Marseille: Sunset catamaran cruise, buffet & drinks

If you’re dreaming of a peaceful evening on the water with the backdrop of a Mediterranean sunset, this Marseille catamaran cruise might be just what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally set sail on this particular tour, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a clear picture of a relaxing and enjoyable outing that combines scenic views, good food, and a touch of adventure.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the beautiful setting of the Frioul Archipelago and its calanques offers breathtaking scenery. Second, the delicious bio-sourced buffet and included drinks add value and comfort. Third, the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters makes it more than just a sightseeing trip. That said, some reviewers have noted that timing and food quality can vary depending on the day, so it’s worth considering these factors before booking.

This cruise is best suited for travelers who want a laid-back, social activity that combines scenic beauty with good food and drinks. It’s particularly appealing for couples, families, or groups of friends who enjoy a relaxed evening on the water, but it may not be ideal for those seeking a more structured or luxurious experience.

Good To Know

• Scenic sunset views over the Frioul Archipelago and calanques
• Relaxing atmosphere with rooftop, nets, and open deck options
• Seasonal, bio-sourced buffet complemented by a free glass of wine or beer
• Swim stop in clear waters, with meals served during this break
• Live music and background tunes enhance the ambiance
• Flexible cancellation policy and options to reserve with no upfront payment

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience We Wish We Could Join

The 4-hour sunset cruise in Marseille sounds like a perfect way to wind down after a day exploring the city. The itinerary promises a leisurely journey starting from the historic Mucem area, heading out for about an hour to the Frioul Islands, then enjoying a two-hour break for swimming and relaxing on deck. The return trip completes the circumnavigation, giving plenty of time to soak up the views.

One of the main draws is the atmosphere on board. The catamaran, named Le Feng Shui, boasts a capacity of around 80 guests, ensuring a lively yet intimate group setting. The open deck, nets, and rooftop can be enjoyed simultaneously, depending on how you want to experience the surroundings. You’ll love the way the soft evening light bathes the islands, making the cliffs and calanques look like they’re glowing.

What You Can Expect

Starting Point and Boarding

The cruise kicks off at the foot of the Mucem, a lively area packed with cafés and vibrant street life. The crew, helmed by French and English-speaking staff, are known for being friendly and professional—an important detail for a relaxing outing. Guests are asked to remove shoes upon boarding, a small detail that helps keep the boat tidy and comfortable.

The Catamaran Ride

The initial hour aboard the Feng Shui sets the tone. The sailing is smooth, giving everyone a chance to settle in and enjoy the views. The boat’s ample space and open-air design mean that even during the longer stretches, you won’t feel cramped. The sound system playing background music adds to the laid-back vibe, making it easy to chat or simply soak in the scenery.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Frioul Archipelago and Calanques

The highlight is the stop in the Frioul Islands, where you can swim in the sea’s inviting, crisp waters. The fact that meals are served during this swim break is a thoughtful touch—nothing beats munching on salads, cheese, and meats while dipping your toes into the water. Reviewers mention that the buffet includes a salad bar, meat and sides, cheese platter, and dessert, all based on seasonal and bio-sourced ingredients. One guest said, “The food was good, with a variety that suits different tastes,” although others found the buffet somewhat limited or not up to their expectations.

Sunset and Scenic Views

The timing of the sunset can be a mixed bag, depending on weather and sea conditions. Some guests mentioned that a start time of 7 pm meant the sun had already set by 7:50 pm, leaving little to see in the evening darkness. If catching the sunset is your priority, you might prefer to opt for the earlier trips available from September onward. Keep in mind, the crew cannot guarantee perfect sunset views every night, but the overall ambiance remains charming.

Return and Reflection

On the return journey, you’ll appreciate the chance to relax, sip your drink, and reflect on the stunning landscape. Many reviewers highlight the friendly, professional crew, with some mentioning guides who are knowledgeable about the area and helpful in making the experience enjoyable.

The Food and Drinks

The included complimentary glass of wine or beer is a lovely touch, especially paired with the seasonal buffet. Soft drinks are available at discretion, but alcohol options cost extra, usually around €10 for a glass of wine or beer. The buffet includes salads, meats, cheeses, and desserts, with some guests saying the quality varies. One reviewer noted that the buffet was underwhelming, with limited dressing options and a small selection of meats and cheeses, which may be disappointing if you’re expecting a gourmet meal.

Value for Money

At $81 per person, the cruise offers good value for a relaxing evening with scenic views, food, drinks, and swimming. The fact that the trip includes a swim stop, a buffet, and live background music makes it a convenient package for those wanting a multi-sensory experience without extra charges. However, some felt the food could be better, and drinks at the bar are priced higher than typical Marseille standards.

Practical Tips for a Great Experience

• Arrive early at the Mucem to get comfortable and enjoy the lively surroundings
• Bring warm clothing, especially if you plan to stay on deck during sunset
• Sunglasses, sun hats, and sunscreen are essential during the day
• Be prepared for some movement on the water—wear comfortable shoes or go barefoot as requested
• Confirm the cruise timing if catching the sunset is important for your plans
• Consider booking earlier in September if your main goal is sunset viewing
• Remember that swimming depends on weather and captain’s discretion, so bring a towel if you plan to dip in

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, social activity with scenic beauty and good food. It’s perfect if you’re interested in a casual evening in Marseille, enjoying the sea breeze, a glass of wine, and the sun setting behind the calanques. Families with children over 2 years, groups of friends, or couples will appreciate the laid-back vibe and picturesque setting. However, if you’re after a high-end dining experience or guaranteed sunset views, this might not fully meet your expectations.

The Sum Up

The Marseille sunset catamaran cruise with buffet and drinks offers a relaxing voyage blending scenic views, a pleasant atmosphere, and decent value. While the food and sunset timing can vary, the overall experience provides a wonderful way to unwind in the company of friends or loved ones. The friendly crew, comfortable boat, and swimming opportunity make it a solid choice for those wanting a memorable evening on the water.

If you’re ready for a laid-back, scenic, and social outing with some good food, this trip deserves a spot on your Marseille itinerary. Just remember to check the timing if catching the sunset is your priority, and keep expectations realistic about the buffet quality.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 2 years and older are accepted. Keep in mind that swimming depends on weather and captain approval, so plan accordingly.

What should I bring on the cruise?
Bring warm clothing, sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen. Since you’ll be on the water, comfortable shoes or going barefoot on deck are recommended.

Can I swim during the cruise?
Yes, there is typically a swimming stop in clear waters during the trip, but it depends on weather conditions and the captain’s discretion.

What is included in the price?
The cruise, seasonal buffet, one complimentary glass of wine or beer, soft drinks at discretion, background music, and crew services are included.

Are drinks available for purchase on board?
Yes, additional drinks are sold at the bar, with wine or beer supplements costing around €10 each.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The reservation can be made with flexible “reserve now & pay later” options.

Does the cruise run year-round?
It operates from June 1 to September 30, with sunset times shifting slightly depending on the month.

This detailed review aims to give you an honest, practical look at what to expect from this Marseille sunset cruise. Whether you’re after a peaceful evening, impressive scenery, or a fun swimming stop, it could be a highlight of your trip—just keep some of the nuances in mind.

You can check if your dates are available here: