Marseille: Calanques Catamaran Cruise, Picnic, & Swimming

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience: Picnic, rosé wine, soft drinks, snorkeling gear, wetsuits, and GoPro provided
• Small group size: Only 24 people maximum on a spacious catamaran for a comfortable, personalized tour
• Varied stops: Includes visits to Riou Island, the blue cave, and Calanques like Sormiou, Morgiou, Sugiton, En-Vau, Port Pin, and Port-Miou
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable skippers lead you through secret spots and share insights about the area’s ecosystems
• Ideal for water lovers: Plenty of swimming and snorkeling opportunities in crystal-clear waters
• Flexible duration: Tours last between 5 and 7.5 hours, allowing for a relaxed exploration of the Calanques

You can check availability for your dates here:

Explore Marseille’s Calanques by Spacious Catamaran

This tour offers a luxurious way to discover the Calanques National Park from Marseille, with a 5 to 7.5-hour journey aboard a beautiful catamaran called Grenadine. With a maximum of 24 passengers, the experience feels intimate and comfortable, avoiding the crowds often associated with larger tours. The all-inclusive package means you enjoy picnic food, rosé wine, soft drinks, and snorkel equipment without extra charges.

The tour starts at the Port de la Pointe Rouge in Marseille, where you’ll board the spacious, well-equipped catamaran. The relaxed pace and small group size make it ideal for those seeking a personalized coastal adventure, with plenty of time to swim, take photos, and explore the hidden corners of this stunning natural area.

The Route: From Riou Island to En-Vau Beach

The itinerary takes you through some of the most breathtaking spots in the Calanques, starting with a photo stop and guided visit at the Riou Archipelago, lasting approximately 75 minutes. Here, you’ll see rugged landscapes and photo-worthy views before heading to the Calanque de Sormiou, another highlight with scenic vistas and a 30-minute stop for photos and sightseeing.

Next, a secret stop introduces visitors to confidential places known only to locals, offering an unexpected peek into the area’s less accessible corners. This 45-minute segment combines sightseeing with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in protected waters.

The tour continues with Calanque de Morgiou and Calanque de Sugiton, featuring 45- to 75-minute stops where you can enjoy scenic views, take a dip, and explore the shoreline. The Calanque d’En-Vau receives special attention with a 1-hour stop, giving ample time for photos and relaxation in one of the park’s most iconic locations.

The final stops include Calanque de Port Pin and Port-Miou, each with 30 to 45-minute visits, offering more swimming, snorkeling, and scenic exploration before returning to Marseille.

The Marine Ecosystem and Water Activities

The waters around the Calanques host a variety of ecosystems, including seagrass meadows, coral reefs, and a diverse array of fish species such as groupers and scorpionfish. With snorkeling gear and wetsuits provided, guests get the chance to explore these underwater habitats in protected waters, feeling the cool sea breeze while observing marine life up close.

Swimmers are encouraged to use the included wetsuits if the water feels chilly, ensuring comfort during extended underwater explorations. The GoPro cameras available onboard allow you to capture all your underwater moments easily, turning your sea adventure into lasting memories.

Comfortable, Well-Equipped Catamaran with Top Amenities

The vessel used for this tour, Grenadine, boasts several features that make the experience stand out. With two skippers onboard, the boat maintains a steady and smooth ride, even in larger waves. The ultra comfort design ensures plenty of space for passengers to relax, with 4 toilets on board for convenience.

Guests appreciate the scenic views from the boat, with the sea breeze adding to the sensation of freedom and connection to nature. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, wetsuits, and a GoPro makes it easy to focus on the fun without worrying about equipment or capturing photos and videos.

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The Food and Drink: Fresh Picnic with Rosé and Snacks

A delicious homemade sandwich accompanies your day, paired with dessert and rosé wine. The all-inclusive approach means you are served more than enough food and drinks throughout the tour, with soft drinks available to quench your thirst.

Guests consistently mention the quality of the food and drink, noting that the rosé is a highlight and complements the stunning scenery perfectly. The picnic adds a relaxed touch to the day, allowing everyone to enjoy their meal in the sunshine or during stops at scenic locations.

The Guides and Crew: Knowledgeable and Friendly

The skippers and crew are praised for their kindness and professionalism. They share insights about the Calanques’ ecosystems and local secrets, making the experience both enjoyable and informative.

Several reviews highlight how the crew accommodates special moments, such as taking photos during memorable events like proposals, and adjusting the tour based on the group’s mood. Their careful handling of safety and comfort ensures a relaxed atmosphere even in the presence of larger waves or colder water.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Booking Flexibility

The tour departs from Bleu Evasion, located at entrance n°3 of the Port de la Pointe Rouge in Marseille. Guests are advised to arrive 15 minutes early for check-in and to provide a telephone number for contact purposes. Traffic jams are common in the area, so planning ahead is recommended.

Booking is flexible, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance. The reserve now, pay later option helps with planning, making it easy to secure a spot without immediate payment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Calanques cruise suits anyone who loves water activities, scenic boat rides, and small-group experiences. It is not recommended for children under 2 years, pregnant women, or persons with back problems due to the physical nature of some stops and boat movement.

The small group size, combined with the professional guides and all-inclusive amenities, makes it ideal for those seeking a relaxed, personalized day exploring some of France’s most beautiful coastal landscapes. The snorkeling and swimming opportunities are plentiful, making it perfect for water enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts on the Calanques Catamaran Tour

This Marseille-based tour delivers a comfortable, well-rounded experience of the Calanques with intimate group size, diverse locations, and value-packed inclusions. The expert guides and dedicated crew enhance the day with their knowledge and friendliness, while the all-inclusive food, drinks, and gear allow you to focus on enjoying the scenery.

The visual highlights and opportunities for swimming make this tour stand out, especially for those who appreciate nature, marine life, and scenic boat rides. While the activity level is moderate, the tour is accessible to most, excluding those with mobility issues or serious back problems.

For a relaxing yet adventurous day on the water, the Calanques Catamaran Cruise with Picnic and Swimming offers a memorable way to experience the South of France’s coast in style.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour duration varies between 5 and 7.5 hours depending on the day’s schedule and conditions.

What is included in the price?
The price includes the skipper, petrol, calanques tax, swimming gear, wetsuits if needed, soft drinks, rosé wine, a picnic lunch, and GoPro cameras.

Where does the tour depart from?
Guests meet at Bleu Evasion at entrance n°3 of the Port de la Pointe Rouge in Marseille.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not recommended for children under 2 years, and pregnant women or people with back problems should consider this before booking.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring sunglasses and a towel for comfort during stops.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The information suggests it may not be suitable for those with back problems or mobility constraints.

Are there food options besides the picnic?
The tour includes a homemade sandwich and dessert, with plenty of rosé and snacks included.

How many people are on each boat?
The boat carries a maximum of 24 passengers, ensuring an intimate experience.

What is the weather like?
The tour typically offers great weather, and wetsuits are provided if the water is cold, ensuring comfort regardless of conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby