Small Group Marseille Shore Excursion: Marseille and Cassis Tour

This small group shore excursion offers a chance to discover the vibrant city of Marseille and the charming seaside village of Cassis. Travelers will enjoy panoramic views of the stunning Mediterranean coastline, including the towering white cliffs of Cape Canaille and the picturesque "fjords of the French Riviera." The tour provides an efficient and informative way to explore top attractions, from the iconic Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde to the historic Abbey of St Victor. With a knowledgeable driver-guide and comfortable transportation, this excursion promises to be a highlight of any Mediterranean cruise. What makes this tour unique, however, is the opportunity to truly take in the local culture and scenery.

Key Points

• A 7-hour shore excursion that provides panoramic views of the Mediterranean, explores the historic seaside village of Cassis, and visits top Marseille attractions.
• Includes transportation by air-conditioned minivan, port pickup and drop-off, and a knowledgeable driver/guide.
• Offers breathtaking vistas from Cape Canaille and the opportunity to discover the charming harbor and streets of Cassis.
• Allows for an optional sightseeing cruise to view the famous calanques, the ‘fjords of the French Riviera.’
• Includes visits to the Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde and the Abbey of St Victor, showcasing Marseille’s cultural and architectural heritage.

Tour Overview

This 7-hour shore excursion takes guests through the captivating cities of Marseille and Cassis, offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean sea and the opportunity to explore the historic seaside village of Cassis.

Passengers will marvel at the stunning vistas from Cape Canaille before venturing into the charming town of Cassis, where they can optionally take a sightseeing cruise to view the ‘fjords of the French Riviera’.

The tour also includes visits to top Marseille attractions like the Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde and the Abbey of St Victor.

With air-conditioned transportation and a knowledgeable driver/guide, this excursion provides a worry-free way for cruise passengers to discover the highlights of this beautiful region.

Included in the Tour

The tour includes a driver/guide who provides transportation by air-conditioned minivan and handles the port pickup and drop-off, ensuring a worry-free shore excursion for cruise passengers.

The highlights of the tour include:

1. Panoramic views of the Mediterranean sea from the stunning Cape Canaille.
2. Exploration of the ancient seaside village of Cassis, with an optional sightseeing cruise to view the ‘fjords of the French Riviera’.
3. Visits to top Marseille attractions such as the Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde and the Abbey of St Victor.

The tour doesn’t include the optional sightseeing cruise in Cassis, nor does it include lunch, food, and drinks, or hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Pickup Details

Guests should wait at the exit of the ship/cruise terminal, not start to walk in the port area. The pickup point is Port de Marseille Fos – Porte 4 – Accès croisière & marchandises, and the pickup time is 9:00 am. This ensures a smooth and efficient start to the exciting Marseille and Cassis tour.

Pickup Point	Pickup Time	Guests
Port de Marseille Fos – Porte 4 – Accès croisière & marchandises	9:00 am	Wait at the exit of the ship/cruise terminal

Guests are advised to follow these instructions carefully to avoid any delays or confusion, and to fully enjoy the panoramic views, ancient seaside village, and top Marseille attractions that await them on this shore excursion.

Panoramic Views of the Mediterranean

From the vantage point of Cape Canaille, visitors are treated to sweeping panoramic views of the shimmering Mediterranean sea, where the sparkling azure waters seamlessly blend with the horizon. This iconic headland offers a stunning outlook over the rugged coastline and the charming seaside town of Cassis below.

Some of the highlights of this scenic overlook include:

1. The breathtaking sight of the towering white cliffs plunging into the crystal-clear waters.

2. The opportunity to gaze out over the picturesque harbor and the sheltered coves dotting the coastline.

3. The chance to spot the majestic Les Calanques, the dramatic limestone inlets that have earned this region the nickname ‘the fjords of the French Riviera’.

Exploring the Seaside Village of Cassis

Nestled along the picturesque Côte d’Azur, the ancient seaside village of Cassis captivates visitors with its charming harbor, pastel-hued buildings, and stunning natural surroundings.

After a scenic drive from Marseille, guests will have the opportunity to explore the quaint streets and alleyways of this charming town.

Stroll along the waterfront, browse the local shops and galleries, and savor the fresh seafood and local delicacies at one of the many cafes and restaurants.

An optional sightseeing cruise provides a unique perspective, allowing guests to view the dramatic limestone cliffs and hidden coves known as the ‘fjords of the French Riviera.’

This picturesque seaside village offers a delightful respite from the bustling city of Marseille.

Optional Sightseeing Cruise

Visitors can opt to embark on a sightseeing cruise around the picturesque coves and dramatic limestone cliffs known as the ‘fjords of the French Riviera’ surrounding Cassis.

This optional cruise offers:

1. Unparalleled views of the stunning coastal scenery and quaint fishing harbor.
2. An up-close look at the famous calanques, the narrow inlets carved into the cliff sides.
3. A chance to admire the charming village of Cassis from the water.

The cruise lasts approximately 45 minutes and costs an additional 16 EUR per person. Guests can choose to add this optional activity to their Marseille and Cassis shore excursion, providing a unique perspective of this picturesque region along the French Mediterranean coastline.

Top Marseille Attractions

The shore excursion also includes visits to Marseille’s top attractions, such as the Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde, a 19th-century neo-Byzantine Catholic basilica perched atop the city’s highest natural landmark.

With its striking white limestone exterior and elaborate mosaic interiors, the basilica is an iconic symbol of Marseille.

The tour also stops at the Abbey of St Victor, an ancient Christian site dating back to the 5th century.

Visitors can explore the abbey’s crypt, relics, and medieval architecture, providing a glimpse into the city’s rich religious history.

These must-see sights offer a comprehensive introduction to Marseille’s cultural and architectural heritage.

Additional Important Information

Guests should confirm their pickup location and time well in advance, as the tour may be subject to changes due to potential weather or road closures affecting the itinerary.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it can be operated by a multi-lingual guide. Plus, children under 4 years old aren’t allowed on the tours.

The order of the visits can change based on local conditions.

Access to Cap Canaille may be impacted by weather or road closures.

Guests should wait at the designated pickup point, not start walking in the port area.

Despite these considerations, this shore excursion provides a great opportunity to explore the highlights of Marseille and Cassis.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Tour Group Size?

The tour group size is small, with the tour being operated in a minivan. The knowledge states that the tour is a ‘small group’ excursion, though the exact group size is not specified.

Are Pets Allowed on the Tour?

The tour does not allow pets. According to the information provided, children under 4 years old are not allowed on the tours, indicating that the tour is likely not suitable for bringing pets along.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Special Needs?

The tour can’t be customized for special needs as it’s not wheelchair accessible. However, the tour operator should be contacted to discuss any accommodations or modifications that may be possible for guests with special requirements.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed throughout the tour. Guests are welcome to take photos at the various stops, including the panoramic views from Cape Canaille and the picturesque seaside village of Cassis. However, specific restrictions may apply in certain areas.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy allows for full refunds if cancelled up to 24 hours prior to the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours of the start time are non-refundable. Guests should check the policy details when booking.

Recap

This comprehensive shore excursion offers a delightful exploration of Marseille and the picturesque seaside village of Cassis.

Visitors will enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean, discover the charming harbor of Cassis, and visit top Marseille attractions.

With an air-conditioned minivan and knowledgeable driver/guide, this tour provides a smooth and efficient way to experience the highlights of the region.