Cliffs overlooking the sea, transparent waters and unspoilt bays characterize Provence. Join a small group of just 12 guests and an expert skipper, for this unforgettable experience to discover the Calanques National Park in Marseille. You will be able to get in touch with nature and enjoy the fascinating coastal scenery aboard a quiet and comfortable hybrid-electric boat.
Excursion from Marseille to the Calanques National Park programme:
- Meet 15 minutes before the departure time, at the quay of honor at Vieux-Port 70, gate n°2, 13002 Marseille, France, next to the “Ferry Boat” or on the left side of the Vieux-Port, opposite the CNTL wharf “La Criée”. The Eco Calanques staff will be there to welcome you.
- We cross the passage between Maïre Island and Cap Croisette to officially enter the Calanques National Park. Known worldwide for its incredible natural scenery, its exceptional biodiversity it hosts and the cultural heritage it preserves, it is the only national park in Europe to be both terrestrial, marine and peri-urban.
- The skipper will drop anchor at the best spot in the park to give you a chance to swim and snorkel in the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean. When you return to the boat, a delicious buffet will be waiting for you. You will be able to relax and enjoy your lunch while admiring, from a unique perspective, the enchanting landscape created by the white cliffs overhanging the sea and the cobalt blue color of the water.
- Next, we head to the Riou Archipelago, a set of deserted islands off the coast of Marseille. The main one, also known as the ‘island of birds’, is Île de Riou, a natural paradise for birdwatchers. Different varieties of birds can be seen here, including some protected species such as the Atlantic Big Dipper (Calonectris borealis), the Mediterranean Lesser Dipper (Puffinus yelkouan) and the Tufted Plover (Phalacrocorax aristotelis).
- The tour continues to the Calanque de Sormiou. The largest in Marseille and favorite with tourists, it offers crystal clear, cool waters and a wide stretch of pebbles and sand. Sormiou is also home to the famous cabanons, small houses that were originally used to store fishing boats and have now become popular and sought-after holiday cottages. Along the way you will also be able to admire the Calanques de Morgiou and de Sugiton.
- The tour ends after about 7 hours with the return to Old Port of Marseille.
*This experience may be affected by weather and sea conditions. It is possible that the tour may be cancelled after confirmation in case of bad weather or unfavourable sea conditions. In that case, you will be offered an alternative or a full refund.
**The itinerary of the cruise is strongly related to the sea and weather conditions: the captain will have a personalized approach, working with the conditions of the day to decide the best route, and combining together the most important destination.
***This experience requires a minimum number of passengers. It is possible that the tour may be cancelled after confirmation if there are not enough passengers. In that case, an alternative or a full refund will be offered.
The price includes: Professional skipper – Lunch – Drinks – Snorkeling equipment.
Don’t forget: Valid ID or passport – Sun hat – Sunglasses – Sunscreen – Swimsuit – Beach towel – Camera.
Maximum: 12 people on board.
