Marseille: Calanques Catamaran Cruise, Picnic, & Snorkeling

Nestled along the stunning Côte d’Azur, Marseille boasts some of the most breathtaking landscapes in France. Set out on a Calanques catamaran cruise to discover the region’s natural wonders firsthand. From exploring uninhabited islands to snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, this intimate adventure promises an unforgettable experience. But the true highlight? Indulging in a delightful picnic lunch accompanied by complimentary rosé wine as you take in the serene Mediterranean vistas. Intrigued? Read on to learn more about this captivating Marseille excursion.

Key Points

• Explore the dramatic limestone cliffs and serene inlets of the Calanques near Marseille on a 75-minute catamaran cruise.
• Discover the uninhabited Riou Island, with guided hikes, swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing opportunities.
• Visit the stunning Calanque de Sormiou, a protected marine environment with towering cliffs and turquoise waters.
• Enjoy exclusive access to a hidden cove for swimming and snorkeling in pristine, turquoise waters.
• Indulge in a picnic lunch, complimentary rosé wine, and soft drinks, with snorkeling gear and wetsuits provided for water activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discover the Calanques of Marseille

Although Marseille is renowned for its vibrant city life, the real gem lies just outside the bustling urban center – the captivating Calanques.

These dramatic limestone cliffs and serene inlets showcase the region’s stunning natural beauty. Carved by the elements over millennia, the Calanques offer unparalleled opportunities for exploration, whether you prefer swimming, snorkeling, or simply taking in the breathtaking vistas.

Join a catamaran cruise to access these hidden gems, where you’ll discover secluded coves, diverse marine life, and the chance to learn about the tranquility of this unique coastal landscape.

Exploring Riou Island

As the catamaran departs from Marseille, passengers embark on an exciting journey to the captivating Riou Island.

After a 75-minute cruise, they arrive at this uninhabited gem. Disembarking, they discover a rugged landscape of limestone cliffs, hidden coves, and pristine beaches.

The guide leads them on a short hike, sharing insights into the island’s unique flora and fauna. Guests have time to swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun before reluctantly returning to the boat.

Riou’s untamed beauty and tranquility offer a memorable respite from the mainland, leaving passengers refreshed and eager to explore the next Calanque.

Cruising to Calanque De Sormiou

After exploring the rugged beauty of Riou Island, the catamaran glides across the crystal-clear waters towards the next captivating destination – the Calanque de Sormiou.

This steep-sided inlet is a natural wonder, with towering limestone cliffs plunging into the turquoise sea. Guests have 30 minutes to marvel at the scenery, perhaps snapping photos or taking a brief swim.

The skilled crew provides commentary, sharing insights about the unique geology and ecology of this protected marine environment.

With the Calanque de Sormiou ticked off the list, the catamaran heads to a secret spot for the next adventure.

The Secret Stop

The catamaran then ventures to a secret stop, a hidden gem known only to the experienced crew.

For 45 minutes, guests can swim, snorkel, and explore a pristine cove far from the crowds. The water shimmers in shades of turquoise, inviting visitors to slip beneath the surface and discover the abundant marine life.

The towering limestone cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop, offering a sense of solitude and tranquility.

This exclusive access to a secluded calanque is a highlight of the cruise, allowing guests to enjoy the natural beauty of the Marseille coastline.

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Optional Calanque Visits

Along With the standard stops, the cruise offers optional visits to several other nearby calanques. Depending on time and weather conditions, the boat may make stops at the Calanque de Morgiou, Calanque de Sugiton, Calanque d’En-Vau, Calanque de Port Pin, and Calanque de Port-Miou. These picturesque inlets offer opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the rugged coastline. The table below outlines the duration of each optional stop:

| Calanque | Duration |

|———-|———-|

| Morgiou | 45 mins |

| Sugiton | 75 mins |

| En-Vau | 60 mins |

| Port Pin | 45 mins |

| Port-Miou| 30 mins |

These optional visits allow guests to customize their experience and see more of the stunning Calanques National Park.

On-Board Amenities

To ensure a comfortable and convenient cruise experience, the Calanques Catamaran provides an array of on-board amenities.

Passengers can enjoy a picnic lunch, complimentary rosé wine, and soft drinks throughout the journey. The catamaran is equipped with four toilets, making it easy to stay refreshed.

Snorkeling gear and wetsuits are included, allowing guests to explore the crystal-clear waters of the Calanques. Plus, GoPro cameras are available for capturing unforgettable moments.

With a maximum capacity of 24 participants, the catamaran offers an intimate and personalized experience.

Important Considerations

Although the Calanques Catamaran Cruise offers an unforgettable experience, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.

The cruise isn’t suitable for children under 2 or pregnant women, and individuals with back problems should avoid it. Guests are advised to bring sunglasses and a towel. Pets aren’t allowed on board. Providing a contact phone number is mandatory.

While the crew is praised for their competence and passion, some travelers have noted room for improvement in food quality and boat condition.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Travelers who’ve experienced the Calanques Catamaran Cruise overwhelmingly praise the activity, as evidenced by its impressive 4.9/5 rating based on 28 reviews.

Customers highlight the competence and passion of the crew, who expertly navigate the catamaran and share their knowledge of the stunning Calanques region.

While most find the value for money excellent, a few experienced travelers suggest improvements to the food quality and boat condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Catamaran Cruise?

No, pets are not allowed on the catamaran cruise. The tour’s guidelines specifically state that pets are not permitted. Passengers must leave their pets at home for this excursion.

Is There a Restroom on the Catamaran?

The catamaran has 4 toilets on board, so passengers can use the restroom during the cruise. However, pets are not allowed on the tour, so it’s best to leave your furry friends at home.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear?

You don’t need to bring your own snorkeling gear. The tour includes snorkeling equipment as well as wetsuits for passengers’ use during the excursion. All the necessary gear is provided by the operator.

Is the Cruise Suitable for Young Children?

The cruise is not suitable for children under 2 years old. According to the information provided, the activity is not recommended for pregnant women or individuals with back problems due to safety concerns.

How Can I Contact the Tour Operator in Case of an Emergency?

The tour operator can be contacted in case of an emergency by calling the provided customer phone number. Customers must provide a contact phone number when booking the tour to ensure they can be reached if needed.

The Sum Up

This Calanques catamaran cruise offers a unique opportunity to take in Marseille’s stunning natural beauty. From exploring the picturesque Riou Island to snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, the experience promises a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. With a delightful picnic lunch and complimentary rosé wine, this small-group excursion is a must-do for anyone seeking to discover the breathtaking Mediterranean landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: