Marseille: Evening sailboat trip to the Calanques du Frioul with buffet and organic wine

Imagine cruising along the sparkling waters of the South of France, surrounded by rugged coastlines, lush islands, and the glow of a setting sun. That’s exactly what you get with this evening sailboat trip from Marseille to the Calanques du Frioul. Our review dives into this popular tour, highlighting what makes it a genuinely memorable experience—and also some considerations to keep in mind.

What immediately draws us in is the spectacular scenery—from Marseille’s vibrant harbor to the wild, untouched beauty of the Frioul archipelago. We also love the thoughtfully curated gourmet vegetarian buffet featuring local seasonal produce, paired with organic Provençal rosé. Plus, the calm, scenic sail and the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters make this trip a versatile way to unwind. On the flip side, the only real drawback seems to be the weather’s influence on the sunset views—sometimes clouds hide the sunset, which can be a bit disappointing but doesn’t spoil the overall charm. This tour suits travelers looking for a relaxing yet scenic experience, especially those who enjoy good food, wine, and natural beauty.

Good To Know

• Stunning Views: Get the best vantage point of Marseille by water, especially at sunset.
• Quality Food & Wine: A fresh vegetarian buffet with local ingredients, paired with organic rosé.
• Authentic Experience: Small groups and a welcoming crew make for an intimate, comfortable atmosphere.
• Swim & Snorkel: Stop in a secluded cove for a refreshing swim in clear waters.
• Flexible Timing: Departure times vary seasonally, aligning with the sunset.
• Relaxed Pace: 3.5 hours of sailing, sightseeing, and dining—no rush, just enjoyment.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Overview of the Experience

This tour is designed to be both leisurely and picturesque, perfect for those seeking a laid-back evening with breathtaking scenery. Starting at 70 Quai du Port, just opposite Marseille’s town hall, you’ll meet your crew and hop aboard a charming sailboat. The friendly guide or crew member (who often speaks both French and English) sets a welcoming tone, sharing a bit of the boat’s history and what to look out for during your cruise.

This cruise is tailored for those who want more than just a boat ride; it’s about the feeling of gliding through the water, soaking in panoramic views, and enjoying a gourmet meal in a unique setting. The total duration of 3.5 hours, with adjustments for the season, offers enough time to relax without overstaying.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Departure & Setting Sail

The adventure kicks off at 7:00 p.m. (season-dependent), with guests gathering at the Quai d’Honneur. Once everyone’s aboard, the boat departs smoothly, gliding out of the busy harbor of Marseille.

Scenic Cruise Through the Harbor

The first leg is a gentle cruise through Marseille’s harbor, giving travelers a chance to admire the city’s lively waterfront bathed in the late afternoon or early evening light. The crew’s friendly chatter and occasional commentary help to set the mood, though some reviews note that guides don’t always provide detailed explanations about what’s passing by—something to keep in mind if you’re a history or scenery buff.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Frioul Archipelago & Wild Coves

After about 25 minutes, the boat reaches the Frioul archipelago, a rugged cluster of islands and rocky coves. Here, the boat anchors in a secluded cove, perfect for swimming and snorkeling in calm, transparent waters. This stop is a highlight for many, offering a peaceful moment to cool off and take photos of the stunning natural surroundings. Several reviews mention how the anchor is simply dropped, without a full tour of each cove, which might disappoint those hoping for a detailed exploration but suits travelers simply wanting a tranquil swim.

Dinner & Sunset Views

As the sun begins to dip, the crew serves a vegetarian cold buffet called “La Casa Consolat,” featuring fresh, seasonal produce from Marseille. The meal is praised for its quality and flavors, with many describing it as both tasty and satisfying. A glass of organic Provençal rosé accompanies the meal, adding to the authentic regional experience.

Although the sunset can sometimes be obscured by clouds—reviewers mention it was behind a wall during some trips—the overall ambiance of dining with the lights of Marseille flickering in the background remains magical. The gentle sound of the water, paired with relaxing music, enhances this memorable setting.

Scenic Return & Night Views of Marseille

After the meal and some time to unwind, the boat heads back toward the port. The return journey is around 25 minutes, during which you’ll pass by Marseille’s illuminated skyline, creating a stunning contrast to the daytime hustle. The cruise concludes around 10:30 p.m., with guests disembarking at the same location as they started.

What Makes This Tour Special

Spectacular Views & Unique Perspective: Seeing Marseille from the water, especially at sunset, offers a different perspective you can’t get from land. The combination of city lights, rugged coastlines, and the peaceful islands makes for a picture-perfect setting.

Gourmet Vegetarian Meal & Organic Wine: The on-board dinner relies on fresh, seasonal ingredients, emphasizing sustainability—a wonderful touch for eco-conscious travelers. The local rosé is chilled to perfection and elevates the simple pleasure of dining al fresco.

Swim & Relaxation: The anchor drop gives guests a chance to cool off in the clear, calm waters—adding an active element to the relaxing cruise. Many reviews highlight the enjoyable swim, even if some admit the explanation of the sights was limited.

Intimate Atmosphere: With a small group size and a welcoming crew, this experience feels personal and cozy. Thibault, the captain appreciated in reviews, shares his passion for the sea, creating a warm, genuine vibe.

Practical Details & Value

For $80 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience blending scenic sailing, regional cuisine, and leisure. The total duration of 3.5 hours strikes a good balance—long enough to enjoy the sights and meal without feeling rushed.

Timing is season-dependent, with departure at 7:00 p.m. until August 17, 2025, and then shifting to 6:00 p.m. afterwards. This flexibility ensures you’ll witness sunset views in the warmer months, though weather can influence the actual sunset experience—something to consider if you’re visiting during cloudy periods.

The inclusion of vegetarian food and organic wine enhances the value, especially since gourmet meals on boat trips tend to be on the pricier side elsewhere. Plus, the focus on local, seasonal ingredients aligns with sustainable travel goals.

Keep in mind, transfers aren’t included, so you’ll need to make your way to Quai d’Honneur, which is conveniently located in the Old Port. The easy-to-find meeting point next to the town hall makes the start straightforward.

From Reviews to Real Experience

Several guests mention the welcoming and enthusiastic crew, with Thibault singled out for sharing his passion for the sea. The food is consistently praised, with some describing it as flavorful and gourmet—even with a simple vegetarian menu. The cruise’s relaxed pace and scenic views are often highlighted as the main reasons to book.

However, a few reviewers note that the guides don’t always provide detailed commentary about the sights or the history of the islands and coves, which might be a missed opportunity for those seeking deeper knowledge. Still, many found the overall experience to be enchanting, especially with the peaceful setting and the soft sounds of music and water.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This evening sail is ideal for travelers wanting a romantic, relaxed outing or a special way to see Marseille’s coastline at sunset. It’s also great for food lovers who appreciate a thoughtfully prepared vegetarian meal paired with local wine. If you’re someone who enjoys swimming in natural settings and prefers a smaller group, this trip checks all those boxes.

However, if you’re craving a more educational or detailed tour of the islands, or if weather conditions are poor, you might find the experience less fulfilling. It’s best suited for those who prioritize scenery, good food, and a laid-back atmosphere over in-depth sightseeing commentary.

The Sum Up

This sailboat trip around Marseille’s Calanques du Frioul offers a peaceful, scenic escape that combines natural beauty, regional cuisine, and the charm of the sea. The stunning views, delicious vegetarian buffet, and refreshing swim stop create a well-rounded experience that feels both authentic and indulgent.

At a reasonable price, it provides excellent value for those seeking a relaxing evening in the South of France. Perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone looking to unwind while soaking in the sunset and spectacular coastline.

While weather can influence the sunset’s visibility, the overall vibe—friendly crew, tasty food, and tranquil waters—makes this a trip worth considering. If you want a blend of scenic beauty, culinary delights, and peaceful sailing, this tour will leave you with beautiful memories of Marseille from a perspective few get to enjoy.

FAQ

What time does the tour start during the season?
Departure is at 7:00 p.m. until August 17, 2025, and at 6:00 p.m. after that date, aligning with sunset times.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3.5 hours, including sailing, swimming, dining, and returning to port.

Where do I meet the boat?
The meeting point is Quai d’Honneur, opposite the town hall, at pier 2 next to the ferry boat in Marseille’s Old Port.

Is food included?
Yes, a vegetarian cold buffet featuring seasonal, local ingredients is included, along with organic Provençal rosé.

Are drinks included?
The tour includes a glass of chilled rosé, but additional drinks are not specified as included.

Is swimming allowed?
Yes, there is a swim stop in a secluded cove perfect for cooling off and snorkeling.

Can pregnant women participate?
Pregnant women past the sixth month need a medical certificate, and high-risk pregnancies should inform the crew in advance.

Are transfers included?
No, guests are responsible for getting to the meeting point.

What should I wear?
Comfortable sailing clothes are recommended; dress appropriately for the weather and water activities.

In summary, this sunset sail offers a beautiful, laid-back way to experience Marseille’s coast, with great food, scenic views, and a friendly crew. It’s a fantastic choice for those who value relaxation, natural beauty, and regional flavors in their travel adventures.

You can check if your dates are available here: