Marseille:The Secret Calanques of the Blue Coast Marine Park

Marseille’s Blue Coast Marine Park is a true hidden gem, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the region. This eco-friendly boat cruise takes adventurers on a journey through the park’s secluded calanques, showcasing the dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and unique ecosystem. With guided commentary, opportunities for swimming, and a focus on environmental preservation, this excursion promises an unforgettable connection to the breathtaking Mediterranean landscape. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a unique outdoor experience, this adventure just might be the perfect way to discover the secret wonders of the Blue Coast.

Key Points

• Set out on a 4-hour ecological cruise exploring the hidden calanques and scenic coves of Blue Coast Marine Park near Marseille.
• Discover the picturesque Calanque De Méjean and other secluded bays, with opportunities for swimming and nature appreciation.
• Enjoy informative commentary from the captain and an expert guide, learning about the area’s delicate ecosystem and sustainable ecotourism practices.
• Experience a 30-minute swim stop in a tranquil, turquoise-colored cove surrounded by rugged cliffs.
• The tour caters to adults and children, with a focus on small group size and minimizing environmental impact.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Activity

This 4-hour activity offers visitors an opportunity to explore the secret Calanques of the Blue Coast Marine Park via an ecological cruise on a catamaran, providing a small group experience with an emphasis on environmental protection.

Priced at $98.30 per person, the tour departs from the Old Port of Marseille and includes a boat cruise to Calanque De Méjean. It also features stops at various scenic coves like Calanque de l’Erevine, Niolon, and Calanques des eaux salées.

Participants can enjoy a refreshing swim during the trip and take in the stunning natural beauty of the area.

With knowledgeable guides, a comfortable boat, and positive customer reviews, this activity is a great way to discover the hidden gems of the Marseille coastline.

Itinerary Highlights

The activity’s itinerary showcases the natural wonders of the Calanques, with a boat cruise to Calanque De Méjean and stops at several scenic coves, including Calanque de l’Erevine, Niolon, Port de la Redonne, and Calanques des eaux salées.

At Calanque de l’Erevine, you’ll have 45 minutes to explore the area and take photos. The next stop is Niolon, where you’ll spend another 45 minutes admiring the picturesque harbor.

After, you’ll head to Port de la Redonne for a 30-minute break before concluding the tour with a visit to the Calanques des eaux salées, spending 45 minutes in this serene environment.

The tour ends with a return to the Old Port of Marseille, providing a comprehensive look at the stunning Calanques region.

Boat Cruise Experience

Boarding the comfortable catamaran, guests embark on an ecological cruise that showcases the natural beauty of the Calanques along the Blue Coast Marine Park. This small group experience emphasizes environmental protection as the boat glides across the pristine waters.

The captain provides informative commentary, pointing out hidden coves and towering limestone cliffs. Guests enjoy a refreshing swim stop, seeing the turquoise waters of a secluded bay.

Throughout the journey, photo opportunities abound as the group navigates scenic passages and admires the diverse marine life. With an expert guide leading the way, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for the delicate ecosystem of this stunning coastal region.

Environmental Preservation

Preserving the delicate ecosystem of the Calanques is a primary focus of the boat cruise, as the tour operator emphasizes environmental protection throughout the journey.

The tour’s small group size and ecological catamaran minimize the impact on the marine park.

Visitors are encouraged to:

• Refrain from littering or disturbing the natural habitat

• Avoid swimming too close to the fragile rock formations

• Respect designated swim zones to prevent disrupting wildlife

• Follow the guide’s instructions to ensure responsible ecotourism

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Swim Stop in a Cove

During the boat cruise, visitors can look forward to a refreshing swim stop in a secluded cove, which offers an opportunity to cool off and enjoy the picturesque surroundings.

The swim stop lasts approximately 30 minutes, giving participants enough time to enjoy the clear, turquoise waters. The cove is nestled within the rugged cliffs of the Calanques, providing a tranquil and sheltered spot to take a dip.

Guests are encouraged to bring their swimsuits, towels, and any other necessary items to make the most of this rejuvenating break. The swim stop is a highlight of the tour, allowing visitors to truly connect with the natural beauty of the region.

Participant Requirements

To participate in the Calanques of the Blue Coast Marine Park tour, guests must meet certain age requirements. The tour is open to adults aged 16 to 99, and children between 6 and 15 years old are also welcome. Infants 5 years and younger can join the tour free of charge.

The tour’s meeting point is at Les Barquettes, Esp. J4, 13002 Marseille, at the MUCEM museum angle, near the Fort Saint-Jean Bridge.

Guests are advised to bring the following essential items:

• Swimsuit
• Hat
• Sunscreen
• Camera

The small group experience and emphasis on environmental protection ensure an enjoyable and memorable tour of the Calanques’ secret wonders.

Meeting Point and Essentials

The meeting point for the Calanques of the Blue Coast Marine Park tour is at Les Barquettes, Esp. J4, 13002 Marseille, at the MUCEM museum angle, near the Fort Saint-Jean Bridge.

Guests should bring essential items like a swimsuit, hat, sunscreen, and a camera to make the most of their experience. A bath towel is also recommended for the scheduled swim stop during the tour.

Participants should arrive at the designated meeting point on time, as the small-group catamaran cruise departs promptly.

With an emphasis on environmental protection, this ecological adventure allows visitors to explore the hidden gems of Marseille’s stunning Calanques in a sustainable and immersive manner.

Customer Feedback

Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Calanques of the Blue Coast Marine Park tour, with an overall rating of 5/5 based on 6 reviews.

Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable and friendly guides, the comfortable and clean boat, and the enjoyable small-group dynamics.

Participants were thrilled to experience the tour’s memorable moments, such as:

• Swimming in a scenic cove

• Exploring the breathtaking Calanque de Méjean

• Visiting picturesque locations like Niolon and Port de la Redonne

• Appreciating the emphasis on environmental protection during the ecological cruise

The consistently positive customer feedback underscores the tour’s ability to deliver a truly remarkable and unforgettable experience for those seeking to uncover the secret calanques of the Blue Coast Marine Park.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?

Yes, participants are generally allowed to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages on the boat. Consuming food and drinks purchased from the tour operator is also an option during the breaks and stops.

Is the Boat Wheelchair Accessible?

The boat is not explicitly wheelchair accessible. It’s a small catamaran, and the tour emphasizes exploring natural coves, which may present accessibility challenges. However, the operator should be able to provide more details on accommodating guests with mobility needs.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour operator has a strict no-pet policy to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants. Service animals may be accommodated upon prior request and approval.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

Yes, there’s an option for a private tour. Customers can request a private tour to have a more customized experience with just their group. Private tours may have an additional fee and require advance booking.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?

The tour duration can be extended for an additional fee, though the specifics aren’t provided. Guests should contact the tour operator directly to inquire about the possibility and cost of extending the tour length.

Recap

Exploring Marseille’s Blue Coast Marine Park is a must-do for nature enthusiasts.

The guided eco-cruise offers a chance to take in the park’s stunning calanques, cliffs, and turquoise waters.

With opportunities for swimming, photography, and learning about the local ecosystem, this adventure promises an unforgettable connection to the Mediterranean’s picturesque landscape while emphasizing environmental preservation.

You can check if your dates are available here: