Marseille : Calanques Catamaran Cruise with Lunch & Wine

Experience the Best of the Calanques on a Private-Feel Catamaran Tour

The Marseille: Calanques Catamaran Cruise with Lunch & Wine offers a full-day adventure exploring some of the most picturesque spots in the Calanques National Park. Priced at $198 per person, this 8.5-hour journey departs from Port de la Pointe Rouge and is designed for a small group of up to 30 people, ensuring a comfortable and intimate atmosphere.

This tour stands out with its all-inclusive approach, featuring lunch, rosé wine, snorkeling gear, wetsuits, soft drinks, and even a GoPro camera to capture your moments. While the experience promises stunning views and exclusive access to lesser-known parts of the Calanques, a few reviews note that weather conditions can impact the trip’s flow. Overall, it suits travelers eager for a relaxed, scenic day on the water with plenty of opportunities to swim and photograph the rugged coastline.

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Key Points

• All-inclusive day cruise with lunch, wine, snorkeling gear, and wetsuits included
• Small group limit of 30 guests for a more personal experience
• Several stops at renowned Calanque spots like Sormiou, Morgiou, Sugiton, and Riou Island
• Captain-led guided visits with insightful commentary
• Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on the catamaran’s trampoline
• Photo opportunities with the GoPro camera available onboard

Departing from Marseille’s Port de la Pointe Rouge

This tour begins at Bleu Evasion, located at entrance n°3 of the Port de la Pointe Rouge in Marseille. Travelers are advised to arrive 15 minutes early for check-in. The journey commences with a comfortable and fast catamaran designed to keep stability and speed at the forefront, making the ride smooth even in moderate sea conditions.

The small group size of 30 guests maximizes space and allows for a relaxed atmosphere. The meeting point is straightforward to find, but it’s wise to anticipate potential traffic. The tour is ideal for those who value a quiet, less crowded experience with plenty of space to move around and enjoy the view.

Sailing to the Iconic Calanques and Hidden Corners

The Véla catamaran takes travelers on a tour of the Calanques National Park, showcasing dramatic limestone cliffs and secret coves. The itinerary includes visits and stops at Riou Island, Calanque de Sormiou, Calanque de Morgiou, and Sugiton. Each destination offers different scenery, from crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming to spectacular photo spots.

The guide leads you through scenic areas while explaining the natural features of each site. The hidden stop adds an element of surprise, providing a quieter location for swimming and relaxing away from the more popular spots. The return to port marks the end of a day filled with scenic vistas, aquatic activities, and memorable moments.

Highlights of the Calanque Stops

Riou Island provides a photo stop and swimming opportunities in calmer waters protected by the island’s geography. The Calanque de Sormiou is known for its stunning cliffs and offers a quick visit for sightseeing and photos.

Calanque de Morgiou is a longer stop, featuring a lunch break with grilled beef and chicken served on the boat, alongside rosé wine and fresh fruits. This stop allows more time for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the natural surroundings.

The secret stop is a personal favorite, as it offers a less crowded location for snorkeling and relaxing. Finally, the Calanque de Sugiton is perfect for a short visit with some free time to explore or simply soak in the scenery.

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What Is Included in the Tour Package

The all-inclusive package means travelers don’t need to bring additional gear or worry about extra costs. The snorkeling gear and wetsuits are provided, allowing exploration of the protected waters with ecosystems like seagrass meadows and coral reefs.

Soft drinks and rosé wine flow freely during the day, making for a leisurely cruise. The lunch features a plancha with beef and chicken, complemented by salads and fruits. The GoPro camera serves as an excellent tool to capture photos and videos of the stunning scenery and aquatic activities.

The Comfort and Features of Véla Catamaran

The Véla catamaran is described as modern, spacious, stable, and fast, making it suitable for a smooth day at sea. Its ultra comfort design includes features like a huge trampoline for lounging and ample space to relax or socialize.

The boat is designed to maximize comfort while providing a spectacular viewing platform. The guides on board are known for their insightful commentary and knowledge of the area, enhancing the experience with stories and facts about each destination.

The Experience of Snorkeling and Swimming

Snorkeling gear and included wetsuits, where necessary, invite travelers to explore the marine ecosystems within the Calanques. The crystal-clear waters are ideal for spotting fish species like groupers and scorpionfish.

Swimming is a key highlight, with stops at protected waters that are safe for all swimming levels. The calm and inviting waters make it easy to relax and enjoy the aquatic environment in a natural setting.

The Lunch and Refreshments Aboard

The lunch on the boat is a plancha featuring beef and chicken, accompanied by salads and fresh fruits. The rosé wine is served in pre-filled glass bottles, providing a casual, enjoyable way to toast the scenic surroundings.

Throughout the day, soft drinks keep everyone refreshed. The meal and drinks are designed to complement the relaxed cruising atmosphere, allowing plenty of time to savor the flavors while enjoying the views.

Weather Considerations and Potential Limitations

While the tour promises impressive scenery, weather can impact the experience. One review mentions that wind and rain caused discomfort and limited visibility, with additional warm clothing being provided only after delays.

The tour does not seem to include paddleboarding or trampoline in all cases, even though these are mentioned in the description. Travelers should be prepared for variable conditions and understand that some stops may be shorter or different depending on weather.

Who Will Appreciate This Calanques Catamaran Tour

This small-group cruise is best suited for adventurers who enjoy scenic sailing, swimming, and photography. The all-inclusive nature makes it ideal for those who prefer not to worry about extra costs or gear.

It’s particularly well-rated for the hospitality of the guides and the quality of the lunch and drinks. However, those seeking more extensive exploration of all the Calanque sites or paddling activities may find the itinerary somewhat limited. The limited capacity encourages a relaxed vibe, perfect for travelers who value comfort and intimacy.

Final Thoughts on the Marseille Calanques Catamaran Experience

The Calanques cruise on Véla provides a beautiful day at sea with stunning views, snorkeling, and a delicious lunch in a small group setting. The all-inclusive setup enhances convenience, while the small vessel offers a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.

While weather conditions can influence the day, the professional skippers and well-designed boat make for a comfortable journey. This tour is an attractive choice for those seeking a peaceful, scenic escape in the South of France, especially if photo opportunities, swimming, and relaxing onboard appeal most.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes skipper, lunch, calanques tax, swimming, snorkeling gear, soft drinks, rosé wine, wetsuits (if water is cold), and GoPro cameras.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at Bleu Evasion, at entrance n°3 of the Port de la Pointe Rouge in Marseille. Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in.

How long does the tour last?
The cruise lasts approximately 8.5 hours, with specific departure times available based on availability.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 2 years, pregnant women, or those with back problems.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses and a towel. No pets are allowed onboard.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are meals and drinks included?
Yes, a lunch of beef and chicken, rosé wine, soft drinks, and fruits are included in the package.

What if the weather turns bad?
Weather can impact the experience, especially if it’s windy or rainy. The tour may be affected, and additional warm clothing might be provided if needed.

Is paddleboarding available?
The description mentions paddle activities, but some reviews suggest that equipment like paddles and trampolines may not always be present. Check directly with the provider for specific equipment availability.

Who is the tour provider?
The tour is operated by Bleu Evasion.

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