Marseille: Sailboat cruise with lunch, swim and organic wine

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water in Marseille, a sailboat cruise with lunch, swimming, and organic wine might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve come across enough reviews and details to give you a clear picture of what it’s like. It promises a blend of sailing, stunning scenery, good food, and a relaxed vibe—all within a manageable 7-hour window.

What I really like about this experience is its focus on authentic sailing with a crew that seems dedicated and knowledgeable, plus the attractive inclusion of local, organic wines. The idea of stopping for swims in the Calanques or Frioul Islands adds a refreshing touch—and the fact that the lunch is vegetarian and made fresh on board makes it feel more personal and wholesome.

One thing to keep in mind is that the sailing program depends heavily on the weather, which might mean some variation in the route or stops. If you’re someone who prefers a very structured day, this flexibility could be a little frustrating. Still, it’s a good choice for those who love a day that’s both scenic and somewhat spontaneous. This tour is great for couples, friends, or families who are looking for a laid-back, scenic day on the water without too many rigid schedules.

If you’re after a calm, scenic outing where you can enjoy the natural beauty of Marseille’s coast, some good food, and a decent shot at swimming in crystal-clear waters, this experience could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Authentic sailing experience: The focus on sailing with a professional crew makes it feel genuine and special.
• Flexible itinerary: The route is weather-dependent, which keeps the experience dynamic and less predictable.
• Delicious, fresh food: The onboard buffet is vegetarian and made by a chef, emphasizing local, fresh ingredients.
• Quality wines: Organic white and rosé wines are included and served generously.
• Ideal for relaxation: Great for those wanting a mellow day, with plenty of time for swimming and enjoying the scenery.
• Small group feel: Limited to 12 guests, which keeps things intimate and personalized.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Setting Sail on Eleanor Mary

The tour kicks off at Pontoon #2, right in front of Marseille’s city hall, a spot that’s easy to find and feels quite central. Once aboard the Eleanor Mary, the boat radiates a sense of classic charm—an elegant sailing yacht that hints at a traditional, yet comfortable experience.

The crew greets you with a welcome snack—hot drinks, Marseille biscuits, and artisanal treats—which sets a friendly, laid-back tone. As you settle in, it’s clear this isn’t a stuffy cruise. The crew seems passionate and attentive, with reviews praising their friendliness and professionalism.

The Route and Stops

The sailing route depends largely on the weather, which is a smart move—no point pushing on if the wind isn’t cooperating. Typically, you’ll head toward either the Calanques de la Côte Bleue or the Calanques National Park, some of the most pristine and photogenic spots along the coast.

While the exact destinations may vary, you’ll get to see some of Marseille’s most secretive creeks and coves, often with the crew showing you hidden corners that aren’t on typical tourist maps. This makes the trip feel exclusive and personal, unlike crowded boat tours.

The Sailing and the Views

The highlight for many is the opportunity to experience traditional sailing—if the weather permits, you’ll even get a chance to help with the sails. For those who haven’t sailed before, it’s an authentic experience that adds a tactile dimension to the day.

When the sails are up, and the boat is gliding smoothly, the views are truly impressive. The coastline is rugged and dramatic, with cliffs dropping into turquoise waters. Many reviews mention how “spectacular” and “breathtaking” the scenery is, making it clear this trip offers plenty of picture-worthy moments.

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Swimming, Snorkeling, and Water Fun

The tour isn’t just about looking from the deck—it’s about getting in the water. The crew anchors at prime swimming spots, often in calm, clear waters conducive to snorkeling. If you have your gear, you’re encouraged to explore the underwater world, which many guests rave about.

Snorkeling equipment and swimming belts are provided, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own. Plus, paddleboards are available for sharing, adding a fun element for those who want to stay active. Several reviews highlight that the swimming spots are “beautiful,” “relaxing,” and often with “great water clarity.”

Lunch and Drinks

The onboard lunch is largely vegetarian, prepared fresh by the chef on board. It’s a buffet, so you can go back for seconds, and the emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients makes it feel wholesome and thoughtful. Many guests mention that the food is “delicious,” “fresh,” and “more than satisfying,” which is a bonus for a day on the water.

What really sets this experience apart is the inclusion of organic wines—a generous supply of white and rosé, served throughout the day. Guests consistently mention that the drinks help create a festive, carefree atmosphere, making the whole day feel like a celebration.

Sunset Swim at the Frioul Islands

If weather and timing cooperate, the cruise wraps up with a swim at sunset near the Frioul Islands. It’s a peaceful, almost magical way to end the day. The combination of a setting sun, calm waters, and good wine makes for a memorable moment, as several reviews attest.

What to Expect on This Tour

Knowing what this cruise offers can help you prepare better. You’ll want to arrive at the meeting point, Pier #2, in comfortable clothes and swimwear. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essentials, especially since you’ll spend a good amount of time outside.

The boat is small, maxing out at 12 guests, which means a more intimate experience. However, this also means it’s not suited for those who need more space or are traveling with bulky luggage—large bags or strollers aren’t allowed.

The tour lasts 7 hours, from 10 am to 5 pm, making it a full-but-relaxing day. You can expect a mix of sailing, swimming, eating, and relaxing, with the crew providing commentary and assistance along the way.

The Crew and Service

Guests consistently mention the “friendly,” “professional,” and “knowledgeable” crew. Several reviews praise the guides for their fluent English, which helps international guests feel more comfortable. The captain is known to be attentive to weather conditions, adjusting the course to ensure safety and the best experience possible.

Cost and Value

At $158 per person, this tour is fairly priced considering the length, included meals, drinks, and personalized service. Multiple reviews highlight that the value is excellent—being able to enjoy fresh food, ample wine, and a scenic sailing day for this price makes it a worthwhile splurge.

Who Will Love It?

This experience suits those who enjoy relaxed, scenic outings with a focus on good food and drink. It’s ideal for couples seeking a romantic day, friends wanting a fun, social trip, or even small families comfortable with boat outings. It’s not the best choice if you’re looking for a high-adrenaline adventure or have mobility issues, given the nature of sailing and water-based stops.

The Bottom Line

This Marseille sailboat cruise offers a laid-back, authentic way to enjoy the coast. With professional guides, stunning views, a delicious vegetarian buffet, and generous organic wines, it’s geared toward travelers who want a taste of the maritime lifestyle without the hustle of larger, more crowded tours.

The flexible route keeps the experience fresh and spontaneous, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty at its best. You’ll leave feeling relaxed, refreshed, and with plenty of great photos and memories.

While weather can influence the day’s flow, the overall experience is praised for its serenity and authenticity. It’s a wonderful choice if you’re craving a calm, scenic escape in Marseille with good food, wine, and water fun.

FAQ About the Marseille Sailboat Cruise

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the experience is quite relaxed and scenic, it’s best suited for older children or teenagers comfortable around boats and water. The tour involves some swimming and being outside on a boat, so keep that in mind.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and comfortable clothing. No high heels or large bags are allowed on board.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers a 48-hour cancellation policy for a full refund, giving you some flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

How long does the cruise last?
It’s a full 7-hour experience, from 10 am to 5 pm, making for a substantial but manageable day out.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers a welcome snack, a fresh vegetarian buffet, organic white and rosé wines, snorkeling gear, swimming belts, and a shared paddleboard.

Is the route fixed?
No, the sailing route depends on weather conditions, so the captain may choose different destinations like the Calanques de la Côte Bleue or the Calanques National Park.

Is this experience suitable for non-English speakers?
The guides speak both French and English, so language shouldn’t be an issue for most travelers.

To sum it up, this sailing tour in Marseille offers a relaxing, scenic, and genuinely enjoyable day on the water. It’s ideal for those who love good food, beautiful views, and a laid-back vibe. If you’re looking for a well-organized, intimate experience with friendly crew, excellent wines, and stunning scenery, this could be a highlight of your trip to the south of France.

You can check availability for your dates here: