Marseille: Calanques Côte Bleue Boat Tour

The Marseille: Calanques Côte Bleue Boat Tour offers a refreshing way to experience the South of France’s coast. Priced affordably and lasting 3.5 hours, this tour departs from the iconic Old Port of Marseille with a small group limit of up to 10 passengers, ensuring an intimate and personalized adventure. Guided by experienced skippers, it emphasizes exploring lesser-known spots, swimming in hidden coves, and soaking in the coastal scenery away from busy tourist areas.

This tour is designed for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy the wild beauty of the Côte Bleue. With stops at picturesque calanques and villages, plus local treats like “Navettes” biscuits and coffee, it combines sightseeing, leisure, and authentic flavors. The experience is especially suited for travelers who love snorkeling, swimming, and discovering secluded spots, though it’s worth considering that the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

Key Points

• Small group size limits to 11 participants, providing a VIP feeling.
• Three and a half hours of boat cruising, swimming, and sightseeing.
• Explore secret caves and coves inaccessible to larger boats, with snorkeling gear included.
• Enjoy local Marseille treats like Navettes biscuits and fresh coffee onboard.
• Expert guides lead you through coastal villages and highlight hidden spots.
• Departure from the Old Port of Marseille, heading north to the Côte Bleue Reserve.

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Departing from the Old Port of Marseille for a Coastal Adventure

This tour begins at the Bateau Marseille Calanques location, conveniently starting from the Old Port of Marseille. In just 10 minutes, the boat cruise takes you past the historic port, giving a glimpse of Marseille’s bustling maritime life before heading into more tranquil waters. The departure point is easily accessible and central, making it a comfortable start for your marine exploration.

The boats used are semi-rigid, known for their power and safety, allowing access to areas other vessels cannot reach. The small group size, limited to 11 participants, ensures plenty of space and personalized attention from the French-speaking guides. The tour’s flexible booking options, such as free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve now, pay later, make planning straightforward.

Exploring the Calanques and Villages Along the Coast

The itinerary includes visits and stops at several notable spots along the Côte Bleue. You’ll see L’Estaque, Niolon, and Méjean, each offering unique views and photo opportunities. The Calanque des Eaux Salées and Calanque de la Madrague both provide longer stops of 45 minutes for swimming, relaxing, or capturing photos.

The Port de la Redonne allows free time with a walk around the small port, giving an authentic taste of local life. The Calanque de l’Érevine stands out as a highlight thanks to its turquoise waters, perfect for snorkeling or just basking in the sun. The boat drops anchor here for about 45 minutes, giving ample opportunity to explore marine life or enjoy refreshments.

Discovering Marine Caves and Hidden Spots

One of the most sought-after features of this tour is entering the Monastério Cave, weather permitting. The boat’s size and design allow access to secret caves and marine grottoes that larger vessels cannot reach. The Grotte Marine de Méjean is another notable stop, with 20 minutes allocated for self-guided exploration.

The caves and coves are frequently praised for their beauty and tranquility, providing a memorable backdrop for snorkeling or simply relaxing in the water. Masks and snorkels are provided, making it easy to swim and view marine life, including fish and jellyfish, during the stops.

Swimming, Snorkeling, and Relaxing in Secluded Coveted Spots

The tour emphasizes swimming in secret coves that are inaccessible to big boats. The 45-minute stops at spots like Calanque de la Madrague and l’Érevine are ideal for snorkeling and sunbathing. The water is described as warm and clear, with plenty of fish and marine creatures visible while snorkeling.

Guests appreciate the relaxed pace, with self-guided time to swim or rest. Goggles and masks are supplied, making it straightforward to explore the seabed. The water feels great, and the wind and weather conditions are monitored to ensure safety and comfort during swimming activities.

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Tasty Local Treats and Refreshments Onboard

The experience includes complimentary coffee and traditional Marseille biscuits called Navettes, which are famous in the region. These treats add a local flavor to the trip, offering a sweet break amid the adventure.

Plus, the boat is equipped with fresh water for rinsing and staying hydrated during the stops. Guests can enjoy the scenery while indulging in these small local pleasures, enhancing the overall relaxed ambiance.

Scenic Villages and Coastal Villages

The boat cruise provides panoramic views of L’Estaque, Niolon, and Méjean, charming villages with picturesque houses and coastal charm. The guides often share stories about these places, enriching the sightseeing experience. The walks around some ports, like Port de la Redonne, are self-guided but offer a chance to explore at your own pace and enjoy local food options.

From the boat, travelers get to appreciate the coastal architecture and small port life of these villages, often captured in photography during the stops.

The Guide and Crew: Expertise and Friendliness

The tour is led by French-speaking guides who are noted for their knowledge and friendly attitude. Many reviews mention guides going above and beyond, providing helpful explanations and extra touches like calling restaurants or accommodating special needs, such as offering life jackets for children.

Travelers consistently praise the guides’ professionalism and ability to communicate, even if they only speak limited French. Captain Cedric, Laurent, and Jean-Philippe are among those highlighted for their warmth and informative commentary.

Practicalities and What to Bring

To make the most of this 3.5-hour tour, participants should wear comfortable shoes, sun protection (hat and sunscreen), and light clothing suited for the warm weather. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, so those with mobility issues should consider this.

The boat provides snorkeling equipment, but guests are encouraged to bring personal items like waterproof cameras and additional snacks if desired. Weather conditions can influence the route, especially the access to certain caves, so flexibility is recommended.

The Overall Value of This Coastal Boat Tour

This tour is highly praised for its value, with many reviewers highlighting the excellent guides, beautiful locations, and generous swimming opportunities. The small group setting and personalized experience set it apart from larger, more generic boat trips.

While weather can sometimes shorten the experience, the overall positive feedback confirms that this half-day trip offers a rich and relaxing exploration of Marseille’s coastal beauty. It is especially suited for families, couples, and small groups who want a personalized, scenic adventure with plenty of chances to swim and enjoy the sea.

Marseille: Calanques Côte Bleue Boat Tour — Final Words

In essence, this 3.5-hour boat tour provides a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and local flavor. The top-notch guides, secluded spots, and good value make it a popular choice for those seeking an authentic and relaxing day on the water.

It offers access to hidden caves and turquoise coves, friendly service, and the chance to escape the crowds. The limited group size ensures a more intimate experience, perfect for small groups, families, or couples wanting to explore Marseille’s coast at a leisurely pace.

While weather can sometimes impact the route, the overall quality and authenticity of this tour make it a solid pick for anyone eager to see the less-traveled side of the Calanques.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts 3.5 hours, covering multiple stops along the coast.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from Bateau Marseille Calanques at the Old Port of Marseille.

Is lunch or food included?
No, but complimentary coffee and Navettes biscuits are provided onboard.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, swimming is a major feature, with 45-minute stops at coves like Calanque de la Madrague and l’Érevine.

Are snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, masks and snorkels are supplied for marine exploration.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but not suitable for wheelchair users and children should be able to wear life jackets, which are provided.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, light clothing, and personal waterproof gear if desired.

Is the guide English-speaking?
The guides are French-speaking, but reviews note guides going above and beyond to translate highlights into English.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance; routes and stops may be affected by weather.

How many people are in each group?
Limited to 11 participants, ensuring a VIP experience.

This Marseille: Calanques Côte Bleue Boat Tour combines the beauty of the coast with personalized service and plenty of swimming in secluded coves. It’s an engaging way to discover Marseille’s scenic side and enjoy a relaxed day on the water.

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