La Ciotat may be small, but it packs a punch when it comes to outdoor adventures and scenic boat tours. Its rugged coastline, crystal-clear waters, and proximity to Calanques National Park make it an ideal spot for those who want to experience nature from the water. Whether you’re into kayaking, sailing, or just bobbing around on a boat while swimming, La Ciotat offers options that suit different interests and fitness levels. We’re particularly drawn to tours that combine active exploration with stunning scenery, like the Calanques National Park Kayak Day Tour, which lets you get up close to rock formations and secluded coves.
For a more relaxed day on the water, the boat tours that include swimming and snorkeling are hard to beat. These allow you to take in the breathtaking views of the calanque cliffs while cooling off in the inviting waters. Each experience offers something unique, from private boat rentals to guided excursions with expert skippers. If you’re planning a trip, these tours are worth considering for their blend of adventure, scenery, and local insights.
Quick Overview
This list features four top-rated tours in La Ciotat, each with its own appeal. From kayaking along the coast to boat trips with swimming stops, these experiences offer different ways to enjoy the Calanques National Park and surrounding areas. Whether you want an active day on the water or a leisurely cruise with opportunities to snorkel, there’s something here for you. For more details on each, visit their dedicated pages: kayaking, boat tours with swimming, Coves of Var and Embiez Islands, and morning boat tour with snorkeling.
1. Calanques National Park Kayak Day Tour
At number 1, we highlight the Calanques National Park Kayak Day Tour, a fantastic option for active travelers. For around $129, you get a full 7-hour adventure exploring some of the park’s most impressive sights—the Green Island (Ile Verte), the Eagle Beak (Bec de l’Aigle), and Mugel Creek (Calanque du Mugel). This tour is ideal if you want to see the coastline from a fresh perspective—paddling along the limestone cliffs and secret coves that are often unreachable by land.
The experience begins with a quick instruction session, so even beginners can feel confident on the water. The guide, Alex, is known for his local knowledge and ability to find the best spots for swimming, lunch breaks, and relaxing. The tour includes locker rooms for storing your personal items, making it easy to focus on the scenery. Reviewers consistently praise it as a “beautiful tour,” with Alex “finding incredible spots to explore and relax.” It’s perfect for someone wanting an active, immersive day on the water that also offers time to swim and sunbathe.
Bottom line: This tour delivers an intimate, hands-on way to experience the park’s stunning coastline—great for those who want to combine exercise with sightseeing.
2. La Ciotat: Boat Tour in the Calanques with swimming
Coming in at number 2 is the La Ciotat: Boat Tour in the Calanques with swimming. This 4-hour guided trip is perfect if you prefer a more relaxed pace but still want to see the iconic calanques from the water. Small groups (max 12 people) make for an intimate experience, with the skipper sharing insights into the area’s geology and history.
What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to stop for swimming and snorkeling in clear waters while exploring famous spots like Calanque de Port Pin and En-Vau. Snorkeling gear is provided, so you can float over schools of fish or simply relax on the boat’s deck. The tour includes free cold drinks, which are great after some quick dips. The guide’s commentary adds a layer of understanding about the landscape, making this a worthwhile trip for first-timers and seasoned water lovers alike.
Reviewers say it’s a “great way to see the Calanques without the effort of hiking” and love the “personalized attention from the skipper.” It’s ideal if you want a shorter, family-friendly outing that includes plenty of swimming.
Bottom line: This tour offers a wonderful balance of sightseeing and swimming, perfect for those who want to relax on the water with knowledgeable guidance.
3. La Ciotat: Boat Tour to Cove of Var / Embiez and swimming
For a full-day escape, the La Ciotat: Boat Tour to Cove of Var / Embiez and swimming provides a comprehensive exploration of the local coastline. This tour is suited for travelers who want to see multiple islands and coves, with stops at the Coves of Var and Embiez Islands. The day includes swimming in pristine waters at spots like Madrague des Lecques and Bendor, plus sightseeing in scenic bays.
The tour offers a guided experience aboard a boat with a professional skipper, who shares stories of the area’s marine environment and history. Its most distinctive feature is the variety of stops—covering different landscapes and waters, making it ideal for those who want an active, educational day. The itinerary includes snorkeling opportunities with provided gear and visits to local attractions on the islands.
While reviews aren’t detailed, the trip’s length and variety make it an excellent option for travelers wanting to maximize their time exploring. It’s especially suited for those looking to combine swimming, sightseeing, and island hopping all in one day.
Bottom line: This all-day tour is best for those who want a broad, scenic experience with plenty of swimming and island visits.
4. La Ciotat: Calanques Morning Boat Tour with Snorkeling
Rounding out our list is the Calanques Morning Boat Tour with Snorkeling. This 3-hour trip offers a quick but immersive look at the Calanques National Park, departing in the morning when the light is best for photos and the crowds are lighter. It’s perfect for travelers short on time but eager to experience the park’s striking cliffs and waters.
Starting from La Ciotat, the tour includes visits to spots like Port Pin, En-Vau, and l’Oule, with breaks for snorkeling—gear is provided. The guided commentary helps you understand the geological features and local ecology, making this a rich yet concise experience.
Reviewers appreciate the “breathtaking scenery packed into a short trip,” and many note that the snorkeling breaks add a fun element. The tour is best suited for travelers who want a taste of the calanques without committing to a full day, or those who prefer a morning adventure.
Bottom line: This tour offers an efficient way to see the highlights of the Calanques and enjoy some snorkel time, ideal for a brief escape in the morning.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your La Ciotat water adventure, consider your budget, available time, and interests. For a full day of active exploration, the Calanques National Park Kayak Day Tour delivers an immersive experience. If you prefer a shorter, relaxing boat trip with swimming, the boat tour in the Calanques is a solid choice. Want to visit multiple islands? The Coves of Var and Embiez covers a broader area in a full day.
For those pressed for time but eager for a quick dose of scenery, the morning boat tour with snorkeling is perfect. Remember to book early, especially in high season, and check availability for specific start times.
Final Thoughts
La Ciotat offers a range of excursions that suit different travelers, from active paddling days to laid-back boat trips with plenty of swimming. If you’re into getting close to nature and experiencing it hands-on, the kayak tour is hard to beat. For a more relaxed, scenic trip with opportunities to snorkel, the boat tours are excellent.
Whether you’re traveling as a family, a couple, or solo, these tours promise memorable moments on France’s stunning Mediterranean coast. Book early to secure your spot, and prepare to be wowed by La Ciotat’s rugged beauty from the water.