What to Bring on a Calanques Tour from Marseille

The Calanques are stunning but exposed — white limestone reflects UV intensely, and the rocky coves have limited shade. Getting your kit right makes the difference between a great day and a sunburned, sore-footed one.

For a Boat Tour

Essentials:

• Swimsuit — wear it under your clothes; changing on a boat deck is awkward
• Towel — compact microfibre towels pack better than full beach towels
• High-SPF sunscreen (50+) — limestone reflects UV; you’ll burn faster than on a beach
• Sunglasses — polarised lenses help you see into the water clearly
• Water — bring at least 1 litre; some operators provide soft drinks but not always
• Hat or buff — direct sun on the water for 3+ hours is intense

Optional but useful:

• Snorkelling mask (some operators provide gear; check before bringing your own)
• Light layer for the return trip — sea air cools fast after sunset
• Dry bag for phone and valuables — boats can get splashed

Leave behind: Large bags, hard-sole shoes (non-slip sandals are fine on boats), and anything you’d be devastated to lose overboard.

For a Guided Hike

Essentials:

• Trail shoes or walking shoes — not sandals, not flip-flops. The limestone terrain is uneven and sharp in places
• 1.5–2 litres of water — there are no water sources or shops in the national park
• Snacks — you’ll be walking 4–6 hours; pack lunch
• Swimsuit and towel — most guided hikes include a swim stop
• Sunscreen and hat — the trails are exposed with minimal shade in summer

Optional:

• Trekking poles for steep descents
• Camera with good zoom — the clifftop views reward a longer lens

Leave behind: Heavy backpacks, jeans (too hot and restrictive), anything non-essential.

What Not to Wear

The number one packing mistake on Calanques boat tours is denim or heavy cotton. Once wet, it’s miserable for the rest of the trip. Pack light, quick-dry fabrics.

For hiking: no sandals on the rocky trails. Even simple trail runners are fine; bare feet and flip-flops on limestone are a sprained ankle waiting to happen.

Summary Checklist

• ☐ Swimsuit (under clothes)
• ☐ Towel
• ☐ Sunscreen SPF 50+
• ☐ Water (1–2L)
• ☐ Hat / sunglasses
• ☐ Snacks (for hikes)
• ☐ Appropriate footwear
• ☐ Light layer (boat tours)
• ☐ Dry bag (boat tours)

See all Calanques tours from Marseille and check what each operator includes in the price.