Marseille: Calanques Côte Bleue Boat Tour & Swimming Breaks

Discover the magic of Marseille’s coastline on this 3.5-hour boat tour that promises a mix of scenic views, swimming, and local charm. You’ll cruise from the historic Old Port, exploring hidden coves and vibrant fishing ports, all guided by passionate skippers who know the area inside out.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see the Côte Bleue Marine Park, renowned for its colorful underwater reefs, the relaxing stops at secluded beaches, and the lively commentary from guides who bring the landscape to life. The value for money is impressive, given the number of stops and the knowledgeable guides.

A possible consideration is the speed boat style — for those sensitive to boat movement or with limited mobility, it’s worth noting the experience involves a semi-rigid boat that can be lively in rougher seas. This tour suits travelers who love scenery, swimming, and small-group adventures, especially if you’re keen to skip the crowded beaches and explore more secret corners of the coast.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Authentic marine experience with guided commentary on the Côte Bleue Marine Park
• Multiple swimming stops at calanques, caves, and fishing ports for a relaxed, fun day
• Small group size (limited to 11) ensures personal attention and flexibility
• Good value considering the scenic stops, guide expertise, and included amenities
• Comfortable boat with sunshade, music, and bathing ladder for a leisure-filled trip
• Limited food options, so bring your own snacks and drinks for the journey

Introduction: A Scenic Escape from Marseille’s Bustle

This boat tour offers a delightful way to see Marseille from a new perspective, gliding along the coastlines that many travelers only glimpse from afar. What makes this trip stand out is how it combines the visual pleasure of the Mediterranean with the chance to actively participate — swimming, taking photos, or just soaking up the sun.

Three aspects really shine: the guides’ local knowledge, the variety of stops that break up the trip, and the excellent value at just $89 per person. The tour’s intimate size means more personalized attention, which is perfect if you want a relaxed, engaging experience rather than a large, crowded cruise.

A small caveat is that the boat is a semi-rigid vessel, which some travelers might find less comfortable if seas are choppier. It’s best suited for those who are comfortable with a bit of boat movement and are eager to get into the water multiple times.

What to Expect from the Calanques Côte Bleue Boat Tour

Departure from Marseille’s Old Port

The trip kicks off in the historic Old Port, offering a scenic intro as your skipper departs with classic Marseille views in the background. Expect a brief but lively orientation, with guides pointing out landmarks along the way — a nice touch that adds context before heading into the nature-filled sections. As one reviewer noted, “Gilles brought us to so many places, and even translated highlights into English for us,” which is great for non-French speakers.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring the Calanques des Eaux Salles

This initial swimming stop is in a calm, sheltered calanque with clear waters, perfect for catching your first splash. The environment is peaceful, with rock formations that provide a sense of privacy and tranquility. Many guests mention how this stop is the highlight for swimming and relaxing. “The sea, calmed by the surrounding rock formations, offers a deep sense of tranquility,” one reviewer shared.

Visit to La Madrague Cave

A favorite for many, the Madrague Cave offers crystal-clear water and an almost surreal setting. It’s a prime spot for a swim or just floating and enjoying the stillness. Several reviews highlighted how peaceful and beautiful the cave is, making it ideal for a quiet moment or some underwater photography.

Guided Tour of La Redonne

This classic fishing port is bursting with authentic charm. Guides typically give engaging commentary, describing the local history and what makes these tiny ports special. Expect colorful boats and a laid-back vibe — a perfect place for some photos and a breather. As one traveler said, “Our guide Maxence was such good fun and very informative,” which adds to the overall experience.

Swimming at Calanque de Méjean & Grotte Marine

Two of the most popular stops are the Calanque de Méjean, where you can swim into a natural sea cave, and the Grotte Marine de Méjean, which offers more underwater exploration opportunities. Reviewers love the chance to snorkel here, with one mentioning “snorkels and goggles were provided, and we saw loads of fish and jellyfish.” These stops provide a genuine chance to connect with marine life, adding an adventurous element to the trip.

Admiring the Calanque de l’Éverine

This spectacular location rounds out the scenic stops with breathtaking views. The natural beauty here is often described as “spectacular,” making it a perfect photo opportunity or a place to just soak in the scenery. The guide’s commentary helps bring the landscape alive, offering insights into the geology and natural features.

Discovering the Port of Niolon

The final stop at Niolon adds a touch of local life and authenticity. Guides often mention the port’s charm, and some reviews highlight how relaxed the atmosphere feels here. It’s an excellent spot for a quick walk, a drink, or just a moment of quiet before heading back to Marseille.

The Experience: Balancing Relaxation and Adventure

This tour offers an ideal balance between sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing. The boat is equipped with a sun awning and a bathing ladder for easy access to the water, making swimming straightforward. Many reviews mention how guides go above and beyond — some even calling ahead to make reservations or calling out local spots to visit.

While the itinerary is packed with stops, it’s flexible enough to cater to the group’s interests. For instance, some travelers chose to swim multiple times, while others enjoyed taking photos or simply basking in the sun. The music onboard adds a festive touch, though some reviews note that the quality and volume can vary depending on the guide.

Guides and Commentary

Guides like Laurent, Max, and Cedric are praised for their local knowledge and friendly demeanor. Many reviews mention how guides translate highlights into English, making the experience accessible for non-French speakers. Their enthusiasm and attentiveness often turn a simple boat ride into a memorable adventure.

Comfort and Practicalities

The boat features a sunshade, music, and a sturdy bathing ladder, which encourages multiple dips into the water. The trip lasts 3.5 hours, which is enough to see several key spots without feeling rushed. The small group size — limited to 11 participants — means more individual attention and flexibility.

What’s Included and What to Bring

Your ticket covers the boat trip, guided commentary, stops at caves and fishing ports, and amenities like a bathing ladder. However, you’ll need to bring your own food, drinks, and sunscreen. Reviewers recommend packing comfortable shoes and warm clothing for early or late-season trips, as mornings and evenings can be cooler.

Analyzing the Value

At $89 per person, the tour offers a lot for the price. The multiple swimming spots, guided insights, and scenic stops make it a good deal compared to standalone boat rentals or self-guided trips. Many travelers mention the quality of guides and the opportunities for swimming as the main highlights that justify the cost.

Some reviews note that the tour sometimes deviates from the advertised schedule or makes technical stops, which can be expected for small-group tours. Still, most agree that the experience is well worth the investment, especially considering how personalized and flexible it feels.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who love exploring by water, enjoy swimming, and appreciate local insights. It suits couples, families, or small groups looking for a relaxed day out that combines scenery, marine life, and cultural spots.

If you’re someone who enjoys being active, prefers intimate tours, or wants to avoid large cruise crowds, this is an excellent choice. Conversely, if you prefer a more structured or less bumpy ride, or have mobility concerns, it’s worth considering that the boat can be lively, and walks at stops can involve some uneven terrain.

The Sum Up: Why This Tour Stands Out

The Marseille Calanques Côte Bleue Boat Tour offers genuine value through its combination of stunning scenery, engaging guides, and flexible swimming opportunities. The small group size ensures a personal touch that larger tours often lack, while the chance to explore hidden coves and traditional fishing ports makes for a unique experience.

If you’re looking for a memorable day on the water—one that balances scenic beauty with the thrill of swimming and exploring—this tour delivers. It’s an especially good fit for travelers who want to see the coast away from tourist crowds, with knowledgeable guides to enrich the journey.

This experience is a fantastic way to connect with Marseille’s maritime side, enjoy authentic spots, and create lasting memories at a reasonable price. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or as a family, it’s a worthwhile addition to any South of France itinerary.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity perfect for a relaxed exploration of the coast.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the boat trip from Marseille’s Old Port, guided commentary, stops at caves and fishing ports, and amenities like a bathing ladder, music, and sun awning.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals and beverages are not included, so it’s best to bring your own snacks, water, and drinks to stay refreshed.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is family-friendly, note that it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and children should be comfortable on boat rides involving some movement.

What should I bring?
Pack comfortable shoes, warm clothing, sunscreen, a sun hat, and swimwear. Don’t forget your camera and any personal items you might need for water activities.

Are there options for non-French speakers?
Guides like Laurent and Max often translate highlights into English, ensuring non-French speakers can enjoy the commentary.

Can I swim during the stops?
Absolutely. Many guests take multiple swims at different calanques and caves, and snorkeling gear is often provided.

What happens if the weather is bad?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Check with the provider if weather conditions are concerning on your scheduled day.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the boat features a sunshade, music, and a stable bathing ladder, making it suitable for a relaxing and enjoyable experience.

To sum it up, the Marseille Calanques Côte Bleue Boat Tour combines affordability, scenic beauty, and authentic local flavor. It’s an ideal choice for those eager to see the coast’s best spots with knowledgeable guides and a relaxed vibe. Pack your swimwear and sense of adventure for a memorable day on the water.

You can check if your dates are available here: