or simply relax on deck. The reviews praise the stunning views and the friendly, responsive guides who ensure safety and fun for everyone. The photo stops and brief visits to Château d’If, though quick, add a touch of historical charm to the trip.

The Return Journey

After the swim and exploration, the boat glides back comfortably, again in near silence, returning to Marseille in time to enjoy the rest of your day. Some reviews, like Shelley’s, highlight how this tour is a perfect cruise-compatible activity, leaving plenty of time afterward for sightseeing or relaxing.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour’s itinerary starts with three possible boarding locations, giving flexibility for travelers staying in different parts of Marseille. From there:

• Speedboat ride (30 minutes): A quick, scenic crossing to set the mood.
• Photo stops and visits: Brief stops at the Château d’If and other spots, offering perfect photo opportunities and a taste of local history.
• Frioul Archipelago: An 80-minute stop for swimming, relaxing, and sightseeing, which many reviews describe as the highlight.
• Return speedboat: A quick, 30-minute ride back to the port.

The timing is structured to maximize your time in the water and on the islands, making this a well-paced half-day adventure.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are snacks—coffee or tea, fruit juice, and biscuits—adding to the comfort of the journey. However, you’ll need to bring your own towel and swimsuit if you want to swim. Lunch is not included, so plan to eat afterward if you’re hungry. The tour’s value is in the experience of peaceful cruising, the stunning natural scenery, and easy access to beautiful swimming spots.

The Experience Provider and Other Options

Operated by ECO-CALANQUES, this tour emphasizes environmentally conscious travel with hybrid boats. The boats are equipped with toilets and comforts, and you’ll be randomly assigned to one of three vessels, all designed for maximum comfort.

If you want to compare, many similar experiences exist, like catamaran tours with swimming stops or sunset cruises, but this particular tour stands out because of its quiet electric boats and small-group intimacy.

Authentic Reviews From Travelers

Many travelers rave about the knowledgeable guides. Sadie from the UK mentions how Dillia made everyone feel at ease, even spotting jellyfish to keep swimmers safe. Stephen from Australia notes the great location for swimming and the attentiveness of the guide. Michelle from the US highlights Patrick’s professionalism and friendliness, emphasizing how the guides truly enhance the trip.

The consensus is that the stunning scenery and friendly guides combine to make this a memorable outing, especially for those seeking a peaceful, scenic escape with plenty of opportunities to swim and relax.

The Sum Up

This Cruise, Coffee, and Swimming tour offers a wonderfully balanced mix of relaxation, scenic beauty, and authentic experience. For travelers who value small-group intimacy, environmentally friendly transport, and stunning views of Marseille’s coast, it hits the mark. The peaceful electric boats are perfect for those who want to enjoy nature without noise pollution, and the swimming stops invite genuine connection with the water.

If you’re coming from a cruise or staying in Marseille and looking for a short but enriching escape, this tour provides excellent value. It’s well-suited for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and a laid-back pace that allows you to truly enjoy the surroundings.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this experience gives you a refreshing perspective on Marseille’s coastal beauty and the calm, clear waters of the Frioul Islands.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, you can enjoy the cruise and scenic views even if you choose not to swim. There’s plenty of time to relax on deck and take photos.

What should I bring for swimming?
Bring your swimwear, towel, and perhaps a waterproof camera if you want to capture underwater moments. Snorkels and masks are provided.

Can I choose which boat I get on?
No, the boats are assigned randomly. All are modern, comfortable, and equipped with toilets, but your specific vessel may vary.

Are drinks and snacks included?
Yes, coffee or tea, fruit juice, and biscuits are included. You can bring your own playlist to set the tone onboard.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour limits passengers to a maximum of 12 people per boat, ensuring a cozy and personalized experience.

How long is the stop at the Frioul Islands?
You’ll have about 80 minutes for swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing, which most reviews agree is plenty of time to enjoy the area.

Is this tour eco-friendly?
Yes, the vessels are hybrid electric boats designed to minimize environmental impact and noise.

This tour offers a thoughtful, peaceful way to see Marseille’s coast and enjoy some water-based leisure—perfect for those looking to combine scenic beauty, relaxation, and authentic local experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here: