If you’re considering a day out on the water in Marseille, this Calanques sailing cruise offers a blend of stunning scenery, relaxation, and a touch of French sophistication. The tour, operated by Goélette Alliance, invites you to step aboard a beautifully maintained 1949 schooner and explore the remarkable Calanques National Park. From what we’ve seen in reviews and descriptions, it’s a well-loved experience, especially for those who enjoy sailing, scenic views, and good food.
Two things that really catch our eye about this tour are the enchanting scenery of the Calanques — those dramatic limestone cliffs plunging into the sea — and the delicious vegetarian lunch paired with local rosé. These features promise a relaxed yet memorable day. On the flip side, one aspect worth considering is the weather dependency; if the wind isn’t strong enough, you won’t get to raise the sails and truly feel the sailing experience. Still, even then, most reviewers agree the voyage remains a pleasant way to spend a day.
This tour is most suited for those who love a leisurely outing, enjoy beautiful landscapes, and appreciate good food and wine. It’s ideal even if you’re not an experienced sailor, as the crew is praised for their friendliness and professionalism. If you’re after an active adventure with multiple physical stops, this might feel more relaxing than adrenaline-pumping, but for a scenic, gourmet, and snorkeling-filled day, it hits the right notes.
Key Points
- Beautiful Scenery: The Calanques National Park offers spectacular cliffs and crystal-clear waters.
- Relaxing Sailing: The vintage schooner adds charm, and even if the sails don’t always go up, the atmosphere remains peaceful.
- Snorkeling Opportunities: Underwater exploration is included, with masks and snorkels available.
- Gourmet Vegetarian Lunch: Fresh, seasonal ingredients make for a satisfying meal on board.
- Local Wines and Drinks: A glass of rosé accompanies your meal, with water, coffee, and juice also served.
- Great Crew and Guides: Multiple reviews mention friendly, knowledgeable staff who make the experience special.
- Flexible and Easy Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, and reserve without paying upfront.
- Ideal for Relaxed Explorers: The tour offers plenty of downtime for swimming, photos, and enjoying the scenery.
What to Expect on the Calanques Sailing Cruise
Planning more time in Calanques National Park? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Departure and Welcome
Your day begins at 72 Quai du Port, right next to the old port area of Marseille. The crew offers fruit juice and coffee to start the morning on a friendly note. From there, you’ll board the classic wooden schooner, a vessel that’s been around since 1949, giving the cruise a nostalgic, authentic feel. It’s a leisurely start that sets the tone for the day ahead.
The Journey and Major Stops
The tour involves several key parts, each offering something special.
- Crossing the harbor to the Calanques: You’ll cruise across Marseille’s harbor, with the chance to see the city from the water before heading toward the cliffs. Even if you’re not sailing all the time (sometimes the wind isn’t cooperating), the scenery from the boat is stunning — those towering limestone formations and rugged coastline are truly picture-perfect.
- Château d’If, Frioul archipelago, and Île Maïre: These quick sightseeing stops give you a taste of the region’s history and landscape. The Château d’If is famously known from “The Count of Monte Cristo,” but the tour only spends about 5 minutes here, mainly for photo ops.
- Calanques National Park: This is the star of the tour. You’ll get to anchor in a sheltered cove for swimming, with masks and snorkels provided. The water is described as very clean and clear, creating ideal conditions for underwater discovery. The stop here lasts around 63 minutes, giving plenty of time to relax, take photos, or just float in the calm waters.
- Continuing along the coast: The crew guides you through the Riou archipelago and other coves, with another swimming break if conditions allow. Some reviewers note that the sailing experience can vary depending on the wind; on less windy days, the boat primarily motors along, but the scenery and relaxing vibe remain.
Lunch and Onboard Experience
Post-swimming, you’ll be served a vegetarian buffet lunch featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients. The reviews consistently praise this meal for being both healthy and tasty, with some calling it “delicious” and “filling.” Expect pasta salads, couscous, hummus, and other light dishes, complemented by a glass of rosé.
The crew’s kindness and attentiveness shine during meal times, with many reviews mentioning friendly staff and good quality food. A few note that if you’re an omnivore or craving meat, the menu might be limited, but for vegetarians and those who enjoy lighter fare, it hits the spot.
More Great Tours NearbyScenic Sailing and Additional Swims
The boat continues exploring the Calanques and Riou archipelago, with opportunities for more swimming, sightseeing, and photos. The crew guides you through the landscape, sharing insights into the area’s natural beauty and history. When the wind picks up, you might experience some sailing, which many guests find exciting and satisfying.
A second swim stop is scheduled, often in a different cove, allowing you to enjoy the waters from different angles. The water quality and marine life are frequently praised, with clear views and abundant fish.
Return and Reflection
The trip wraps up around 5:00 PM, with the boat returning to Marseille’s Old Port. Many guests leave with a sense of relaxation and a collection of beautiful photos. Reviewers often highlight how smooth and professional the crew is, making the entire experience feel safe, enjoyable, and well-organized.
Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary
Starting Point:
Your adventure kicks off at 72 Quai du Port, a central and easy-to-find location in Marseille. The crew welcomes you with drinks and friendly chatter, setting a relaxed tone.
Water Transport to the Calanques:
The boat ride to the park takes around 45 minutes. Some parts of the journey involve motoring, especially if the wind isn’t strong enough for sailing, which is a minor downside for sailing purists.
Sightseeing Stops:
– Château d’If (5 minutes): Ideal for quick photos and a dash of literary history.
– Frioul Archipelago (10 minutes): Offers scenic views and a sense of the region’s maritime charm.
– Île Maïre (10 minutes): Adds to the island-hopping experience, with some wildlife viewing possibilities.
Calanques National Park:
This segment is the heart of the tour. The boat anchors in a cove, and you get about an hour for swimming, taking photos, or just soaking in the scenery. The water here is praised for its clarity, making snorkeling a highlight.
Sailing Through Riou Archipelago:
Guided by the wind, the boat sails among smaller islands and coves, with plenty of opportunities for relaxation. The experience of sailing a vintage schooner is especially appreciated, though the weather dictates how much actual sailing you get to do.
Second Water Break & Return:
After another swim or sightseeing, the boat heads back toward Marseille, with the trip concluding around late afternoon.
What Do Guests Say?
Reviewers consistently mention how friendly and professional the crew is, with guests feeling well-informed and cared for throughout the trip. Many say the scenery is breathtaking, with some describing it as a “superb” experience. The vegetarian lunch and wine get high marks for quality and presentation, with multiple comments about how satisfying the meal is considering the setting.
Some reviews mention minor frustrations, like not always being able to raise the sails due to weather, or the location confusion at the start, but these are small hiccups in an overall positive experience. A few mention sea sickness, often related to diesel fumes or anchor drops, so bringing motion sickness medication might be wise.
The experience balances relaxation, natural beauty, and cultural charm, making it a worthwhile choice for many visitors.
The Sum Up
This Calanques sailing cruise offers a genuine taste of Marseille’s stunning coastline without needing any sailing expertise. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a laid-back day filled with swimming in clear waters, enjoying beautiful landscapes from the water, and indulging in a tasty vegetarian meal paired with local wine.
The mix of scenic stops, historical sights, and onboard comfort makes this tour suitable for those who appreciate comfort and natural beauty over adrenaline. If you value friendly guides, good value, and a relaxed pace, this experience hits the right notes.
However, keep in mind the weather can influence the sailing aspect, and it’s not an active, high-energy tour. It’s more about enjoying what the region has to offer from the comfort of a charming boat, with plenty of time to relax and soak in the views.
For anyone looking to combine scenic beauty, good food, and a touch of maritime tradition, this cruise is a fine pick — especially if you love a smooth, leisurely ride through one of France’s most captivating coastlines.
Marseille: Calanques Sailing Cruise with Lunch and Wine
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for families with children?
While it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, children who are comfortable in water and enjoy boat rides will likely enjoy the snorkeling and scenic stops. Always consider the weather, as the trip is mostly relaxed and involves some swimming.
Do I need sailing experience?
Not at all. The schooner is operated by friendly crew who guide you through the experience. Even if the sails aren’t raised due to weather, the boat’s calm cruise is still enjoyable.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, weather-appropriate clothing, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses. Towel and wetsuit are not provided, but snorkeling gear is available.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Reserving is flexible, with the option to pay later.
How long is the total trip?
The whole experience lasts about 7 hours, from departure in the morning to return in the late afternoon.
Is food included?
Yes, a vegetarian buffet lunch, along with rosé, water, coffee, and juice is included. The quality is well-reviewed, and many guests find it satisfying.
Are drinks unlimited?
You get one glass of rosé with lunch, and water, coffee, and juice are available. Some reviews mention that the wine portion is limited, so bring your own if you want more.
What is the group size?
While not specified exactly, reviews suggest a comfortable number of around 20 guests, maintaining a cozy yet social environment.
Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, wind conditions influence whether the sails are used. On calmer days, the boat mainly motors, but the scenery remains beautiful.
If you’re after a relaxed, scenic day with excellent guides, delicious food, and a chance to swim in stunning waters, this Marseille Calanques cruise offers a memorable experience that’s well worth considering.
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