Marseille: Day sailing in the heart of the Calanques with organic lunch and wine

Imagine spending a relaxing day aboard a traditional sailboat, gliding along the stunning coastlines of Marseille’s Calanques. This tour promises a mix of scenic navigation, refreshing swims, and delicious organic cuisine—all set against the backdrop of shimmering waters and rugged cliffs. Based on numerous reviews and detailed descriptions, this experience offers a genuine glimpse into coastal sailing with a focus on comfort, authenticity, and fun.

What makes this particular trip stand out? First, the authentic sailing experience on a traditional boat gives you a chance to feel closer to the sea than most tours. Second, the organic, vegetarian lunch paired with chilled rosé offers a wholesome gourmet touch that appeals to eco-conscious and food-loving travelers alike. Third, scenic stops for swimming and snorkeling in calm, sheltered coves are perfect for soaking up the sun and exploring the marine life.

One minor consideration is that, while the tour is well-paced and inclusive, some travelers wishing to get more involved in sailing might find the experience more passive than they expect. Still, it’s an ideal choice for those who want a relaxing, scenic day without a lot of hassle.

This tour will suit travelers looking for a combination of adventure, relaxation, and authentic local flavors. It’s especially great for visitors who appreciate scenic boat trips, quality food, and a laid-back atmosphere. Those traveling with family, friends, or even solo can enjoy the varied activities and stunning vistas.

Good To Know

• Authentic sailing experience on a traditional boat navigating the Calanques.
• Wholesome organic lunch with vegetarian options, paired with local rosé.
• Multiple swimming and snorkeling stops in calm, sheltered coves.
• Beautiful scenic views of Marseille’s coast, Château d’If, and Frioul archipelago.
• Expert guidance with attentive crew ensuring a smooth day at sea.
• Flexible cancellation policy—full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Setting Sail from Marseille’s Old Port

The tour begins at 70 Quai du Port, a central and accessible spot just next to the ferry boat area. The crew greets you with fresh fruit juice, coffee, and cookies, setting a friendly and welcoming tone. You’ll quickly get a sense of the relaxed pace as you prep for your day on the water. The fact that the meeting point is so close to the city center means you can easily combine this with a morning coffee or a stroll along the harbor.

Scenic Cruising Past Marseille’s Landmarks

The boat departs around 10:00 a.m., passing by iconic sights such as Château d’If—famous from the Count of Monte Cristo—and the Frioul archipelago. Expect about 15-minute views of each location, with commentary that offers insight into these historic and scenic sites. The cruise itself offers sweeping vistas that make for perfect photo opportunities, especially as you approach the rugged coastlines of the Calanques.

Exploring the Calanques: Nature’s Masterpiece

The Calanques National Park is the main highlight. This stretch of limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and hidden coves is a paradise for nature lovers. The tour spends roughly 1.5 hours here, giving ample time to relax, take photos, and enjoy the scenery. You’ll have the chance to drop anchor in a sheltered cove, which is perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Reviewers consistently mention how this part of the trip provides serene, quiet moments surrounded by spectacular landscape.

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Swimming, Snorkeling, and Water Fun

Snorkel masks and snorkels are provided, making it easier to explore below the surface. The calm, sheltered waters are appreciated by those who want a hassle-free swim without battling waves. A second swim stop is also planned, weather permitting. Multiple reviews highlight how these stops are among the most memorable parts of the day, with some guests noting they appreciated the chance to cool off and see marine life up close.

The Gourmet Organic Lunch

One of the most talked-about features is the vegetarian buffet, either from “La Casa Consolat” or “Le Libanais,” depending on availability. Guests rave about the freshness and quality of the seasonal produce, often describing the meal as both satisfying and refined. Paired with a glass of chilled rosé de Provence, it feels like a mini picnic in the water—relaxed, delicious, and authentically local.

Reviewers like Paola from Brazil emphasize how attentive the crew was, noting, “The guides were very attentive and helpful, and the captain looked for the best spots for diving.” The emphasis on organic and seasonal ingredients adds a layer of authenticity that many foodies appreciate.

Continued Sailing and Additional Stops

Post-lunch, the boat continues to sail through scenic routes around the Riou archipelago, with comfortable stops for swimming or simply enjoying the views. The crew’s expertise ensures you’re always in the best spots for photos and marine exploration. Some reviews mention that the crew, including the captain and guides, are very attentive and eager to make sure everyone is comfortable.

Returning to Marseille

By 5:00 p.m., the boat heads back to the starting point, passing by other scenic sites. The return leg is relaxed, often with guests sharing photos and recounting their favorite moments. The experience ends with a sense of satisfaction, having experienced both the tranquility of the sea and the vibrant landscapes of the Calanques.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes a warm welcome with drinks and snacks, a vegetarian or oriental buffet, and ample water and rosé. It’s worth noting that transportation to and from the meeting point isn’t included, so plan your arrival accordingly. The flexible cancellation policy—full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance—adds confidence to booking.

Practical Tips

• Bring a sun hat, sunscreen, swimwear, and a camera.
• Wear suitable sailing attire—preferably light, comfortable, and quick-drying.
• Pregnant women after the 6th month should carry a medical certificate; inform the crew if you’re concerned.
• Infants under 1 year old should be notified in advance.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $111 per person for a full 7-hour experience, this trip offers a lot. You get an authentic sailing experience, scenic views, multiple water stops, and a gourmet organic meal—all led by knowledgeable guides. The reviews consistently praise the crew’s attentiveness and the quality of the food and wine, making it more than just a boat ride.

The focus on eco-living (organic food, local wines) and the authentic boat—rather than a commercialized cruise—appeal to travelers craving genuine, sustainable experiences. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and the flexible itinerary make this a practical choice for a relaxing yet active day.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect if you want a laid-back day surrounded by natural beauty, with the comfort of good food and wine. It’s ideal for those who appreciate scenic sailing, want to explore the Calanques without the hassle of planning, or are curious about local flavors. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy being on the water will find this a memorable outing.

It may not suit those seeking a highly participatory sailing adventure or a high-energy party atmosphere. However, if your main goal is scenic beauty combined with quality food, this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

Is transportation included? No, transportation to the meeting point at Quai du Port is not included, so plan to arrive there by public transport or taxi.

What should I bring? Pack a sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, and a camera. Light, comfortable sailing attire is recommended.

Are children allowed on board? Yes, passengers of all ages are welcome, but infants under 1 year should be informed in advance.

Is the lunch vegetarian? Yes, it’s a vegetarian buffet featuring fresh, seasonal produce. An Oriental buffet option is also available depending on availability.

Can I help with sailing? The tour is more about enjoying the experience; some guests wish for more sailing involvement, but most find it relaxing rather than participatory.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, with departures around 10:00 a.m. and return at 5:00 p.m.

Do I need to be an experienced swimmer? Swimmers will enjoy the stops for swimming and snorkeling, but non-swimmers can relax on deck and still enjoy the scenery.

Is alcohol included? Yes, a glass of chilled rosé is included with the lunch, plus water.

What’s the nature of the itinerary? It includes scenic cruising past Château d’If, Frioul archipelago, Plage du Prado, and stops at the Calanques for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour are fully refundable.

This sailing experience in Marseille’s Calanques offers a well-rounded blend of scenic cruising, water activities, and gourmet food, all on a traditional boat with friendly, attentive crew. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a relaxed, authentic day on the water, especially those who value quality organic cuisine and beautiful landscapes.

While it’s not a high-energy sailing adventure, it excels at providing a peaceful escape with plenty of opportunities for fun and refreshment. The combination of expert guidance, scenic stops, and delicious regional food makes it a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to enjoy the coast in style and comfort.

If you’re looking for a memorable, authentic maritime experience that balances adventure with relaxation, this tour is definitely worth considering.

You can check if your dates are available here: