Marseille: visit the National Park on a snorkeling trip

Exploring the Calanques National Park from Marseille on a snorkeling tour offers an inviting way to see one of France’s most stunning coastal landscapes. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of this laid-back, nature-focused adventure.

What we love most about this experience? First, the beautiful boat ride along the coastline offers breathtaking views of Marseille’s harbor and rugged cliffs. Second, the clarity of the water makes for fantastic snorkeling, revealing vibrant flora and fauna beneath the surface. Third, the small group size ensures personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere that truly enhances the fun.

A possible consideration is the activity duration—at just 3.5 hours, it might feel a bit short for those wanting a full day of exploration. Still, for many, the compact format offers a perfect taste of the Calanques without overcommitting.

This trip suits travelers who appreciate a mix of scenic boat rides, gentle water activities, and the chance to unwind with herbal tea afterward. It’s especially appealing for families, first-time snorkelers, and those looking for a relaxed outdoor experience with knowledgeable guides.

Good To Know

• Accessible for all ages: Suitable for anyone from 8 to 90 years old, regardless of swimming experience.
• Small group setting: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a friendly, personalized experience.
• Beautiful coastline views: Enjoy a 20-minute boat ride along the stunning Marseille coastline.
• Rich marine life: Discover the colorful flora and fauna of the Calanques’ seabed in clear waters.
• Relaxing finish: End your trip with hot herbal tea, a cooling drink, or an ice cream.
• All necessary gear provided: Wetsuit, fins, mask, snorkel, and float are included, so no need to bring much.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Diving into the Experience: What to Expect

This snorkeling trip begins with a warm welcome and a brief safety and environmental protection briefing from a friendly, English-speaking instructor. That’s crucial because, although snorkeling is straightforward, understanding how to protect the delicate environment and your own safety makes all the difference.

Gear and Preparation: You’ll find everything you need—wetsuit, fins, mask, snorkel, and a float—ready for you. All you need to bring is your swimsuit and a beach towel. Changing rooms are available, which is handy after a quick swim change.

The Boat Ride: Once geared up, the group boards a specially adapted RIB (rigid inflatable boat) for a scenic 20-minute cruise along the coast. The ride alone is worth the trip, offering views of Marseille’s vibrant harbor and dramatic cliffs. Expect plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to soak in the fresh sea breeze.

Snorkeling at the Calanques: Upon arrival at a sheltered, calm spot in the Riou archipelago, the guides split the group into small teams. The guides remain close by, often floating nearby with a buoy, so you can rest or hold on as needed. This setup is perfect for less confident swimmers or those new to snorkeling, with many reviews noting how safe and relaxed they felt.

Underwater Discovery: The waters here are famously clear, allowing for spectacular glimpses of underwater flora and fauna. Some reviews highlight the vivid colors of fish and the diversity of marine life, encouraging even first-timers to give it a go. Guides are on hand to point out notable sights and ensure everyone gets a chance to enjoy the underwater landscape.

Post-Activity Rest: After exploring, everyone reconvenes on the boat for a hot herbal tea, which many found surprisingly soothing after swimming. Some travelers also enjoyed a cold drink or ice cream, making for a delightful finish before heading back to land.

The Scenic Boat Ride and Marine Environment

The boat ride itself is a highlight, offering views of the rugged Calanques cliffs and the pristine coastline. The route is designed to be leisurely, so there’s plenty of time to take photos or simply marvel at the scenery. The water here is sheltered from currents, making snorkeling safer and more enjoyable—great for families or those unsure about open water.

The marine environment is lively and diverse. From other reviews, we learn that the location is teeming with flora and fauna, and the water’s clarity makes the underwater world visible from the surface. You might spot colorful fish, sea anemones, and various aquatic plants that add to the vibrant underwater tapestry.

What Makes It a Great Value

At $53 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. The price covers all equipment, the boat ride, a guided snorkeling experience, and herbal tea afterward. The small group size enhances the experience, providing more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere, which is often missing in larger tours.

Compared to other similar experiences around Marseille, this tour’s focus on comfort, safety, and environmental respect makes it stand out. The inclusion of equipment and the friendly, English-speaking guides ensure a hassle-free outing for travelers of all skill levels.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring your swimsuit and beach towel. The tour provides all snorkeling gear, but a towel helps with comfort afterward.
• Arrive early at the meeting point, which is on the platform opposite the RTM ferry terminal. The earlier you arrive, the more relaxed your start will be.
• Wear sunscreen and a hat, especially since you’ll be exposed to the sun during the boat ride and snorkeling.
• Book in advance: The tour is limited to 10 participants, which makes it popular. Reserving early ensures you don’t miss out.
• Children under 8 and pregnant women are not advised to participate, so plan accordingly.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Who This Tour Is Best For

This snorkeling experience is perfect for those seeking a gentle outdoor adventure without needing prior experience. It’s suitable for families, beginners, and anyone wanting a relaxed way to enjoy Marseille’s coastal beauty. The scenic boat ride combined with underwater exploration offers an excellent introduction to marine environments for curious travelers.

If you’re looking for a short but memorable outing that combines scenic views, light activity, and peaceful surroundings, this tour hits the mark. It’s also a good choice if you prefer small groups and personalized attention over large, crowded tours.

FAQ

Is snorkeling suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 8 and above can participate, provided they are comfortable in the water. The activity is designed to be accessible to all, with guides ensuring safety and comfort.

What should I bring?
Just your swimsuit and a beach towel. The tour provides wetsuits, fins, masks, snorkels, and floats, so there’s no need to bring your own gear.

How long does the activity last?
The entire experience takes approximately 3.5 hours, including boat rides, snorkeling, and relaxing afterward.

Is the water safe for swimming?
Yes, the snorkeling sites are sheltered from currents and considered safe. The guides are attentive, and the environment is calm and protected.

Is it suitable for non-swimmers?
While snorkeling is a surface activity, non-swimmers can still enjoy the experience, especially with floats nearby and the presence of guides. However, they should be comfortable with water and following safety instructions.

What’s included in the price?
All snorkeling equipment, boat transportation, and a hot herbal tea are included in the $53 fee.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

This snorkeling tour in Marseille’s Calanques National Park offers an inviting way to experience the area’s stunning coastline and marine life without demanding extensive swimming skills or a full day commitment. The combination of scenic boat rides, peaceful snorkeling spots, and friendly guides makes it an attractive choice for a relaxed and memorable outdoor outing.

Perfect for families, first-time snorkelers, or anyone wanting to enjoy the natural beauty of the South of France with minimal hassle, this experience stands out for its intimate setting and focus on environmental respect. It’s a lovely way to add a splash of adventure and a lot of visual delight to your Marseille trip.

Whether you’re a nature lover or just seeking a peaceful escape, this tour offers a genuine taste of the Calanques’ unspoiled beauty—organize your booking and get ready for a memorable day on the water.

You can check if your dates are available here: