Marseille, with its lively port, stunning coastline, and vibrant food scene, is a fantastic city to indulge in buffet experiences that combine scenery with local flavors. What sets Marseille apart is its maritime charm and access to beautiful islands, making boat-based buffets especially appealing. We particularly like the Sunset Boat Cruise with Buffet and Organic wine because it offers a relaxing combination of panoramic sea views, a refreshing swim by the Frioul Islands, and a delicious buffet on board—all served on a quiet electric boat, so there’s no loud engine to spoil the tranquility. For those who prefer a more traditional sailing experience, the Sunset on a sailboat with buffet and Provence wine offers an authentic Provençal vibe aboard La Flaneuse, an old sailing ship, with the added romance of sunset sailing.
Below, we cover two excellent options for buffet experiences in Marseille, each with its own unique flavor and style. Whether you prefer a modern electric boat cruise or a classic sailboat adventure, these tours deliver memorable moments at sea combined with great food and stunning views.
1. Marseille: Sunset Boat Cruise with Buffet and Organic wine
This cruise is a standout for its relaxed vibe and thoughtful details. The 3.5-hour tour begins with two pick-up locations, including the Hôtel de Ville, before zipping out on a silent, electric speedboat. The quiet engine means you can truly enjoy the surrounding panoramic views of Marseille’s coastline and the Frioul Islands, without engine noise or fumes. The highlight is the swim stop at sunset by the Frioul archipelago, where you can dip into the warm waters and enjoy the scenery.
Back on board, a buffet-style dinner awaits, featuring local ingredients and drinks, including organic wine. The boat’s electric nature keeps things peaceful, allowing you to sit back and soak in the sunset or chat with fellow travelers. The tour offers a perfect balance of sightseeing, relaxation, and good food, with enough time (about 2 hours) for swimming, sightseeing, and enjoying the scenery.
This experience is great for travelers who want a luxurious yet laid-back way to see Marseille from the water, especially if you appreciate eco-friendly options. The reviews are excellent, with a 4.7/5 rating from 446 travelers, praising the smooth ride and tranquil atmosphere. The only downside could be the price—$78 per person—but considering the quality of the experience, it’s good value.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic boat cruise with great food and organic wine, this is hard to beat. Perfect for couples or small groups who enjoy nature and good company.
2. Marseille: sunset on a sailboat, buffet, and Provence wine
A more traditional maritime experience, this tour takes you aboard La Flaneuse, a charming Provençal sailing ship, for an evening cruise. The 3.5-hour trip begins in Marseille’s lively old port, offering a chance to sail along the coast as the sun dips low. What makes this tour special is the authentic sailing experience on a vintage vessel, which appeals to those wanting a touch of maritime nostalgia.
The highlights include sailing into the sunset with panoramic views of Marseille’s coastline, complemented by a buffet that features regional Provençal wines. The onboard atmosphere is relaxed and intimate, perfect for couples or small groups seeking a more traditional, hands-on sailing experience. While it doesn’t specify swimming stops, the focus on sailing and scenery makes it ideal for those who love being on the water and enjoying a good meal under the open sky.
Rated 5/5 from 11 reviews, this tour offers a more personalized experience, and the chance to learn about Provençal wine along the way. Tickets are $89 per person, which reflects the unique sailing aspect and the quality of the experience. The main drawback might be the limited number of reviews, but the high rating suggests strong satisfaction among early participants.
Bottom line: For travelers interested in sailing rather than motoring, and wanting a true taste of Provence, this tour offers a charming, intimate cruise with excellent scenery and local wines.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two buffet experiences in Marseille, consider your preferences for boat style, scenery, and the kind of atmosphere you desire. The Sunset Boat Cruise with Buffet and Organic wine is perfect if you prefer a quiet, eco-friendly ride with swimming opportunities and panoramic views. On the other hand, the Sunset on a sailboat with buffet and Provence wine offers a more traditional sailing adventure with authentic charm.
Budget-wise, the electric boat cruise offers good value for its comfort and facilities, while the sailing trip, slightly higher in price, provides a more immersive, hands-on maritime experience. If you’re tight on time, both tours are about 3.5 hours, but your choice should depend on whether you prefer a modern electric boat or a classic sailboat.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure spots on these popular tours. Consider your fitness level—both involve some walking and swimming, but the sailing tour may be more physically involved.
Final Thoughts
Marseille offers a rich variety of buffet experiences that highlight its seaside charm and culinary delights. The boat-based tours provide a wonderful way to enjoy the sunset, local wines, and stunning coastlines, whether you choose the serene electric boat cruise or the traditional sailing adventure. For a relaxed, scenic experience with good food, the Sunset Boat Cruise with Buffet and Organic wine is a top pick. For those seeking a more hands-on maritime journey, the sunset on a sailboat delivers old-world charm and authentic Provençal flavors.
No matter which you choose, booking early and preparing for a memorable evening on the water will ensure you get the most out of Marseille’s enchanting coastline. These experiences aren’t just about the food—they’re about making lasting memories with incredible views and delicious local wine.
