Marseille: Calanques Catamaran Tour & Standup Paddle

If you’re looking for a way to enjoy some of the most beautiful natural scenery Marseille has to offer, this Calanques catamaran tour with stand-up paddleboarding might just be what you’re after. We’ve gone through countless reviews and details to give you an honest picture of what to expect, helping you decide if this experience fits your travel style.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the stunning views and clear waters are hard to beat, and second, the friendly, knowledgeable guides really make the whole experience come alive. On the flip side, keep in mind that the tour doesn’t include food, and you’ll need to organize your transportation to the meeting point. Overall, it’s best suited for travelers craving a relaxed, scenic day out on the water, whether you’re solo, a couple, or small group.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery of the Frioul Islands and Calanques offer perfect photo ops.
• Snorkeling and paddleboarding gear are included, making water activities accessible for all skill levels.
• Comfortable catamaran with a diving board and GoPro camera for capturing memories.
• Insightful guides who share interesting details about the area.
• Flexible stops for swimming, relaxing, or exploring the waters.
• Affordable price point at around $65 per person for 3-4 hours of fun and relaxation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Overview of the Tour

This Calanques catamaran experience invites you to glide through Marseille Bay’s most enchanting spots on a spacious, comfortable vessel. The tour lasts about 3 to 4 hours, giving ample time to soak in the scenery, enjoy water activities, and relax without feeling rushed. The price, around $65 per person, offers fair value considering the included gear, drinks, and the chance to see some iconic sights.

What’s Included and What’s Not

You get a catamaran tour led by a friendly skipper, with snorkeling gear, paddleboarding equipment, and even a GoPro camera to record your adventures. Soft drinks are provided, and wetsuits are available if the water turns chilly. However, keep in mind that food isn’t included, so bringing snacks or planning a meal afterward is wise. Also, hotel pickup isn’t provided, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting point.

Meeting Details and Logistics

The meeting point is conveniently located at the Vieux-Port, right in front of the Théâtre de la Criée. Be sure to arrive 15 minutes early for check-in, as late arrivals aren’t eligible for refunds. Traffic and parking can be tricky in Marseille, so plan accordingly. The boat departs with a small, shared group, and in good weather, it’s a smooth, relaxing ride across the bay.

The Itinerary: What Will You Experience?

Once onboard, your captain will guide you through a route that includes several popular spots:

More Great Tours Nearby

Vallon des Auffes

This picturesque fishing port is a charming start to your journey. It’s a favorite for its colorful boats and authentic vibe, making it a perfect photo stop. Many reviewers mention how easy it was to find and how welcoming the guides were, setting a relaxed tone for the entire experience.

Château d’If and Frioul Islands

One of the highlights is stopping near Château d’If, the fortress made famous by the Count of Monte Cristo. You may not disembark here, but the views and history add a touch of intrigue. The Frioul Islands themselves are stunning, with clear waters inviting you to swim or paddleboard.

Calanques Exploration

The main draw is the chance to paddle in the calanques’ calm, turquoise waters. Many guests comment that paddleboarding was a memorable part of the trip, with some saying it was the “highlight” or “funniest activity”. If the weather is cold or windy, guides will provide wetsuits and may limit water activities, but most reviews affirm that the water is refreshing and worth jumping into.

Swimming and Diving Board Fun

The diving board on the roof of the boat is a big hit, especially with those who love a quick jump into the sea. Reviewers describe it as a “cool” feature that adds a little thrill to the trip.

Snorkeling and Underwater Discoveries

With snorkeling gear and a GoPro, you can explore underwater life, which is said to be filled with small fish and underwater rocks. While some reviews note that the marine life is modest, the experience of snorkeling in such clear waters is still a real treat.

The Guides and Atmosphere

One of the strongest points of this tour is the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. Multiple reviewers mention how the guides share interesting facts about Marseille’s history and landmarks. People appreciate the blend of informative commentary and relaxed fun, making the experience engaging without feeling forced.

Size and Comfort

Guests consistently praise the spaciousness and comfort of the catamaran. Unlike crowded boats, this vessel accommodates its guests well, with plenty of space to lounge and enjoy the sun. The diving board and paddleboards add to the relaxed, playful atmosphere.

Drinks and Snacks

Soft drinks are included, and some reviews suggest bringing your own snacks or drinks for extra enjoyment. The boat doesn’t serve alcohol, but you can bring your own if you’d like, provided it’s permitted.

Water Activities: Fun and Flexibility

The stand-up paddleboarding is a highlight, especially for those who enjoy a bit of activity while surrounded by nature. Many guests found it to be a fun way to explore the calm calanque waters, with some choosing to stay on paddleboards for quite a while.

Snorkeling is available with the provided gear, and though the marine life might not be abundant, the clarity of the water and the chance to see small fish and underwater rocks makes it worthwhile. If the water’s cold, wetsuits help keep everyone comfortable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurers and relaxation seekers alike. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy water-based activities but don’t want the hassle of organizing their own boat trips. Families with older children or groups of friends will find it lively yet laid-back. For anyone keen on snapping photos, the scenic stops and clear waters are ideal.

The Value Proposition

At $65 per person, this tour offers a lot — a spacious boat, water gear, drinks, and a knowledgeable captain who makes the trip interesting. When you factor in the stops, water activities, and the opportunity to see some of Marseille’s most beautiful scenery, most reviewers feel they got good value for their money. It’s a reasonably priced way to enjoy a relaxed day in the sun with plenty of chances to cool off and explore.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a laid-back, scenic escape with a hint of adventure, this Calanques catamaran tour fits the bill. You’ll love the stunning views, the friendly guides, and the fun of paddleboarding and swimming in crystal-clear waters. It’s great for those who want a balance of relaxation and activity, without the need to plan every detail.

However, if you’re someone who expects gourmet food or a full-day adventure, this shorter tour might feel limited. Also, be prepared for a transportation challenge to the meeting point and remember that no food is included.

This experience is a solid, enjoyable way to experience Marseille’s natural beauty from the water, especially if you appreciate a friendly vibe and scenic stops.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to bring my own food or drinks?
No, soft drinks are included, but bringing snacks or extra drinks is a good idea if you want more variety or specific items.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally aimed at adults and older children who can enjoy water activities. The reviews don’t specify for young kids, so check if paddleboarding or swimming fits your children’s ages.

How do I find the meeting point?
You meet at the pontoon in front of the Théâtre de la Criée at the Vieux-Port. Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in.

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

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the trip relies on good weather — wind or rain could affect the experience. Guides will adapt activities accordingly.

Does the tour go to Calanques National Park?
No, the 3-hour tour does not reach the Calanques National Park; that might require a longer, full-day experience.

Are wetsuits provided?
Yes, wetsuits are available if the water is cold and most reviews say the water is quite refreshing.

What’s the group size?
It’s a shared tour, but reviews indicate the boat’s capacity is well managed, so it doesn’t feel crowded even when full.

To sum it up, if you’re after a relaxed yet active day on the water with stunning scenery and friendly guides, this Marseille Calanques tour offers a lot for the price. Perfect for nature lovers, water enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a memorable day in the South of France without breaking the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here: