Boat Tours in Marseille

Basking on the shores of the Mediterranean, Marseille is a highlight of any French Riviera vacation. The city is a jumping-off point for exploring the neighboring Calanques National Park, with its alluring coastal canyons and tropical-colored waters.

Marseille boat trips transport you into the heart of this untouched wilderness, to explore secret coves and snorkel beneath the mighty limestone cliffs.

What are the most popular boat tours in Marseille?

Most Marseille boat trips focus on visiting the beautiful Calanques National Park, with a range of scenic tours to choose from.

Coastal excursions

This exquisite part of the French coast has been made for boat tripping, with narrow rocky gorges that lead to secret beaches and remote lagoons. The water is impossibly blue, while the light reflecting off the rocks makes for enviable vacation photos.

The landforms are many and varied, but it is the sense of exploration and adventure that makes a trip on board a catamaran or traditional wooden schooner so much fun. Jump overboard to swim and snorkel in this magical marine kingdom, and soak up the sun back on deck with a hearty lunch on longer trips.

Sunset dinner cruises

Ramp up the romance on a relaxing early evening jaunt out to sea, and tuck into a gourmet dinner with local wine as the sun sets on the horizon.

Private boat charters

If you want to help call the shots and like outwitting the crowds then an exclusive yacht charter is the way forward. Get together with your friends for a sailing trip to hidden bays and anchor off remote pockets of shoreline for a truly independent day at sea.

Multi-day trips

Still want more? Then consider a 3-day sailing tour along the French Riviera with as much snorkeling, kayaking, and scenic coastline as you can handle. Spending 2 nights on board gives you enough time to explore at your own pace and makes for a relaxing cruise with all meals served on the boat.

How much do boat tours in Marseille cost?

The cost of Marseille boat trips depends on the type of tour and the vessel capacity. Here is a price breakdown to help you plan your visit.

• Scenic coastal trips by catamaran, yacht, or schooner start at €65 per person for 3 hours, and €75 for 4 hours. Full-day excursions range from €115 - €132 and include lunch.
• Sunset dinner cruises cost €55 - €59 per person for a 3-hour tour, or €70 for 4 hours on board.
• To charter a private boat, expect to pay €112 for 3 hours, and €222 for 4 hours at sea. Full-day exclusive hires cost €1400 for up to eight passengers with wine tasting included.
• Multi-day trips along the French Riviera cost from €249 for 2 nights on board including meals.

Which places are seen on a boat tour in Marseille?

Calanques National Park

Sprawling 20 kilometers between Marseille and Cassis, the Calanques National Park is home to some of the most spectacular natural scenery in all of France. The best way to explore the top sights is on a Marseille boat trip, which allows you to discover hidden beaches and secluded natural coves that are often not accessible by land.

The beaches at Sormiou, En-Vau, and Port Pin are among the most scenic stops, surrounded by towering cliffs dotted with green vegetation. Sail up the blue creeks and anchor in tranquil lagoons for swimming and snorkeling.

Frioul Islands

Located just a couple of miles off Marseille’s coast, the Frioul Archipelago has four islands to explore, with beaches, streams, and cliffs all posing for the camera. These tiny Mediterranean gems offer clear water for swimming, with rare flowers and abundant birdlife characterizing the rocky outcrops.

The fortress here was home to the prisoner who inspired the story of “The Count of Monte Cristo” and the tiny fishing village is fun to stroll around.

How long does a boat trip last?

Scenic coastal boat trips from Marseille last between 3 hours and a full day, with several options in between. Multi-day Riviera tours are 3 days long, with 2 nights on board.

For sunset dinner cruises expect to be out on the water for 3 or 4 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy a meal while watching one of nature’s greatest evening shows.

You can charter a private boat for 3 - 4 hours, as well as a full day. This is the best option if you want a more flexible itinerary to fit in with your other vacation plans.

Where do boat tours leave from?

Most Marseille boat trips depart from the Quai du Port, in front of the town hall at Marseille’s old port.

Some tours offer hotel transfers so make sure you ask whether this is included at the time of booking.

When is the best time for a boat trip in Marseille?

The Calanques National Park is beautiful at any time of year, but summer is ideal for boat trips when the water is warm enough to swim in. Many of the Calanques are actually closed for hiking between June and October due to the fire risk, so visiting by boat is often one of the only ways to enjoy the park.

You can enjoy boat tours during the rest of the year too, just save the snorkeling for next time!

Which other outdoor activities can be done in Marseille?

• Biking: pedal through historic city streets and along the breath-taking shoreline as you explore the Calanques National Park under your own steam with a local guide.
• Jeep tours: take the wheel of a 4x4 and discover the contrasting landscapes between land and sea on an epic adventure with superb views at every turn.
• Scuba diving: explore the rich marine ecosystem beneath the waves of the national park, keeping your eyes peeled for starfish and sea anemones.

Travel tips

• Pack a swimming costume and towel if you intend on taking a dip or going snorkeling from the boat.
• Take water and snacks on the shorter trips to keep energy levels topped up and to stay hydrated.
• Book your Marseille boat trip online so you can secure the cheapest prices and pick your preferred dates.
• Make sure your camera batteries are fully charged to capture the incredible scenery along this stretch of coastline.