Catamaran cruise in the Frioul Archipelago in Marseille

If you’re considering a day out on the water while visiting Marseille, a catamaran cruise through the Frioul Archipelago offers a pretty memorable experience. This tour, which lasts roughly 5 hours and 45 minutes, takes you from the bustling old port to some of the most picturesque spots around the islands, with plenty of opportunities to relax, enjoy good food, and splash around.

What we really appreciate about this cruise is how it balances sightseeing with leisure—you’re not just sitting on a boat, but actively engaging in fun activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling, all while soaking in spectacular views. Plus, the crew’s attention to detail and the smooth sailing make for a comfortable trip.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that this experience is designed for a relatively small group—only about 12 travelers—so it feels intimate but also means it’s best to book well in advance, especially during peak seasons. If you’re someone who loves a relaxed day on the water, with a good mix of sightseeing and leisure, this tour could be just the thing.

This cruise suits travelers looking for a well-rounded day out, especially if they enjoy water activities, scenic boat rides, and a casual, friendly atmosphere. It’s ideal for those who want to see iconic sights like Château d’If but also enjoy a laid-back day in the sun with good company.

Key Points

• Comfortable and well-organized boat experience, with a spacious catamaran that allows everyone to relax.
• Beautiful scenery and notable landmarks like Château d’If and Marseille’s old port, seen from the water.
• A well-rounded itinerary that combines sightseeing, swimming, paddleboarding, and a tasty buffet lunch.
• Unlimited wine and soft drinks add a nice touch, making the day even more enjoyable.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention but requires early booking.
• Ideal for water lovers who enjoy activities like snorkeling, jet skiing, and paddleboarding.

A Detailed Look at the Catamaran Cruise Experience

Starting Point and Initial Impressions

The adventure begins in the early morning at Corbières Port Services, with a meeting point at Quai de la Lave in Marseille. The tour kicks off at 9:45 a.m., which gives you plenty of time to settle in and get excited about the day ahead. The check-in process is straightforward, and transportation options from cruise ships—like MSC or Costa—are available, making it convenient for cruise passengers.

Once aboard, we loved the spaciousness of the Elba 45 catamaran. With room for only 12 guests, the boat doesn’t feel crowded, and everyone gets a good spot to lounge or snap photos. The crew’s friendly attitude and helpfulness immediately set a relaxed tone for the day.

The First Stop: Le Vieux Port

The cruise begins with a scenic sail through Marseille’s historic harbor. From the deck, you’ll get a panoramic view of the city’s most famous landmarks—the Mucem, the Major Cathedral, Palais du Pharo, and Fort St Jean. It’s a perfect way to see the city’s highlights from the water, and the captain will point out interesting features along the way.

This segment offers a chance to snap some photos of Marseille’s skyline, with the lively port bustling below. It’s a gentle start that primes you for the rest of the day.

Approaching Château d’If

After about 15 minutes of sailing, you arrive at the Château d’If, built during the 1520s by order of King François I. Known worldwide thanks to Alexandre Dumas’ novel, it’s fascinating to see the fortress from the water. While there’s no entry included, this stop offers a quick photo opportunity, and you can appreciate its dramatic location on the small island.

Many reviews highlight how stunning the views are from the boat, and you’ll definitely feel the historic weight of the fortress as you gaze at it from a distance.

Exploring the Frioul Islands

Next, the boat navigates around the Frioul Archipelago, revealing the rugged beauty of these rocky islands. The captain points out Ratonneau fort and mentions the vibrant fauna and flora, which adds an educational touch to the trip. You’ll spend about 1 hour and 15 minutes cruising around, giving ample time to appreciate the scenery and take photos.

This part of the trip is particularly valued by guests—many emphasize how “breathtaking” the views are and how nice it is to see the islands from this perspective.

The Anchor at Morgiret Cove

The highlight for many is the visit to Morgiret Cove, a true gem with crystal-clear water. Here, the crew drops anchor, and you get plenty of time to relax. The water’s calm and inviting, perfect for water activities.

Guests rave about the paddleboarding and snorkeling, with reports of seeing numerous fish and enjoying the turquoise waters. For the more adventurous, a quick scooter ride around the island is also an option. Several reviewers mention how pristine and peaceful this spot is, making it an ideal place to unwind.

Lunch and Leisure

After working up an appetite, you’re served a cold buffet lunch featuring fresh fruit and a choice of cocktails or kir aperitifs—plus unlimited rosé wine and soft drinks. The food is catered, and many reviews describe it as “delicious,” adding to the overall value.

Post-lunch, you can continue swimming or paddleboarding, or simply relax on deck and soak up the sun. The crew’s attentive service keeps everyone comfortable, ensuring drinks are topped up and everyone’s needs are met.

Returning to the Old Port

Around 2:30 p.m., it’s time to head back to Marseille. The cruise lasts until about 4 p.m., giving you a relaxed afternoon and plenty of time to explore other parts of the city afterward. The calm, scenic return voyage offers one last chance to enjoy the views and reflect on the day.

The Value of This Experience

At roughly $277 per person, the cruise isn’t cheap, but many find it worth every penny. Why? Because it combines a scenic boat ride, cultural highlights, water activities, and a hearty meal in one well-organized package. The reviews consistently praise the crew’s friendliness, the pristine waters, and the quality of the food and drinks.

Being limited to just 12 travelers means it feels personal and special—something that larger, more generic tours can’t match. The fact that it’s compatible with cruise schedules makes it particularly appealing for travelers with tight itineraries, as it’s easy to fit in without missing other excursions.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This cruise is most suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and leisure. Water lovers will appreciate the paddleboarding and snorkeling. Those who enjoy scenic boat rides and good food will find it particularly rewarding. It’s not a strenuous activity, so even those with moderate physical fitness levels will be comfortable, but it’s best suited for people who can handle a boat ride and some light walking.

FAQs

What’s included in the price?
You get a scenic boat ride, a cold buffet lunch, unlimited rosé wine and soft drinks, and use of snorkeling equipment, paddle boards, and scooters.

Are there any extra costs?
Bath towels are not provided, so you might want to bring your own if you plan to swim a lot. Other than that, everything listed is included.

Is this suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Yes, the tour is compatible with the schedules of MSC, Costa, and other cruise lines, making it easy to coordinate your day.

What’s the physical activity level required?
The tour is suitable for those with moderate fitness. Water activities are optional, and there’s some walking involved, but nothing too strenuous.

How long is each stop?
The port and city sightseeing take about 15 minutes, Château d’If is a quick photo stop, and the Archipelago cruise section lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Morgiret Cove stop is around 3 hours for swimming and relaxing.

Do I need to book in advance?
Absolutely. The tour is popular and is typically booked around 44 days ahead, especially during peak seasons.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a swimsuit, some cash for extras, and perhaps a towel for swimming (though not provided). The boat is large enough for everyone to relax comfortably.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the start, which offers some flexibility in case of bad weather or schedule changes.

What’s the weather policy?
This experience requires good weather—if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Wrapping It Up: Who’s This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a relaxed yet scenic day on the water with a small group, this catamaran cruise hits the spot. It’s especially great for those who love water activities, delicious food, and picturesque views of Marseille and its islands. The inclusion of unlimited drinks and a well-organized itinerary makes it a good value for the experience it offers.

While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the combination of comfort, scenery, and fun activities justifies the cost for many travelers. It’s also a solid choice for cruise passengers wanting a straightforward, enjoyable day that fits neatly into a busy schedule.

If you’re looking for a laid-back, social, and scenic way to explore the coast, this cruise offers a thoughtful and memorable experience that’s worth considering. Just remember to book in advance, bring your swim gear, and get ready for a day of sunshine, seaside views, and good company.