Marseille : Calanques Catamaran Cruise with Lunch & Wine

If you’re thinking about spending a day sailing along the dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters of the Calanques near Marseille, this tour from Bleu Evasion might catch your eye. It promises a blend of scenic beauty, relaxation, and good food—all aboard a comfortable, small-group catamaran. But as with any experience, it’s worth digging into what makes it special—and where it might fall short—so you can decide if it’s right for you.

What we love about this trip? First, the intimate size of the boat (max 30 people) creates a more personal and relaxed atmosphere, away from the crowded, larger tours. Second, the all-inclusive setup—with lunch, rosé, snorkeling gear, wetsuits, and even GoPro cameras—means you don’t have to worry about adding extra costs or bringing a lot of gear. That said, a potential snag is the weather dependency; some reviews mention rough seas and cold days that can dampen the experience. This tour will suit travelers who want a mix of leisure, beautiful scenery, and good company, especially if they appreciate comfort and a touch of luxury.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a cozy and relaxed atmosphere.
• All-inclusive package covers food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and even a GoPro.
• Diverse stops include Riou Island, Sormiou, Morgiou, and Sugiton—each offering unique views and swimming opportunities.
• Professional skippers and insightful guides enhance the experience.
• Comfortable catamaran with a trampoline and modern facilities make for a smooth sail.
• Weather can impact the day, so flexible plans are wise.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Calanques Catamaran Experience

The Setup: What to Expect at the Meeting Point and Onboard

The adventure begins at Bleu Evasion, located at the Port de la Pointe Rouge in Marseille. Arriving 15 minutes early is essential—especially since it’s a shared boat with limited capacity (30 guests). The check-in process is straightforward, but keep in mind that traffic jams can be a thing in busy Marseille, so plan accordingly.

Once onboard, you’ll immediately notice the modern, spacious, and stable catamaran—a Vela design that promises comfort and ease of sailing. The vessel boasts a huge trampoline, perfect for lounging and soaking up the sun, plus ample space for the entire group. With only 30 guests, the atmosphere tends to be friendly and less rushed than larger tours, allowing for more relaxed conversations and a sense of privacy.

The Itinerary: Exploring the Calanques and Hidden Gems

The tour is structured around several stops, each giving you a chance to enjoy different aspects of the Calanques’ stunning coastline.

1. Riou Archipelago:
You start with a two-hour stop at Riou Island, where you’ll have the chance to take photos, explore, and swim or snorkel. This spot is noted for its unspoiled beauty and rich ecosystems, including seagrass beds, coral reefs, and fish like groupers and scorpionfish. The reviews highlight this as a “photo stop” where the captain’s insights help you understand the area’s natural value.

2. Sormiou Calanque:
Next, a quick hour-long visit to Sormiou, famous for its striking cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Here, you’ll get to enjoy some sightseeing and perhaps snap a few more photos. This stop is more about soaking in the view than extensive activities, but its rugged beauty is worth it.

3. Morgiou Calanque:
The most extensive stop—about 2.5 hours—this is where the day feels most rewarding. The tour includes a delicious lunch featuring a plancha (grilled beef and chicken), paired with fresh salads, fruits, and, of course, rosé wine. Many reviews mention how much they enjoyed the food, describing it as “delicious” and a highlight of the day.

4. Secret Stop:
A lesser-known cove where you’ll have another chance to swim and relax in peaceful surroundings. The inclusion of a “secret” spot adds an element of discovery that many find charming.

5. Sugiton Calanque:
The final hour allows for some free time to explore, take photos, or simply unwind before heading back. This area is appreciated for its scenic cliffs and relatively untouched feel.

The Experience in Action: Snorkeling, Food, and Photos

Snorkeling gear and wetsuits are provided, allowing you to explore the protected waters and ecosystems of the Calanques. This is especially appreciated on warmer days, but some reviews point out that in colder water or weather, wetsuits are a must. The crew also offers GoPro cameras to capture your adventure, which many travelers find helpful to preserve memories without lugging around their own equipment.

For lunch, expect a simple but tasty meal with grilled meats and fresh salads. The rosé is served generously—another highlight for many—and the relaxed vibe onboard makes it easy to enjoy the scenery and good company.

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The Crew and Atmosphere

The captain and guides are experienced, knowledgeable, and friendly—famous for their professionalism and ability to make everyone feel comfortable. Reviews mention that the guides are fun and accommodating, which elevates the overall experience. However, some travelers noted that weather conditions can influence the mood and comfort level; windy, rainy, or cold days may turn the trip into a different experience altogether. It’s wise to check the weather forecast before booking.

Value for Money: Is It Worth It?

At $198 per person, this tour hits a middle ground in terms of price. Considering it’s an 8.5-hour experience that includes lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, wetsuits, and even photo services, many would say it offers good value, especially given the small group size and personalized approach. While some reviews mention that prices can fluctuate (with one noting it was more expensive than other tours), the all-inclusive setup simplifies planning and adds a touch of luxury to what might otherwise be a simple boat trip.

Among the reviews, some mention that the experience can feel a bit basic or that certain advertised features, like paddles or a trampoline, are not always available. These are minor quibbles compared to the overall positive tone of most feedback.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This Calanques cruise is perfect for travelers who enjoy comfortable, intimate sailing experiences, appreciate good food and drink, and want to explore a variety of scenic spots without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves. It’s especially suited for those who value quality gear, small group intimacy, and knowledgeable guides.

While it’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, it could be suitable for older children or teenagers who enjoy snorkeling and being on the water—just note that the tour advises against children under 2 or pregnant women due to the boat’s nature and potential weather conditions.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re dreaming of a relaxed day on the water, with fantastic views, delicious food, and a small-group vibe, this Calanques cruise is a solid choice. The all-inclusive setup means one less thing to worry about, and the variety of stops offers a good balance of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing. The knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, making it more than just a boat ride—they help you appreciate the natural beauty of the Calanques.

However, if you’re traveling in cooler weather or expecting an ultra-modern yacht, you might find the boat’s basic amenities a bit limiting. Also, if you’re expecting a fast-paced or highly adventurous day, this might lean more towards laid-back exploration.

Overall, for those seeking a scenic, comfortable, and well-organized day out, this tour delivers a memorable experience—especially if you value a small group and inclusive extras.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed for families, older children and teenagers who enjoy swimming and snorkeling might find it enjoyable. The tour advises against children under 2 years and pregnant women due to the boat’s nature and potential weather conditions.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring sunglasses and a towel for comfort. Since lunch and drinks are included, you don’t need to worry about packing food or beverages.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts about 8.5 hours, from the meeting point in Marseille to the return.

Are wetsuits provided?
Yes, wetsuits are included, especially useful if the water is cold. They help keep you comfortable during snorkeling.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel plans.

What if the weather isn’t great?
Weather can impact the trip—wind, rain, or rough seas may alter or shorten stops. The experience provider offers flexibility with cancellations if weather conditions are poor.

If you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic day on the water with good company, tasty food, and the chance to see some of the most stunning natural spots near Marseille, this Calanques catamaran tour is worth considering. Just keep an eye on the forecast, arrive early, and enjoy the ride.

You can check availability for your dates here: