Want to enjoy the wonders of the south by taking the seaway? Discover the best spots to visit by boat in Marseille!
The holidays are scheduled and you decided to enjoy the sun by heading to the phocean city? Excellent idea! From the wonderful song of cigales to pastis, passing through the famous Marseille accent and bouillabaisse, Marseille has the chic to mark the spirits.
You can visit the city centre, enjoy a walk on the mythical Old Port, or lose yourself in the charming alleys of the Basket. Whether you have come with family or with your group of friends, the activities are not missing in the city of Marseille. From the gastronomic interlude to the farniente, you can also enjoy a cultural parenthesis by visiting the MUCEM For example.
However, if you want to see Marseille differently and play it at Commander Cousteau, why not rent a boat to discover all the treasures that the region has to offer you on the sea side? Put on your red hat and your most beautiful jersey, it's time for you to take the broad.
The Wanderlix editor takes you to discover the best spots to visit by boat in Marseille!
Also read:
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1. Le Parc national des Calanques
Uncontournable among the must-sees, the Parc des Calanques is on foot, but also by the sea! The access of the massifs that compose it is limited to the approach of the beautiful days (fire risks, etc.), a boat trip is the ideal solution to discover the wonderful landscapes that make the fame of our beloved Calanques.
The turquoise water makes you dream? Would you like to enjoy a swim during your trip? The best is rent a boat in Marseille with or without skipper. Enjoy a cruise on crystalline waters and, if the heart tells you, make a dip for a refreshing break. You can visit the National Park of the Calanques in the best way! The advantage is that the National Park has a multitude of spots — as charming as each other — that you can discover below.
2. Riou Archipelago
Photo credit: Instagram – ig_marseille
Located off the Massif des Calanques, the Riou Archipelago is composed of 5 islands - islands of Maire, Jarre, Jarron, Plane, Riou - and some islets. Ranked National Natural Reserve since 2003, the archipelago has been home to rare birds and species. It is therefore subject to strict regulation: the landing is limited and allowed only on the northern coast of Jarre, Riou and Plane.
3. Friuli Islands
Photo credit: Instagram – ciccia_cerva
Visible from the Marseille coastline and located in the Calanque National Park, the Friuli Islands are in number 4 : Pomègues, Ratonneau, the islet of If and the islet Tiboulen.
Want to take a bowl of iodized air, away from the bustle of the city? This little corner of paradise — made of fine sand, limpid water and hidden cribs — is perfect if you are looking for an intimate and quiet ride.
Whether in sailboat, catamaran or semi-rigid, go to discover the treasures that Friuli Islands have to offer. From their wild fauna and flora, they will seduce you and make you want to go back again and again!
4. Island of If
L’ Island of If , detached from the Friuli archipelago, is only accessible by boat. Focus mandatory, so, on this amazing Isle of If! And for cause, the latter is famous for its famous Château d’If which covers the entire surface. Do you want to combine fun and cultural outing? It falls well, history lovers will be able to visit the castle, this impressive fortress built on order of François I between 1527 and 1529.
5. En-Vau
Photo credit: Instagram – maria__ll
The magnificent...the extraordinary...the impressive! But what is it? From the calanque En-Vau Pardi! Nestled at the edges of imposing cliffs, it has wild and secret places but it is nothing. A victim of his success, the Calanque d’En-Vau is a very tourist spot. To enjoy its natural beauty and a sweet swim, without sticking to the crowd that storms the beach, we recommend renting a boat!
6. Port-Miou
Photo credit: Flickr – Nanaïs34
The calanque Port-Miou , located in Cassis, has no beach but it does not remove anything from its crazy charm. Renowned for its beautiful waters, it also has a rich fauna and flora. Ideal for diving, you will be delighted to discover its seabed, but also to appreciate its magnificent landscapes — made of limestone cliffs — during a peaceful boat ride. You can take advantage of it visit the Cassis calanques and try you at various water sports.
7. Port-Pin
Photo credit: Flickr – akunamatata
Between the layers of En-Vau and Port-Miou, you will find the sublime calanque of Port-Pin . Drinked by a myriad of pines, she calls for relaxation in all its forms. Whether you want to lick on the bridge of your boat, patauger in its fresh waters or join its sand and pebble beach, Port Pin is the spot not to be missed!
8. Sormiou
Photo credit: Flickr – Michel Marie
The Calanques, again and again! This time it is towards that of Sormiou that you are offered to set the course! Take out your most beautiful sailboats or catamarans and leave for a day on one of the most beautiful calanques in Marseille. Little paradise for lovers of farniente, it is also for lovers of scuba diving. In your tubas... ready... go!
9. Bay of La Ciotat
Ranked among the most beautiful bay in the world, Bay of Ciotat is ideal for a family or friends cruise. Also located in the National Park of the Calanques, it offers splendid views. You can admire the famous cliffs of Soubeyranes, the Cap Canaille and the Eagle Bec.
Put the course on the one that is also called the “Gulf of Love” and enjoy a sunny and magical day.
10. Malmousque
Photo credit: Instagram – nabs_wonderworld
Want to jump in time? Hose up to the anse Malmousque located near the city center of Marseille. If you choose to rent a boat during your stay, you will have the opportunity to moor there and enjoy a pleasant view of the village of Malmousque which seems to have stopped in time. Long live the Dolce-Vita for a moment and enjoy the view of the colorful dwellings on the rocks!
11. L’Estaque
Photo credit: Instagram – anavasconcelosesencial
Do you want a picturesque walk not far from the centre of Marseille? Take the direction of the mythical quarter of the Estaque located in the northern neighborhoods. The highlight: the beaches composing the Estaque are one of the cleanest of the city. Renting a boat can be a very nice solution to reach them.
You will enjoy a high quality panorama and, if you feel the envy, you will always have the opportunity to crowd the farmland to taste different specialities on the port — the Chichis Frégis or the panisses — or visit the village of the Estaque full of authenticity. For a long time, the latter has been a source of inspiration for various artists, such as the famous painter Cézanne .
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