Marseille is not just about its bustling Old Port or vibrant markets; it’s a city that shines when seen from the sea. The lunch experiences here combine stunning coastal scenery with delicious food and the chance to be out on the water. Whether you’re after a relaxing cruise, snorkeling adventures, or a sailing trip with organic wines, Marseille has options that cater to different tastes and budgets.
Our favorite? The Marseille: Calanques Sailing Day Trip with Lunch and Wine. It offers a full day on a traditional two-masted sailing yacht, exploring the breathtaking Calanques with a homemade buffet and organic wines. If eco-conscious travel appeals to you, the Calanques Eco Boat Cruise with Lunch and Wine provides a quieter, greener way to experience this rugged coastline. For those who want a more intimate, luxury feel, the Catamaran Cruise features snorkeling, premium drinks, and a small group setting. Each tour promises its own slice of Marseille’s maritime magic, but they all share the promise of great scenery, tasty food, and memorable experiences.
Below, you’ll find a quick overview of these top tours, followed by detailed descriptions to help you decide which suits your style best.
1. Marseille: Calanques Sailing Day Trip with Lunch and Wine
At number 1, this 7-hour sailing adventure aboard the Le Don du Vent is ideal for those seeking a classic sailing day on the water. Starting from Marseille, you’ll explore the Calanques of Sormiou, Morgiou, Sugiton, or La Côte Bleue, depending on weather and sea conditions. The boat is a traditional two-masted yacht, and the onboard chef serves a buffet lunch that’s simple yet satisfying, with fresh ingredients that match the relaxed, nautical vibe.
What makes this trip stand out is the combination of leisurely sailing, snorkeling in lively waters, and sipping on organic white wine and rosé as you glide along the coast. The reviews are impressive—408 travelers rated it 4.8 out of 5—highlighting its friendly crew, authentic sailing experience, and beautiful scenery. This tour is perfect for travelers who love the idea of combining active water fun with good food and wine, without feeling rushed.
Bottom line: A balanced mix of sailing, swimming, and local flavors makes this a top choice for those craving a full, relaxing day on the water with authentic maritime charm.
2. Marseille: Calanques Eco Boat Cruise with Lunch and Wine
Number 2 on our list is the Calanques Eco Boat Cruise, a 7-hour journey that emphasizes sustainability and tranquility. Departing from the old port, you’ll travel on a hybrid-electric boat, meaning fewer emissions and a quieter ride. This eco-friendly vessel offers a unique way to witness the untouched beauty of the Calanques National Park.
The route includes visits to the Château d’If, the Frioul archipelago, and the scenic islands of Île Maire and L’Archipel de Riou. You’ll stop for swimming, snorkeling, and photo opportunities, with about 1.5 hours dedicated to exploring the calanques themselves. The itinerary also features scenic views from the sea, with brief stops for lunch, pictures, and relaxing. The boat’s quiet operation is perfect for nature lovers who want to minimize their footprint while enjoying the stunning coastline.
Rated 4.7 out of 5 based on 190 reviews, travelers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and informative commentary. The small group size adds a sense of intimacy, making it ideal for couples or eco-conscious travelers.
Bottom line: If you value sustainability and a gentle approach that allows you to enjoy the landscape in silence, this eco cruise offers an excellent way to appreciate Marseille’s coast.
3. Marseille: Sailboat cruise with lunch, swim and organic wine
Number 3 features the Sailboat Cruise aboard Eleanor Mary, blending elegance with adventure. Over 7 hours, you’ll sail along the wild coastline, enjoying the sea breeze, snorkeling, and a fresh onboard buffet prepared by a dedicated chef. Organic white wine and rosé are included, making this trip particularly appealing to those who enjoy good wine paired with scenic views.
What sets this tour apart is the focus on a luxurious yet relaxed experience, with time spent swimming and snorkeling in the calanques or the nearby Côte Bleue. The reviews—108 in total with a 4.7/5 rating—highlight the friendly crew, high-quality food, and the chance to unwind in style. The small-group atmosphere makes it more intimate, perfect for couples or small groups.
Bottom line: This elegant sailboat experience balances comfort, adventure, and fine organic wines, making it ideal for travelers seeking a refined day at sea.
4. Marseille: Calanques Catamaran Cruise with Lunch & Wine
Number 4 is a luxury catamaran tour offering a full 8.5-hour day exploring the Calanques from Marseille to Cassis. With a maximum of 30 people, this all-inclusive trip features snorkeling gear, wetsuits, GoPro footage, and drinks. The boat’s huge trampoline and ultra comfort make it a standout for travelers wanting a premium experience.
The itinerary includes stops at L’Archipel de Riou, Calanque de Sormiou, Morgiou, and Sugiton. Each location is visited with enough time for swimming, snorkeling, and taking photos—especially with the onboard GoPro. The reviews—54 in total with a 4.8/5 rating—highlight the confidential spots visited and the luxurious amenities.
This tour suits travelers who want a high-end, all-inclusive adventure with plenty of time to relax, swim, and take photos of the beautiful calanques with professional gear in hand.
Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking an exclusive, comfortable day out, with top-notch equipment and intimate settings.
5. Marseille: Sailing cruise in the calanques, lunch and wine
Number 5 offers a classic sailing experience aboard La Flâneuse, a historic Provence-built vessel. Over 7 hours, you’ll explore the Calanques National Park with stops for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and a local buffet, complemented by Provence wines.
Rated 5/5 from 13 reviews, this tour emphasizes the authenticity and charm of traditional sailing. The itinerary includes scenic views of Château d’If, the Frioul archipelago, and other famous spots, with plenty of time for swimming and relaxing onboard. The small number of reviews suggests a niche but highly appreciated experience for those who love sailing and cultural authenticity.
Bottom line: For travelers who want to combine a traditional sailing voyage with good local food and wine, this option provides a genuine Provençal atmosphere.
6. Marseille: Day sailing in the heart of the Calanques with organic lunch and wine
Last on our list is a 7-hour day on a traditional sailboat, offering a hands-on sailing experience. Starting from Quai du Port, you’ll explore the coast, including Château d’If, the Frioul archipelago, and Plage du Prado, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.
The tour is perfect for those wanting a more active, authentic sailing experience, with an emphasis on navigation and organic meals onboard. The reviews—18 reviews with a 4.4/5 rating—note the personal touch and the opportunity to learn about sailing in a relaxed environment.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers eager to participate directly in sailing and enjoy organic cuisine amid breathtaking scenery.
How to Choose Your Marseille Lunch Experience
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend at sea. If you’re after a luxurious, all-inclusive day, the Calanques Catamaran is hard to beat. For those who prefer a more sustainable approach, the eco cruise provides a tranquil, environmentally friendly way to see the coast. If authentic sailing and hands-on experience appeal, the Day Sailing offers a traditional vibe.
Consider your physical activity level too—some tours include snorkeling, swimming, and even sailing maneuvers, while others focus on relaxation. All tours are best booked early in the season from spring to early fall, when the weather is warm and the sea calm.
Final Thoughts
Marseille’s water-based lunch experiences showcase the city’s stunning coastline in ways that a land-based visit simply can’t match. From the classic sailing trips to the eco-friendly cruises, there’s an option for nearly every taste. For a laid-back day with good wine and swimming, the Calanques Sailing Day Trip is a top pick. If you prefer a quieter, greener cruise, the Eco Boat Cruise delivers tranquility and natural beauty.
Travelers interested in a premium, intimate adventure should consider the Calanques Catamaran, while those eager to learn sailing firsthand might enjoy the Day Sailing in the Calanques. Whatever your style, Marseille’s water tours will leave you with unforgettable memories—and a healthy appetite for more of this fascinating city.
To ensure a spot on these popular tours, booking early is always wise. After all, there’s no better way to enjoy Marseille than from the deck of a boat with good company, great scenery, and fresh local food.