Small Group Marseille Shore Excursion: Marseille and Cassis Tour

Exploring the French Riviera‘s stunning landscapes is a must-do for any traveler visiting Marseille. This small group shore excursion provides an opportunity to discover the charming town of Cassis and its iconic calanques. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, visitors can indulge in breathtaking views, wander quaint streets, and decide whether to embark on a relaxing cruise. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tailored experience promises to captivate and leave you eager to uncover more of the region’s allure.

Key Points

• Departs from Port de Marseille Fos, with a meeting point at the cruise terminal and a maximum group size of 8 for a personalized experience.
• Scenic drive along the Route des Crêtes showcasing the Mediterranean’s azure waters and rugged cliffs, with informative commentary from the guide.
• Explore the charming seaside village of Cassis, with an optional 1-hour cruise to view the iconic calanques.
• The calanques cruise provides a unique perspective of the dramatic limestone rock formations.
• Tour includes air-conditioned minivan transport with a driver-guide, covering major landmarks in Marseille and Cassis.

Departing From Marseille Port

The tour departs from the Port de Marseille Fos, where participants meet the guide at the exit of the cruise terminal.

Travelers are instructed not to wander in the port area and to wait for the guide.

The group then boards an air-conditioned minivan and begins the journey along the Route des Crêtes, which offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.

The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Passengers are advised to arrive on time, as the tour departs promptly at 9:00 am.

Panoramic Views of the Mediterranean

As the tour departs Marseille port, the air-conditioned minivan climbs the Route des Crêtes, offering travelers panoramic vistas of the stunning Mediterranean coastline.

This scenic drive along the winding coastal road provides awe-inspiring views of the azure waters and rugged cliffs. Passengers can gaze out at the picturesque seaside villages and inlets that dot the shoreline.

The guide points out notable landmarks and provides commentary on the region’s history and natural beauty.

This picturesque journey sets the tone for the rest of the Marseille and Cassis tour, whetting the travelers’ appetites for the sights to come.

Exploring the Charming Village of Cassis

After the scenic drive along the coastline, the tour arrives in the charming seaside village of Cassis.

Visitors explore the quaint streets, browse the local shops, and take in the stunning views of the cliffs and inlets.

An optional 1-hour cruise allows travelers to view the iconic calanques, the dramatic limestone rock formations that line the Mediterranean shoreline.

With its vibrant colors, picturesque harbor, and relaxed atmosphere, Cassis offers a delightful contrast to the bustling city of Marseille, providing a peaceful respite during the shore excursion.

The Calanques Cruise (Optional)

An optional 1-hour cruise allows travelers to view the iconic calanques, the dramatic limestone rock formations that line the Mediterranean shoreline.

As part of the excursion, visitors can choose to embark on this boat tour to witness the natural beauty of the calanques up close.

The cruise departs from the charming town of Cassis, providing a unique perspective of these stunning geological formations.

Exploring the calanques by boat offers a serene and picturesque experience, complementing the other highlights of the Marseille and Cassis tour.

Visiting Marseille’s Iconic Landmarks

What else does the Marseille shore excursion offer visitors? Beyond the stunning Cassis and the optional calanques cruise, the tour takes guests to explore Marseille’s iconic landmarks. The guide leads the small group to the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, the imposing neo-Byzantine church perched atop the city’s highest point. Next, the group visits the Abbey of St. Victor, an ancient abbey that dates back to the 5th century. To help visualize the key sites, here is a table of the major stops in Marseille:

Site	Description
Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde	Neo-Byzantine church, Marseille’s highest point
Abbey of St. Victor	Ancient 5th century abbey

Transportation and Tour Guide

The Marseille shore excursion is conveniently accessible from the cruise port, as the tour guide meets participants at the exit of the cruise terminal.

Travelers won’t have to wander the port area, as the meeting point is clearly specified.

The tour includes transport by air-conditioned minivan, ensuring a comfortable journey between Marseille and the seaside town of Cassis.

With a maximum group size of 8 travelers, the excursion offers a personalized experience.

The driver-guide provides informative commentary throughout the day, enhancing the sightseeing experience.

For cruise passengers, this shore tour is an excellent way to explore the highlights of Marseille and its surroundings.

Tour Inclusion and Exclusion

The Marseille shore excursion includes several key components to enhance the sightseeing experience. The tour provides an air-conditioned minivan with a driver and guide to transport travelers.

A cruise along the calanques, the dramatic limestone cliffs along the Mediterranean coast, is an optional add-on. The tour covers major landmarks in both Marseille and the seaside town of Cassis.

However, lunch, food, and drinks aren’t included in the tour price. The tour is only available to cruise ship passengers, and children under 4 aren’t permitted.

Important Policies and Considerations

Although the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and children under 4 aren’t allowed, the company provides a worry-free shore excursion guarantee.

The order of visits may change, and the company isn’t responsible for cancellations due to weather. However, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Passengers also receive a timely return to the port and alternative transport if the ship departs. Refunds are available for cancellations less than 24 hours before departure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, bringing your own food and drinks is not allowed on this tour. The tour includes transportation and the optional Calanques cruise, but lunch, food, and beverages are not provided and must be purchased separately.

Is There a Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes are recommended. Layering is advised as the weather can change. Bringing sun protection like a hat and sunscreen is also suggested for the outdoor activities.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Gear for the Calanques Cruise?

For the calanques cruise, participants don’t need any special equipment. Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. The cruise provider will provide all necessary safety gear such as life jackets.

How Much Free Time Is Allocated for Exploring the Villages on My Own?

The tour allocates about 1-2 hours of free time for exploring the villages on your own. This allows you to wander the streets, visit shops and restaurants at your own pace before rejoining the group.

Can I Customize the Itinerary or Make Any Special Requests?

Customers can’t customize the itinerary, but they can make special requests. The company will try to accommodate requests, though specific timings can’t be guaranteed. Travelers should communicate any special needs or preferences directly with the tour operator before the excursion.

The Sum Up

The Small Group Marseille Shore Excursion offers a captivating exploration of Marseille and Cassis, showcasing the stunning beauty of the French Riviera. Travelers can enjoy panoramic views, stroll through the charming streets of Cassis, and opt for a serene calanques cruise, all led by an informative driver-guide. This personalized tour is the perfect way to experience the highlights of this picturesque region.