La Ciotat offers some of the most scenic boat trips along France’s stunning Mediterranean coast. What makes it a favorite spot for boat lovers? The Calanques National Park, with its towering limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters, is simply breathtaking. We particularly enjoy the boat tour in the Calanques with swimming because it combines the beauty of the scenery with the fun of swimming and snorkeling in serene waters. For those wanting a broader exploration, the Cove of Var / Embiez Islands tour provides a full-day experience of island hopping and swimming in pristine coves. The Calanques Morning Boat Tour with Snorkeling offers a shorter, more relaxed way to experience the park’s highlights. Each offers something unique, depending on your schedule and interests.
If you’re seeking a quick escape or a full-day adventure, La Ciotat’s boat tours deliver. Whether you prefer small-group explorations, snorkeling, or visiting islands, there’s a tour tailored for you.
Quick Overview
Below, you’ll find three carefully selected boat tours in La Ciotat. Each offers a different focus — from half-day Calanques adventures to full-day island excursions. All are highly rated and include snorkeling, sightseeing, and commentary from skilled skippers. For more details and booking options, check their respective links.
1. La Ciotat: Boat Tour in the Calanques with swimming
At number one, this 4-hour guided boat tour takes you through the famous Calanques National Park with plenty of opportunities to swim in clear waters. With a maximum of 12 people, the small group ensures a personal experience. During the tour, your skipper shares interesting commentary about the area’s geology and history, making it as educational as it is beautiful.
What sets this tour apart is the chance to swim and snorkel directly from the boat. Snorkeling gear (mask & snorkel) is provided, so you can explore underwater life in tranquil coves like Port Pin, En-Vau, and others. The itinerary includes stops at scenic spots such as Île Verte, Figuerolles, and L’Arène, with plenty of photo opportunities. The cruise also includes free cold drinks, perfect for staying refreshed after swimming in the warm Mediterranean waters.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed yet immersive experience of the Calanques, especially those who enjoy snorkel gear and small-group intimacy. Reviewers praise the guide’s animated commentary and the chance to see less crowded spots.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a short, intimate, and active tour with swimming in stunning scenery, this one fits the bill perfectly.
2. La Ciotat: Boat Tour to Cove of Var / Embiez and swimming
For a full day of exploration, this boat tour to the Cove of Var and Embiez Islands promises a comprehensive experience of the area’s best swimming and sightseeing spots. The trip starts from La Ciotat and visits the Coves of Var, featuring dramatic coastline and secluded beaches, as well as the picturesque Embiez Islands known for their crystal waters and rugged landscapes.
The itinerary includes stops at popular spots like Le Resquilladou, Port de La Madrague, Calanque de Port d’Alon, and Bendor Island. Highlights include swimming in the tranquil waters of the Madrague des Lecques and snorkeling at Baie de la Moutte and Ile des Embiez. The tour is led by a professional skipper who offers commentary about the local marine environment and coastline.
Guests especially enjoy the variety of stops, from quiet coves to lively island scenes, making it perfect for lovers of both relaxation and exploration. The trip’s length means it’s best suited for those with a flexible schedule who want to see more than just the Calanques. Reviewers find the experience well worth the price, with multiple swimming stops and excellent scenery.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a full-day adventure, combining island hopping, swimming, and sightseeing in a relaxed, guided setting.
3. La Ciotat: Calanques Morning Boat Tour with Snorkeling
If your time in La Ciotat is limited but you still want a taste of the Calanques’ natural beauty, the 3-hour morning boat tour offers a perfect solution. This tour departs early, allowing you to explore several key spots before midday. The small-group setting ensures a personalized experience, with a knowledgeable skipper guiding you through the dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise waters.
The itinerary includes visits to Île Verte, Figuerolles, Calanque de Port Pin, En-Vau, and the Oule. During the tour, you’ll have the chance to snorkel in calm, clear waters at selected stops, taking in underwater sights you wouldn’t see from land. The skipper shares insights about the geology and ecology of the park, enhancing your appreciation of this UNESCO-listed site.
This tour appeals to those who want a quick but comprehensive introduction to the Calanques. It’s perfect for morning persons or travelers with limited time. Reviewers appreciate the intimate group size and the chance to snorkel in the park’s famous waters.
Bottom Line: Great for a short but immersive glimpse of the Calanques, especially if you value snorkeling and expert commentary.
How to Choose
When selecting the right boat tour in La Ciotat, consider your schedule, budget, and interests. If you’re pressed for time but want a personal, snorkeling-rich experience, the Calanques with swimming tour offers a compact, engaging trip. For those wanting to see more and spend a full day exploring islands and coves, the Cove of Var / Embiez tour provides a leisurely, extensive adventure. The morning Calanques tour suits travelers seeking a quick, scenic overview with snorkeling options.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak summer months, as these tours tend to fill up quickly. Think about whether you prefer a small-group experience with swimming or a broader exploration of islands and coves. All tours are well-rated, ensuring you get a worthwhile experience regardless of your choice.
Final thoughts
La Ciotat’s boat tours cater to a variety of tastes, from short, snorkel-focused trips to full-day island excursions. For active travelers who love swimming and small-group intimacy, the Calanques with swimming tour is a perfect pick. If you’re looking to explore a wider area with multiple swimming spots, the Cove of Var / Embiez tour offers excellent value. And for a quick taste of the Calanques, the morning boat tour provides a solid, scenic option.
Whatever your preference, booking early ensures you don’t miss out on these unforgettable excursions. So grab your swimsuit, sunscreen, and sense of adventure — La Ciotat’s waters are calling.