Lunch around Marseille’s stunning coastline combines great food with spectacular views. The most memorable options are boat-based meals, where you’ll drift past limestone cliffs while enjoying fresh Mediterranean dishes. My favorite experience is the casual catamaran cruise – you get a knowledgeable local crew, regional wines, and plenty of swimming stops. For something special, book a private chef experience with sea views; the food is excellent and strictly seasonal.
These boat lunches let you escape the city crowds while experiencing the best of Provençal cuisine. Our recommended tours will get you started.
Key Points
- Calanques Catamaran Cruise offers an 8.5-hour excursion with local Mediterranean cuisine, regional wines, and insights from a knowledgeable crew.
- Frioul Archipelago Catamaran Cruise provides a 3-hour immersive tour with onboard lunch and stunning island views.
- Calanques Sailing Day with Lunch is a full-day sailing experience showcasing limestone cliffs and freshly prepared local fare.
- Calanques Sailing Day Trip with Lunch and Wine is a 4-hour small-group excursion featuring regional wines and a culinary delight.
- Private Sea-View Lunch Prepared by a Chef offers a 4-hour experience with a multi-course meal made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Marseille: Calanques Catamaran Cruise With Lunch and Swim
Departing from the iconic Old Port in Marseille, the Calanques Catamaran Cruise offers a captivating way to explore the stunning Calanques National Park.
This full-day excursion allows you to sail along the rugged coastline, taking in the breathtaking scenery of the limestone cliffs and turquoise waters.
During the 8.5-hour cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to stop for a delightful lunch and wine tasting on board. The gourmet meal features local Mediterranean cuisine, perfectly complemented by the region’s renowned wines.
After lunch, you can cool off with a refreshing swim in the inviting waters of the Calanques.
With a maximum of 15 passengers, this small-group cruise provides an intimate and personalized experience.
The knowledgeable crew will share insights about the history and natural wonders of the Calanques, ensuring you leave with a deeper appreciation for this remarkable destination.
Priced at $178.61 per person, the Calanques Catamaran Cruise is a must-do activity for food and nature enthusiasts visiting Marseille.
Read our full review: Marseille: Calanques Catamaran Cruise With Lunch and Swim Review
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Marseille: Frioul Archipelago Catamaran Cruise With Lunch
While the Calanques Catamaran Cruise allows you to explore the stunning Calanques National Park, the Frioul Archipelago Catamaran Cruise offers a unique opportunity to discover the captivating Frioul Islands off the coast of Marseille.
This immersive 3-hour tour takes you aboard a comfortable catamaran, where you can admire the breathtaking views of the islands and enjoy a delicious lunch prepared onboard.
The Frioul Islands Boat Tour, lasting 105 minutes, is another popular water activity, providing a chance to explore these picturesque islands.
For a more leisurely experience, the Sunset Frioul Archipelago Boat Cruise is a 3-hour tour that showcases the islands at the golden hour, perfect for capturing stunning photographs.
Whether you choose the catamaran cruise or the boat tour, these water-based experiences offer a unique perspective of Marseille’s coastal landscape and the opportunity to savor a delightful lunch while surrounded by the serene Mediterranean waters.
Read our full review: Marseille: Frioul Archipelago Catamaran Cruise With Lunch Review
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Marseille: Calanques Sailing Day With Lunch
The Calanques Sailing Day With Lunch offers an immersive experience to explore the stunning Calanques National Park from a different vantage point – aboard a sailing yacht.
This full-day cruise departs from Marseille’s Old Port, providing guests with an up-close encounter with the region’s dramatic limestone cliffs and secluded coves. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars from 207 reviews, the tour includes a freshly prepared lunch served on board, allowing travelers to savor local flavors while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
The sailing experience is led by a knowledgeable skipper, who shares insights about the natural wonder of the Calanques. Priced at $105.69 per person, this excursion is likely to sell out, so advance booking is recommended.
For those seeking a unique way to discover Marseille’s coastal landscapes, the Calanques Sailing Day With Lunch delivers an unforgettable day on the water.
Read our full review: Marseille: Calanques Sailing Day With Lunch Review
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Marseille: Calanques Sailing Day Trip With Lunch and Wine
Offering an immersive exploration of Marseille’s stunning Calanques National Park, the Calanques Sailing Day Trip with Lunch and Wine treats guests to an unforgettable day on the water.
Rated 4.7 stars out of 395 reviews, this 4-hour small-group excursion whisks travelers away to the breathtaking Calanques Côte Bleue Marine Park, where they can admire the dramatic limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters.
The highlight of the trip is a delicious lunch served onboard, accompanied by regional wines, allowing guests to savor the flavors of Marseille as they soak in the picturesque surroundings.
With a duration of 4 hours and priced at $83.49 per person ($75.14 with the discount), this tour offers an unbeatable value for an exceptional experience.
Whether you’re seeking a relaxing day on the Mediterranean or an opportunity to learn about Marseille’s natural beauty, the Calanques Sailing Day Trip with Lunch and Wine is a must-do activity for any visitor to the city.
Read our full review: Marseille: Calanques Sailing Day Trip With Lunch and Wine Review
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Marseille: Private Sea-View Lunch Prepared by a Chef
Travelers seeking an unparalleled dining experience in Marseille can indulge in the Private Sea-View Lunch Prepared by a Chef. This 4-hour excursion offers a delectable multi-course lunch prepared by a professional chef, accompanied by breathtaking views of the Mediterranean coastline.
Participants embark on a small group boat tour, cruising along the picturesque Calanques National Park before anchoring in a secluded cove. The chef then prepares a sumptuous lunch using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, showcasing the flavors of Provence. Guests can savor each course while taking in the stunning natural scenery.
The experience is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars from 395 reviews, with praise for the exceptional cuisine, attentive service, and breathtaking setting. Priced at $83.49 per person, this private lunch is a truly unique and memorable way to experience the culinary delights and natural beauty of Marseille.
Read our full review: Marseille: Private Sea-View Lunch Prepared by a Chef Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Book Transportation to and From the Cruise?
To book transportation to and from the cruise, you can contact the cruise line directly. They often provide shuttle services or can recommend local transportation options like taxis, rideshares, or public transit to make your travel easy and convenient.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?
Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the cruise, though some restrictions may apply. It’s best to check with the cruise line beforehand to understand their specific policies regarding outside provisions.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Lunch Cruises?
The cancellation policy for the lunch cruises typically allows passengers to cancel or modify their bookings up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure without incurring any fees. It’s best to check the specific policy for the cruise you’ve booked.
Are Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Meal Options Available?
Many Marseille lunch cruises offer vegetarian and gluten-free meal options to accommodate various dietary needs. Guests should inquire about the specific menu options when booking their cruise to ensure their preferences are met.
Can I Request a Specific Seating Arrangement on the Boat?
Guests can typically request specific seating arrangements on the boat, such as a table by the window or a larger group setting. It’s best to inquire about the available options when booking the lunch cruise.
Recap
Marseille offers a variety of scenic lunch experiences. Visitors can enjoy a Calanques Catamaran Cruise with a swim, a Frioul Archipelago Catamaran Cruise, or a Calanques Sailing Day with lunch and wine. Those seeking a more private option can book a sea-view lunch prepared by a chef. These experiences provide the perfect blend of cuisine and natural beauty in the vibrant city of Marseille.