Marseille: Calanques Côte Bleue Boat Tour with Swimming
About This Experience
Embark from the Mucem, at the entrance to the Old Port of Marseille, for a 3.5-hour excursion aboard a semi-rigid boat, limited to 10 participants. Head for the Côte Bleue, a natural coastline north of Marseille known for its fishing harbors, limestone cliffs, wild coves, and turquoise waters. As you sail, admire the landscapes of La Madrague, Les Eaux Salées, Méjean, and L'Érevine. Depending on the sea conditions, your skipper may also take you to explore some sea caves that are accessible only by boat. Your skipper will share with you the history of the villages, the fishermen, and the landscapes you pass through. A short stop at La Redonne may be offered depending on the schedule and sailing conditions. A swimming stop is planned in a secluded cove. Masks and snorkels are available for you to observe the seabed. The exact location is chosen by the skipper according to the weather to ensure the best conditions for comfort and safety. After this relaxing break, continue sailing towards Marseille and enjoy a final panoramic view of the city from the sea. The route may be adapted according to wind, sea conditions, and how busy the various sites are. See more
Highlights
- Sea caves and secret coves accessible only by boat
- Wild calanques inaccessible by road
- Wild calanques of the Côte Bleue — less crowded than Cassis — a real escape
- Swimming break in turquoise water — mask and snorkel provided for snorkeling
- Small group of 10 people max — a skipper from Marseille who tells the story of his coast
What's Included
- ✓ 3.5-hour boat excursion
- ✓ Professional skipper-guide
- ✓ Fuel
- ✓ Stop for swimming
- ✓ Snorkelling equipment
- ✓ Safety gear
- ✓ Swimming ladder
- ✓ Shaded area on the boat
Good to Know & Caveats
- The customer must provide a contact phone number. Please allow for possible traffic jams and the time needed to find a parking space.
- Please arrive 15 minutes before boarding to check in. No refunds will be issued in the event of late arrival.
- We recommend bringing a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a light jacket.
- Communication uniquement via Whatsapp, indispensable à avoir!
- See more
Not Suitable For
- View all
- Set off from the Mucem on a 3-hour small-group day trip along the Côte Bleue. Discover fishing harbors, sea caves, and wild coves, with a stop for swimming and snorkeling in turquoise water.
- Free cancellation
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
- Reserve now & pay later
Meeting Point
Marseille Boat Tours Esplanade J4, 13001 Marseille ➡️ How to find us: When you arrive at the Mucem’s Esplanade J4, walk all the way to the end of the promenade, passing the Cosquer Cave on your left, then the Mucem building. Our boats are located behind the Mucem, at the dock area (darse). GPS location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/8Nbf6eAYqhUBiNhe8 If you need assistance: +33 7 52 02 01 01 Open in Google Maps
What Travelers Say
Rated 4.6/5 by 873 verified GetYourGuide travelers.
Excellent trip. We saw beautiful places and the guide was really friendly. He share information on the places we visited as well as local practices and history. Nothing to complain about.
— OLIVIA, 2026-07
What I most wanted to do while in Marseilles was spend time swimming in the Meditteranean Sea and exploring the coastline and this tour made it possible. I booked it the day before and found everything exactly to my liking. Our group was small so one felt attended to and included. Our guide Gil gave the tour in French but was very patient with a traveler whose French has reached the level of a sma
— Linda Marie, 2026-07
It was awesome! we enjoyed it so much. it was the best thing we did in Marseille, and it was very worth it.
— Amenah, 2026-07
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the Côte Bleue boat tour depart?
The tour departs from the J4 Esplanade, 13001 Marseille — a short walk from the Vieux-Port. Look for the Marseille Boat Tours berth and follow the signs. Staff are on hand from 30 minutes before departure.
What is Côte Bleue?
The Côte Bleue is the rugged coastal stretch west of Marseille, known for its calanques, fishing villages, and clear Mediterranean water. This tour takes you along the Côte Bleue coastline with stops for swimming in sheltered coves.
Is this a good option for families?
Yes — the boat is stable and comfortable, and the swimming stops are in calm, sheltered coves. Children enjoy the clear water and snorkelling. Check the minimum age requirement on your booking confirmation.
How long is the tour?
The Calanques Côte Bleue Boat Tour runs for approximately 3.5 hours, including the sailing time and a swimming stop. It's a good option for visitors who want a half-day experience and want to keep their afternoon free.
