From Marseille: Iconic Calanques Boat Tour with Swimming

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $92 per person and lasts 3 to 4.5 hours, making it a flexible half-day adventure.
• Highlights Include: Visits to Riou Island, the blue cave, and limestone calanques like Sormiou, Morgiou, Sugiton, En-Vau, Port Pin, and Port-Miou.
• Activities: Enjoy swimming, snorkeling with provided gear and wetsuits (if waters are cold), and capturing moments with the GoPro camera.
• Departure Points: Tours depart from Port de la Pointe Rouge or Vieux-Port in Marseille, with options that can affect swim stops and timing.
• Group Size and Guides: Small groups limited to 12 participants ensure personalized attention, led by knowledgeable guides who share insights about the scenery and ecosystems.
• Facilities and Inclusions: Includes soft drinks, snorkeling gear, wetsuits, the Calanques tax, and shower and changing facilities at the dock.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discover the Calanques National Park by Boat from Marseille

The From Marseille: Iconic Calanques Boat Tour with Swimming offers a chance to see the South of France’s rugged coastline from the water, with visits to several iconic calanques. This tour is perfect for those who want a combination of scenic cruising and active swimming stops. With a price of $92 per person and an option to choose departures from Port de la Pointe Rouge or Vieux-Port, it provides flexible options for different travelers.

The tour’s duration ranges from 3 to 4.5 hours, depending on the selected schedule and weather conditions. Travelers appreciate the small group size—limited to 12 participants—which ensures a more personal experience and attentive guidance. The skipper-led trips are rich in insights, with guides explaining the natural features, ecosystems, and local highlights as you cruise along the coast.

While the tour emphasizes swimming in crystal-clear waters and exploring hidden coves, it also offers plenty of opportunities for photography with the included GoPro camera, capturing memories of Riou Island and the blue cave. The snorkeling gear and wetsuits provided make it easier for all to enjoy the marine life, which includes seagrass meadows, coral reefs, and various fish species like groupers and scorpionfish.

The Itinerary: Stops and Scenic Highlights

This tour features multiple stops at some of the most famous calanques, including Sormiou, Morgiou, Sugiton, En-Vau, Port Pin, and Port-Miou. Each location offers 20 to 30 minutes for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring. These calanques are well-known for their imposing limestone cliffs and hidden caves, providing both photo opportunities and chances to enjoy the refreshing waters.

The Riou Island stop includes a photo session, a guided tour, and a swimming break. The blue cave is a highlight, with morning and afternoon trips visiting this spectacular natural feature. En-Vau beach and Port Pin are included in the afternoon route, offering additional scenic vistas and swimming spots, with around 20 minutes allocated for each stop. The Port-Miou visit lasts about 30 minutes, giving enough time for exploration and photos.

Each stop is selected for its beauty and ecological importance, with guides helping you uncover hidden gems and unique features of each calanque. The scenic cruise to and from these locations is as impressive as the stops themselves, with breathtaking views of the limestone cliffs rising sharply from the sea.

Practicalities of Meeting and Departing

This tour starts at either Port de la Pointe Rouge or Vieux-Port in Marseille. Meeting locations are clearly communicated, but travelers should arrive 15 minutes early to allow for check-in, especially since traffic jams are possible. The shared boat means punctuality is important; no refunds are given for late arrivals.

Departing from Port de la Pointe Rouge saves approximately 40 minutes on travel time into the calanques, which can make a difference in the number of stops and swimming time. The Vieux-Port departure may sometimes limit the morning swim stop, so travelers seeking more water activities might prefer the other option.

The boat itself is described as comfortable, with shower and changing facilities available at the dock after the tour. The meeting points are easy to find with provided instructions, and the activity is suitable for those comfortable with boating and swimming.

What Is Included and What to Bring

Guests receive snorkeling gear, wetsuits (if the water temperature requires it), soft drinks, and the GoPro camera for capturing moments during the trip. The tour fee also covers the Calanques tax, ensuring smooth access to protected areas.

It is recommended to bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. The tour is not suitable for children under 2, pregnant women, or people with back problems. Luggage or large bags, pets, and alcohol are not permitted onboard.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Role of the Skipper and Guides

Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach. They explain the highlights at each stop, share interesting facts about the ecosystems, and help visitors make the most of their swimming and photo opportunities. Skippers skillfully navigate sometimes choppy waters, ensuring safety while making the experience enjoyable.

Many reviews highlight guides’ expertise, noting that they are fun, informative, and attentive to safety and comfort. Marie, Julia, Clementine, and Nicolas are some of the guides mentioned as particularly memorable.

The Review of the Experience

With a stellar overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 955 reviews, this tour is highly regarded for its scenic beauty, knowledgeable guides, and flexible stops. Travelers consistently praise the small group size, which allows for personalized attention and a relaxed pace.

Most reviewers emphasize the opportunity to swim multiple times in crystal-clear waters and the stunning scenery. Many mention the friendly guides, the good value for money, and the quality of the snorkeling gear and wetsuits. Several note the fun and lively atmosphere, especially with drinks, music, and informative commentary onboard.

A few reviews mention weather as a variable factor, with some wishing for better weather to enhance the experience. The timing of swim stops can vary depending on the schedule, so it’s worth communicating specific preferences beforehand.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat tour appeals most to swimmers, nature lovers, and those eager to explore the Calanques’ natural beauty from the water. The small group size and expert guides make it ideal for travelers who appreciate personalized service and informative commentary.

It’s well-suited for those comfortable with boating, looking for active water-based activities, and eager to capture beautiful photos with the provided GoPro. However, it may not be suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or individuals with back issues due to the boat’s nature and occasional choppiness.

Final Thoughts on the Calanques Boat Tour from Marseille

This Calanques boat tour offers an impressive combination of scenic cruising, swimming, and snorkeling in one of France’s most stunning natural parks. The $92 price point provides access to multiple stops, snorkeling gear, wetsuits, and expert guidance, making it a solid choice for water lovers.

The small group size and knowledgeable guides are highly praised, as they enhance the personalized experience and ensure safety. The scenic stops at Riou Island and the blue cave provide photo opportunities and memorable moments.

While weather can influence the experience, the flexibility and professionalism of the crew generally ensure a great outing. Travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxation will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s a recommendation for anyone eager to explore the Calanques in comfort and style.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $92 per person.

How long does the tour last?
The duration varies between 3 and 4.5 hours, depending on the schedule and weather conditions.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Port de la Pointe Rouge or Vieux-Port in Marseille.

What is included in the tour?
Guests receive snorkeling gear, wetsuits (if needed), soft drinks, and the GoPro camera. The Calanques tax is also covered.

Are there any physical restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for children under 2 years, pregnant women, or people with back problems.

What should I bring?
It’s recommended to bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the group size small?
Yes, groups are limited to 12 participants to ensure a personalized experience.

Are guides available in both English and French?
Yes, the tour is offered in both languages.

What are the highlights of this tour?
The main highlights include visiting Riou Island, exploring the blue cave, and stopping at calanques like Sormiou, Morgiou, Sugiton, En-Vau, Port Pin, and Port-Miou for swimming and sightseeing.

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