Marseille isn’t just France’s oldest port; it’s also one of its best spots for snorkeling. With crystal-clear waters, rocky coves, and a wealth of marine life, the area makes for memorable underwater adventures. We especially like the Full-Day Snorkeling and Guided Dive in the Calanques National Park from Marseille because it combines snorkeling with the chance to learn scuba diving with expert guidance. Plus, it offers a well-rounded experience with stunning scenic views and opportunities to explore deeper waters. For a more personalized trip, the Private 3-Hour Snorkeling Tour near Monte Cristo stands out with its private boat and tailored attention. If budget-friendly outings are more your style, the Marseille: visit the National Park on a snorkeling trip offers a relaxed and friendly way to discover the seabed without breaking the bank.
Quick Overview
This list features three top Marseille snorkeling experiences:
– A full-day combined snorkeling and diving adventure in Calanques National Park (see details)
– An exclusive, private 3-hour tour near Monte Cristo (see details)
– A short, friendly boat trip exploring the seabed of the Calanques (see details)
1. Full-Day Snorkeling and Guided Dive in the Calanques National Park from Marseille
At around $286.60 per person, this 7-hour experience is a fantastic way to combine snorkeling and diving in one trip. The day begins with a morning of snorkeling along the rocky coastlines and sheltered coves of Calanques National Park, where you’ll observe schools of fish, starfish, and other marine creatures in clear, calm waters. After a break for lunch, the adventure continues with a scuba session—either learning to dive if you’re a beginner or exploring water depths up to 65 feet (20 meters) if you’re certified.
What makes this tour stand out is the variety it offers—it’s suitable for beginners eager to try scuba, as well as more experienced divers looking for a deeper water experience. The guide, Vince, is praised for his friendly, helpful approach, and safety is clearly a priority, with top-quality equipment and thorough briefings. A bonus? You get a souvenir video of your underwater adventure to relive the moment.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect if you want a comprehensive, full-day experience that combines snorkeling, diving, and stunning scenery. It’s a great choice for those wanting to get the most out of the Calanques, whether you’re new to diving or a seasoned snorkeler.
2. Private 3-Hour Snorkeling Tour near Monte Cristo from Marseille with Guide
For around $289.40, this private 3-hour tour offers a personalized experience aboard a 24-foot inflatable boat seating up to 20 people. Your guide will take you to Calanques National Park, where you’ll snorkel for about 30 to 60 minutes, enjoying the vibrant underwater world filled with starfish, scorpion fish, and sea cucumbers.
What makes this tour special is the sense of exclusivity; you’ll have a dedicated guide who can tailor the experience based on your interests, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. The guide, Vincent, goes out of his way—he even personally picks up clients from their hotel, making logistics smooth and hassle-free. As you glide over the clear water and peer into the sea, you’ll also learn about Château d’If, the fortress and prison that inspired The Count of Monte Cristo, adding a historical layer to your adventure.
Bottom line: If you prefer a private, intimate outing with flexible timing and personalized attention, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s especially ideal for travelers who want to combine snorkeling with a touch of local history.
3. Marseille: visit the National Park on a snorkeling trip
At $53 per person, this 3.5-hour trip offers a relaxed, friendly introduction to the seabed of the Calanques National Park. Small groups are led by state-certified instructors, ensuring safety and expert guidance. The focus here is on enjoying the tranquility of the underwater environment—perfect if you’re new to snorkeling or want a laid-back experience.
The tour includes a boat trip to the Calanques, where you’ll snorkel among vibrant flora and fauna, with plenty of time to explore at your own pace. Afterward, there’s a herbal tea to relax post-swim, giving the experience a cozy, hospitable feel. While less comprehensive than the full-day tour, it’s an excellent choice if you’re short on time or traveling on a budget.
Bottom line: This tour offers a friendly, approachable way to see the underwater world of Marseille without fuss. It’s great for families or first-timers eager to enjoy calm waters and local marine life.
$53 per person
How to Choose
Picking the right snorkeling experience in Marseille depends on your preferences: If you’re after a full-day adventure that combines snorkeling and scuba diving, the Full-Day Snorkeling and Guided Dive (see here) provides excellent value. For a personalized, private experience, go for the 3-hour private tour near Monte Cristo (details here). If your goal is a relaxed introduction to Marseille’s seabed without a hefty price tag, the shorter group trip (find out more) is ideal.
Consider your budget, available time, and whether you prefer guided instruction or a private, flexible outing. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak summer months, as spots fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
Marseille offers a range of snorkeling adventures suited for different interests and activity levels. For those wanting a comprehensive day, the full-day Calanques National Park tour is hard to beat. If you prefer a tailored, private experience with a focus on marine life and local history, the Monte Cristo tour is a standout. And if you’re simply curious and want a friendly, budget-friendly trip, the short excursion hits the mark.
No matter which option you choose, Marseille’s waters promise a memorable glimpse into the marine world. Be sure to book early, especially during the busy summer season, and prepare to enjoy one of the best snorkeling spots in France.