Marseille is a city built for sailing. Its crystal-clear waters, rugged coastlines, and the famous Calanques National Park make it a natural playground for boat lovers. Whether you’re after a relaxing cruise, an active sailing lesson, or a cultural visit to nearby islands, Marseille offers a wide spectrum of options. We especially like the From Marseille: Iconic Calanques Boat Tour with Swimming because it combines stunning scenery with snorkeling gear and the chance to photograph your adventure with a GoPro. If you’re a wine fan, the Private Full Day Wine Tour in Provence offers a perfect blend of scenic vineyard visits and tasting local vintages.
For a quick escape from the city, the Half-Day Boat Tour to the Calanques provides a fantastic way to see the coastline in a relaxed, eco-friendly boat. Or, if you’re craving a sunset with style, the Sunset catamaran cruise with a buffet makes for a memorable evening. Whatever your style, Marseille’s boat tours promise unforgettable views and authentic experiences.
Quick Overview
Marseille’s boat experiences cover a range of styles and durations. You’ll find guided calanque tours with swimming and snorkeling (Tour #1), sailing initiation trips (Tour #2), luxury catamaran cruises (Tour #3), and short heritage tours (Tour #9). There are also full-day private options (Tour #7) for wine lovers or adventurous mini cruises around the Frioul Islands (Tour #10). Whatever your interest, there’s a Marseille boat tour suited for your style and schedule.
1. From Marseille: Iconic Calanques Boat Tour with Swimming
This popular tour (see details here) offers a three- to four-and-a-half-hour adventure exploring the Calanques National Park. It includes snorkeling gear, wetsuits, soft drinks, and even a GoPro camera to capture your moments. The tour departs from Marseille and visits highlights like Riou Island and the blue cave, with plenty of stops for swimming and photography.
What makes this trip stand out is the chance to venture into secret spots and see limestone calanques like Sormiou, Morgiou, and Sugiton. The boat’s friendly skipper guides you to scenic photo stops and hidden coves, making it perfect for those who want a mix of visual beauty and underwater exploration. The reviews praise its value and the ease of swimming in calm waters, with a 4.7-star rating from nearly 1,000 travelers.
Bottom Line: An excellent pick for active travelers who love snorkeling, scenic vistas, and a relaxed cruise that feels like a day out with friends.
2. Marseille: Frioul Calanques Sailing Initiation with Swimming
This full-day experience (more info here) is perfect if you want to learn to sail or just enjoy a day at sea. Accompanied by a professional instructor, you’ll sail on an expedition sailboat, taking turns at the helm and hoisting sails. The trip includes swimming and snorkeling in the clear waters of the Frioul Archipelago, alongside guided tours of the underwater landscape.
The highlight is the personal touch—Maël, the guide, is praised for his warmth and knowledge, making the day relaxing and educational. Reviews consistently mention how the trip balances learning to sail with plenty of swimming opportunities, often with small groups (max 9 people). It’s ideal for those who prefer a more active, hands-on experience and want to get out on the water for a full day.
Bottom Line: A top choice for sailing enthusiasts and anyone looking for a relaxed, immersive day on the water.
3. Marseille: Calanques Catamaran Cruise, Picnic, & Swimming
This luxury catamaran trip (see details here) combines comfort with adventure. Over 5 to 7.5 hours, you’ll cruise from Marseille to Cassis, visiting secret spots like Riou Island and the blue cave. The all-inclusive package features a picnic and rosé wine, with ample time for swimming, snorkeling, and lounging. The boat accommodates up to 24 people, ensuring a more relaxed atmosphere.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on ultra-comfort and exclusivity, with two skippers and modern amenities like toilets and a GoPro to document your trip. The itinerary is packed with stops that highlight the most beautiful calanques and lesser-known locations, making it perfect for those seeking a premium experience.
Reviews highlight the high comfort level and the variety of activities, from snorkeling to scenic sightseeing. It’s a great value for travelers wanting a luxurious day on the water.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers looking for a comfortable, all-inclusive day with a focus on scenic beauty and privacy.
4. Marseille: Sunset catamaran cruise, buffet & drinks
For 4 hours of pure relaxation, this sunset cruise (more info) offers an enchanting evening on the water. Departing from Massilia, the catamaran glides across the water as the sky shifts colors. Passengers enjoy a seasonal buffet made from organic ingredients, with drinks served throughout. You can lounge on the deck, nets, or rooftop, soaking in the views and listening to music.
The cruise includes a swim stop in a picturesque location, giving you a chance to cool off as the sun dips below the horizon. With a friendly, casual atmosphere, this tour suits travelers wanting a memorable evening rather than a full-day commitment.
Reviews note the relaxed vibe and the beautiful sunset views, with many mentioning the good food and drinks. It’s ideal for couples or friends looking for a scenic, laid-back experience.
Bottom Line: A perfect evening option to unwind, enjoy good food, and watch Marseille’s skyline glow at sunset.
5. Marseille: Set sail for the Château d’If and the Frioul Islands
This intimate, three-hour tour (see details here) takes you along the coast for stories about the region’s flora, fauna, and legends. Led by a passionate local guide, you’ll visit Degaby Island, the Château d’If, and the Frioul archipelago. The tour offers small group intimacy and the chance to see dolphins and sunfish if luck is on your side.
It’s especially suited for travelers interested in local stories and marine environment insights. The guide’s extensive experience makes the experience both educational and charming. Critics praise its flexibility and the chance to swim in the clear waters.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a personalized, storytelling-focused cruise with opportunities to explore and relax.
6. Marseille: Calanques National Park Boat Trip with Swimming
This eco-friendly boat trip (more info) offers a 4.5-hour adventure into Calanques National Park. Departing from the Old Port, it features a silent electric boat—a rarity that provides a serene experience. You’ll enjoy stops for swimming and snorkeling in calm, clear waters, along with sightseeing of the coastline and islands such as Château d’If.
Guests appreciate the environmentally friendly approach and the chance to relax without loud engine noise. The tour includes visits to Les Goudes and Île Maire, along with underwater exploration. The 4.7-star reviews reflect a high level of satisfaction with the peaceful ambiance and scenic stops.
Bottom Line: Perfect for eco-conscious travelers who want to see the Calanques quietly and comfortably.
7. Private Full Day Wine Tour in Provence From Marseille cruise port
This private, full-day (about 6-8 hours) wine tour (see details here) takes you through vineyards of Provence, including visits to AOC wineries to taste Grenache, Cinsault, and Syrah. It includes private transport for up to eight people, ensuring a relaxed, personalized experience. The itinerary includes a stop in Cassis, Lourmarin, or Aix-en-Provence for free exploration, making it ideal for wine lovers who want a touch of local culture and scenery.
Reviews are glowing, with travelers praising the knowledgeable guides, the delicious wines, and the scenic countryside. The tour’s flexibility and the chance to explore at your own pace make it a good value for a full day.
Bottom Line: Best suited for private groups wanting a tailored wine experience combined with local town visits.
8. Marseille: Half-Day Boat Tour to the Calanques National Park
This 4.5-hour ecological cruise (more info) is ideal for travelers short on time but eager to see the Calanques. It departs from Esplanade J4 and explores Marseille’s coastline with a smaller, more intimate group. Highlights include swimming, snorkeling, and scenic views of the Calanques de Marseille. The silent electric boat ensures a peaceful experience, and the itinerary includes Château d’If, Frioul archipelago, and Les Goudes.
Guests appreciate the eco-friendliness and the relaxed pace, making it suitable for families and those who prefer a quieter cruise. The 4.8-star rating reflects high satisfaction with the immersive experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a half-day escape that combines scenery, marine life, and tranquility in a small-group setting.
9. Marseille: History and Heritage of the Old Port Boat Tour
This 1-hour tour (see more) focuses on Marseille’s historic port. It’s a quick trip that offers views of landmarks like Fort Saint-Jean, the Hôtel de Ville, and the Théâtre de la Criée. The guide shares stories about the port’s past and present, making it a good choice for travelers who want a brief, informative overview.
Rated 4.4/5, reviews mention the guide’s friendliness and the scenic, relaxing nature of the cruise. It’s ideal if you’re limited on time but still want to soak in some maritime history.
Bottom Line: Great for history buffs or those wanting a quick, scenic overview of the Old Port.
10. Marseille: All-inclusive mini boat cruise around the Frioul Islands
This 4-hour tour (more info here) offers a semi-rigid motorboat experience with shared drinks, swimming, and visits to Famous Monuments. The skipper is experienced and passionate, guiding you around Vallon des Auffes, Château d’If, and the Frioul archipelago. The boat is equipped with paddles, snorkeling gear, and even a water shower, making it a fun, comfortable ride.
Having a snack platter and two drinks included, this tour emphasizes a relaxed vibe with music and opportunities to swim and snorkel. Reviewers love the friendly skipper and the quality of the boat, with a perfect 5-star rating.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those seeking a relaxed, social cruise with all the fun of swimming and scenic explorations.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Marseille
When selecting your ideal boat experience, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If you want a quick introduction to the Old Port, the Heritage boat tour (Tour #9) is ideal. For a full-day luxury escape, look at the Catamaran cruise (Tour #3) or private wine tour (Tour #7). Budget travelers may prefer the half-day calanque tour (Tour #8) or the sunset cruise (Tour #4).
Booking early is recommended, especially for private or full-day tours, as they tend to fill up. Consider the season — summer offers the best swimming and snorkeling opportunities, while spring and fall are quieter but still lovely for boat trips.
Marseille’s diverse boat tours let you experience the city’s stunning coastline from different angles. Whether you prefer a quick heritage cruise, a leisurely wine day, or an active sailing adventure, there’s a perfect voyage awaiting you. For the most memorable trip, choose something that matches your pace and interests — and don’t forget to book early to secure your spot.