Marseille: Calanques Half-Day Boat Trip With Snorkeling

Nestled along the stunning Mediterranean coastline, the Calanques National Park beckons visitors to explore its dramatic limestone cliffs and hidden coves. Embarking on a half-day boat trip from Marseille promises an unforgettable adventure, immersing guests in the park’s breathtaking natural beauty. Cruising through the serene waters, travelers will discover picturesque destinations like Goudes, Baie des Singes, and Sormiou, with opportunities to indulge in refreshing swims and snorkeling in secluded creeks. This comprehensive package ensures a seamless experience, with all necessary equipment and knowledgeable staff guiding the way. As the journey unfolds, one can’t help but wonder what other wonders await in this enchanting corner of the Mediterranean.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Marseille.

Key Points

• A half-day boat tour exploring the Calanques National Park, a dramatic landscape of rugged limestone cliffs and turquoise waters, departing from the Old Port of Marseille.
• Opportunities to admire the scenic bays, coves, and diverse marine life, with a stop for refreshing swimming and snorkeling.
• Comprehensive package including boat trip, insurance, crew fees, fuel, and snorkeling gear, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
• Arrival at the specified meeting point in front of the main city hall at the Old Port of Marseille, accessible by public transportation.
• Importance of bringing appropriate attire and items, such as swimwear, towel, and sun protection, to fully immerse in the natural beauty of the Calanques.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Calanques National Park

The Calanques National Park is a stunning natural wonder, boasting a dramatic landscape of rugged limestone cliffs, secluded coves, and crystalline turquoise waters that captivate visitors from around the world.

This protected coastal area, located just outside of Marseille, France, is known for its breathtaking scenery and diverse marine life.

Visitors can explore the park’s picturesque bays, hike along scenic trails, and cool off with a refreshing swim in the park’s secluded coves.

Whether you’re an avid explorer or simply seeking a peaceful escape, the Calanques National Park offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience in the heart of the Mediterranean.

Itinerary and Destinations of the Boat Trip

The boat departs from the iconic Old Port of Marseille, cruising through the serene Calanques, including the picturesque bays of Goudes, Baie des Singes, Callelongue, Marseilleveyre, Podestat, L’Escu, Cortiou, Sormiou, and the Riou Archipelago.

Admire the dramatic limestone cliffs and hidden coves that define the unique Calanques landscape.

Stop for a refreshing swim in a sheltered creek, taking advantage of the provided snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant underwater world.

Relax and soak in the tranquil atmosphere as the boat navigates through this stunning Mediterranean paradise.

The half-day adventure offers the perfect blend of sightseeing and leisure, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the Calanques National Park.

Schedule and Program Options

Two distinct programs are available for visitors to choose from – the morning cruise from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, and the afternoon cruise from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Both options provide the opportunity to explore the breathtaking Calanques National Park by boat. Guests can marvel at the picturesque bays, go for a refreshing swim, and utilize the provided snorkeling equipment. The choice of program depends on individual preferences and scheduling.

Schedule	Morning Cruise	Afternoon Cruise
Departure Time	9:00 am	2:00 pm
Duration	4 hours	4 hours
Inclusions	Boat tour, insurance, crew fees, fuel, snorkeling gear	Boat tour, insurance, crew fees, fuel, snorkeling gear
Meeting Point	Old Port of Marseille	Old Port of Marseille
No-Show Policy	No refunds	No refunds

Inclusions and What’s Provided

This boat tour includes the comprehensive package of a boat trip, insurance coverage, crew fees, fuel, and the use of masks, snorkels, and other equipment on board, allowing guests to fully enjoy the Calanques National Park experience.

The tour organizers have thoughtfully included everything needed for a seamless and enjoyable outing:

• Snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant marine life below the surface
• Life jackets for safety and peace of mind
• Onboard staff to guide and assist throughout the journey

With these essential inclusions, guests can focus on savoring the stunning coastal scenery and making the most of their time in this breathtaking natural wonder.

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Important Information and Requirements

To make the most of the Calanques National Park boat tour, guests should come prepared with the right attire and mindset.

Participants need to meet at the specified location in front of the main city hall at the Old Port of Marseille, as there’s no refund for no-show passengers.

Bringing swimwear and a towel is essential, as the tour includes a stop for swimming and snorkeling in the scenic creeks.

Visitors should keep in mind that the boat ride may be chilly, so dressing in layers is recommended.

With the proper preparation, explorers can fully enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of the Calanques during this unforgettable half-day adventure.

Getting to the Meeting Point

Visitors can easily make their way to the meeting point in front of the main city hall at the Old Port of Marseille, which serves as the convenient departure location for the Calanques National Park boat tour.

The Old Port is a bustling hub, accessible by various modes of transportation:

• Public transportation: Hop on the metro or local buses to reach the Old Port with ease.
• Walking: For those staying nearby, a leisurely stroll through the charming streets is a great way to soak in the local atmosphere.
• Driving: Parking options are available in the vicinity, allowing visitors to drive themselves to the meeting point.

With the meeting point centrally located, guests can effortlessly find their way to the starting point of this stunning boat adventure.

What to Bring and Expect

Packing the right essentials is key for an enjoyable Calanques boat trip, as participants should bring swimwear, towels, and sun protection to make the most of the on-board snorkeling opportunities. The crew will provide all necessary water equipment, including masks and snorkels, so travelers can simply focus on exploring the stunning bays and coves. While the boat offers some protection from the elements, the Mediterranean sun can be quite strong, so it’s wise to pack a hat and sunscreen. Plus, a light jacket or sweater is recommended for the cooler mornings and afternoons. With the proper preparation, visitors can fully enjoy the natural beauty of the Calanques National Park.

Item	Recommendation
Swimwear	Bring comfortable, quick-drying swimsuits
Towel	Pack a lightweight, quick-drying towel
Sun Protection	Wear a hat, sunglasses, and apply sunscreen
Light Jacket	Bring a light layer for cooler periods
Water Bottle	Stay hydrated with a reusable water bottle

Cancellation and Refund Policy

While the Calanques boat trip offers a wealth of natural splendor to discover, it’s important to understand the cancellation and refund policy before booking. Travelers won’t receive a refund if they fail to show up for their scheduled departure, as the operator must account for staffing and operational costs.

The cancellation policy is as follows:

• No refunds for no-show passengers
• Cancellations made within 72 hours of the scheduled departure are non-refundable
• Cancellations made more than 72 hours in advance are eligible for a full refund

It’s crucial to plan accordingly and arrive on time to maximize the enjoyment of this stunning boat tour through the Calanques National Park.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?

Yes, you can bring your own snorkeling equipment. The tour provides masks and snorkels, but if you have personal gear you prefer, you’re welcome to use it during the swimming stops in the picturesque Calanques coves.

Is the Boat Tour Suitable for Children?

The boat tour can be suitable for children, as it typically includes use of snorkeling equipment and opportunities to swim in picturesque bays. However, parents should consider the length of the trip and their child’s interests and swimming abilities.

Are There Restrooms or Changing Facilities on the Boat?

The boat has basic restroom facilities available for passengers. However, there are no dedicated changing rooms on board. Guests should come prepared in their swimwear to make the most of the snorkeling opportunities during the tour.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Special Meal?

Passengers can typically request special dietary accommodations, such as vegetarian or other meal options, when booking the boat tour. The tour operator will make reasonable efforts to cater to any dietary needs or preferences.

What Language Is the Tour Conducted In?

The tour is conducted in English, as it aims to cater to an international audience. The guides provide commentary and instructions in English throughout the boat trip and snorkeling activities.

Recap

The Calanques half-day boat trip from Marseille offers an unforgettable adventure in the stunning natural beauty of the Mediterranean.

Visitors can explore the dramatic limestone cliffs, swim in secluded coves, and discover the diverse marine life through snorkeling.

With all necessary equipment and expert guidance, this comprehensive package ensures an immersive and memorable experience in the Calanques National Park’s breathtaking landscapes.

You can check if your dates are available here: