Marseille is one of France’s top ports, and for good reason. Its location along the Mediterranean coast makes it ideal for boat tours and cruises that showcase the stunning Calanques, Frioul Islands, and more. Whether you’re after a relaxing sail, a snorkeling adventure, or a romantic sunset cruise, Marseille’s diverse offerings won’t disappoint. We’re especially fond of the From Marseille: Iconic Calanques Boat Tour with Swimming because of its approachable length and family-friendly activities, including snorkeling gear and GoPro shots of your underwater exploits. If you want to combine sailing with regional wine tasting, the Calanques Sailing Day Trip with Lunch and Wine stands out with its full-day itinerary and onboard gourmet buffet, perfect for a leisurely day on the water.
What makes Marseille’s boat offerings particularly compelling is the variety: from half-day expeditions to full-day sailing adventures, small-group explorations of hidden coves, and electric boat safaris to eco-friendly cruises. Many tours include swimming, snorkeling, and scenic photo stops, making them ideal for travelers looking to combine active pursuits with sightseeing. For a taste of luxury, the Calanques Catamaran Cruise & Standup Paddle provides a balance of comfort, fun, and the chance to paddle or jump from the boat’s diving board. Curious? Keep reading for detailed reviews of each option, helping you pick the best fit for your Marseille visit.
Below, we’ve grouped the top tours into categories like Calanques Cruises, Sailing Adventures, Sunset Cruises, and Specialty Experiences. Each offers something unique, whether it’s a gourmet lunch, organic wines, or small-group VIP access. Check out the options below to see which suits your style and schedule.
1. From Marseille: Iconic Calanques Boat Tour with Swimming
This popular tour offers a 3 to 4.5-hour journey through the Calanques National Park, starting from Marseille and heading toward Cassis. It’s highly rated (4.7/5 from 955 reviews) for its laid-back vibe and detailed exploration of the limestone cliffs and hidden caves. The tour includes snorkeling gear, wetsuits, soft drinks, and even GoPro cameras to record your underwater adventures. The itinerary covers key sites like Riou Island and the blue cave, with plenty of stops for swimming, snorkeling, and photos. The boat’s knowledgeable skipper guides you through the area’s best-kept secrets, making it perfect for families or anyone with limited time but a desire for a comprehensive Calanques experience. The multiple pickup points add flexibility, and a small group size ensures personal attention.
Bottom Line: This tour balances scenic beauty, active fun, and excellent value, ideal for travelers wanting a full yet manageable Calanques experience.
2. Marseille: Calanques Sailing Day Trip with Lunch and Wine
For around $158, the Calanques Sailing Day Trip with Lunch and Wine offers a full 7-hour escape aboard the classic Le Don du Vent, a two-masted sailing yacht. This is about as laid-back as it gets—sailing along the coast, soaking in panoramic views, and enjoying a buffet prepared by the onboard chef. The tour explores the Calanques of Sormiou, Morgiou, Sugiton, or La Côte Bleue, with stops for swimming and snorkeling in lively waters. The organic white wine and rosé flow freely, adding a touch of indulgence, with marine life and underwater scenery providing additional entertainment. The guide’s passion and local knowledge shine through, making this a favorite for travelers seeking a full day of sailing with great food and drinks.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want to combine sailing, good food, and wine with the opportunity to swim in stunning waters.
3. Marseille: Calanques Catamaran Tour & Standup Paddle
At number 3, the Calanques Catamaran Tour & Standup Paddle offers a 3 to 4-hour adventure for $65 per person. This tour strikes a great balance between active fun and scenic relaxation, cruising to the Frioul Islands calanques and exploring some of Marseille’s most iconic spots, like Vallon des Auffes and If Castle. It includes snorkeling gear and a GoPro camera, plus the chance to try stand-up paddleboarding in the calm waters. The diving board on the roof of the boat adds a fun twist. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a quick but comprehensive experience with plenty of photo opportunities and water activities.
Bottom Line: An energetic, family-friendly option that combines comfort, activities, and beautiful scenery at an affordable price.
4. Marseille: Calanques Côte Bleue Boat Tour
This 3.5-hour escape to the Côte Bleue Reserve is perfect if you’re craving a quieter, more intimate experience (4.6/5 from 662 reviews). The small group size—max 10 passengers—ensures a VIP feel. The semi-rigid boat ventures into secret caves and turquoise waters inaccessible to larger vessels. You’ll also enjoy local treats like coffee and Navettes biscuits during the stops. The route includes visits to Calanque de la Madrague, Port de la Redonne, and others, with plenty of time for swimming and photos. The guide is passionate about the area’s natural beauty, and the experience offers a genuine sense of discovery.
Bottom Line: For travelers seeking a peaceful, VIP-style boat adventure with local snacks and secret coves, this is a top choice.
5. Marseille: Sunset Sailing Cruise with Dinner and Wine
A romantic way to end the day, the Sunset Sailing Cruise combines the magic of a sunset with a light buffet dinner on a traditional schooner. For $94, you’ll sail near the Frioul Islands, snorkel in the calm waters, and then enjoy organic white wine and rosé as the sun dips below the horizon. The boat’s relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for couples or anyone looking for a peaceful, beautiful experience. The duration extends into the evening, allowing ample time to savor the scenery and the moment.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for couples or anyone wanting a romantic, scenic evening with good food and wine.
6. Marseille: Sunset Boat Cruise with Buffet and Organic Wine
For a more relaxed sunset experience, the Sunset Boat Cruise with Buffet and Organic Wine offers a 3.5-hour journey on an electric boat. Starting from two locations, you’ll cruise the coast, stopping for a swim by the Frioul Islands, then enjoy a buffet dinner with organic drinks. The silent electric boat provides a peaceful ride, making it especially suitable for travelers sensitive to noise. The focus on organic food and wine adds an eco-conscious touch.
Bottom Line: An elegant, peaceful way to enjoy sunset views, swim, and dine without the noise of traditional engines.
7. Marseille: Frioul Islands Sunset Cruise with Cocktail Dinner
Sail aboard the Le Don du Vent for the Frioul Islands Sunset Cruise with Cocktail Dinner. This 3.5-hour tour combines the thrill of sailing with a romantic sunset, organic white wine, rosé, and a satisfying buffet. The yacht’s elegant design and the chance to snorkel or swim at sunset make it stand out. The atmosphere is intimate and relaxed, perfect for couples seeking a memorable evening.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for romantics wanting a luxurious, sunset dinner cruise with snorkeling and organic drinks.
8. Marseille: Calanques Catamaran Cruise, Picnic, & Swimming
This all-inclusive Calanques Catamaran Cruise & Picnic offers a longer, more luxurious 5-7.5 hour trip. It’s perfect for those wanting to see the most beautiful Calanques from Cassis to Marseille. The boat includes snorkeling gear, wetsuits, and a GoPro, plus a picnic and rosé wine. The huge trampoline and ultra comfort on the catamaran make it ideal for families or groups who want a full day of swimming, relaxing, and exploring secret spots like Riou Island and the Blue Cave.
Bottom Line: For a comprehensive, all-inclusive adventure with plenty of space and activities, this tour is hard to beat.
9. Marseille: Set sail for the Château d’If and the Frioul Islands
This 3-hour, small-group tour (link) offers a more intimate experience with storytelling, marine life spotting, and cultural insights. The guide shares anecdotes about the Château d’If and the surrounding islands, with opportunities to swim and relax. It’s suitable for travelers interested in a more educational, human-scale adventure that combines scenery, history, and marine spotting like dolphins and sunfish.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers looking for a personalized, storytelling experience that’s rich in local color.
10. Marseille: Half-Day E-Bike Tour from Cruise Port
A different way to see Marseille, this E-Bike Tour offers a 3.5-hour ride starting right from the cruise port. It’s perfect for active travelers who want to see the city’s top sights without tiring out. The e-bike makes hills easy and allows you to explore lesser-known neighborhoods, providing a local’s perspective. It combines scenic city views with cultural spots for a well-rounded experience.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for active travelers who want a quick, engaging overview of Marseille’s highlights.
11. Cruise, Coffee and Swimming in the Calanques of Frioul
This morning cruise (link) is perfect for those wanting a quick, refreshing escape. It includes a stop in a covelike spot for swimming, plus a small snack and coffee. The trip lasts about 2.5 hours, making it suitable for travelers with limited time but a desire to experience the beauty of the Frioul Islands and nearby Calanques.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a short, relaxing morning on the water with swimming and light refreshments.
12. Marseille: Calanques National Park Boat Trip with Swimming
This 4.5-hour tour (link) offers an in-depth exploration with snorkeling gear included, and stops at key sites like Château d’If and the Goudes. It’s ecologically friendly, featuring a silent electric boat with minimal disturbance. Perfect for those who want to spend more time in the water and explore the national park’s stunning landscape.
Bottom Line: Excellent value for travelers seeking an immersive, eco-friendly tour with ample swimming time.
How to Choose Your Perfect Marseille Boat Tour
When selecting a boat tour in Marseille, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. For active travelers wanting to snorkel and paddle, tours like the Calanques Catamaran & Standup Paddle or Calanques Catamaran Cruise & Picnic fit the bill. If you prefer a relaxing evening with organic wine and sunset views, the Sunset Sailing Cruise or Frioul Islands Sunset Cruise are perfect. For families or those seeking a quieter, intimate experience, the Côte Bleue Boat Tour is ideal.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak summer months. Check the duration and included activities to match your pace—whether you want a quick swim or a full day of sailing. Remember, some tours include meals, wine, or snorkeling gear, so factor those extras into your decision.
Final Thoughts
Marseille’s boat tours offer a remarkable way to see one of France’s most beautiful coastlines. From short, activity-packed trips to luxurious sunset cruises, the options are plentiful and varied. If you’re after a lively day of swimming and exploring, the Iconic Calanques Boat Tour provides a great balance of scenery and activity. For a more relaxed, gourmet experience, the Calanques Sailing Day Trip with Lunch and Wine is hard to beat.
Travelers with a passion for sailing or eco-friendly travel will appreciate the Calanques National Park Boat Trip or the electric boat tours, which combine comfort with environmental responsibility. No matter which you choose, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these unforgettable water adventures. Now, all that’s left is to pack your swimsuit and camera—Marseille’s coast awaits.
