The Calanques National Park protected area includes an enchanting combination of limestone cliffs, clear waters and endemic flora and fauna species, which make this park a true paradise for nature lovers. Be part of a small group of just 12 guests aboard a comfortable hybrid-electric boat to discover some of Marseille’s most characteristic landscapes. You will have the opportunity to swim and snorkel in the transparent waters of the Mediterranean.
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.
- The tour begins by sailing south through the enchanting Bay of Marseille to the gates of the Calanques National Park. Here, located in the transition between Maïre Island and Cap Croisette, you will have the opportunity to admire the famous Baie de Singes (Monkey Bay). This small natural paradise offers an unspoilt landscape, surrounded by crystal clear waters and white rocks, typical of the Calanques. An ancient smuggling site, it was nicknamed ‘Monkey Bay’ because children were expected to keep it secret and be as dumb as monkeys.
- Continuing, we will officially be inside the Calanques National Park, the first in Europe to be at the same time terrestrial, marine and peri-urban. Perfect place for nature and sea lovers, this park is known worldwide for its breathtaking landscapes, small fine sandy beaches, turquoise waters and the rich variety of flora and fauna that inhabit this area.
- At the most pleasant spot in the park, the skipper will drop anchor and you will be able to swim and snorkel in the clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
- Moving on towards the Riou Archipelago, a complex of desert islands that stand out for their exceptional biodiversity. The Île de Riou, the biggest of the archipelago, also known as the ‘island of birds’, is an important protected area and offers a perfect natural habitat for the rare species of wild plants and animals that only breed here. The numerous inlets along the coast and the crystalline waters make the Île de Riou especially suitable for swimming and snorkeling.
- The tour ends after about 4 hours with the return to the 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.
**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 – Bottled water – Snorkeling equipment.
Don’t forget: Valid ID or passport – Sun hat – Sunglasses – Sunscreen – Swimsuit – Beach towel – Camera.
Maximum: 12 people on board.
