Marseille: Day Boat Ride in the Calanques With Wine Tasting

Explore the stunning Calanques National Park in Marseille on a captivating day boat ride. Sail along azure waters, rugged cliffs, and hidden coves as you dive into crystal-clear waters for a refreshing swim and snorkel. But the adventure doesn’t end there – savor a unique mini wine tasting course featuring Provencal wines perfectly paired with delicious French tapas. This immersive experience promises to transport you to the essence of Provence, leaving you eager to discover more.

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Key Points

8-hour guided day boat tour from Marseille exploring the scenic Calanques National Park with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and a mini wine tasting.
Scenic journey through the Bay of Marseille, passing by the Frioul Islands and Château d’If, with panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline.
Discover the rugged limestone cliffs, hidden coves, and crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Calanques National Park during the boat tour.
Immersive snorkeling and swimming experiences in the protected coastal region, with equipment provided for guests to explore the underwater marine life.
A mini wine tasting course featuring local Provencal wines paired with French tapas, led by a knowledgeable guide to appreciate the region’s winemaking traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Day Boat Ride

This day boat ride is an excellent opportunity to explore the picturesque Calanques National Park from the Mediterranean Sea.

The 8-hour tour departs from Marseille and takes guests through the bay, offering views of Frioul Islands and Château d’If.

Participants will discover the dramatic, rocky inlets of the Calanques and have a chance to swim and snorkel in the turquoise waters.

A mini wine tasting course featuring Provencal wines and French tapas is included.

Transportation via air-conditioned minivan with WiFi is provided, and guests can opt for a seaside restaurant reservation.

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Exploring the Bay of Marseille

The day boat ride begins with a scenic journey through the bay of Marseille.

Passengers will:

Sail past the Frioul Islands, a small archipelago just off the coast, which is home to the famous Château d’If, a former prison featured in the Alexandre Dumas novel The Count of Monte Cristo.
Glide along the rugged cliffs and hidden coves that make up the Calanques National Park, a stunning natural wonder with turquoise waters and dramatic limestone formations.
Enjoy the fresh sea breeze and panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline as the boat navigates the tranquil waters of the bay.

Discovering the Calanques National Park

As the boat ventures deeper into the Calanques National Park, the true majesty of this protected coastal region unfolds.

The boat glides through the serene turquoise waters, offering guests a unique vantage point to admire the dramatic limestone cliffs and hidden coves. Passengers can spot rocky inlets and sea caves carved into the towering white walls.

Opportunities to swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters allow for a refreshing immersion in this picturesque Mediterranean landscape.

The tour provides an intimate exploration of the Calanques, showcasing the natural beauty that earned this area national park status.

Snorkeling and Swimming in Turquoise Waters

Guests have the opportunity to enjoy the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Calanques during the boat tour.

The crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Calanques await guests during the captivating boat tour.

The tour offers three exciting water activities:

Snorkeling: Explore the vibrant underwater world and spot marine life in the protected national park.
Swimming: Take a refreshing dip in the temperate Mediterranean Sea and enjoy the scenic limestone cliffs.
Cliff Jumping: For the adventurous, jump off the boat into the inviting waters from designated safe spots.

With snorkeling gear provided, guests can freely discover the natural wonders beneath the surface.

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The Wine Tasting Experience

A highlight of the day boat ride is the mini wine tasting course featuring Provencal wines and typical French tapas. Guests can look forward to sampling a selection of local varietals complemented by delectable bites. The tasting is led by a knowledgeable guide who shares insights into the region’s winemaking traditions and flavors.

| Wine | Description | Pairing |

| — | — | — |

| Rosé | Crisp, dry, with notes of red fruit | Olives, tapenade |

| White | Bright, citrusy, with mineral finish | Cheese, charcuterie |

| Red | Full-bodied, with ripe berry aromas | Grilled vegetables, pâté |

The wine tasting course is an opportunity to savor the essence of Provence and deepen one’s appreciation for the local terroir.

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Included Amenities and Services

The day boat ride includes several amenities and services to enhance the overall experience.

The day boat ride offers a range of amenities and services to elevate the overall experience.

These include:

A wine tasting course featuring Provencal wines and typical French tapas, providing guests with the opportunity to savor the local flavors.
A bottle of water for each participant, ensuring hydration throughout the day.
Snorkeling equipment provided on board, allowing guests to explore the turquoise waters of the Calanques National Park.

Plus, the tour includes minivan transportation with air conditioning and WiFi, as well as the option to reserve a table at a seaside restaurant for lunch.

Language and Guide Availability

Live tour guides are available for the day boat ride, providing commentary and insights throughout the experience.

They’re fluent in both English and French, ensuring easy communication for all guests. Whether you’re a native speaker or a visitor to the region, the guides are knowledgeable about the Calanques, Frioul Islands, and other highlights you’ll encounter on the tour.

With their expert guidance, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the stunning Mediterranean scenery and learn about the area’s history and culture.

The guides strive to make the boat ride an informative and memorable experience.

Booking and Meeting Point Details

Where can you book this day boat ride in the Calanques? Customers can book this tour through the tour operator’s website or by contacting them directly.

The meeting point for the tour is at the Metro Vieux Port in Marseille.

To book this experience:

Check the tour’s availability for your desired date and participant count.
Select your preferred starting time.
Complete the booking process and secure your reservation.

The tour operator offers a reserve now and pay later option, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drink on the Boat?

No, passengers are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the boat. The tour includes a wine tasting and tapas, as well as a bottle of water, as part of the amenities provided.

What Happens in Case of Bad Weather?

In the event of bad weather, the tour operator typically cancels the activity and provides a full refund. They may offer rescheduling options if the weather permits it later in the day or on another date.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. Children of all ages are welcome to participate, though the wine tasting portion may not be suitable for minors. Families can enjoy the boat ride and explore the Calanques National Park together.

Can I Arrange a Private Tour for My Group?

Yes, travelers can arrange a private tour for their group. The operator offers a day boat ride in the Calanques with wine tasting, available for groups of up to 8 participants at a starting price of $2,284.95 per group.

How Do I Get From My Hotel to the Meeting Point?

From the hotel, you can take the metro to the Vieux Port station, which is the meeting point for the tour. The metro system in Marseille is efficient and connects major landmarks, making it a convenient way to get around the city.

The Sum Up

Discover the natural beauty of Marseille’s Calanques National Park on this captivating day boat tour. Cruise past stunning cliffs, explore hidden coves, and enjoy refreshing swims in crystal-clear waters. Complement the experience with a delightful wine tasting featuring local Provencal vintages paired with delicious French tapas. It’s the perfect way to learn about the essence of this vibrant Mediterranean coastal region.

You can check availability for your dates here: