Marseille: Sailing cruise in the calanques, lunch and wine

Imagine cruising along the rugged coastline of the South of France on a beautifully aged, traditional Provençal sailing boat. That’s exactly what this 7-hour sailing experience offers—an authentic, relaxing way to see Marseille from a fresh perspective. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just seeking a scenic day out, this tour promises a blend of spectacular views, local flavors, and a touch of maritime charm.

What we particularly love about this experience is the chance to sail aboard La Flâneuse, the last of its kind built in Provence, giving it a genuine nautical feel. Coupled with the opportunity to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, enjoy local organic wines, and indulge in a fresh Provençal buffet, it’s an experience that balances adventure with comfort.

A potential consideration? The actual route and stops depend heavily on the weather — so if your heart is set on specific calanques, keep in mind that sailing plans may shift. This cruise suits those who appreciate authentic local experiences, scenic ocean views, and relaxed, well-organized outings. Perfect for couples, families with older kids, or anyone craving a peaceful escape into nature and tradition.

Good To Know

• Authentic Sailing Experience: Board the last traditional sailing boat built in Provence for an immersive maritime journey.
• Stunning Coastal Views: See Marseille’s iconic calanques and islands from the water, with scenic stops along the way.
• Swimming & Snorkeling: Take advantage of the crystal-clear waters with masks and snorkels provided.
• Gourmet Lunch & Local Wines: Enjoy a fresh, Provençal buffet and organic wines produced within 200 km of Marseille.
• Flexibility & Weather Dependence: The route is weather-dependent, which can influence which calanques or coastlines are visited.
• Ideal for Relaxed Explorers: A perfect outing for those who love scenic cruising, good food, and a laid-back vibe.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Vessel: La Flâneuse

Sailing aboard La Flâneuse adds a special touch to this cruise. As the last of Provence’s traditional sailing ships, it carries a sense of history and craftsmanship. The boat’s interior is surprisingly comfortable, with cushions and poufs crafted from old sails, creating a cozy yet authentic ambiance. From reviews, it’s clear that the crew’s passion for the boat and regional sailing traditions shine through, making the experience feel personal and genuine.

What To Expect: The Day’s Itinerary

The tour begins at Les Barquettes, where you’ll meet your crew and get a quick overview of the boat’s fascinating history. From there, the boat sets sail towards the Frioul archipelago, offering sweeping scenic views of Marseille’s skyline and the Château d’If — the fortress made famous by “The Count of Monte Cristo.”

Throughout the day, the boat often navigates around popular calanques like Sormiou, Morgiou, and Sugiton. However, the actual route is weather-dependent. If conditions are calm and clear, you’ll cruise into the calanques for a chance to marvel at their steep limestone cliffs and turquoise waters. If the weather isn’t suitable for the National Park, the boat might instead explore the Côte Bleue or the Frioul Islands.

Scenic Highlights & Stops

The Frioul archipelago offers incredible scenic views, ideal for photo ops and relaxing on deck. Many reviews praise the crew for providing interesting commentary about the area’s geography and history, enriching the visual experience.

Château d’If also features in the route. Although you won’t step ashore, the views of the fortress from the sea are striking, and it’s a great spot for snapping some memorable photos.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Swimming, Snorkeling & Sunbathing

One of the tour’s biggest draws is the chance to stop and swim in the clear waters of the calanques. Masks and snorkels are provided, and reviewers often mention how vibrant the seabed looks beneath the water’s surface. The calm waters of the Frioul Islands are particularly popular for swimming, especially on a sunny day.

Onboard, plenty of cushions and poufs from the boat’s sails encourage sunbathing and relaxing between swimming stops. It’s a perfect way to unwind and soak up the Mediterranean sun.

Lunch & Wine

The Provençal buffet served onboard showcases fresh, local ingredients, highlighting the region’s culinary delights. Reviewers frequently mention the quality and freshness of the food, which is prepared daily by a caterer in Malmousque. You might find a variety of salads, cheeses, bread, and regional specialties.

The organic and natural wines, produced within 200 km of Marseille, are a real highlight. Guests rave about the quality and presentation of the wines, noting they add a sophisticated touch to the day. Soft drinks and cold beverages are also available for those who prefer non-alcoholic options.

The Crew & Atmosphere

From reviews, it’s evident that the crew are knowledgeable and attentive. Mathieu, the guide in one review, was praised for making everyone feel welcomed and sharing interesting tidbits about the boat’s history and the area. The relaxed yet professional attitude ensures that everyone feels cared for, whether they’re looking for a fun swim or simply soaking up the sun.

Practical Details & What’s Included

The tour costs around $126 per person, a reasonable price considering the length, included food and drinks, and the unique experience of sailing aboard a historical vessel. The 7-hour duration offers ample time for sightseeing, swimming, and enjoying the onboard amenities.

Included in the price:

• The one-day cruise aboard La Flâneuse
• Provençal buffet packed with regional flavors
• Local organic and natural wines
• Soft drinks and cold beverages
• Masks and snorkels for underwater exploration

The experience is suitable for guests aged over 2 years, but strollers and baby carriages aren’t allowed, likely due to boat space and safety considerations. The tour operates in French and English, making it accessible to international travelers.

Timing & Booking

You can reserve a spot with the flexibility of paying later or canceling free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. Starting times vary depending on availability, so checking the schedule in advance is recommended.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for those who enjoy sailing but prefer a relaxed, scenic outing over high-adrenaline adventures. It suits travelers looking to see Marseille from the water, indulge in great local wine and cuisine, and enjoy snorkeling in pristine waters. Families with children over 2 years, couples, and solo travelers who appreciate authentic, well-organized experiences will find plenty to love here.

Book if you want a day that combines the charm of a traditional sailing vessel, spectacular coastal views, and quality regional food and drink.

FAQs

Is this cruise suitable for children?
Yes, children over 2 years old are allowed. However, strollers and baby carriages are not permitted on board due to space constraints.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 7 hours, giving plenty of time for sailing, swimming, and enjoying the meal.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, biodegradable sunscreen, beachwear, and weather-appropriate clothing to stay comfortable throughout the day.

Is the route fixed?
No, the actual itinerary depends on weather conditions. The tour usually explores the calanques of Sormiou, Morgiou, and Sugiton, but may alternate with other sites like Côte Bleue or Frioul Islands.

Are vegetarian or special dietary options available?
While specific dietary options aren’t mentioned, the buffet features fresh local products, so it’s likely that vegetarian options are available. It’s best to specify dietary needs while booking.

How do I book this experience?
You can reserve your spot online with the option to pay later, and the tour can be canceled for a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the boat cruise, lunch buffet, organic wines, soft drinks, and snorkeling masks and snorkels.

Can I sail if I don’t know how to swim?
Yes, swimming is optional. There are swimming stops for those who want to dip into the water, but no swimming skills are required to enjoy the cruise.

Final Thoughts

This sailing cruise in Marseille offers a wonderful balance of adventure, relaxation, and authentic local flavor. The quality of the vessel, the knowledgeable crew, and the scenic stops make it great value for money. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a family, or a couple seeking a peaceful day on the water, this tour ticks many boxes.

Enjoy the chance to sail on a Provence-built vessel, explore the iconic calanques, and savor regional wines in a setting that feels both luxurious and unpretentious. It’s a perfect way to see Marseille from a new vantage point, making memories over a delicious meal and refreshing swim.

Note: For those interested, additional similar experiences include catamaran tours, sunset cruises, or day trips focusing on swimming and picnicking in the calanques, all offering a slightly different flavor of this beautiful coastline.

You can check if your dates are available here: