Marseille: Day Boat Ride in the Calanques With Wine Tasting

Discover the captivating beauty of Marseille’s Calanques National Park on a day boat ride that offers a truly unique experience. Glide through the serene bay, taking in the city’s iconic landmarks and the towering limestone cliffs that line the coastline. Explore the Frioul Islands and the notorious Château d’If, all while indulging in a tasting of Provence’s renowned rosé wines paired with artisanal tapas. But the highlights don’t end there – prepare to be amazed as you learn about the turquoise waters, surrounded by vibrant marine life during a refreshing swim and snorkeling session. This is an opportunity to truly learn about the natural wonder of this stunning region.

Just The Basics

• Set out on a day boat ride from Marseille’s Vieux Port, exploring the Bay, Frioul Islands, and the stunning Calanques National Park.
• Enjoy a wine tasting of Provence’s renowned rosé wines paired with artisanal tapas while taking in the breathtaking views.
• Discover the rich history of the Frioul Islands, including the infamous Château d’If prison.
• Enjoy the natural beauty of the Calanques, with opportunities to swim and snorkel in the turquoise waters.
• Learn about the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in the unique geological landscape of the Calanques.

Sailing Through the Bay of Marseille

The boat sets off from the Vieux Port in Marseille, gliding through the calm waters of the bay as participants take in the picturesque views of the city’s iconic landmarks along the coastline.

As the boat sails, participants can admire the towering cliffs of Marseille’s historic neighborhoods and the charming architecture that dots the shoreline.

The experience offers a unique perspective of the city, allowing visitors to appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds it.

The gentle rocking of the boat and the salty sea air create a serene and relaxing atmosphere, setting the stage for the adventure to come in the Calanques National Park.

Exploring the Frioul Islands and Château D’if

As the boat sails onward, participants catch glimpses of the Frioul Islands, a small archipelago located just off the coast of Marseille. These picturesque islands, with their rugged cliffs and tranquil beaches, have a rich history dating back to the 16th century.

Nearby, the imposing Château d’If stands as a reminder of Marseille’s tumultuous past, its towering stone walls once serving as a notorious prison. Participants have the opportunity to learn about the islands’ and the fortress’ captivating histories as the boat glides closer to these iconic landmarks.

The Frioul Islands are known for:

• Their stunning natural beauty
• The remains of ancient fortifications
• The island of Poméguès and its lighthouse
• The island of Ratonneau and its former quarantine station
• The opportunity to explore the islands’ hiking trails and beaches

Discovering the Calanques National Park

Leaving the Frioul Islands and Château d’If behind, the boat now turns its attention to the breathtaking Calanques National Park, a protected coastal region renowned for its striking limestone cliffs, serene inlets, and turquoise waters.

As the group glides along the rugged shoreline, they can’t help but marvel at the natural beauty that surrounds them. The deep, narrow coves, carved by millennia of erosion, offer a glimpse into the park’s geological history.

The crew points out the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this unique environment, from the rare plant species clinging to the rocky outcrops to the schools of colorful fish swimming in the crystal-clear waters. It’s a truly spectacular and tranquil setting that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.

Indulging in Wine and Tapas Tasting

Amidst the serene backdrop of the Calanques, guests can now indulge in a delightful wine and tapas tasting experience on the boat.

As the vessel glides through the turquoise waters, passengers can savor a carefully curated selection of local wines and tapas.

The experience includes:

• A tasting of Provence’s renowned rosé wines
• A selection of artisanal tapas featuring fresh seafood and local produce
• The opportunity to learn about the region’s winemaking traditions from the knowledgeable crew

Stunning views of the rugged Calanques cliffs and islands serve as a picturesque backdrop.

Guests can pair the flavors of the food and wine with the breathtaking natural surroundings.

Refreshing Swim and Snorkeling in Turquoise Waters

The boat’s passengers can take a refreshing dip in the turquoise waters, seeing the Calanques’ natural splendor. They’ll find the opportunity to snorkel and explore the vibrant marine life beneath the surface, bringing the coastal landscape to life in an intimate, up-close encounter.

Marine Life	Visibility	Water Temperature
Colorful fish	Up to 30 meters	18-22°C
Octopus	Excellent	Comfortable
Sea urchins	Crystal clear	Ideal for swimming

Snorkelers can witness the underwater wonders of the Calanques, observing the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this protected natural haven. The clear, tranquil waters provide an idyllic setting to appreciate the region’s breathtaking beauty from a unique vantage point.

Comfortable Transportation and Amenities

The provided minivan with air conditioning and WiFi ensures a comfortable and convenient transportation experience for the group throughout the day’s activities. Passengers can relax and stay connected as they’re shuttled from the metro station to the boat launch and back again.

The amenities on the boat are also designed with comfort in mind:

• A spacious deck allows ample room to move about freely
• Complimentary bottled water keeps everyone hydrated
• Snorkeling equipment is provided for easy access to the turquoise waters
• The wine and tapas tasting takes place in a sheltered, shaded area
• Restrooms on board ensure convenience during the 8-hour excursion.

Meeting Point and Getting There

For the Marseille Calanques boat ride and wine tasting experience, guests will meet at the Metro Vieux Port in Marseille.

From this central meeting point, participants can easily access the departure location for their day-long adventure.

The Metro Vieux Port is a convenient and well-known transportation hub in the heart of Marseille, making it an ideal starting point for the tour.

Guests can take the metro or walk to the meeting spot, which is just a short distance from the port where the boat departs.

With clear directions and a straightforward meeting point, getting to the beginning of the Calanques excursion is simple and hassle-free for all participants.

Pricing and Booking Information

Prices for the Marseille Calanques boat ride and wine tasting experience start from €1,900.00 per group of up to 8 participants. Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later, making the booking process convenient and flexible.

The all-inclusive package includes:

• Wine tasting
• Tapas
• Bottled water
• Snorkeling equipment
• Minivan transportation with air conditioning and WiFi

The full-day excursion allows visitors to sail through the bay of Marseille, see the islands of Frioul and Château d’If, and explore the scenic rocky inlets of the Calanques National Park. With a private group experience, guests can expect a personalized and memorable day on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Weight Limit for the Group?

There is no specific weight limit mentioned for the group. The activity is designed for up to 8 participants, likely accommodating a range of weights and sizes comfortably. The boat’s capacity and equipment should support the group size mentioned.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

You can typically bring your own food and drinks on a private boat tour, though the company may request that you consume any alcohol or messy items discreetly to avoid disturbing other passengers. It’s best to check with the tour operator in advance.

Is the Boat Wheelchair Accessible?

The boat is not specifically designed for wheelchair accessibility. Guests with mobility challenges should contact the tour operator to discuss their needs and see if accommodations can be made to ensure a comfortable experience.

Can I Book the Tour for a Different Duration?

Yes, guests can typically book the tour for a different duration. The activity provider may offer a range of tour lengths, from a shorter half-day trip to an extended full-day experience, depending on the traveler’s preferences and needs.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Required?

The tour has a minimum group size of 2 people. The price of €1,900.00 is for a private group of up to 8 participants, so there’s no need to meet a larger minimum group requirement.

Sum Up

This captivating day boat ride from Marseille offers a perfect blend of sightseeing, wine tasting, and marine exploration.

Visitors can enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Calanques National Park, learn about the region’s rich history, and indulge in the renowned local wines and tapas.

The opportunity to swim and snorkel in the turquoise waters provides a refreshing and unforgettable experience, making this tour a must-do for any visitor to Marseille.