Marseille’s captivating boat tour takes visitors on a journey to explore the Frioul Islands, a hidden gem off the city’s coast. Featuring the iconic Château d’If, immortalized in Alexandre Dumas’ renowned novel ‘The Count of Monte Cristo,’ this excursion combines the city’s rich history and stunning natural beauty. With ample time to discover the charming Frioul Island port, travelers can indulge in local cuisine, stroll through the island’s serene landscapes, and uncover the allure that has long captivated visitors to this remarkable destination. For those seeking to delve deeper into Marseille’s captivating coastal allure, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.
Key Points
- A 165-minute boat tour departing from the Old Port in Marseille, providing an opportunity to explore the Frioul Islands and Château d’If.
- Discover the stunning natural scenery and rich history of the Frioul Islands, including the famous Château d’If.
- Enjoy a 2-hour and 45-minute stop at the charming Frioul Island port, with local restaurants and cafes.
- Explore the 16th-century Château d’If, the inspiration for Alexandre Dumas’ novel ‘The Count of Monte Cristo’.
- Marvel at the breathtaking views of Degaby Island and Malmousque Cove along the tour route.
Boat Tour Overview
Marseille Boat Tour: Exploring the Frioul Islands and Château d’If
The Marseille boat tour departs from the Old Port, providing travelers with a chance to explore the nearby Frioul Islands and the historic Château d’If.
This 165-minute adventure takes passengers on a journey through the turquoise waters surrounding the Frioul Islands. Along the way, they’ll admire the stunning Degaby Island and Malmousque Cove before docking at the Frioul Island port for a 2-hour, 45-minute stop.
Here, visitors can explore the island’s charming port and local restaurants. The tour also includes a visit to the iconic Château d’If, the historic landmark featured in Alexandre Dumas’ classic novel, ‘The Count of Monte Cristo.’
Ready to set sail again? More boat adventures we've reviewed in Marseille
Discovering Frioul Islands
After departing the Old Port, the boat tour sails to the Frioul Islands, a captivating archipelago just off the coast of Marseille.
These picturesque islands boast stunning natural scenery and a rich history waiting to be explored. Highlights include the historic Château d’If, a 16th-century fortress made famous by Alexandre Dumas’ novel ‘The Count of Monte Cristo.’
Visitors can wander through the island’s charming port and enjoy the local restaurants and cafes. The tour also offers breathtaking views of Degaby Island and the serene Malmousque Cove.
With ample time to discover the Frioul Islands, this boat excursion provides a unique opportunity to take in the natural beauty and historical significance of this remarkable destination.
Château D’if Exploration
During the Marseille Boat Tour, visitors have the opportunity to explore the iconic Château d’If, a 16th-century fortress with a rich history that inspired Alexandre Dumas’ renowned novel ‘The Count of Monte Cristo‘.
This historic landmark, located on an island off the coast of Marseille, offers a glimpse into the region’s past. Guests can wander through the castle’s corridors, peer out from its towers, and imagine the captivating tales that took place within its walls.
The Château d’If stands as a testament to Marseille’s storied past, and its exploration is a highlight of the boat tour, allowing visitors to connect with the city’s cultural heritage.
Frioul Island Port
On the Marseille Boat Tour, visitors can explore the charming Frioul Island port, which offers a variety of restaurants and cafes for travelers to enjoy.
After sailing around the picturesque islands, the tour makes a 2-hour and 45-minute stop at the port, allowing ample time to wander the quaint streets and take in the stunning views.
Visitors can savor local cuisine, browse the shops, and soak up the Mediterranean atmosphere.
The port’s vibrant energy and scenic setting make it a highlight of the Frioul Islands experience. With its mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, the Frioul Island port is a must-visit destination for anyone embarking on the Marseille Boat Tour.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyDegaby Island and Malmousque Cove
The Marseille Boat Tour also takes visitors to admire the stunning natural beauty of Degaby Island and the tranquil Malmousque Cove.
Degaby Island, with its rugged, rocky terrain, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding turquoise waters. Visitors can explore the island’s hidden coves and appreciate the unique wildlife that calls this place home.
The Malmousque Cove, on the other hand, is a peaceful haven where the boat tour allows passengers to take in the serene atmosphere. The cove’s crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings make it an ideal spot for relaxation and appreciation of the local marine environment.
This part of the tour provides a chance to truly take in the natural beauty of Marseille’s coastal landscape.
- Marseille: Private City Center Walking Tour With Cruise
- Marseille: Avignon and Cotes Du Rhone Wine Tasting Tour
- From Marseille: Roman Towns of Provence Shore Excursion
- Cassis Wine Tour: Sea, Cliffs and Vineyards
- Marseille: Endoume Snorkeling Adventure With Snacks & Drinks
- Marseille: Half-Day Sightseeing Tour
Included in the Tour
The Marseille Boat Tour includes a 2-hour and 45-minute stop at the port of Frioul Island, allowing visitors to explore the island’s charming restaurants and attractions.
The tour also includes:
- A guided boat ride through the turquoise waters surrounding the Frioul Islands
- The opportunity to visit the historic Château d’If, a landmark featured in the classic novel ‘The Count of Monte Cristo’
- Admiration of the picturesque Degaby Island and Malmousque Cove
- A knowledgeable captain and tour guide to provide commentary and insights throughout the journey
Convenient meeting at the Mucem in the Marseille Old Port, making it easy for participants to access the tour.
Meeting Point Location
Participants can meet for the Marseille Boat Tour at the darse (J4) near the Mucem at the old port, providing a convenient starting point for the excursion.
This centrally located meeting place is easy to find and ensures a smooth start to the tour.
From here, guests will board the boat and embark on their journey to explore the Frioul Islands and the historic Château d’If.
The old port area offers plenty of nearby parking options and is easily accessible via public transportation, making it a hassle-free choice for the tour’s departure.
With clear instructions and a straightforward meeting location, travelers can look forward to a seamless beginning to their Marseille boat adventure.
Tour Restrictions
While the Marseille boat tour offers an exciting way to explore the city’s coastal attractions, there are some important restrictions to consider. The tour isn’t suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, or those with mobility impairments, as the boat and island environment may pose challenges for these groups. Guests should keep these limitations in mind when deciding whether the excursion aligns with their abilities and needs.
The tour has the following restrictions:
- Not suitable for children under 6
- Not suitable for pregnant women
- Not suitable for people with mobility impairments
Guests should be able to navigate the boat and island environment.
Certain health conditions may preclude participation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Pet on the Boat Tour?
No, pets are not allowed on the boat tour. The tour has restrictions that prohibit bringing children under 6, pregnant women, and people with mobility issues, suggesting pets would also not be permitted for safety and comfort reasons.
Is There an Option for a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?
Yes, there is typically an option for a private boat tour instead of a group tour. Private tours may be available upon request and for an additional fee, allowing for a more personalized and intimate experience.
Can I Cancel My Booking and Receive a Full Refund?
You can generally cancel your booking and receive a full refund, but be sure to check the tour operator’s cancellation policy as policies may vary. Some providers may charge a small fee for late cancellations.
Is There a Discount for Students or Seniors?
The operator does not offer any discounts for students or seniors on this boat tour. The standard pricing applies to all participants, regardless of age or student status. Travelers can expect to pay the full listed price for the tour.
Can I Stop at Other Islands Besides the Frioul Islands?
Unfortunately, the boat tour only stops at the Frioul Islands and does not visit any other islands. The tour is focused on exploring the Frioul Islands and Château d’If, and does not offer stops at additional islands.
Recap
The Marseille boat tour offers a captivating exploration of the Frioul Islands, including the historic Château d’If from ‘The Count of Monte Cristo’.
Visitors can discover local restaurants, cafes, and the stunning natural beauty of Degaby Island and Malmousque Cove, making it a must-do activity for those seeking to enjoy Marseille’s rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking coastal scenery.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Boat Tours & Cruises in Marseille
More Tours in Marseille
- Marseilles Gourmet Tour: Taste the Finest Local Delicacies
- From Marseille: Aix-en-Provence and Cassis Shore Excursion
- From Marseille: Arles, Les Baux & Saint-Rémy Full-Day Tour
- Marseille: Cosquer Cave Ticket & Panier District Audio Tour
- From Marseille: Aix En Provence Wine and Cheese Tour
- Marseille, Cassis & Aix-En-Provence Full-Day Tour
More Tour Reviews in Marseille
- Daytime 1 PM – 5 PM Boat Cruise on the Archipelago & Calanques
- Marseille to Marseille Airport (MRS) – Departure Private Transfer
- Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal to Marseille – Arrival Private Transfer
- The Most Beautiful Villages of Provence
- Marseille: Old Port, Notre Dame De La Garde, Sunset
- Typical Marseille Bistronomy Food Tour
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Marseille we have recnetly reviewed
- 4 Best Dining Experiences In Marseille
- 4 Best Dinner Tours In Marseille
- 5 Best Shopping Tours In Marseille
- 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Marseille
- 10 Best Full-Day Tours In Marseille
- Best 3 Day Tours In Marseille
- 5 Best Lunch Experiences In Marseille
- 16 Best Food Tours In Marseille
- Private Day Trip to Arles Les Baux De Provence and Saint Remy De Provence
- Panoramic Hike on Marseille From Les Calanques
- Food Tour Excursion in Provence !
- Marseille Airport Transfers