Imagine spending a day aboard a beautifully maintained 1949 wooden schooner, sailing through some of France’s most stunning coastal scenery. That’s exactly what you get with the Calanques Sailing Cruise from Marseille, a tour that blends elegant sailing, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and a delicious vegetarian lunch accompanied by local rosé.
From the moment you step onto the boat at the Old Port, you’ll notice the charm of this classic vessel and the friendly crew eager to share the experience. The tour offers plenty of highlights, like panoramic views of Calanques National Park, multiple swimming stops, and the chance to understand the area’s natural beauty from knowledgeable guides.
While the overall experience feels quite authentic and relaxing, some travelers point out that sailing conditions can vary — sometimes, the wind isn’t strong enough to raise the sails, and you might spend part of the day motoring. Still, for those who love the idea of sailing on a vintage boat, it’s a treat that balances adventure with comfort.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a scenic, leisurely day on the water, enjoy snorkeling, and appreciate good food and wine in an intimate setting. Whether you’re visiting Marseille for the first time or seeking a calming break from busy city tours, this cruise offers a genuine taste of the South of France’s maritime charm.
Good To Know
- Authentic sailing experience on a classic schooner built in 1949
- Stunning views of Calanques National Park and surrounding islands
- Multiple swimming and snorkeling stops with gear provided
- Gourmet vegetarian buffet lunch featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients
- Relaxed atmosphere with friendly, knowledgeable crew
- Perfect for lovers of sailing, nature, and culinary delights
The Experience in Detail
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Starting the Day: Meeting at Marseille’s Old Port
Your adventure kicks off at 72 Quai du Port, where you’ll meet your crew next to Pier 2. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with coffee and fruit juice offered as you get introduced to the boat and fellow travelers. The vessel, Goélette Alliance, is a graceful, well-maintained classic schooner, and many reviews mention how spacious and comfortable it feels — a big plus when you’re spending several hours onboard.
Setting Sail and Scenery
By 10:00 AM, the crew typically welcomes you aboard, and after a brief safety introduction, the boat departs for the Calanques. Depending on wind conditions, the crew may hoist the sails or motor along — a detail often highlighted in reviews. Several travelers note that sometimes, the wind isn’t enough to sail, but the boat remains smooth and comfortable. The experience is more about the scenery and relaxing vibe than high-speed sailing.
As you cruise, you’ll pass by notable sights like Château d’If, the Frioul archipelago, and Les Goudes, offering quick sightseeing moments. These stops allow for photo opportunities and a chance to enjoy the captivating landscape of towering cliffs, turquoise waters, and hidden coves.
The Calanques: Swimming and Snorkeling
The main highlight of this tour is the chance to swim and snorkel in the Calanques’ pristine waters. The crew usually anchors in sheltered coves, carefully choosing spots based on weather and wind. Masks and snorkels are provided, and reviewers have raved about how clear and vibrant the water is — perfect for underwater exploration.
Guests typically get two swimming stops, sometimes longer if conditions permit. One reviewer mentions that “the water was incredibly clean and full of fish,” emphasizing how much more accessible and enjoyable snorkeling becomes with the right gear and calm waters.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyGourmet Vegetarian Lunch
After the first swim, everyone gathers on deck for a gourmet vegetarian buffet that’s surprisingly satisfying. The meal, prepared fresh and with seasonal ingredients, features salads, focaccia, hummus, and lentils. Many reviewers praise the quality and flavor of the food, with some saying it “was the best they had during their trip.”
A glass of chilled rosé accompanies the meal, and the crew often offers additional drinks throughout the day. It’s a leisurely, social part of the cruise, giving guests time to relax, chat, and enjoy the stunning views.
Continuing the Journey: Exploring Islands and Coves
Post-lunch, the boat continues sailing, often guided by the wind, through the Riou archipelago and around other picturesque coves. This part of the trip offers more chances to enjoy the scenery, take photos, and perhaps jump into the water again. Reviewers have highlighted how varied and beautiful these coastlines are, with many describing the experience as “so peaceful” and “like being in paradise.”
Additional Swimming and Final Stops
In the afternoon, the crew might anchor again for a second swimming stop, providing more opportunities to cool off and admire marine life. Some travelers appreciate that the second stop is longer than the first, allowing for a more relaxed experience.
Return to Marseille
Around 5:00 PM, the cruise winds down as the boat heads back to the Old Port. The last moments are often filled with reflective conversations and photos, with many guests feeling rejuvenated and grateful for the day’s experiences.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out
The Classic Schooner and the Sailing Vibe
The 1949 wooden schooner offers a nostalgic sailing experience that’s rare in today’s tour options. Many reviews mention how much they appreciated the authenticity and craftsmanship of the vessel, which makes the trip feel more special than a typical passenger boat.
The Scenic Stops and Snorkeling
The Calanques are often described as breathtaking — towering cliffs, azure waters, and quiet inlets that beckon for swimming. The crew’s local knowledge ensures you visit the best spots based on weather conditions, making the experience feel both personalized and exclusive.
The Quality of Food and Drinks
Guests consistently praise the vegetarian buffet, which balances health, flavor, and freshness. The inclusion of rosé and other drinks adds a touch of local flavor, elevating the relaxation factor. Many reviewers mention that the lunch exceeded expectations for a boat tour, making it a true highlight.
The Knowledgeable Crew
Whether it’s explaining the history of the Calanques, guiding snorkeling, or sharing local wine tips, the crew is often recognized for their friendliness, professionalism, and multilingual abilities. One reviewer noted that “the guides’ knowledge about the area made the experience even more memorable.”
The Relaxing Atmosphere
The combination of sailing, swimming, eating, and socializing offers a laid-back vibe. Many travelers say the day felt like a perfect blend of adventure and leisure, ideal for those who want to disconnect from busy city life.
Practical Details and Considerations
Duration and Schedule
The tour lasts about 7 hours, starting at 10:00 AM and returning around 5:00 PM. The itinerary includes sightseeing, swimming, and lunch, with the flexible nature of sailing depending on weather conditions. Some reviews mention that the trip can be shortened if the weather isn’t ideal, but the crew always aims to maximize the experience.
Price and Value
At $152 per person, this cruise offers strong value, especially considering the inclusion of snorkeling gear, a gourmet lunch, and a full-day experience. Many reviews emphasize that the overall quality and personalized service make it worth the cost, especially when compared to less authentic or shorter tours.
Group Size and Comfort
The vessel comfortably accommodates about 20 guests, ensuring an intimate and relaxed environment. Guests are often struck by how spacious and well-maintained the boat feels, with plenty of room for lounging or moving around.
Accessibility and Practical Tips
You should bring swimwear, a towel, and weather-appropriate clothing. Since towels aren’t provided, packing one is essential. The tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan to arrive at the meeting point on time. If you’re prone to seasickness, consider bringing medication, as some reviewers experienced discomfort, especially near anchor drops.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This cruise suits travelers who enjoy sailing, nature, and good food, and who appreciate a relaxed, scenic experience. It’s perfect for those looking for a small-group vibe with personalized attention from the crew. If you love snorkeling and swimming in clear waters, you’ll find this trip incredibly rewarding.
However, if you’re seeking a high-energy adventure or a boat with a lively party atmosphere, this might feel more subdued. It’s also a wonderful choice for vegetarians, given the thoughtfully prepared lunch, and for wine lovers, thanks to the local rosé.
The Sum Up
The Calanques Sailing Cruise from Marseille offers a balanced blend of authentic sailing, stunning scenery, and gourmet relaxation. The vintage schooner adds charm, while the variety of swimming stops ensures a refreshing day in nature. The crew’s friendliness, local knowledge, and high-quality lunch elevate the experience from merely scenic to genuinely memorable.
This tour delivers excellent value for the price, especially for those who appreciate a more intimate, genuine maritime adventure. It’s ideal for travelers who want to combine scenic beauty, underwater exploration, and culinary delights into one effortless day on the water.
If you’re craving a peaceful, scenic escape with a touch of classic French elegance, this cruise will likely be a highlight of your Marseille trip.
FAQ
Is the tour suitable if I don’t speak French? Yes, reviews mention that guides speak English, often along with French and Italian, making it accessible for international travelers.
What should I bring? Pack swimwear, a towel, weather-appropriate clothing, and any personal snorkeling gear if desired. Towels are not provided.
Does the tour include hotel pickup? No, transportation from your hotel isn’t included, so you’ll need to meet at the designated Old Port location.
How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts around 7 hours, from about 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
What’s the food like? The vegetarian buffet features fresh, seasonal ingredients, salads, and focaccia, often praised as “delicious” and satisfying.
Is there alcohol served? Yes, a glass of rosé is included with lunch, with additional drinks available throughout the day.
Are snorkeling masks and fins provided? Yes, snorkeling gear such as masks and fins are included in the package.
What if the weather isn’t windy enough for sailing? The boat may motor instead of sail, but the crew ensures the experience remains enjoyable and scenic.
Is this good value? Given the quality of the vessel, the gourmet lunch, multiple swimming stops, and expert guides, most guests feel it’s quite reasonable and worth the cost.
Can I do this tour if I have limited mobility? The information provided doesn’t specify accessibility details, so it’s best to contact the provider directly for questions about mobility or special needs.
This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from the Calanques Sailing Cruise and help you decide if it’s the right fit for your Marseille adventure.
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