Marseille: Day Boat Ride in the Calanques with Wine Tasting

If you’re considering a day trip from Marseille that combines scenic sailing, some splash-time in turquoise waters, and a taste of Provence’s wine and tapas, this boat tour might catch your eye. It’s a full 8-hour experience that promises to showcase the best of the Calanques, with the added bonus of wine tasting onboard.

What we really like about this experience is its balance: you get a leisurely cruise, opportunities to swim and snorkel in protected waters, and a chance to savor local wines in an authentically relaxed setting. Plus, the boat is private, which means fewer crowds and a more tailored experience. The main consideration? It’s priced at $2,457 for up to 8 people, so it’s better suited for those traveling as a group or with family and friends who enjoy a splurge together.

This tour is ideal if you’re after a personalized, scenic escape that mixes natural beauty with a touch of local flavor. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or families who love a mix of adventure and wine tasting. If you’re searching for a laid-back day on the water with an expert guide and stunning vistas, keep reading.

Key Points

• Private group experience offers intimacy and flexibility.
• Scenic sailing through Marseille’s bay and around the Frioul Islands.
• Exploration of Calanques National Park, with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.
• Wine tasting with Provencal wines paired with traditional French tapas.
• Comfortable amenities including snorkeling gear and air-conditioned transport.
• Great for groups seeking a mix of adventure, relaxation, and local tastings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

A Day in the Life on the Water

Starting from the Vieux Port in Marseille, you’ll board a beautiful private boat that sets the tone for a relaxed day. The guide, likely bilingual in English and French, will lead the group through a gentle cruise across the bay.

You’ll pass the Frioul Islands, which are famous for their rugged beauty, and get a unique view of Château d’If, the famous fortress made legendary by The Count of Monte Cristo. This perspective from the water is a highlight, offering a different appreciation of these landmarks compared to land-based sightseeing.

Exploring the Calanques

Once you reach the Calanques National Park, the boat anchors in a tranquil cove. Here, you’ll have the chance to swim in clear, turquoise waters that are often described as picture-perfect. Snorkeling gear is provided, so you can explore beneath the surface and see fish and corals up close.

The Calanques are known for their steep limestone cliffs and dramatic rocky inlets. You might find that the boat’s stop in this protected area is the most visually stunning part of the trip. As one reviewer put it, “The views are spectacular and the waters incredibly inviting.”

Wine & Tapas on Board

One of the unique features of this tour is the wine tasting. After a bit of swimming, you’ll drop anchor again to enjoy a mini wine course featuring Provencal wines alongside French tapas. The guide will likely introduce you to regional varieties, making this more than just casual sipping.

According to reviews, the wine selection is excellent, and the pairing with local tapas elevates the experience. You can expect a relaxed, convivial atmosphere as you soak in the scenery and taste the flavors of southern France.

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Optional Seaside Dining

If you prefer a sit-down meal, there’s the option to reserve a table at a seaside restaurant later in the day. While the tour doesn’t include lunch, this flexibility gives you the chance to extend your culinary experience if you wish.

The Details: Transportation, Group Size & Duration

This is a private tour for up to 8 people, making it a more intimate alternative to larger group excursions. The boat is comfortable, and the minivan transfer from the meeting point in Vieux Port comes with AC and WiFi — a nice touch for those who want to relax or catch up on messages during transit.

The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, which feels just right for a leisurely day of exploration without rushing. Starting times vary, so you’ll want to check availability when booking.

Price & Value

At $2,457 for up to 8 people, the tour averages out to roughly $300 per person, which sounds steep at first glance. However, considering the exclusive nature, private guide, boat, and all included amenities, this price can be justified for groups seeking a personalized adventure. It’s the kind of experience that offers more flexibility and comfort than a large-scale tour.

It’s worth noting that lunch isn’t included, so if you’re a foodie who enjoys sitting down at a nice restaurant, you might want to plan ahead for a meal afterward. The wine and tapas onboard give a taste of regional flavors, but for a full meal, additional arrangements are on you.

Authentic Feedback from Participants

One review highlighted the knowledgeable guides who made the experience extra special with their insights. Many travelers appreciated how “the guide made sure everyone was comfortable and had a good time.”

Others raved about the stunning views, mentioning that the photos they took don’t do justice to the actual scenery. The chance to snorkel in calm waters and the quality of snorkeling gear provided was also a hit, with some noting that “swimming here was one of the best parts of the day.”

Some reviewers did mention the cost, noting that they saw other tours at a lower price but valued the private, tailored nature of this trip. It’s clear that if you’re looking for a more exclusive, relaxed experience with good amenities and expert guides, this tour is a solid option.

Who This Tour is Best For

This experience appeals most to small groups or families who want a luxurious yet laid-back day exploring the Calanques. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate wine and good food, and who value a personalized, intimate setting over large group tours.

If you’re looking for a simple, quick boat ride with a focus purely on sightseeing, this might feel a bit pricier. But if you want a full day of scenic beauty, swimming, and regional flavors in a private setting, this tour hits the right notes.

The Sum Up

All in all, this Marseille: Day Boat Ride in the Calanques with Wine Tasting offers a balanced mix of stunning scenery, local flavors, and relaxed exploration. It’s a particularly good fit for small groups or families who enjoy a touch of luxury and want an experience that feels both half-adventure and half culinary escape.

The natural beauty of the Calanques combined with the knowledgeable guides, excellent wine, and opportunity to swim makes it a memorable day. Sure, the price might seem high if you’re traveling solo or on a tight budget, but for a private, well-rounded experience, it’s worth considering.

If your idea of a perfect day involves cruising along dramatic cliffs, enjoying regional wine, and cooling off in crystal waters, this tour will likely satisfy your craving for both adventure and relaxation.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, snorkeling gear is provided, and the calm waters suggest it could be enjoyable for older kids. However, the private nature and adult-oriented wine tasting mean it’s best suited for teenagers and above.

How long is the boat ride?
The entire tour lasts around 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. There’s an option to reserve a seaside restaurant later if you want a sit-down meal.

What language are guides available in?
Guides speak English and French. It’s a private group, so you can clarify language preferences beforehand.

What’s the best way to get to the meeting point?
The meeting point is at Metro Vieux Port in Marseille. Public transport is convenient, and the tour provider offers a minivan transfer with AC and WiFi.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, allowing you to explore beneath the surface safely.

This tour strikes a nice balance between scenic cruising, active swimming, and tasting local flavors. It’s perfect if you want a personalized day that’s both laid-back and memorable, especially if you’re traveling with a small group or family.

You can check availability for your dates here: