Marseille: Iconic Calanques Boat Tour with Swimming
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Local guide
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Non smoking
History
The Calanques National Park, established in 2012, protects a stunning stretch of limestone cliffs, turquoise coves, and marine ecosystems along the Mediterranean coast between Marseille and Cassis. Formed over millions of years by erosion and geological shifts, the calanques—narrow inlets framed by steep white cliffs—have been shaped by both nature and human activity, from prehistoric settlements to medieval fishing communities. The region’s strategic location made it a hub for maritime trade and defense, with Riou Island once serving as a lookout point during ancient times.
Marseille, founded by Greek sailors around 600 BC as Massalia, is France’s oldest city and a gateway to the Calanques. The Vieux-Port, a historic harbor, has long connected the city to the sea, while the Calanques’ pristine waters and biodiversity, including seagrass meadows and diverse marine life, reflect centuries of ecological preservation. This boat tour showcases the natural and cultural heritage of the Calanques, blending Marseille’s maritime legacy with the geological wonders of this UNESCO-nominated landscape.
Highlights
- Explore hidden gems like Riou Island and the blue cave (morning/afternoon tours).
- Admire dramatic limestone cliffs and coves in Sormiou, Morgiou, Sugiton, and more.
- Swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters with provided gear.
- Capture memories with the boat’s GoPro camera.
- Enjoy the sea breeze and stunning coastal views with expert commentary.
Full Description
Embark on a half-day boat tour through the Calanques National Park, departing from either Port de la Pointe Rouge or Vieux-Port in Marseille (varies by option: morning, afternoon, or sunset; check booking confirmation). Meet your skipper 15 minutes early at the designated point (e.g., Passerelle Garonne or Bleu Evasion) and board a comfortable motorboat for a scenic journey along the rugged Mediterranean coast. Sip soft drinks while your knowledgeable captain shares insights about the Calanques’ history, geology, and marine life.
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Visit iconic sites like the L’Archipel de Riou, with its dramatic cliffs, and stop at Calanques like Sormiou (30 minutes), Morgiou (20 minutes), and Sugiton (30 minutes). Afternoon tours may also include En-Vau, Port Pin, or Port-Miou (20–30 minutes each), with photo stops and guided commentary. Dive into crystal-clear waters using provided snorkeling gear and wetsuits (for cold weather), exploring ecosystems with seagrass meadows, coral reefs, and fish like groupers. The boat’s GoPro camera captures your adventure. Weather or swimming conditions may adjust the itinerary, with Pointe Rouge departures saving 40 minutes of sailing time. Return to your starting point with unforgettable memories of this natural wonder.
Why Choose This Experience?
This Calanques boat tour is perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those wanting a unique Marseille experience. The skipper’s local expertise, combined with swim and snorkel stops in pristine waters, offers an immersive encounter with the national park’s beauty. The GoPro camera and included gear enhance the adventure, while multiple departure options (morning, afternoon, sunset) provide flexibility.
The tour’s focus on hidden coves, like the blue cave, and iconic calanques, like Sormiou and En-Vau, sets it apart from land-based tours, offering unparalleled coastal views. Ideal for small groups, it blends relaxation, exploration, and education, making it a highlight of any Marseille visit, with the added charm of Bordeaux’s nearby wine culture as a regional complement.
What’s Included
- Guided boat tour with a professional skipper.
- Swim and snorkel stops at select calanques.
- Snorkeling gear and wetsuits (for cold water).
- Soft drinks on board.
- Use of the boat’s GoPro camera.
- Calanques National Park tax.
Itinerary
- Meet at Port de la Pointe Rouge or Vieux-Port (varies by option).
- Board motorboat and cruise to:
- L’Archipel de Riou (20 minutes: photo stop, swimming, snorkeling).
- Calanque de Sormiou (30 minutes: guided tour, photo stop).
- Calanque de Morgiou (20 minutes: guided tour, swimming, snorkeling).
- Calanque de Sugiton (30 minutes: guided tour, sightseeing).
- Calanque d’En-Vau (20 minutes, afternoon only: guided tour, sightseeing).
- Optional: Calanque de Port Pin or Port-Miou (20–30 minutes, afternoon only: swimming, snorkeling).
- Return to starting point (total: ~3–4 hours, weather-dependent).
Pricing
From $92 per person
Meeting Point
Varies by option (Port de la Pointe Rouge, Vieux-Port, or Théâtre de La Criée). Check booking confirmation for exact details (Open in Google Maps).
How to Get There
- For Vieux-Port:
- Metro: Line 1 to Vieux-Port station, a 2-minute walk.
- Bus: Routes 82 or 83 to Vieux-Port, steps away.
- By Foot: From central Marseille, it’s a 5–10-minute walk.
- For Pointe Rouge:
- Bus: Route 19 to Pointe Rouge, a 5-minute walk to the dock.
- Tram: Line T2 to Arenc Le Silo, then bus or taxi (~15 minutes).
- By Taxi/Rideshare: Request drop-off at Passerelle Garonne (Vieux-Port) or Bleu Evasion (Pointe Rouge).
Good to Know
What to Bring:
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.
- Swimwear and a towel for swimming/snorkeling.
- A light jacket for cooler sea breezes.
- A phone or camera for personal photos (GoPro provided for shared use).
Know Before You Go:
- Not suitable for children under 2, pregnant women, or those with back problems.
- Not allowed: Baby strollers, large bags, pets (except assistance dogs), alcohol, drugs.
- Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in; no refunds for late arrivals.
- Provide a contact number when booking for updates.
- The tour requires a minimum of participants (unspecified); you’ll be notified if canceled.
- Weather or sea conditions may alter the itinerary (e.g., skip swim stops); skipper will confirm changes.
- Pointe Rouge departures save 40 minutes; Vieux-Port morning tours may skip one swim stop.
- The boat is not fully)
- The boat is not fully wheelchair-accessible; contact the operator for mobility concerns.
Reviews
- Amazing experience! Learned about the Calanques’ history and swam in stunning waters. Highly recommend this tour!
- The activity was fantastic! Our captain was the best, and my teenagers loved the swimming and snorkeling. A highlight of our trip!
- Excellent guide with great local knowledge. The afternoon on the water was unforgettable—perfect for anyone visiting Marseille.
Maps
Video
FAQ's
Which calanques are included, and how do morning and afternoon tours differ?
All tours visit L’Archipel de Riou, Sormiou, Morgiou, and Sugiton, with swim and snorkel stops (20–30 minutes each). Afternoon tours may also include En-Vau, Port Pin, or Port-Miou (20–30 minutes), while morning/afternoon tours include the blue cave. Morning Vieux-Port tours may skip one swim stop due to sailing time, whereas Pointe Rouge departures save 40 minutes, maximizing time in the Calanques. The skipper confirms the itinerary based on weather and sea conditions.
What is provided for snorkeling, and do I need experience?
The tour includes snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, fins) and wetsuits for colder water, suitable for all skill levels. No prior snorkeling experience is needed; the captain provides basic guidance, and swim stops occur in calm, protected waters with ecosystems like seagrass and fish (e.g., groupers). Stay near the boat for safety, and inform the skipper of any swimming concerns. Bring a towel and swimwear for a comfortable experience.
Is the tour suitable for families with young children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 2 due to safety concerns on the boat and during swim stops. Older children (6+) can enjoy snorkeling and the scenery, with gear provided, but parents must supervise closely, especially in open water. Teens often find the swimming and GoPro photos exciting, as noted in reviews. All attendees need tickets, and the 3–4-hour duration may be tiring for younger kids. Soft drinks are included for all.
What happens if the tour is modified or canceled due to weather?
If weather or sea conditions (e.g., strong winds, rough waters) affect the itinerary, the skipper may adjust stops, skip swimming, or alter routes for safety, prioritizing accessible calanques. If the tour is canceled (e.g., insufficient participants or unsafe conditions), you’ll be notified via the provided phone number and offered a refund or alternative date. Check forecasts and confirm with the operator before heading to Marseille, especially in spring or fall.
How accessible is the tour for people with mobility challenges?
The boat is not fully wheelchair-accessible, with potential steps for boarding and limited space for mobility aids. Swim and snorkel stops require entering/exiting the water, which may be challenging for those with back problems or reduced mobility (not recommended for such conditions). Contact the operator in advance to discuss needs, though accommodations are limited. The Vieux-Port and Pointe Rouge meeting points are accessible, but bring a companion for support if needed.
