Marseille: Calanques Catamaran Tour & Standup Paddle

Imagine cruising along the shimmering waters of Marseille Bay on a comfortable catamaran, exploring the hidden coves and turquoise waters of the Frioul Islands and Calanques. For around $65 per person, this 3 to 4-hour adventure offers a fantastic blend of sightseeing, water activities, and local charm. The tour, hosted by Bleu Evasion, takes you from the historic Vieux-Port, guiding you past iconic sights like the Vallon des Auffes, the Château d’If, and secluded calanques that look like something out of a postcard.

What we love most about this experience is how accessible it is. You’re not just sitting and looking—snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and even a diving board on the roof of the boat let you actively engage with the environment. Plus, the guides—like Julie and Nico—bring a personal touch, sharing interesting snippets of local history and making the trip feel like a day out with friends. That said, a potential consideration is the parking situation in Marseille, which can be busy, so arriving early is wise.

This tour is perfect if you’re after a relaxed, fun-filled day that combines stunning scenery with some active water fun. It’s especially suited for those who want to see Marseille’s coastline from the water but aren’t necessarily looking for an all-day commitment. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike seem to find this a worthwhile way to enjoy the region’s natural beauty without breaking the bank.

This experience made our article of 15 Most Highly Rated Tours In Marseille.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: You’ll pass by iconic Marseille sites and reach secluded calanques with crystal-clear waters.
• Active Water Fun: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, and a diving board make this tour lively and interactive.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Julie and Nico enrich the experience with local insights and humor.
• Comfort and Convenience: Spacious, well-maintained catamaran and included gear make water activities accessible.
• Great Value: For the price, you get a variety of activities, drinks, and memorable scenery.
• Timing and Flexibility: The tour lasts around 3-4 hours, with stops usually in the morning and afternoon, providing flexibility.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Full Breakdown of the Experience

When you arrive at the Vieux-Port in Marseille—just in front of the Théâtre de la Criée—you’re greeted with a friendly atmosphere. Expect to check in 15 minutes early, as the boat is shared among guests and punctuality helps keep things running smoothly. The boat itself is a spacious catamaran, designed for comfort, with enough room for everyone to lounge or gather for water activities.

The Itinerary: From Historic Ports to Hidden Calanques

Your journey begins with a gentle glide out of Marseille’s bustling harbor, passing notable sights like Vallon des Auffes, a quaint fishing port that looks like a slice of Provence. The guides often give quick snippets of local history—how the area served as a hub for fishermen, now a favorite spot for locals and travelers alike.

Soon, the boat heads toward the Frioul Islands, a cluster of rocky islets famous for their rugged beauty and stories of captivity. On this trip, you’ll typically make two stops—either in the morning or afternoon—where you can jump into the crystal waters, snorkel among small fish, or paddle around in the calanques. Several reviews mention the magical swimming spots as a highlight: “the water is amazing,” said Ivan, and “the swimming stop was beautiful,” echoed Galina.

Snorkeling and Paddleboarding: Active, Yet Relaxing

The tour includes snorkeling gear and paddleboards, which are a big hit. The GoPro camera included allows you to capture underwater moments without worrying about getting your own equipment wet. For many, paddling in the peaceful calanques offers a serene perspective of the coastline, while snorkeling reveals a lively little underwater world. As Alyssa noted, the water was chilly but manageable, and the guides were attentive to comfort, even providing wetsuits if needed.

The Diving Board and Sunset Magic

One of the most memorable features is the roof-mounted diving board—a playful way to leap into the sea. It’s not for the faint of heart, but many find it adds a fun, adventurous touch. Plus, if your schedule aligns with the late afternoon, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking sunset, as several reviewers have raved. Watching the sun dip behind the calanques from the water creates a picture-perfect moment.

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The Guides: Knowledge and Humor

From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides—like Nico and Julie—are a big part of what makes this tour special. They share interesting facts about the local history, geology, and ecology, all delivered with a friendly and humorous touch. “Nico was very nice and funny,” said Thomas, and “Julie provided a little history lesson along the way,” added a guest from the UK. Their approachable attitude fosters a relaxed atmosphere where you feel comfortable asking questions or just enjoying the scenery.

Food, Drinks, and the Overall Value

While food isn’t included, the tour provides soft drinks and a relaxed environment to enjoy your own snacks—perfect if you want to pack some previous favorites. The price of $65 is quite reasonable considering the variety of water activities, the scenic routes, and the friendly hosts. Many reviews note the excellent value, especially since you’re getting multiple water stops, gear, and a memorable experience.

Considerations and Practical Tips

One practical aspect to be aware of is parking—since the meeting point is in a busy port area, arriving early helps avoid stress. Also, the duration—3 to 4 hours—is just enough to enjoy several stops without feeling rushed. If you’re someone who prefers a more adventurous or full-day experience, this might seem a bit short, but for a relaxed afternoon, it hits the sweet spot.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers wanting a fun, active way to see Marseille’s coastline without a full-day commitment. It suits families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate friendly guides and scenic waters. It’s especially perfect if you’re interested in snorkeling and paddleboarding, and want to experience the calanques’ natural beauty close-up. If you’re looking for relaxing water activities combined with sightseeing, this trip ticks all those boxes.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, with the exact timing depending on the day’s schedule and weather conditions.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the catamaran ride, skipper, snorkeling gear, paddleboarding equipment, diving board, use of a GoPro, and soft drinks. Wetsuits are provided if the water is cold.

Are food and meals included?
No, food is not included. You’re welcome to bring your own snacks or drinks if you wish.

Is parking available at the meeting point?
Parking can be tricky in the port area; it’s recommended to arrive early to find a spot and be present 15 minutes before departure for check-in.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the water activities are generally family-friendly, especially for those comfortable in the water. Check with the provider if you have young children.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and possibly a waterproof camera or smartphone in a waterproof case. If you’re sensitive to cold, consider wetsuits, which are provided if needed.

Will I see the Calaques National Park?
The tour typically doesn’t go to the full Calanques National Park; it focuses on the Frioul Islands and nearby calanques. For longer or specialized trips, other options are available.

Final Thoughts

This Calanques catamaran tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, water activities, and local storytelling. For a reasonable price, you get a well-organized, friendly experience that showcases the stunning marine scenery around Marseille. The guides’ knowledge, combined with the comfortable boat and active options like paddleboarding and snorkeling, make it a memorable outing.

If you enjoy scenic cruising with opportunities for adventure—and don’t mind a busy port—the experience is hard to beat. It’s perfect for those who want a light-hearted, engaging day on the water with plenty of chances to cool off, explore, and snap beautiful photos. For travelers seeking a relaxed yet lively way to discover Marseille’s coastline, this tour delivers on all fronts.

To sum it up, whether you’re eager to paddle in calm waters, snorkel among colorful fish, or simply soak up the sun and scenery, this tour provides a fantastic value and a chance to see Marseille from a different perspective. Its friendly guides and thoughtfully planned stops make it an activity that stays with you long after the boat docks back at port.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Note: Always check current availability and consider weather conditions before booking, as these can impact the experience. Arrive early, bring your camera, and get ready for a refreshing view of Marseille’s stunning coast.