La Ciotat offers some of the most spectacular marine scenery along the south of France’s coastline. The clear waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and secluded calanques make it a prime spot for snorkeling. Among the many options, the La Ciotat Calanques Morning Boat Tour with Snorkeling stands out for its shorter, focused trip that covers some of the most iconic spots in just three hours. Meanwhile, the Afternoon Tour provides more time to explore, with additional snorkeling stops and the chance to relax with cold drinks onboard.
What makes La Ciotat special is the combination of accessible boat trips and the chance to swim in pristine waters away from crowded beaches. The tours listed here each offer a different approach—some with guided commentary, others with flexibility for personal exploration. Both tours include snorkeling gear and focus on small-group experiences, ensuring you get a personal touch amid stunning scenery. For those unsure which to pick, check out this detailed guide for the morning tour, and this one for the afternoon experience.
Below is a quick overview of the types of tours on offer:
- Morning Calanques boat tour (3 hours, vibrant scenery, snorkel stop)
- Afternoon Calanques tour (4 hours, more snorkeling, multiple stops)
Both tours provide a fantastic way to enjoy La Ciotat’s natural beauty. Now, let’s look at each experience in detail.
1. La Ciotat: Calanques Morning Boat Tour with Snorkeling
At number 1 on our list, this 3-hour morning tour (see details here) is perfect if you’re short on time but still want to experience the calanque scenery and enjoy some snorkeling. The tour departs from La Ciotat’s port at 9:30 a.m., and the small group size (up to 12 people) ensures a personal experience. It starts with a scenic cruise along the coast, passing by Île Verte and the famous limestone cliffs, which instantly set the tone for a day full of natural splendor.
The highlight is the stop at Anse de l’Arène for snorkeling, where the calm, clear waters beckon you to explore underwater. The tour is led by a skipper who shares insights into the area’s geology and history, making it both fun and educational. The boat used is private, giving you moments of relaxation or the opportunity to take photos of the stunning landscape.
Guests appreciate the flexible itinerary: visiting Calanque de Port Pin and Calanque d’En-Vau, which are both breathtaking. The tour is well-suited for travelers seeking a quick but immersive taste of the calanques, with essentials like swimwear, sunscreen, and a towel recommended. Reviewers rate it an impressive 4.9/5, praising the knowledgeable skipper and the beauty of the scenery.
Bottom Line: An ideal short trip if you want expert-guided scenery and snorkeling in a manageable time slot.
2. La Ciotat: Calanques Afternoon Boat Tour with Snorkeling
Ranked just behind the morning tour, this 4-hour afternoon experience (see details here) offers more opportunities to relax and explore. Departing later in the day, around 2 p.m., it caters to those who prefer a more leisurely pace or want to combine the trip with a morning of sightseeing elsewhere.
This tour stands out because it includes multiple snorkeling stops at key calanque sites like Anse de l’Arène, Calanque de Port Pin, Calanque d’En-Vau, and Calanque de l’Oule. The boat is semi-rigid, allowing for flexibility and comfort, and the skipper offers lively commentary, sharing stories about the area’s geology and local history. Snorkeling gear—masks and snorkels—is provided, and guests often mention how clear and inviting the water is for underwater exploration.
What sets this tour apart is the variety of photo stops, giving you plenty of time for pictures and swims. The inclusion of free cold drinks keeps everyone refreshed, especially on warm days. Rave reviews note the “fantastic crew” and the chance to see more calanques than in shorter trips. It’s best suited for travelers wanting a longer, more in-depth exploration with plenty of snorkeling and photo opportunities.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventurous travelers eager to maximize their time in the calanques with multiple snorkeling stops and relaxed pacing.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your schedule, snorkel enthusiasm, and what scenery or activities appeal most. The morning tour is perfect if you’re short on time or prefer a quick, guided experience with snorkeling. Meanwhile, the afternoon version offers more stops, longer time in the water, and extra opportunities for photos and relaxation.
If you’re interested in a more private, flexible experience, both tours use small boats and have limited participants, which is a big plus. For a comprehensive day, you might also combine a morning trip with a leisurely afternoon on land exploring La Ciotat’s charming streets.
In summary, La Ciotat’s snorkeling tours offer excellent choices whether you’re pressed for time or seeking a full afternoon of underwater adventure. Both tours provide small-group experiences, snorkeling gear, and expert guidance, making them reliable options for a memorable day on the water. If you’re prone to last-minute plans, booking early is advisable, especially during peak summer months.
For travelers wanting a quick taste of the calanques’ beauty, the morning tour is a perfect fit. For those who love snorkeling and leisurely exploration, the afternoon tour delivers a richer experience. Either way, you’ll leave with incredible memories—and plenty of photos of your underwater escapades.
