Marseille: Sunset Sailing Cruise with Dinner and Wine

Imagine winding down your day with gentle sails, stunning sunset vistas, and the soothing sounds of the sea. That’s exactly what the Sunset Sailing Cruise with Dinner and Wine offers in Marseille—a relaxed yet memorable way to see the city from a different angle. Operating on a classic wooden schooner, this experience combines scenic cruising, a swim in a secluded cove, and a gourmet vegetarian dinner, all topped with a glass of Provence rosé.

What I love about this tour is the combination of natural beauty and intimate ambiance. The late-afternoon departure allows for gorgeous light, perfect for photos and unwinding. Plus, the friendly crew and the chance to participate in raising the sails add a touch of authenticity. The only thing to keep in mind is that the weather can influence the experience—if it’s chilly or windy, swimming might not be as comfortable. This cruise suits travelers looking for a laid-back, scenic escape with a bit of gourmet flair and a dash of sea adventure.

Key Points

• Authentic Sailing Experience: Board a traditional wooden schooner for a relaxed cruise with optional sail raising.
• Stunning Views: Enjoy picturesque sunsets over the harbor and Frioul Archipelago, ideal for photographers and sunset lovers.
• Swim and Relax: Anchored in a wild cove for swimming and free time—perfect for those seeking a refreshing break.
• Gourmet Vegetarian Dinner: Savor a freshly prepared, seasonal, plant-based meal paired with local rosé.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Friendly guides, live music, fairy lights, and participatory sail raising enhance the charm.
• Ideal for: Romantic couples, small groups, and anyone wanting a scenic, intimate evening at sea.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at 70 Quai du Port, right next to the Marseille ferry dock, making it easy to access if you’re already exploring the Old Port area. The check-in is straightforward—just arrive about 15 minutes early to settle in and get ready for the adventure. The boat, named “Goélette Alliance,” accommodates around 40 guests, so it’s not crowded, which helps keep the atmosphere relaxed.

The Voyage to Frioul

At 7:00 PM (or 6:00 PM depending on the season), the boat departs for a pleasant cruise through Marseille’s bustling harbor. This initial leg is a great way to get a feel for the city’s maritime vibe. The crew, including multilingual guides speaking French, English, and Italian, are praised for their helpfulness and friendly demeanor, making sure everyone feels comfortable.

Anchoring in the Frioul Archipelago

After about 30 minutes, the schooner reaches the Frioul Archipelago, a stunning collection of rocky islands and secluded coves. Here, the boat anchors in a wild, unspoiled cove—a highlight for many. Reviewers mention the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters, which was a favorite part for those who love a refreshing dip. However, some noted that the water can be cold, especially later in the season, or if it’s windy.

The Swim and Free Time

Once anchored, guests are encouraged to jump in and enjoy the natural surroundings. The calm, protected waters make for a safe and enjoyable swim, and many reviewers describe this as a “highlight,” enjoying the chance to relax away from crowds and take in the beautiful scenery. The crew typically offers assistance with water entry, and some reviews mention that the boat crew even helped raise the sails with passengers, creating a fun, participatory experience.

Dinner with a View

As the sun begins to set, the crew serves a light vegetarian buffet dinner prepared fresh on board with seasonal, local ingredients. The meal is intentionally vegetarian, reflecting a commitment to environmental sustainability, but reviewers note that the flavors are satisfying and well thought out. A chilled glass of Provence rosé accompanies the meal, adding to the authentic regional flavor.

Reviewers have called the food “delicious” and appreciated how the meal was plentiful enough to satisfy. One reviewer even mentioned that the atmosphere, combined with fairy lights and gentle music, creates a kind of magical dining experience. The dinner is a perfect way to unwind, chat with fellow travelers, and soak in the scenery.

Sunset and Return

As the sky turns a warm orange, everyone gets to enjoy the spectacular sunset over the horizon—an ideal photo opportunity and a peaceful moment to reflect. The crew often plays live music, making the atmosphere even more enchanting.

Around 10:30 PM (or 9:30 PM in late August), the boat heads back to the Old Port, with the city’s illuminated skyline providing a stunning backdrop for the return journey. Several reviews mention how the nightfall adds a magical glow to the cityscape, making the final moments of the voyage especially memorable.

The Itinerary Breakdown

• Departure from 70 Quai du Port: Easy access, relaxed check-in, small group size.
• Cruise through Marseille harbor: Offers a glimpse of the city’s maritime charm.
• Anchoring in Frioul: Scenic spot for swimming, photos, and relaxation.
• Free time for swimming and exploring: Guests often mention the calm waters and natural beauty.
• Gourmet vegetarian dinner: Fresh, local, seasonally prepared, with a glass of rosé.
• Sunset viewing: A key highlight, with breathtaking colors and peaceful ambiance.
• Return journey: Illuminated cityscape and gentle night cruise.

The Authenticity and Value of the Tour

This experience stands out because of its relaxed, intimate vibe. The small group setting, combined with the participatory element of raising sails, makes it feel more like a shared adventure than a large tour. The value for money is notable; at $94 per person, guests receive a scenic cruise, a quality meal, a glass of rosé, and unforgettable sunset views—all in a cozy, well-organized package.

Many reviewers highlight the knowledgeable, friendly crew who go above and beyond to ensure guests have a memorable experience. Their attentiveness and willingness to share insights about the area contribute to the genuine feeling of connection with Marseille’s maritime culture.

Quality of the Vessel

The schooner itself is described as gorgeous, clean, and well-maintained. The classic wooden design adds an authentic nautical touch that many find charming. The relaxed atmosphere on board, with fairy lights and soft music, makes it feel like a floating dinner party—only with much better scenery.

Food and Drink

The vegetarian buffet, while simple, receives praise for its freshness and flavor. The inclusion of local rosé is a nice regional touch that elevates the experience. Some reviews suggest that more drinks could be offered at a lower price, but overall, the pairing complements the setting perfectly.

Timing and Seasonal Considerations

The cruise departs at 7 PM during the main season, with an earlier 6 PM departure from mid-August onward. The timing ensures guests can enjoy the sunset and still return before late-night hours. Be aware, though, that swimming is more enjoyable earlier in the season or on warmer evenings, since water temperatures can be chilly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise caters best to romantic couples, small groups of friends, and solo travelers who want a relaxed, scenic evening. It’s perfect if you love being on the water, appreciate good regional wines, and enjoy picturesque sunsets. The participatory sail raising adds a fun, interactive element—great for those who like hands-on experiences.

Those seeking a lively party or full-fledged sailing adventure might find it a bit too laid-back, but for a peaceful, intimate evening, it’s hard to beat. It’s also suited for travelers who prefer a vegetarian meal and appreciate eco-conscious dining choices.

Final Thoughts

The Marseille Sunset Sailing Cruise with Dinner and Wine offers a genuine taste of maritime life combined with spectacular scenery. The friendly crew, authentic vessel, and beautiful settings make it a memorable way to end a day in Marseille. The experience provides a lovely balance of relaxation, adventure, and regional flavor, all at a reasonable price point.

If you’re in Marseille and looking for a romantic, scenic, and authentic way to see the city’s coast and islands, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s especially suitable for those wanting a small-group, intimate experience with excellent value and high-quality service.

FAQs

What is the departure time?
It departs at 7:00 PM during the main season, and from August 18, 2025, onwards, it departs at 6:00 PM. Check current schedules when booking.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Next to the Ferry Boat at 70 Quai du Port, at the door of pier number 2 or directly at the boat “Goélette Alliance.”

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. Guests need to arrange their own transportation to the meeting point.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and perhaps a light jacket for cooler evening breezes during the return trip.

Can I participate in raising the sails?
Yes, some reviews mention that passengers had the chance to help raise the sails, adding a fun, participatory element.

Is food suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the dinner is vegetarian, prepared fresh daily with seasonal, local ingredients.

Are drinks included?
One glass of rosé is included, but additional drinks are not. Some guests felt more drinks would enhance the experience.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 3.5 hours, including time for swimming, dining, and enjoying the sunset.

Is it suitable for children?
The experience is generally suitable for older children, especially those comfortable around water and sailing, but check with the provider if you have young kids.

What if it rains or the weather is bad?
The activity is weather-dependent. Cancellations are possible, but it generally runs unless conditions are unsafe or very poor.

This sunset sailing cruise offers a delightful mix of scenic beauty, regional flavor, and relaxed fun. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable evening, it’s a classic Marseille experience worth considering.