Marseille’s location along the Mediterranean coast makes it a natural hub for sailing adventures. Unlike many seaside destinations, Marseille offers a perfect mix of calm waters, dramatic cliffs, and historic ports. Whether you’re a first-timer eager to learn the ropes or a seasoned sailor craving a private day on the water, Marseille has something for you. We’re partial to the Frioul Calanques Sailing Initiation because it combines a full-day of hands-on sailing with swimming in clear waters—ideal for those who want to learn while enjoying the scenery. Equally, the Calanques Catamaran Cruise stands out for its exclusive access to hidden coves and its inclusive approach, making it a popular choice for families and groups.
For those wanting a romantic evening or a special sunset, the Sunset Catamaran Cruise offers a relaxed atmosphere with drinks, music, and stunning views. And if you prefer to sail on your schedule, the Private Catamaran Rental provides full privacy for up to 12 people, perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply escaping the crowds. With options spanning half a day to full day trips, Marseille’s sailing scene caters to all kinds of travelers.
1. Marseille: Frioul Calanques Sailing Initiation with Swimming
At number 1 on our list, this full-day sailing trip offers a wonderful mix of hands-on learning and relaxation. It’s ideal if you want to learn to sail while soaking in the stunning views of the Frioul Islands and Calanques. The trip lasts about 7 hours, with a professional sailing instructor guiding you through the basics of sailing—hoisting sails, taking the helm, and understanding navigation. This experience truly stands out because it combines practical skills with pure leisure, all set against a backdrop of the Calanques National Park.
The highlight is the chance to swim or snorkel in clear, blue waters that reveal a lively underwater world beneath. Tour reviews emphasize the friendly, knowledgeable guides like Maël, who makes everyone feel comfortable whether they’re novices or experienced sailors. Travelers love the small group format (max 9), which fosters a relaxed atmosphere. The inclusion of swimming, snorkeling gear, and cliff jumping adds an adventurous edge. The value here is in the combination of instruction, scenery, and personal touches that make it more than just a boat ride.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting to combine learning, adventure, and relaxation in a single day on the water, with a knowledgeable guide making it accessible for all.
2. Marseille: Calanques Catamaran Cruise, Picnic, & Swimming
Number 2 on our list, this Calanques Catamaran Cruise is a more luxurious approach to exploring the coastline. It’s a small-group tour with a maximum of 24 people, offering an all-inclusive experience. The focus here is on uncovering secret spots like Riou Island and the blue cave, places typically inaccessible to larger boats or crowded tours.
This cruise is known for its comfort, with a smooth sailing experience on a modern catamaran equipped with two skippers, multiple toilets, and plenty of space to relax. The itinerary includes stops at several Calanques, where you can snorkel, swim, or just soak up the scenery. Included are a picnic with rosé wine, snacks, wetsuits, and even a GoPro to record the trip—making it ideal for families or couples wanting a fuss-free day on the water with high-end touches. Guests appreciate the expert guidance, scenic views, and the chance to explore less crowded areas of the coast.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a comfortable, all-inclusive day with exclusive access to the most beautiful Calanques, this tour hits the mark.
3. Marseille: Sunset catamaran cruise, buffet & drinks
Number 3 is a relaxed evening experience aboard a catamaran, perfect for winding down after a day of sightseeing. This Sunset Catamaran Cruise lasts about 4 hours and offers a casual, social atmosphere, ideal for couples or groups of friends.
Departing from Marseille’s old port, you’ll glide along the coastline, watching the sky change colors as the sun dips behind the Frioul Islands. The boat features open decks, nets to lounge on, and a seasonal buffet made from bio-sourced products. The highlight is the magical sunset views combined with a swim stop in a picturesque spot. The relaxed vibe and good value make this a popular choice for travelers seeking a low-key but memorable experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want to combine sailing, scenic views, and a casual dinner in a short, manageable timeframe.
4. Marseille: Catamaran rental by the day
Next up, this Private Catamaran Rental is the ultimate way to customize your sailing experience. With full privatization, you and your party get exclusive use of a luxury catamaran for about 7 hours. It’s perfect if you want to sail independently or have a special celebration.
The program includes sailing, swimming, and marine life viewing, with discussions with the licensed skipper. It’s a straightforward rental, but what makes it special is the flexibility—you decide where to go, how long to stay, and what activities to include. The boat meets safety standards and offers a high level of comfort. This option is particularly suited for groups who want privacy and a tailored day on the sea, whether for a family reunion, anniversary, or just a private escape.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want full control over their day and a luxury experience without the crowds.
5. Marseille: Private Half-day Frioul Islands Sailing Trip
This Private Half-day Frioul Islands Sailing Trip is an excellent choice for travelers who have limited time but still want a personalized sailing experience. It lasts about 4 hours, with the chance to learn sailing basics from your skipper while exploring the coast and coves of Frioul Island.
What sets this tour apart is the customized approach—it’s ideal for intimate groups craving flexibility and personalized attention. You’ll enjoy swimming and snorkeling in crystal waters, with the chance to admire the coastal landscape that surrounds Marseille. The guide will help you grasp the essentials of sailing, making it suitable for beginners or those looking to dip their toes in sailing without committing the whole day.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a short, private adventure that mixes sailing instruction with scenic exploration.
6. Marseille: sunset sailing, buffet, and Provence wines
Number 6 offers an authentic Provencal evening experience aboard La Flaneuse, an old sailing ship. This Sunset Sailing & Provence Wines tour lasts about 3.5 hours, combining sailing, dining, and wine tasting in one relaxing package.
The boat departs from Marseille’s port and takes you along the coast, where you can enjoy the spectacular sunset over the Frioul Archipelago. The highlight is the seasonal buffet featuring local products, paired with Provençal wines. The open deck and sails create a romantic setting, perfect for romantic couples or anyone wanting a taste of local culture in a scenic setting.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a romantic, cultural evening on the water with good food and wine.
7. Marseilles: Private Sailing Trip of the Frioul Islands
This Private Sailing Trip of the Frioul Islands offers a full-day adventure for those wanting maximum flexibility and privacy. Setting off from Marseille, your group will explore the coast and Calanques while learning the basics of sailing from a professional skipper.
The tour emphasizes swimming, snorkeling, and scenery, providing ample time to observe marine life and enjoy the turquoise waters. The customizable itinerary makes it suitable for families, friends, or couples wanting a tailored experience. Reviews highlight the expert guidance and beautiful scenery as key benefits.
Bottom Line: The best choice for those who want to sail independently with expert advice and enjoy a personalized day exploring the coast.
8. Sunset Sailing Trip – Marseille
Last but not least, this Sunset Sailing Trip is a quick, 2.5-hour experience designed for short but memorable outings. It offers an exceptional chance to see Marseille’s coastline at a magical time of day—sunset.
Departing from the port, you’ll cruise along the coast, enjoying the calm waters and the changing skies over the Frioul Islands. The trip is supervised by a qualified guide and offers an idyllic setting for a romantic escape or an easy introduction to sailing. It’s accessible and perfect if you’re short on time but still want to experience Mediterranean sailing.
Bottom Line: Excellent for a quick, scenic escape that captures the magic of a Mediterranean sunset.
How to Choose Your Perfect Sailing Experience in Marseille
Choosing the right sailing trip depends on your budget, time available, and interests. For learning and a full-day adventure, the Frioul Calanques Sailing Initiation offers a mix of instruction and leisure. If you’re after a luxury experience with exclusive access, the Calanques Catamaran Cruise is ideal. For those wanting a romantic evening, the Sunset Catamaran or Sunset Sailing & Provence Wines are perfect.
If privacy and independence are your top priorities, consider the Private Catamaran Rental. For shorter trips, the Private Half-day and Sunset Sailing tours offer quick but high-quality experiences.
Book early, especially during the summer months, to secure your preferred date. Think about your fitness level—most trips involve swimming or some physical activity—and your interests, whether that’s learning to sail, enjoying a scenic cruise, or celebrating a special occasion.
Marseille offers a diverse range of sailing experiences that suit every traveler. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a romantic evening, you’ll find an option that fits. For a full day or a brief sunset escape, these tours promise memorable moments on the Mediterranean Sea—a chance to see Marseille from a whole new perspective. Don’t forget to book early, and set sail when the weather’s right!