Marseille: Calanques National Park Boat Trip with Swimming

If you’re eyeing a trip to Marseille and want to see the stunning Calanques without the crowds, this boat trip might just fit the bill. It’s a 4.5-hour adventure that promises tranquil cruising, crystal-clear waters, and a chance to swim in some truly picturesque spots. We haven’t been on it ourselves, but based on reviews and the detailed info, it seems like a solid choice for those who want a mix of relaxation and nature exploration.

What we love about this experience? First, the eco-friendly boat makes a difference, letting you enjoy the scenery without loud engines ruining the vibe. Second, the snorkeling gear included means you can easily peek beneath the surface and see the underwater beauty of the Calanques. But, a small note—some might wish the boat used more eco-conscious fuel than diesel, which is a common critique. Overall, it’s well-suited for travelers craving a peaceful, nature-focused outing that doesn’t break the bank.

If you’re into scenic boat rides, swimming in clear waters, and learning a little about this protected natural wonder, this trip could be right up your alley. It’s especially good if you prefer small groups and quiet cruising over large, noisy tours. However, if you’re after a full-day adventure or a more active experience, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• Eco-Friendly & Silent: The electric hybrid boats provide a peaceful journey, allowing you to fully enjoy the Calanques’ natural sounds and views.
• Flexible Stops & Swimming: Multiple potential swimming spots let you dip into gorgeous coves, with snorkeling equipment included.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 12 people, so you’ll often get a more personal, relaxed vibe compared to large tour boats.
• Experienced Guides: Passengers consistently praise the crew’s friendliness and knowledge, making the trip more engaging.
• Price & Value: At $111 per person, the tour offers a good balance of comfort, scenery, and activity, especially considering all equipment and insurance included.
• Seasonal Timing & Departure: Departure times shift slightly between peak and shoulder seasons, so check your email for exact meeting details.

This tour is a wonderful way to see the Calanques without the hustle of crowded boat tours or the hassle of organizing your own trip. The electric boat is a highlight, providing a smooth, whisper-quiet ride that respects the environment, aligning with eco-conscious travelers’ values. And with snorkeling gear provided, you don’t have to bring your own, making it convenient for casual ocean lovers who want to dip into the calm, clear waters.

The itinerary covers some of the most scenic spots around the Calanques, with stops for swimming, photos, and a chance to relax in nature’s quiet. The fact that small groups are prioritized means you won’t feel like just another face in a crowd, allowing for some good conversations or peaceful solitude.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s the Experience Like?

From the moment you board at the Old Port, you’re welcomed aboard a comfortable, environmentally friendly boat designed for intimacy and peace. The crew, often praised for their friendliness and expertise, guides you through the itinerary, explaining the landmarks and making sure everyone feels safe and comfortable.

You’ll head off toward the stunning National Park des Calanques, with the first swimming stop in a pretty cove. Here, you can don masks and snorkels to explore underwater life, which many reviews find genuinely worthwhile. The waters are crystal clear, and the scenery of jagged cliffs rising from the sea is simply breathtaking.

Depending on weather and group preferences, a second swimming stop might be added, often at another beautiful location. The silence of the electric boat makes it easier to soak in the tranquility—no loud engines interrupting the natural sounds, which many reviews highlight as a huge plus.

After a leisurely afternoon with swimming and pictures, you’ll cruise back to Marseille, feeling refreshed and with plenty of great snapshots.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The trip’s itinerary is thoughtfully structured, balancing sightseeing, swimming, and relaxation. Starting from either Eco Calanques or the quai de Rive Neuve, you’ll move along the coast with several stops:

• Château d’If & Frioul Archipelago: Short sightseeing stops let you get a quick glimpse of Marseille’s history and islands. One reviewer appreciated the 5-minute stops for quick sightseeing, while others mentioned the scenic views alone made it worthwhile.
• Île Maïre & Goudes: These brief visits give you a taste of the local charm and rugged coastline.
• Calanques National Park: The main event — around 45 minutes of stunning scenery, photo opportunities, and swimming. It’s where the real magic happens, especially with the clear waters perfect for snorkeling.
• Archipel de Riou: Similar to the Calanques, with options for another swim and photo stops.

The return includes more cruising on a speedboat, offering a bit of an adrenaline rush, which some reviews found fun. The total time on the water is well-paced, without rushing to fit in too much.

What Do Travelers Say?

The reviews paint a pretty positive picture, with a 4.7-star rating from 134 travelers. Many rave about the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the stunning views. One traveler even said, “Patrick was a great captain,” and appreciated how he adapted plans due to weather—showing the crew’s flexibility and care.

Swimmers consistently highlight the beautiful, calm waters and the snorkeling gear as a highlight. Several reviewers note the peace that comes from the electric boats, with one saying, “the silence… allows you to fully enjoy the tranquility,” though a few mention the boat still uses diesel engines for part of the journey, which might bother eco-conscious travelers.

Many find the small group size makes the trip more personal and relaxed, and the overall value is considered good, especially given the included equipment and insurance.

Price & Overall Value

At $111 per person, this tour offers a decent price for a half-day adventure in such an iconic environment. The price includes boat, crew, insurance, fuel, masks, snorkels, and some equipment, meaning you don’t have to worry about extra costs once you’re booked.

Compared to larger, more boisterous tours, the intimacy and quietness of the electric boat make this a more relaxing experience. While it might not include food or hotel pickup, the focus on natural scenery and swimming justifies the cost, especially if you value comfort, environmental considerations, and small groups.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits travelers who want a peaceful, scenic experience rather than a high-energy adventure. It’s ideal if you’re interested in nature, snorkeling, and photography, and prefer smaller groups to avoid the crowds. It’s also a good pick for eco-minded visitors who appreciate quieter vessels and natural surroundings.

If you’re comfortable with a half-day outing and enjoy good conversation with friendly guides, you’ll likely leave feeling you’ve experienced something special. However, if you want a full-day or more active experience, this tour might feel a bit limited in scope.

This Calanques boat trip offers a comfortable, eco-conscious way to enjoy one of France’s most beautiful natural parks. The combination of peaceful cruising, beautiful scenery, and swimming opportunities makes it stand out as a relaxing, scenic escape from city life. The small group size enhances the experience, offering personal touches from guides who genuinely seem to care about your comfort and enjoyment.

While the use of diesel engines for part of the trip is a minor drawback, the overall experience remains highly praised for its tranquility, stunning vistas, and snorkeling fun. It’s a good pick for those who love nature, prefer quieter tours, and want a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure.

If you’re in Marseille and craving a half-day immersed in natural beauty with minimal fuss, this trip deserves serious consideration.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
The tour is more geared towards adults or older children who are comfortable swimming and spending time on a boat. It doesn’t specifically mention family-friendly amenities, but small groups and calm waters could make it manageable for some families.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear and a towel so you can enjoy swimming and snorkeling comfortably. The tour provides masks and snorkels, so no need to carry your own.

Will I get seasick?
Since the boats are electric and move quietly, this might reduce seasickness for sensitive travelers. The routes include calm waters, but if you’re prone to seasickness, it’s always best to be prepared.

How long is the trip?
The total duration is about 4.5 hours, with departure times varying between 12:30 pm and 1 pm depending on the season.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the boat, crew, insurance, fuel, and snorkeling gear. Food and hotel pickup are not included.

Are the boats accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour mentions wheelchair accessibility, but it’s good to confirm with the provider beforehand.

What is the departure point?
Boarding is from the Old Port of Marseille, but the exact location may vary depending on the booking option, so check your email for details.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is there a reason to book early?
Since the tour is popular and limited to small groups, booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot, especially in peak seasons.

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape or a scenic adventure to share with friends, this Calanques boat trip seems like a pretty solid way to take in some of the most breathtaking views the South of France has to offer—quiet, comfortable, and full of natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: