Marseille: Calanques Sailing Day Trip with Lunch and Wine

The Marseille: Calanques Sailing Day Trip with Lunch and Wine offers a captivating way to explore the south of France’s coastline. For $158 per person, this 7-hour adventure takes place aboard the elegant Le Don du Vent, a historic two-masted sailing yacht. The tour features stops at some of the most beautiful spots in the Calanques National Park or La Côte Bleue, combining scenic cruising, swimming, snorkeling, and a chef-prepared lunch with organic white wine and rosé. While the trip may not visit all calanques in detail, it delivers a well-balanced experience filled with stunning views and authentic sailing charm. This trip suits those looking for a relaxing, scenic day on the water with good food, wine, and opportunities to swim in crystal-clear waters.

One of the main attractions is the yacht itself—Le Don du Vent is a historic vessel that guests find beautiful, with many praising its classic design and comfortable amenities. The crew is renowned for being friendly, attentive, and professional, making sure every guest feels well cared for throughout the day. The package includes welcome coffee, local biscuits called navettes, a buffet lunch, and snorkeling gear, providing a full, enjoyable experience with no hidden costs. An important note is that the trip may anchor at different spots depending on weather conditions, allowing flexibility to ensure everyone’s safety and comfort.

Key Points

• 7-hour sailing experience aboard the historic Le Don du Vent in Marseille.
• Stops at selected calanques or La Côte Bleue for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.
• Includes a chef-made buffet lunch paired with organic white wine and rosé.
• Well-rated crew known for friendliness, professionalism, and attentiveness.
• Flexible itinerary depending on weather conditions, with anchor points at Sormiou, Morgiou, Sugiton, or La Côte Bleue.
• Meeting point is at pier #2 in front of the Marseille city hall, with easy access.

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Departing from Marseille’s Pier #2 in Front of the City Hall

The tour begins at Le Don du Vent 1947, which is docked at pier #2 right in front of the Marseille city hall. Guests are welcomed with coffee and navettes, typical local biscuits, creating a friendly, casual start to the day. The meeting point is straightforward to find, and the tour provides basic instructions on where to gather.

Once onboard, the yacht’s atmosphere is warm and inviting, with plenty of seating and shaded areas. The crew makes sure everyone is comfortable, offering safety equipment and guidance for swimming and snorkeling. This start sets a relaxed tone, encouraging guests to settle in and enjoy the scenic cruise ahead.

The Charm of the Historic Le Don du Vent Yacht

The Le Don du Vent stands out as a beautiful and storied sailing vessel. Many describe it as a stunning historic boat with charming maritime details. Its classic design contributes to the overall experience, and many praise its spaciousness and comfort. The boat’s sails may be used or powered by engine, depending on wind conditions, but even when engine-powered, the experience maintains a smooth and relaxing pace.

The crew is frequently commended for their warm hospitality and professional expertise. They are attentive without being intrusive, offering a sense of security especially during swimming stops. Guests often comment that the crew’s knowledge and friendliness make the day even more enjoyable.

Scenic Stops at Sormiou, Morgiou, and Sugiton

The trip typically anchors at Sormiou, Morgiou, or Sugiton, or sometimes La Côte Bleue depending on weather. Each spot offers a unique view of the Calanques’ dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters. These stops are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, with snorkeling gear included to explore the underwater world.

While the tour may not visit every calanque in detail, these anchor points are carefully chosen for their beauty and calm waters. Guests can expect ample time to swim, relax, and soak in the scenery. The locations are often praised for their crystal-clear waters and impressive rock formations, making each stop feel like a private slice of paradise.

A Gourmet Buffet Lunch with Organic Wines

A key highlight is the chef-made buffet lunch served onboard. Many reviews emphasize the deliciousness of the food, which features fresh, homemade dishes. The organic white wine and rosé flow freely during the cruise, enhancing the leisurely atmosphere. The lunch provides enough variety to satisfy different tastes, and many mention how tasty and plentiful the meal is.

Guests appreciate that the food is well-prepared and complements the relaxed sailing vibe. The wine is often described as high-quality and plentiful, making the day feel even more indulgent. This combination of good food and drinks turns the cruise into a true pleasure.

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Opportunities to Swim and Snorkel in the Calm Waters

Swimming is a major part of this experience, with stops designed for swimming and snorkeling. Many guests find the waters inviting and lively, perfect for a refreshing dip. The snorkeling gear is provided, allowing exploration of the marine life and underwater scenery.

Safety measures are in place, with the crew acting as ‘maître nageurs’ (lifeguards), keeping a close eye on swimmers from both the boat and the water. The calm, turquoise waters make for enjoyable swimming, even for those who are prone to seasickness, according to reviews. The opportunity to dive in the sea is often praised as a highlight.

How the Crew Enhances the Experience

The friendly, attentive crew is frequently highlighted as a major strength of this tour. Many reviews mention Samir and other staff members as helpful, entertaining, and professional. They ensure safety during swimming, serve drinks and food, and often engage with guests with warm hospitality.

Guests appreciate that the crew spoke English fluently, making communication easier for international visitors. The crew’s care and knowledge about the area add a personal touch, making guests feel welcomed and well looked after throughout the day.

The Boat’s Comfort and Amenities

The boat’s interior and exterior spaces are designed for comfort and relaxation. Many appreciate the shade and seating options, especially on warm days. Some reviews mention comfortable bean bags and shaded areas where guests can loung and soak up the sun.

Despite some trips being powered by engine, the boat’s historic charm and spacious layout create a pleasant environment. The music playlist and aesthetic details contribute to a laid-back, enjoyable atmosphere.

Flexibility and Weather Considerations

The itinerary is dependent on weather conditions, with anchor points adjusted accordingly. If the weather does not permit visiting the calanques, the boat may head towards La Côte Bleue. This flexibility ensures safety and comfort for all onboard.

Guests should be aware that some stops may be shorter or longer depending on conditions, and the itinerary is not fixed. This variability is generally appreciated, as it prioritizes safety and the best possible scenery.

Safety and Practical Tips for the Trip

The tour recommends bringing comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. It’s advised to wear tennis or boat shoes, and not high heels, pets, or large luggage. Pregnant guests over six months should consult their doctor, as the crew may deny boarding during sea swell.

The meeting point is easy to find, and the tour offers free cancellation up to 2 days in advance, providing flexibility. Many reviews mention that the crew prioritized safety, especially during swimming, which adds confidence to the experience.

Who Will Most Enjoy This Sailing Trip?

This tour is ideal for those seeking a relaxing day on the water with beautiful scenery and good food. It suits families, couples, and friends looking for a laid-back, scenic experience with opportunities to swim and snorkel. Wine lovers will enjoy the organic white wine and rosé served onboard.

While the trip is accessible to most, those prone to seasickness should consider bringing medication, though many find the waters calm. The friendly, knowledgeable crew and stunning views make this an activity to remember for anyone wanting to experience the coastline of Marseille in style and comfort.

Marseille: Calanques Sailing Day Trip with Lunch and Wine – Final Thoughts

This 7-hour sailing adventure offers a blend of scenic beauty, good food, and warm hospitality. Guests praise the friendly crew, delicious buffet, and crystal-clear swimming spots. The historic vessel adds charm, while the flexibility in stops ensures a safe, enjoyable experience in varying weather.

While it may not visit every calanque in detail, the trip provides enough time to relax, swim, and savor local wines. It suits travelers wanting a laid-back day on the water with plenty of opportunities for photo-worthy views and leisurely swimming.

This tour represents a value-rich experience perfect for families, couples, and groups seeking a memorable day exploring the French Riviera’s coast in comfort and style.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts 7 hours, including stops for swimming and lunch.

What is the meeting point?
Guests meet at Le Don du Vent 1947 on pier #2, in front of the Marseille city hall.

What is included in the price?
The experience includes welcome coffee, navettes (local biscuits), a buffet lunch, organic white wine and rosé, and snorkeling gear.

Can I swim during the trip?
Yes, multiple stops are planned for swimming and snorkeling in turquoise waters, with safety supervision from the crew.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen are recommended.

Are drinks available on board?
Yes, organic white wine and rosé are served freely throughout the cruise.

Is there a fixed itinerary?
No, the stops are flexible and depend on weather, with anchor points at Sormiou, Morgiou, Sugiton, or La Côte Bleue.

Is this trip suitable for pregnant women?
Pregnant women over 6 months should consult a doctor and may be denied boarding if sea conditions are rough.

What is the capacity of the boat?
While exact capacity isn’t specified, reviews mention around 30 guests, ensuring a comfortable experience without feeling crowded.

How do reviews rate this experience?
With a 4.8 out of 5 based on 408 reviews, it’s highly praised for its scenery, food, crew, and overall value.

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